Ministry of National Defense Republic of Korea

Unexpected touching thank-you letter from Turkey, our brother country

Letter to 55th Division from the Turkish vice commander-in-chief

The 55th Division received an unexpected letter of appreciation from the Turkish vice commander-in-chief, Yasar Guler, early this month. It stated appreciation for our show of respect for and interest in Turkish soldiers who engaged and died in the 6·25 Korean War.

It is an unusual occasion when a high-ranking commander in a combatant nation sends a hand-written letter to our military commander. He mentioned his appreciation for Korea welcoming Turkish military officers and international students at every event. He also expressed his gratitude for the respect and interest we have shown toward the Turkish soldiers who engaged and died in the 6·25 Korean War.

The Division held a memorial ceremony for Turkish soldiers at the “Turkey Monument for Korean War” located near Maseong IC, Giheung-gu, Yongin-si, Gyeonggi-do, on October 17. The ceremony, supervised by the Embassy of the Republic of Turkey in Korea, was attended by 60 people including the commander of the 55th division, Turkish ambassador and military officers, military officers from 6·25 combatant nations, members of UNC Military Armistice Commission, director of administration department of Yongin City Hall, and so on.

There was an event for patriotic veterans in June, and It was very well-received by Turkish military officers and their families in Korea, and Turkish international students.

By Yeong-Sun, Lee < vs119@dema.mil.kr >
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