PYEONGTAEK CITY, Republic of Korea -- Col. John Gonzales, 51st Fighter Wing commander, was awarded honorary Pyeongtaek citizenship by Jang Seon Jung, Pyeongtaek mayor, as part of a ceremony on May 25, 2021.
Jung and Gonzales exchanged gifts during the ceremony to commemorate the continued cooperation between Osan Air Base and the host nation. Through these gifts, Gonzales and Jung shared their cultures with one another.
“I’m very honored by the mayor and his office,” said Gonzales. “I’ll always cherish this token of appreciation for everything we’ve accomplished together.”
Both Osan AB and Pyeongtaek experienced hardships with the COVID-19 lockdowns over the past year, but Osan AB and Pyeongtaek worked together to weather these hardships.
“Our team works very closely with the city of Pyeongtaek,” said Gonzales. “Because of that close relationship, we’re able to overcome many adversities and achieve our common interest of increasing the standard of living for everyone.”
As the meeting came to a close, Gonzales thanked Jung for accepting himself and all of team Osan as a part of their community.
“I’m excited about the opportunities the future holds for both Pyeongtaek and Osan Air Base,” Gonzales said.