Mr. Kim Yong Tae, 61 years of service to USFK

Yesterday I bid a fond farewell to the most amazing man I had the honor to work with over the course of my government career.  Mr. Kim planned to retire at the end of the month, but found out he needs to go into the hospital for a month.  Hopeful for a full recovery, but I expect he won’t return regardless.

Mr. Kim was insistent that there be no big deal made regarding his departure.  So, I asked him if he would participate in a New Year’s luncheon with the staff and he consented.  I made up a nice pot roast in the crock pot and supplemented it with some Popeye’s chicken.  Other people brought in some tasty sides and we had a fine meal indeed.

Mr. Kim regaled us with some war stories (I mean from the actual Korean War), and some of his co-workers shed tears.  Just before he left he showed me some files and said his replacement might find them useful.  I responded, your successor might need them, but you will never be replaced.

A big loss for us but he has bigger battles to wage now.  God speed and good luck Mr. Kim!