ROK and U.S. forces alliance honored Published March 14, 2011 By Tech. Sgt. Matthew McGovern 7th Air Force Public Affairs OSAN AIR BASE, Republic of Korea -- The close of Exercise Key Resolve '11 was celebrated with a dedication ceremony honoring the alliance between the Republic of Korea and U.S. forces at the Korea Air Operations Center March 10, here at Osan Air Base. The 607th Air and Space Operations Center Commander and the ROK forces AOC Director unveiled a bronze plaque depicting the top U.S. and ROK Air Force aces during the Korean War. "I will bring your attention to the two characters displayed on the plaque, Capt. Joseph McConnell and Brig. Gen. Kim, Hwan Young, not only combat heroes, but also personal friends in the Korean War," said Col. James McGovern, 607th Air and Space Operations Center commander. "They symbolize why we are still here as one great alliance." The plaque, dedicated by the Joint U.S. and ROK Heritage Council, was displayed to affirm the alliance with the Korean saying, Katchi Kapshida. (We go together). Col. McGovern and Brig. Gen. Won, In Choul, ROK Air Forces AOC Director also formally unveiled seven wooden panels displayed in a major thoroughfare of the center. The panels depict historic accounts and pictures of key phases of the Korean War. "It's a very meaningful day for all of us," General Won said. "Sixty one years ago the ROK was in great danger to enemy attack. At the time, the first country deployed to protect us was the USAF members. Most of us were born after the incident happened and only know about the Korean War by book." "The reason we are still friends 61 years later is the blood and sacrifices and we'll never forget your dedication and sacrifice," General Won said.