The Republic of Korea Marine Corps Education and Training Group announced at the graduation ceremony for the 1,327th class of Marine recruits held on the 2nd that the first four-generation Marine family in the Corps' history was born.
The family is that of Private Kim Jun-young. While 58 families have had three generations of Marines, a four-generation Marine family is the first in the Marine Corps' 77-year history.
The first-generation Marine, the late great-grandfather Kim Jae-chan, voluntarily enlisted from Jeju Island as part of the 3rd enlisted class. He served as a member of the Marine Corps' legendary victories during the Korean War and was discharged as a staff sergeant.
The second-generation Marine, grandfather Kim Eun-il, enlisted as part of the 173rd enlisted class and served in the Vietnam War, carrying out operations including the Battle of Chu Lai.
The third-generation Marine, father Kim Cheol-min, enlisted as part of the 754th enlisted class and served on the front lines of the Gimpo Peninsula, defending the western flank of the capital Seoul.
Grandfather Kim Eun-il also attended the ceremony, traveling all the way from Gapa Island off Jeju to encourage his grandson.
Private Kim, wearing the "red name tag," said, "With the pride of being a four-generation Marine, I will fulfill my given duties and become an 'invincible Marine,' adding my own line to the history of the Marine Corps."
A total of 1,319 recruits, including Private Kim, graduated on the day.
Brigadier General Kim Su-yong, commander of the Education and Training Group, said, "I am confident that the 1,327th class will become key players at this important juncture as the Marine Corps establishes its status as a quasi-fourth branch of the military."