[Public Papers of the Presidents of the United States: George H. W. Bush (1992, Book I)]
[January 6, 1992]
[Pages 43-44]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office www.gpo.gov]



Text of Remarks at Camp Casey in Yongsan, South Korea

January 6, 1992
    I understand you've come to Yongsan from far and wide. It's a great 
privilege to meet with all of you today. Let me salute the proud men and 
women of the 2d Infantry Division. You are truly ``second to none.''
    You serve at a time when Korea is reaching new world status, when we 
can build on the progress and the promise of a new year. More than a 
military alliance, our countries are moving toward a political, 
economic, and security partnership.
    We stand here just a few miles from the DMZ, a relic of the cold 
war, tragically separating one people. History's verdict is in: On 
freedom's side stands one of the fastest developing countries in 
history. On the other side, a failed regime that produces only misery 
and want.
    For more than 40 years, the United States commitment to the Republic 
of Korea's security has been firm and unwavering. Nothing will change 
that. Korea is where America made a clear commitment to liberty.

[[Page 44]]

Korea is where we first stopped the spread of communism in Asia and 
fought to defend the international ideal of freedom.
    In recognition of this republic's great achievements, we will 
gradually shift to a supporting role as the Korean military takes the 
lead in defense of their nation. But North Korea must know that we will 
resist any aggression and will keep our forces strong enough to do so 
for as long as the Korean people want our support.
    Here at Camp Casey, you're a long way from home, and that's 
especially tough during the holiday season. With much of the world's 
attention on events in Eastern Europe, Moscow, and the Middle East, you 
may sometimes feel forgotten, just like Korean war veterans sometimes 
feel forgotten. So, I want you to hear this from the top. You have not 
been forgotten. The veterans of Korea won a mighty victory in the fight 
against communism. You honor them with your presence here on the 
frontier of freedom. America never forgets those who serve. For the sake 
of the families of the 8,000 MIA's of the Korean war we will continue to 
seek the fullest possible accounting from North Korea.
    You've got a tough assignment here. Our able Chairman of the Joint 
Chiefs of Staff, General Colin Powell, served here himself and was back 
for a visit in November. He agrees with me: Your professionalism, your 
courage, and your vigilance are the keys to our success here.
    I will not forget this day. I am inspired and invigorated just 
looking at you. The time is coming when the Korean people will be united 
and free. Each one of you should be proud of your contribution to that 
inevitable triumph.

                    Note: The text of this address was issued by the 
                        Office of the Press Secretary on January 6.