ROK Tours Could Change

Army Gen. Burwell Bell, commander of U.S. Forces Korea, told the House Armed Services Committee March 7 that it’s time to change tour-lengths in the Republic of Korea from one year to three. He also said that all married troops should be allowed to bring their families. Furthermore, the 2,000 family members already there who are not command-sponsored — and thus not authorized full access to U.S. facilities — should be granted an authorized status. Gen. Bell cited three reasons for his recommendations: (1) After 54 years of an armistice, coupled with the modern nature of the Republic of Korea, it’s time to transition from a one-year combat rotation mentality to a normal three-year accompanied tour; (2) the current one-year tours needlessly add to the high worldwide operational tempo; and (3) three-year tours will help bridge the culture gap.