Jan. 13 is Korean American Day in Virginia

Delegate Tim Hugo, who represents parts of Catharpin, Gainesville, Haymarket, and Manassas in Prince William County, issued the following statement today: In 2007, I sponsored HJ 632 to designate today as Korean American Day in Virginia to honor the tremendous accomplishments and contributions that Korean Americans make to our Commonwealth and to our Country.

In December 1902, a group of 56 men, 21 women, and 25 children traveled from Korea across the Pacific Ocean seeking a new life in America. They landed in Honolulu, Hawaii on January 13, 1903, marking the first entry of Korean immigrants to the United States territory.

Since that time, Korean Americans have demonstrated and continue to demonstrate great initiative, no fear of hard work, and amazing creativity. These values have made Korean Americans essential to the growth and success of American society; making significant contributions to medicine, the arts, business, engineering, athletics, and serving in public office, among other fields.

Korean Americans were key in achieving and sustaining independence for their mother country during World War II and beyond. Their sacrifices and dedication during that time are a testament to their devotion to freedom; devotion that the current generation of Korean Americans continue to value as they grow and prosper in our nation.

With the sterling pattern of great success that Korean Americans are setting all over the United States, I see no sign of stopping the great contributions to American freedom, prosperity, and quality of life that are surely yet to come.”

Hugo is the third ranking member in the Virginia House of Delegates leadership. He is the Majority Caucus Chairman for the House Republican Caucus. He is the Vice Chairman of the Finance Committee and also serves on the Commerce and Labor, Transportation, and Privileges and Election Committeesand represents parts of Fairfax and Prince William counties.