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Last week, U.S. Representatives Young Kim (CA-40), Marilyn Strickland (WA-10), Michelle Steel (CA-45) and Andy Kim (NJ-03), the four Korean American members of Congress, introduced a bipartisan bill to award the Congressional Gold Medal to Colonel Young Oak Kim for his extraordinary heroism, leadership and humanitarianism.
“Colonel Young Oak Kim spent his long, full life defying the odds and giving back to our country and our Asian American community. He was a dedicated military hero, from helping liberate Rome from Nazi control during WWII to commanding a U.S. Army battalion during the Korean War. His service only continued after his time in the military, and I feel so blessed to have called him a good friend and mentor,” said Rep. Young Kim. “I am humbled to use my voice to honor him, just as he told me to honor our shared name, our country and duty to public service. I am glad that all Korean American members of Congress could come together to work to award him this belated and well-deserved Congressional Gold Medal.”
“As the four Korean-American Members of Congress, it’s important for us to come together to recognize and uplift the exemplary legacy of Colonel Young Oak Kim. Despite the barriers and racism he faced because of his heritage, Colonel Kim excelled in his service–both in our military and in our community. He is more than deserving of this high honor as a military hero during both World War II and the Korean War, and as a steadfast community leader and humanitarian,” said Rep. Strickland.
“Col. Young Oak Kim’s determination and courage is the epitome of the American spirit. Through his service, Col. Kim broke barriers for generations of Asian-Americans to follow his footsteps. Col. Kim is more than deserving of this honor and I am proud to join my colleagues in recognizing his public service and heroism.” said Rep. Steel.
“AAPI individuals’ enormous contributions to our country often go unknown or unrecognized. Colonel Young Oak Kim has earned this recognition through exemplary service not only in uniform, but as a steadfast community leader. Passing this resolution would recognize Col. Kim’s impact on countless lives, resilience against systemic racism, and his bravery fighting for our nation. It would also help honor the many heroes and contributions of our Asian-American community that deserve to be seen and celebrated.” said Rep. Andy Kim.
