Introduction

Dear KDVA Members, Friends, and Supporters,

I am truly honored to step into the role of KDVA Chairman and President. As I begin this new chapter, I do so with great respect for the legacy of leadership that has brought KDVA to where it stands today, especially the dedicated service of General (Ret.) Mike Scaparrotti. I thank him for his leadership and friendship, and I am grateful that he will continue to serve KDVA as a trusted Advisor.

KDVA is a unique and powerful organization. We are a community bound by shared experiences and a common mission: to honor those who have served in Korea and to enhance the enduring ROK-U.S. Alliance. From my time as Commander of United Nations Command, Combined Forces Command, and U.S. Forces Korea, I saw firsthand the strength of this Alliance. I’ve walked along the DMZ, stood shoulder to shoulder with Korean and American troops, and witnessed the extraordinary commitment of Veterans who defended freedom and stability on the Korean Peninsula.

Today, our mission is as important as ever. The KDVA Strategic Plan for 2025–2029 outlines an ambitious roadmap to grow our membership, deepen our engagement, and expand our impact. We will build stronger connections among our 46,000 members and more than 116,000 social media followers. We will amplify the voices of Veterans and ensure the next generation understands the vital role they played — and continue to play — in defending peace and democracy.

I look forward to working alongside our new Vice Chairman, LTG (Ret.) Mike Bills, our Board of Directors, Advisors, dedicated staff, and tireless volunteers. Together, we will expand KDVA’s reach, foster new partnerships, and deliver programs that reflect the honor and pride of our service.

To our members and supporters: this is your Association. Your service, stories, and support make KDVA what it is. I invite each of you to stay engaged, bring in new members, and share your experiences. If you haven’t already, please connect with us online, attend an event, or join a chapter or campus club.

As we move forward, we do so united by purpose, driven by service, and committed to building an even stronger ROK-U.S. Alliance.

“Together for the ROK-U.S. Alliance,”

Robert B. “Abe” Abrams

General, U.S. Army (Ret.)

Chairman & President

Korea Defense Veterans Association (KDVA)