Interview] Korean-American Vietnam War Veterans: Inaugural Burial Ceremony Held at Newly Established ‘Memorial Burial Site’ | Comments | May 8, 2026 (Fri) 12:00:00 | Reporter Hwang Eui-kyung | [Font Size/Print/Social Share]
▶ Operation PTSD Group
▶ Located within the Veterans-Only Burial Section
▶ Offering the ‘Sanctuary of Honor’ Benefit. The ‘Operation PTSD Veterans Group’—a non-profit organization dedicated to enhancing the welfare and rights of veterans—has established the ‘Memorial Burial Site for Korean-American Vietnam War Veterans’ within the veterans-only section of Eternal Valley Memorial Park. The group recently unveiled the site, explaining its historical background and significance. This initiative marks the fulfillment of a long-held aspiration among Korean-American veterans—those who served alongside U.S. forces and dedicated themselves to the defense of freedom and democracy during the Vietnam War—to be honorably laid to rest alongside their comrades-in-arms within a dedicated veterans' cemetery.

In this regard, the inaugural burial ceremony for the late Comrade Cho Soon-je—a former officer in the Republic of Korea Army—was held at the memorial site on the 4th of this month. The ceremony featured full military honors performed by a U.S. military honor guard; furthermore, the deceased’s sacrifice was commemorated as a U.S. flag—sent by President Trump—and a South Korean flag (Taegeukgi) were presented to the bereaved family by Kim Jung-min, the Consul for Veterans Affairs at the Consulate General of the Republic of Korea in Los Angeles.

According to the organization, Operation PTSD is currently working in cooperation with cemetery authorities to develop approximately 30 burial plots within the veterans-only section; of these, 11 plots have already been secured through direct purchase by individual veterans. This initiative is grounded in H.R. 366 (Public Law 118-20)—which went into effect in November 2023 following the President's signature—and related federal statutes (U.S. Code Titles 38 and 109). It stems from the official recognition of the sacrifices and contributions made by Korean American Vietnam War veterans, a milestone that has now made them eligible for interment in veterans-only cemeteries.

Director Alfred Chung stated, "After years of persistent effort, the passage of this legislation means that Korean American Vietnam War veterans can now receive the full honors due to U.S. veterans, including interment in veterans' cemeteries, as well as access to a wide range of other benefits." He added, "If you require assistance regarding these benefits or procedures, please contact our organization; a Korean-speaking representative will provide detailed guidance in Korean and assist you with the necessary support."

Meanwhile, the Operation PTSD Veterans Group continues to engage in various activities, including charitable donations, the maintenance of veterans' recreation halls, and assistance with obtaining veterans' documentation. CEO Mark Arrow remarked, "We work in collaboration with the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to serve as advocates for the rights and interests of Korean American veterans." He further pledged, "Through tangible forms of support—such as benefits for service-related medical conditions and funeral assistance—we are committed to ensuring that even more Korean American veterans receive the help they deserve." For inquiries: Korean (213) 619-6209; English (818) 961-5349.

<Reporter Hwang Eui-kyung>