Army Provides New Home for Mexican War Veterans

[Image source=Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Yang Nak-gyu, Military Specialist Reporter] Two Mexican veterans who participated in the Korean War will be provided with housing. This is the first time a housing environment improvement support project has been carried out for overseas veterans.

On the 14th, the Army announced that next month, to commemorate the 60th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Korea and Mexico, the groundbreaking ceremony for the 'Nara Sarang Bogumjari' overseas project will be held in Monterrey, Mexico.

The Nara Sarang Bogumjari project, which supports housing environment improvements (new construction or remodeling), began in 2011 to honor and express gratitude for the sacrifices and dedication of veterans who participated in the Korean War and the Vietnam War since 2011.

So far, the Army stated that based on the progress of this project, it plans to consider gradually expanding housing environment improvement support for overseas veterans.

Meanwhile, on the same day, the Army held the completion ceremony for the 387th Nara Sarang Bogumjari at the home of Korean War veteran Kim Gwang-ik (89), who resides in Baengnyeong-myeon, Ongjin-gun, Incheon Metropolitan City, together with the Chungnam Community Chest of Korea and the Korea Veterans Welfare and Medical Service. Mr. Kim participated in the Korean War in April 1952 as a guerrilla soldier belonging to the U.S. 8240 unit, known as the Kilo Unit, and carried out missions in Baengnyeongdo and Chodo in Hwanghae Province.

He said, "Although many years have passed, the longing for comrades who fell on the battlefield and my passionate patriotism remain unchanged," adding, "I am simply grateful that the Army remembers us until the end and has even created a home where we can spend our remaining years comfortably."