West Montgomery Times

HARRISBURG – Korean Americans who served in the Vietnam War with the Korean Armed Forces are one step closer to receiving the same state veterans benefits as their U.S. counterparts following the approval of legislation by a Senate committee. The sponsor of the bill, Sen. Tracy Pennycuick (R-24), emphasized the importance of recognizing the contributions of Korean American veterans.

Pennycuick, a U.S. Army combat veteran, highlighted the sacrifices made by Korean Americans during the Vietnam War, stating, "They are deserving of our thanks and our benefits as soldiers, sailors and airmen serving this great nation." The proposed measure aims to grant the same rights, benefits, and privileges of United States military veterans to naturalized U.S. citizens who served in the Vietnam War with the Korean Armed Forces.

The Senate Veterans Affairs and Emergency Preparedness Committee approved Senate Bill 973, which specifically targets more than 3,000 naturalized Korean American citizens who served in the Vietnam War as part of the Korean Armed Forces. Pennycuick further noted, "Hundreds of these vital American allies, who fought with tremendous valor and honor alongside U.S. forces, now call Pennsylvania home. They have made their lives and homes in this country and are entitled to as much respect as their U.S. military counterparts."

The bill sets criteria for eligibility, including being a Pennsylvania resident who is an American citizen, having served as an active-duty member of the Republic of Korea Armed Forces in the Vietnam War between Jan. 9, 1962, and May 7, 1975, and receiving an honorable discharge or equivalent. With the committee's approval, the bill now progresses to the full Senate for consideration.

For further information, contact Lidia DiFiore.