I read with great interest Michael Kilian’s Perspective piece on our 50 long years in Korea. Mr. Kilian makes note of the fact that it has cost this country dearly to stay there, and we have lost many fine men in the attempt to keep the uneasy peace that Koreans have lived under. It is true that over the years, some positive things have taken place in South Korea, including a much more tolerant leader, the building of a better army and the progress of the booming economy, which is one of the best in the world.
But it seems that we have a tiger by the tail and dare not let go. We have been there for 50 years, and it would seem that we did about all that could be done in that country. I would hate to imagine that we will have to have our troops stationed there for another 50 years, if not longer. We have, over all these years, built up their army as to equipment and ability to defend themselves. But I think in spite of a rather hostile North Korea, we should consider withdrawing from South Korea. It is their country and not ours, and I am sure that if the situation were reversed, we would not like it if their troops were in our country.
