More than 150 members of the 2ID/RUCD community varying in
rank, position, and background met in observance of the event.
“This is a two-part celebration as we commemorate the U.S.
victory in the Pacific, which ended World War II and the liberation of Korea
from imperial Japan rule,” said Chaplain (Lt. Col.) Hyeonjoong Kim, 2ID/RUCD
command chaplain and Seoul native. “We reflect on the spiritual fortitude of
our Soldiers who made the ultimate sacrifice in support of the nations,” he
added.
Following singing of the Korean and American national
anthems by Ms. Song Ok Namgung, a contemporary Christian jazz singer,
Headquarters and Headquarters Battalion Chaplain (Capt.) Steve Love and
Republic of Korea Army Chaplain (Capt.) Byungki Lee, 16th Mechanized Brigade
gave the invocation in English Korean, respectively.
“There are two important days in your life: when you are
born and when you discover the purpose of why you were born,” said Chaplain
(Col.) Chul W. Kim, Eighth Army command chaplain and Seoul native.. “Everyone
has a purpose in this life, it’s not random.”
Chul Kim spoke about how strengthening spiritual fitness can
help Warriors focus their core beliefs to understand their identity, purpose,
and sense of connection.
Chul Kim’s remarks resonated with Sgt. Nichole L. Olson,
intel analyst and Beech Grove, Indiana native, who was inspired to attend
future events as she enjoyed the communal atmosphere of the luncheon.
“It was altogether a wonderful time with the beautiful
prayers, great music, and delicious Mexican food,” said Olson. “Loved the fact
that it was open to both nations, regardless of religious denomination.
Everyone can enjoy the luncheon and freely talk to their neighbors.”
After months of preparation, members of the 2ID/RUCD Unit
Ministry Team agreed the event was a success.
“It was refreshing to see the immense involvement with this
luncheon,” said Master Sgt. David M. Kress, a Cleveland native and religious
affairs leader. “The Victory Prayer Luncheon was a testament of members of the
Warrior community gathering and celebrating the division’s spiritual strength
on a day fundamental in establishing ROK-U.S partnership on August 15, 1945.”
More than 73 years later, spirits are uplifted in reverence,
song, and prayer as the bonds formed within the combined division flourish with
the common goal of perennial peace on the Korean peninsula.
STORY: Sgt. Raquel Villalona, 2ID/RUCD Public Affairs
SOURCE: U.S. Army
