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Current Events and Your Safety in the ROK (Sharp Point # 14-10)

  • Published
  • By Gen. Walter Sharp
  • United Nations Command, Combined Forces Command and U.S. Forces Korea commander
YONGSAN GARRISON, Republic of Korea --  1. I know that recent events such as the sinking of the Republic of Korea's Cheonan Corvette, the release of the ROK-led multinational investigation team results, and the cancellation of our annual NEO exercise Courageous Channel 2010 may have raised concerns in the minds of some of our families here in the ROK.

2. I want to personally reassure our USFK Service members, civilians, contractors, and families living in Korea that although this was a very serious incident, there is no elevated threat to our safety. Our Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen, and Marines, the ROK and U.S. Governments, as well as our host nation's military work tirelessly to ensure the safety and welfare of both ROK and U.S. citizens living in the Republic of Korea.

3. Our USFK team and ROK partners constantly reassess our force protection measures and potential threats and report directly to me. We are very confident in our systems, including our NEO system, to quickly adjust our protection measures and ensure the safety of our families if something were to change. One of the strongest force protection measures we have is the vigilance of our Service members and family members. If you observe any suspicious activity in or around our installations, call the Military Police or Security Police immediately.

4. We cancelled our Courageous Channel exercise in order to prevent the misperception that the exercise was somehow linked to the sinking of the Cheonan, which was clearly not the case. I am pleased that we had already achieved our main objectives during the planning and preparation for the exercise.

5. Let me assure you that two of the finest militaries in the world stand as a strong deterrent against external threats, and the Republic of Korea continues to be a safe place to live and work. On and off our installations, activities in schools, markets, and business districts are taking place as they would on any given day.

6. Improving your quality of life is one of my top three priorities and your safety is paramount to achieving that goal. I encourage you to continue to get out and explore our host country and enjoy its beautiful culture and unique opportunities.

7. In addition, I encourage you to use the USFK website (http://www.usfk.mil/usfk/) and the USFK Facebook (http://www.facebook.com/pages/ Yongsan-South-Korea/US-Forces-Korea-Official-Page/425064710222), to find out about the many exciting opportunities available to you here in Korea and to address any questions or concerns you may have. The safety and well being of families remain at the forefront of my priorities. Your unit support groups and leadership can provide you additional information as needed.

8. Once again, thank you for your personal sacrifice, and your tireless support to our Service members and Civilians.

9. We Go Together!

For additional Sharp Point messages, visit http://www.usfk.mil/usfk/sharppoint.aspx.