The Korean War began on June 25, 1950, when North Korean forces, backed by the Soviet Union and China, crossed the 38th parallel and invaded South Korea. This aggressive move shocked the world and marked the beginning of a brutal conflict that would last for three years.

The roots of the Korean War lie in the division of Korea at the end of World War II. The peninsula, previously under Japanese rule, was divided along the 38th parallel by the Allies, with the Soviet Union occupying the north and the United States occupying the south. This division was intended to be temporary, but as Cold War tensions escalated, it solidified into a permanent split, creating two separate governments: the communist North, led by Kim Il-sung, and the capitalist South, led by Syngman Rhee.

On the dawn of June 25, 1950, North Korean artillery opened fire along the 38th parallel, and infantry divisions quickly followed. The South Korean army, unprepared and outgunned, was swiftly overrun. Within days, North Korean forces captured Seoul, the South Korean capital, and continued to push southward.

The invasion prompted a swift response from the United Nations. On June 27, the UN Security Council, in the absence of the Soviet Union, which was boycotting the council, passed a resolution calling for member states to assist South Korea. The United States, under President Harry S. Truman, took immediate action, committing air and naval forces to the conflict and later sending ground troops.

The Korean War saw dramatic shifts in momentum. Initially, North Korean forces nearly succeeded in conquering the entire peninsula, but UN forces, primarily composed of U.S. troops, launched a successful counteroffensive, recapturing Seoul and pushing the North Koreans back. The war then settled into a bloody stalemate, with both sides suffering heavy casualties.

The conflict would continue until July 27, 1953, when an armistice was signed, establishing the Korean Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) and effectively ending the fighting. However, a formal peace treaty was never signed, and the Korean Peninsula remains divided and tense to this day. The Korean War not only left a profound impact on Korea but also intensified Cold War tensions worldwide, shaping the geopolitical landscape for decades to come.

Congratulations to the soldiers of OSUT class 24-24 (Arma3) for successful completion of training! These soldiers have been awarded the Army Service Ribbon and have earned the right to be full active members of their squad and the unit! This is merely the first step in your career here at 3rdID, we look forward to your continued success! Hooah

Graduates :

 PV2 J.Moffet  

 PV2 D.Ngoc    

Instructors :

 SGT W.Fives          

 CPL H.McMahon   

 SPC D.Hughson     

 WOC S.Rogers        

(Source: https://www.army.mil/)

Almost two and a half centuries ago today the Continental Congress established what will later become the United States army. 

Since its birth the army has proven vital in both the initial domestic and later foreign struggles the newly born, or seasoned, U.S. found itself. 
Every year a ceremony is held at Arlington National Cemetery, with the goal of paying tribute to those who paid the ultimate price. 

For this year the theme is “Honoring the Past, Defending the Future.”, putting a classical focus on the importance of remembering and looking up to the past actions of those before, while making sure there is a future to continue looking back. 
As many around the U.S. gather to celebrate this event, veterans and community members join in order to recall all that was done, witnessed and head forward with renewed respect for those who set the traditions they now follow. 

As the U.S. army heads towards its 250th birthday next year, we wish all current and retired service members an enjoyable celebration.
 

Flag Day, celebrated on June 14th, is a significant yet often overlooked holiday in the United States. It commemorates the adoption of the Stars and Stripes as the official flag of the United States on June 14, 1777, by the Second Continental Congress. This day serves as a reminder of the nation's history, unity, and the values that the flag represents.

The origins of Flag Day can be traced back to 1885, when Bernard J. Cigrand, a schoolteacher in Waubeka, Wisconsin, arranged for his students to observe June 14 as "Flag Birthday." His efforts to promote the celebration of the flag gained traction over the years. By 1916, President Woodrow Wilson issued a proclamation establishing June 14 as Flag Day, and in 1949, Congress officially designated it as National Flag Day, recognizing its importance in American culture and history.

The American flag, with its thirteen stripes and fifty stars, symbolizes the country's evolution and expansion. The stripes represent the original thirteen colonies that declared independence from Britain, while the stars signify the fifty states that make up the union. Over time, the flag has become an emblem of freedom, democracy, and the enduring spirit of the American people.

Flag Day is an opportunity for citizens to reflect on the principles of liberty and justice that the flag embodies. Communities across the nation engage in various activities to honor the day, including parades, flag-raising ceremonies, and educational programs. Schools often incorporate lessons about the history and significance of the flag, fostering a sense of patriotism and respect among students.

Flag Day is more than just a date on the calendar; it is a celebration of the American spirit and the values that the flag represents. As citizens honor the flag, they also reaffirm their commitment to the principles of freedom, equality, and unity that define the United States. Through educational efforts and community involvement, Flag Day continues to inspire patriotism and a deeper appreciation for the nation's history and heritage.

Congratulations to the soldiers of OSUT class 24-23 (Arma3) for successful completion of training! These soldiers have been awarded the Army Service Ribbon and have earned the right to be full active members of their squad and the unit! This is merely the first step in your career here at 3rdID, we look forward to your continued success! Hooah

Graduates :

 PFC A.McFarland       

 PV2 Z.Hudson                             

 PV2 C.Minev                              

 PV2 T.Lanza                              

Instructors :

 SGT A.Shocked        

 CPL B.Fitzgerald      

 CPL J.Starling           

 SPC M.Alther           

SPC D.Hughson       

 SPC A.Zvik                 

 SPC B.Montana