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The outgoing commander of the U.S. Forces Korea, Gen. Leon LaPorte, on Friday called on supporters of the Korea-U.S. alliance to speak out. LaPorte warned the alliance faces difficulties ahead in both countries from those who think it has served its purpose and those who benefit from cracks in the relationship. But he added it is as much worth fighting for now as it was 50 years ago and will be 50 years hence.
LaPorte, the longest-serving commander of the U.S. Forces Korea with three years and nine months at the helm, always said the alliance was strong. But in his parting speech at a handover ceremony Friday, now free of the responsibility of command, it seems he felt moved to say what was really on his mind. Even then he said the alliance ¡°will face¡± difficulties, when in fact it has been strained for the past three years and is now close to breaking point.
Some government officials who value the alliance, unaware of the fact that times have changed, were bitterly attacked when the new government veered toward anti-American sentiment and self-reliance. We now know that some in the National Security Council and ruling Uri Party are in cahoots to stir up trouble by disclosing sensitive information about the relationship.
One academic who took part in shaping the Roh Moo-hyun administration¡¯s policies says Korea has been able to achieve democracy and prosperity because of its alliance with the U.S. Another says a country sandwiched between China and Japan without any great military power cannot survive without the help of America. The harsh reality is that the Republic of Korea could not have become what it is today without the alliance, and without it cannot hope for security and prosperity in the future. There is no point hiding from or distorting reality just because we have different political views.
Those who wish to protect the alliance must speak out, without fear of public criticism or ridicule. Silence would be a disservice to the country.
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