ANDERSEN AIR FORCE BASE, Guam –
More than 100 Republic of Korea senior military leaders received a first-hand
look at Andersen Air Force Base and other military installations on Guam during
a Korean National Defense University capstone event.
The visit, supported
by U.S. Pacific Command, is designed to educate newly selected generals and
admirals on key issues and capabilities as well as strengthen the U.S.-ROK
alliance.
Split between two days on Jan. 23 and Jan. 30, the visit
provided ROK flag officers a chance to view B-52 Stratofortress bombers and ask
maintainers and pilots questions in order to gain a better understanding of the
role Andersen Airmen play in maintaining stability in the region.
"[It
was great to have the opportunity for the ROK military leaders] to see the
strategic mission that is enabled by the airpower stationed at Andersen and the
Naval base....which directly affects and improves the ROK and U.S. alliance and
also our combined defense readiness posture," said ROK Lt. Gen. Seung Ho
Wee.
ROK flag officers also met with Team Andersen
leadership.
"It's an honor to have our ROK partners here," said U.S. Air
Force Brig. Gen. Andrew Toth, 36th Wing commander. "Hosting this capstone tour
offers military members from both our nations the opportunity to meet
face-to-face, build relationships and learn more about our partners'
capabilities."
The ROK leaders later noted the unique capabilities Team
Andersen brings to the Pacific theater.
"I think [the tour] will have a
great impact on the ROK and U.S. alliance," Wee said. "Our future leaders of
Korean military, the 41 flag level officers and the officers selected to be flag
level officers are here to directly witness and see for themselves the assets of
the Air Force and Navy stationed on Guam."
ROK leaders also visited
various sites in Hawaii before they arrived in Guam. While in Hawaii, they
visited the Punchbowl National Cemetery, Pacific Warfighter Center, Pacific
Aviation Museum and the Navy's USS Missouri, as well as tour Joint Base Pearl
Harbor-Hickam.