Emotional Acts of Kindness by Marine Corps Soldiers on Memorial Day

It was recently revealed that two Marine Corps soldiers stationed on Baengnyeong Island, the northernmost point of the West Sea, expressed their special gratitude to senior citizens who are veterans.

Corporal Kwon Yul (21) and Private First Class Lee Chan-hyung (20), both belonging to the 6th Brigade Air Defense Battalion, personally paid for the meals of senior veterans wearing their veteran badges at a local restaurant during an outing on the 6th.

At the time, the senior citizens were having their meals at a nearby restaurant after attending a Memorial Day commemoration event as veterans of the Korean War.

This touching scene came to light when an employee from the Baengnyeong District Office happened to witness it and reported it.

Mr. Oh Kyung-rok (92), a veteran who expressed his gratitude, shared, "I was proud and grateful to see young Marines paying for the meals. It made me feel a mix of emotions—pride, but also a sense of apology and appreciation."

He added, "I am proud and reassured by our junior soldiers. I hope everything goes well through the pride of serving and protecting the country as a Marine on Baengnyeong Island, the northernmost point of the West Sea."

Young Marines Practicing the Meaning of Memorial Day Through Action

Corporal Kwon Yul, one of the protagonists of this heartwarming story, expressed, "On Memorial Day, I wanted to show my respect for the dedication and sacrifices of the older generation through action. It may not be a big deal, but I hope our gratitude was well conveyed."

He vowed, "I will continue to act with pride as a Marine."

Private First Class Lee Chan-hyung, who joined in the act of kindness, shared his feelings at the time, saying, "Seeing senior citizens dining while wearing veteran badges touched my heart."

He showed strong determination, stating, "Just as the veterans protected the country, I will do my best to carry out my duties during my remaining service to protect our nation."

Image Source: Private First Class Lee Chan-hyung (left) and Corporal Kwon Yul (right), both from the 6th Brigade Air Defense Battalion / 6th Marine Brigade, Reference photographs to aid understanding of the article / YouTube 'Ministry of Patriots and Veterans Affairs'