Deported Purple Heart Army veteran hopes for U.S. return from South Korea

South Korea (Island News) — Americans paused to celebrate Independence Day, but despite being far from home, one veteran who self-deported to South Korea still feels the significance of this holiday.
Sae Joon Park, a U.S. Army veteran, self-deported to South Korea, his birthplace, leaving behind his elderly mother in Hawaii. Park’s story garnered widespread attention due to his service for the United States. He served on the front line and was shot twice in combat in Panama, earning a Purple Heart for his bravery.

Sae Joon Park, a U.S. Army veteran, self-deported on June 23 to South Korea, his birthplace, leaving behind his elderly mother in Hawaii. Though he is far from home on Independence Day, he still feels the significance of this holiday and hopes to be able to return to the U.S.