Whereas the influence of Korean Americans may be observed in all facets of American life, from politics to industry, entrepreneurship to volunteerism, the arts, and education; Whereas, on January 13, 1903, 102 courageous Korean immigrants arrived in the United States initiating the first chapter of Korean immigration to America; Whereas these pioneer Korean immigrants faced tremendous social and economic obstacles as well as language barriers in America, the land of opportunity; Whereas in pursuit of the American dream, Korean immigrants initially served as farmworkers, wage laborers, and section hands throughout the United States; Whereas first generation Korean immigrants established a new home in a new land through resilience, tenacious effort, and immense sacrifice, which became the bedrock for their children and future generations of Korean Americans; Whereas the centennial year of 2003 marked an important milestone in the history of Korean immigration; Whereas the House passed House Resolution 487 to commemorate Korean American Day in the 109th Congress; Whereas the Senate passed Senate Resolution 283 to commemorate Korean American Day in the 109th Congress; Whereas Korean Americans, like other groups of immigrants that came to the United States before them, seeking a better life and opportunity, have thrived in their new homeland due to strong work ethic, family bonds, and community spirit; Whereas Korean Americans have made significant contributions to the economic vitality of the United States and the global marketplace; Whereas Korean Americans have invigorated businesses, not-for-profit and other nongovernmental organizations, government, technology, medicine, athletics, arts and entertainment, journalism, churches, academic communities, and countless facets of American life; Whereas Korean Americans have made enormous contributions to the military strength of the United States and served with distinction in the Armed Forces during World War I, World War II, and the conflict in Korea