Korea Defense Veterans Association (KDVA)

Our mission is to enhance the ROK – U.S. Alliance by advocating for the Alliance and supporting the people who built and serve the Alliance.

[Korea Defense Veterans Association (KDVA) @KDVAVets]

Following the Korean War, allied forces remained stationed near the Korean Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) to deter future conflict between North Korea and South Korea.

The DMZ remains one of the most heavily guarded borders in the world today.

#DMZ #KoreaDefense #Veterans #History

[Korea Defense Veterans Association (KDVA) @KDVAVets]

Last month, the KDVA Florida Chapter met at K-Pot Korean BBQ & Hot Pot in Ocala, Florida, for an evening of camaraderie, networking, and connection with veterans, service members, and supporters of the ROK-U.S. Alliance.

The gathering provided an opportunity to strengthen friendships, share experiences, and discuss the KDVA's mission of honoring service and fostering enduring ties between those who have served in defense of the Korean Peninsula. Members enjoyed great food, meaningful conversations, and the chance to welcome new supporters into the KDVA community.

Thank you to everyone who attended and helped make the event a success. We look forward to continuing to build connections, support our veterans, and grow the KDVA family throughout Florida and beyond.

#KDVA #Veterans #MilitaryCommunity #KoreaDefenseVeteransAssociation #Camaraderie #Networking #OcalaFL

[Korea Defense Veterans Association (KDVA) @KDVAVets]

Why Korea is an Assignment of Choice - 
Thomas Suter

What was your initial reaction upon learning that you were going to Korea?  

I enlisted as a 19D Cavalry Scout in 1987. When I arrived at Ft Knox all of the Bradley’s were tied up with ROTC. The army gave me a choice: they could dissolve the contract or I could be trained on the M-113. I had the impression the NCO had been told to get everyone to sign new contracts and not discharge anyone. I told the NCO I’d sign a new contract if I could have my duty station of choice. He looked skeptical and asked me where I wanted to be stationed. I told him Korea and his demeanor instantly changed and he couldn’t get that new contract written fast enough. Read more - https://t.co/e9NDdKYZI8

[Korea Defense Veterans Association (KDVA) @KDVAVets]

Although fighting in the Korean War ended with an armistice in 1953, thousands of service members continued defending South Korea for decades afterward.

Their mission helped maintain stability on the Korean Peninsula during the Cold War and beyond. They are called Korea Defense Veterans. If you are a Korea Defense Veteran or a supporter of Veterans, become a member today and stand with those who served. KDVA membership is free ... but priceless! https://t.co/OVitisaUjf

#KoreanWar #Veterans #ColdWar #MilitaryHistory #kdva

[Korea Defense Veterans Association (KDVA) @KDVAVets]

The Georgia Chapter of the Korea Defense Veterans Association hosted its first Meet & Greet of 2026 in Savannah, Georgia.  Held at Service Brewing, a veteran-owned company, attendees were treated to refreshing beer and delicious barbecue in the heart of the entertainment district.

Chapter President Kevin L Miller was joined by KDVA Board of Directors member Mr. Jong Wook Kim, to host this important networking event.  We were honored to have the Garrison Commander of Hunter Army Airfield, LTC Derick Taylor, in attendance.  In addition to many Korea Defense Veterans, other attendees included Ms. Ruby Gould, President of the Korean American Association of Greater Savannah, and leaders from the Chatham County Veterans Council, American Legion, and local VFW posts.

We are thankful for media coverage of our event, including the local NBC affiliate WSAV.  To view a photo gallery, please visit:  https://t.co/H9M9jewQ5d

Throughout the year, the KDVA Georgia Chapter hosts Meet & Greet events in different locations around the state to unite Veterans who served in the Republic of Korea and all supporters of the ROK-U.S. Alliance.  To learn more about KDVA and our upcoming events, please visit us at https://t.co/N5HV3Qlapo.  Membership is free, so join today!

[Korea Defense Veterans Association (KDVA) @KDVAVets]

Each May, KDVA marks its founding by recognizing the people who give this community its identity -- those who served in defense of Korea and those who continue to support and carry that legacy forward. What began as a way to connect Korea Veterans and their supporters has grown into something much larger: a dynamic, expanding movement that reflects the enduring importance of the ROK–U.S. Alliance.

Today, that growth is clear:

- More than 60,000 members worldwide
- Over 133,000 social media followers
- 7 U.S. Chapters, with 4 more launching in 2026
- 5 KDVA Campus Clubs (KCCs) engaging the next generation
- The first KDVA USFK Chapter at Camp Humphreys, connecting those currently serving with those who came before them

This is more than growth in numbers -- it is a strengthening of the ties that bind our members across generations, geography, and service. For many, service and living in Korea leave a lasting mark. As one member reflected:

“Living in South Korea changed my life, shaping my worldview…”
— Mr. Dave Harris, KDVA Digital Library

That experience -- shared by millions -- is what continues to drive engagement, connection, and purpose within KDVA today.

We are especially grateful to our fundraising partner, the Korea–U.S. Alliance Foundation (KUSAF), whose support ensures that KDVA membership and programs remain free and accessible to all.

As we look ahead, our focus remains clear: to grow KDVA, to enhance the Alliance, and to ensure that the legacy of service in Korea continues to inspire future generations.

Whether you have been part of KDVA for years or are just joining us, your voice matters -- and your continued engagement helps shape what comes next. Thank you for being part of this effort -- “Together for the ROK-U.S. Alliance.”

[Korea Defense Veterans Association (KDVA) @KDVAVets]

🇺🇸 KDVA Georgia Chapter Meet & Greet - Open to Everyone!
Register - https://t.co/DHnmbOCdZt

Join us for an evening of camaraderie, networking, and connection with fellow members and supporters of the Korea Defense Veterans Association (KDVA). Whether you're a Veteran, active-duty service member, or supporter of the ROK–U.S. Alliance, this is a great opportunity to build relationships and strengthen our community.

📅 Date: Saturday, May 16, 2026
🕕 Time: 5:30 PM – 7:30 PM
📍 Location: Service Brewing Company - 574 Indian St. Savannah, GA 31401 https://t.co/M1NnyIgD51 *A Veteran-Owned Company
Dress Attire: Casual / Business Casual

Come out to share stories, meet new faces, and enjoy a relaxed evening together. Food and beverages will be available for free.

[Korea Defense Veterans Association (KDVA) @KDVAVets]

KDVA Pennsylvania Chapter Meet & Greet
Join us for an evening of camaraderie, networking, and connection with fellow members and supporters of the Korea Defense Veterans Association (KDVA). Whether you're a Veteran, active-duty service member, or supporter of the ROK–U.S. Alliance, this is a great opportunity to build relationships and strengthen our community.

Register at https://t.co/I2j3IkfqT5
We look forward to seeing you there!
#KDVA #Veterans #Networking #USROKAlliance

[Korea Defense Veterans Association (KDVA) @KDVAVets]

🇺🇸 Register Today! 2026 KDVA Reunion and Alliance & Veterans Conference

📅 October 9–10, 2026
📍 Washington, D.C.

Join us for this year’s Reunion and Conference at the Washington Marriott Capitol Hill in the heart of Washington, D.C.

Reconnect, engage, and be part of a meaningful gathering with fellow Veterans and ROK-U.S. Supporters.

👉 Secure your spot and reserve your hotel room today! https://t.co/1PcicnO3Zb

We look forward to seeing you there!
#KDVA #KDVAReunion

[Korea Defense Veterans Association (KDVA) @KDVAVets]

You lived in Korea, if… you’ve worked alongside a KATUSA. Share your memory or experience in the comments. KDVA will select great or interesting responses and feature them in the next ROK-U.S. Alliance Journal. Tag someone you served with in Korea. Joining KDVA is FREE, but…PRICELESS. Learn more at https://t.co/EFC8GKrq1i.
#YouLivedInKoreaIf #KDVA #KoreaDefenseVeteran

[Korea Defense Veterans Association (KDVA) @KDVAVets]

🇰🇷 Registration is open for the 2026 Revisit Korea Program for Korea Defense Veterans! We are excited to announce that applications are open for the 2026 Revisit Korea Program for Korea Defense Veterans and their families!

🗓 Application Deadline: Sunday, May 31, 2026
✈️ Trip Dates: September 14 (arrival) – September 19, 2026 (depart)

This meaningful, weeklong program—sponsored by the Republic of Korea’s Ministry of Patriots and Veterans Affairs (MPVA)—honors Korea Defense Veterans who have served since the signing of the Armistice Agreement on July 27, 1953.

KDVA is proud to support this initiative for the 6th consecutive year, managing the application and selection process for eligible Veterans.

✅ Eligibility & Important Notes:
- Participants will be selected from KDVA members
- Not a member yet? Join as a Regular Member (Korea Defense Veterans Only) (free!) by May 31, 2026 to be eligible
- Planning to bring a companion? They must also be a KDVA member (Regular or Associate)

📣 Notifications: Selected and non-selected applicants will be notified in June 2026.

🔗 Apply or Join KDVA here: https://t.co/4J7pMZfm1W

Questions? Please email [email protected].

Don’t miss this incredible opportunity to reconnect with Korea, honor your service, and build lasting memories.
#KDVA #KoreaDefenseVeterans #RevisitKorea #Veterans #KoreaTrip

[Korea Defense Veterans Association (KDVA) @KDVAVets]

🌿🏃‍♀️ Trash + Jogging = Plogging! ♻️✨

Ever heard of plogging? It’s a fun mix of jogging (or walking!) and picking up litter along the way—good for your health and the planet. 💪🌍

Recently, our KDVA Sungshin Women's University Campus Club (SKDVA), took this positive energy to Seongbukcheon Stream, where a plogging event brought people together to clean up the environment while honoring the dedication and sacrifices of national defense veterans. 🇰🇷

More than just a workout or cleanup, the event reflected values of responsibility, respect, and civic pride—at the heart of Korea Defense Veterans.

💬 Freshman Seung-ah Lee shared:
“Beyond simply picking up litter, this experience made me reconsider what it means to serve a community. Walking along the stream and caring for our surroundings felt like a quiet yet powerful act of gratitude toward those who have protected our country. It was deeply humbling and reminded me that even small actions can carry significant value.”

Who knew saving the planet could double as cardio?
#Plogging #EcoFriendly #CommunityService #StayActive #Veterans #DoGoodFeelGood

[Korea Defense Veterans Association (KDVA) @KDVAVets]

From My Service in Korea, I Learned – Kenneth Hissong

I was sent to Air Police Tech school and assigned to Strategic Air Command Headquarters at Offutt AFB. Due to a physical profile change, I applied and was accepted at the Defense Information School Radio, and TV course at Ft. Ben Harrison, Indianapolis. In November 1967, I received orders to report to the 6314th Headquarters Support Squadron at Osan AFB. I was detached and assigned to Headquarters Armed Forces Radio/TV in Seoul. For the next 13 months, I was a DJ with a daily show from 9am to 1pm. Living in a Korean War Quonset hut was a real experience. Diesel heaters and sweat boxes. Read more - https://t.co/XwBQ3WG8fk

#kdva #iservedinkorea

[Korea Defense Veterans Association (KDVA) @KDVAVets]

🚨 Now Available: KDVA ROK–U.S. Alliance Journal 2026-1 🚨
https://t.co/yYabX6aFpL

The latest edition of the KDVA ROK–U.S. Alliance Journal has officially dropped! 🇰🇷🤝🇺🇸

In this collection, readers will gain insights into the rich history and enduring partnership between the Republic of Korea and the United States. Through the captivating narratives shared by KDVA members and supporters of the ROK-U.S. Alliance, readers will have the opportunity to explore the multifaceted aspects of this important relationship. From personal accounts to in-depth analyses, this compilation offers a diverse range of perspectives that highlight the significance of collaboration and friendship between these two nations. Get ready to be inspired and informed as you delve into the stories and articles that celebrate the strong bond that unites the ROK and the U.S.

📖 Read it now and join the conversation shaping the future of the ROK–U.S. Alliance.
#KDVA #ROKUSAlliance #Security #Strategy #GlobalAffairs #AllianceStrong

[Korea Defense Veterans Association (KDVA) @KDVAVets]

Did you know? Thousands of U.S. Service Members continue to serve on the Korean Peninsula today, supporting regional stability and the ROK-U.S. Alliance.

KDVA proudly supports the Veterans who contributed to this mission across generations.
#MilitaryHistory #KDVA

[Korea Defense Veterans Association (KDVA) @KDVAVets]

Did you know? The Korean War Armistice was signed in 1953, but the legacy of service continues through the men and women who have defended the Korean Peninsula in the decades since.

The Korea Defense Veterans Association works to ensure those stories are remembered and honored. Through our events, programs, and social media, we reconnect Veterans to those they served with and provide networking opportunities to meet others in their area. KDVA is for EVERYONE, not just Veterans!
#KoreanWarHistory #Veterans #KDVA

[Korea Defense Veterans Association (KDVA) @KDVAVets]

What makes Korea an assignment of choice? For many, it’s more than duty—it’s a defining experience.
Hear firsthand from Ronald Alexander as he shares his journey, leadership, and unexpected turns that shaped his time in Korea.

"My journey with the Republic of Korea began with an assignment I eagerly embraced, volunteering for service in 1982-83. I joined Headquarters and Headquarters Company (HHC) 2nd Infantry Division (2ID) Aviation Battalion, flying UH-1H helicopters as an Instructor Pilot out of Camp Casey (H-220). A stroke of serendipity, or perhaps fate, intervened shortly after my arrival at the "Turtle Farm" (Assignment HQ) in Yongson, North Post. Major Paul Hinote, the S-3 in 2ID and a former colleague from my Ft. Rucker days, specifically requested my transfer to 2ID rather than my original posting with the 52nd Avn BN at K-16. And so, my path led north. "

🇺🇸🇰🇷 Read more and discover why this assignment leaves a lasting impact:
https://t.co/i8ck8BtJtl

[Korea Defense Veterans Association (KDVA) @KDVAVets]

When you think back to your time in Korea, memories come flooding back into your mind. The difficult terrain you had to navigate during Team Spirit. The enjoyment of warm ramyeon on a cold day. Shopping in Itaewon while on pass.

Everyone who served in the Republic of Korea has their own unique memories and experiences. However, we all have one thing in common - great memories of those we served with.
KDVA currently has over 58,000 members and bringing Veterans together is one of the greatest benefits to joining. Our Membership Portal allows members to search for buddies or others who may have served during the same time or in the same place.

Joining KDVA is FREE, but finding that long lost battle buddy is…PRICELESS. Learn more at https://t.co/EFC8GKrq1i. #kdva

[Korea Defense Veterans Association (KDVA) @KDVAVets]

Join us on April 28, 2026, from 6:00–8:00 PM at the historic American Legion building for an evening of connection and camaraderie! 👉 Register here: https://t.co/aTSGvgFRle

Reconnect with old friends, meet new ones, and celebrate the strength of our community. This free event is open to everyone—veterans, families, and supporters of the ROK–U.S. Alliance.
We’re honored to welcome General (Ret.) Robert B. “Abe” Abrams, Chairman and President of KDVA and former Commander of UNC/CFC/USFK, as a special guest.

Bring your friends, family, and colleagues and join us for a memorable evening.

#KDVA #MeetAndGreet #ROKUSAlliance #VeteransCommunity #OldTownAlexandria

[Korea Defense Veterans Association (KDVA) @KDVAVets]

🇺🇸 Membership for All 🇰🇷
The Korea Defense Veterans Association proudly welcomes Veterans, family members, supporters, and community allies who believe in honoring the legacy of those who defended freedom on the Korean Peninsula.

Whether you served, supported someone who served, or simply want to preserve the history and sacrifices of our Veterans and the ROK-U.S. Alliance —there is a place for you in our community.

Become a member today and stand with those who served. KDVA membership is free ... but priceless! https://t.co/OVitisaUjf
#KoreaDefenseVeterans #VeteransCommunity #HonorService #MembershipForAll #kdva