The Morning Calm Korea Weekly - Dec. 1, 2006

Volume 5, Issue 8

P UBLISHED F OR T HOSE S ERVING

IN THE

R EPUBLIC

OF

KOREA

ROK special forces aid in Kunsan base defense

Fall foliage paints Korea

Pages 3

Page 16

Dec. 1, 2006

The Morning Calm Weekly is

nline Visit http:// ima.korea.army.mil

Anti-terrorism drill planned for Y ongsan Yongsan Garrison Mon., Tues.

SGT. 1ST CLASS MARK PORTER

Santa Sighting Children at Yongsan Garrison got a sneak peek of the North Pole’s most famous resident Wednesday, when Santa Claus made a visit to the Dragon Hill Lodge. Saint Nick arrived on a fire truck at 9:45 a.m., and took time to shake hands with each child and to hear a few Christmas wishes. The DHL staff helped make the event special, providing candy for the children.

Area II Public Affairs YONGSAN GARRISON — The Area II Support Activity will conduct an Anti-Terrorism/Force Protection exercise Monday and Tuesday at Yongsan Garrison. The two-day exercise, which has been scheduled for several months, will consist primarily of gate operations that will test security at Yongsan Garrison and other outlying Area II installations. “Soldiers from Yongsan Garrison tenant units and some Republic of Korea Army personnel will participate in the exercise,” said Area II Security Specialist Micheal Clement. “The goal is to improve force protection by testing anti-terrorism response and communication procedures.” The 121st Combat Support Hospital will also conduct a mass casualty exercise. Clement said security at Yongsan gates and other key locations will be enhanced during the anti-terrorism exercise. Soldiers participating in the exercise will be wearing combat gear. “Our goal is to conduct a successful exercise with minimal impact on the public,” said Clement. “However, there may be traffic delays due to temporary gate closures or increased vehicle inspections, so we are asking drivers to be patient and to drive safely.” There may also be increased inspections of people entering Yongsan Garrison gates. Clement said only a few gates will be affected at any given time in order to minimize impact on the community.

8th Army Drive, overpass to close for weekend Area II Public Affairs YONGSAN GARRISON — Eighth Army Drive from Trent Gymnasium to the overpass on Yongsan Main Post will be closed Saturday and Sunday for resurfacing. The overpass connecting Main and South posts will also be closed to vehicles, but open for pedestrian use, according to Area II Directorate of Public Works officials. Drivers should use Gate 7 or Gate 1 to access Main Post throughout the weekend. Gate 20 at Camp Coiner may also be used. The intersection adjacent to Trent Gymnasium (8th Army Drive and 1st Corps Boulevard) will not be affected, so drivers will be able to access the post exchange parking lot and nearby areas.

“Drivers should continue to use caution and obey flagmen or detour signs,” said Area II Director of Emergency Services Ricky Oxendine. Alternate bus routes will be used. Post shuttle bus changes will be posted at affected bus stops. Commercial bus schedules to Area I and Osan Air Base will not be affected, though the buses may use alternate gates when entering or exiting Yongsan Garrison. The two-day closure is the last of four major road resurfacing projects during the six weeks. “These projects have gone smoothly, thanks to everyone’s cooperation,” said Area II Public Works Director Michael Chung. He added that stripes will be painted after the new surfaces have “cured” for about 30 days.

PFC. KIM SANG-WOOK

The section of 8th Army Drive near the overpass connecting Main and South Post will be resurfaced Saturday and Sunday.

Commentary

Dec. 1, 2006

2 http://ima.korea.army.mil/morningcalmweekly

The Morning Calm Weekly

‘T is the season ... to practice OPSEC ‘Tis Special to The Morning Calm Weekly

common sense security practices. Here are some reminders that will help keep your holiday season a safe ‘Twas the week before Christmas and enjoyable one. And all through the neighborhoods OPSEC and Street Smarts are Thieves were out prowling synonymous. With OPSEC you Looking for goods. identify key information that your Uncollected newspapers adversaries might use against you, And mail two feet high Indicators that the owner wasn’t home then apply countermeasures to safeguard that information. When Caught the thief ’s eye. shopping, think of OPSEC as “Street Now the home is empty. Smarts,” and consider the following: The rooms are all bare. Protect credit card and ATM If only occupants had remembered numbers Be wary of “shoulder To be OPSEC Aware! surfers — cell phone cameras” as you Operational Security or OPSEC is take out cash from ATMs or pay for the process we use to identify and items with your credit protect sensitive information from “ Things often get so card Make sure to put receipts in a safe place our adversaries. hectic around the holidays or destroy them While we primarily that sometimes we properly. use this process at Be wary when work, we can apply completely forget about carrying a large the same basic security at home..” amount of cash. If so, methodology to keep a portion of the money separate protecting our family and our homes from your wallet in case you get pickover the upcoming holiday season. pocketed or lose your wallet. With the hustle and bustle of the Protect expensive items you holiday season, we can forget about

Provided by Fort Huachuca Public Affairs

recently purchased. If you bought so many presents that you have to take a trip to the car to unload your packages so that you can buy more, make sure you place the items in your trunk and out of sight. It’s also smart to relocate your vehicle to another parking space. Christmas is a time of giving. But giving a family member a present can help burglars target you. Trash can make you a target. Boxes from jewelry or from electronics such as computers, televisions, provide good indicators to potential burglars about what high value items are located in the household. Break down the boxes, throw them in a bag or put them out just before trash collection time. Practice OPSEC at home, too. Things often get so hectic around the holidays that sometimes we completely forget about basic security at home. If people from utility or other service companies request access to your residence, verify their identity

before allowing entry to your home Write down the license plate number of suspicious vehicles and note the description of occupants When socializing at parties over the holidays don’t talk “shop” around those who don’t have a need to know. Be wary of attempts to elicit information, even from friends and family. Report suspicious activity to the police or local law enforcement officials. If traveling this holiday season, don’t forget — travel OPSEC! Refrain from using military duffel bags or bags with government patches or logos and use concealed luggage tags. Don’t use rank or title to reserve airline tickets and hotel rooms. Keep a low profile in dress and demeanor. Be cautious about giving out information regarding family travel plans to those who don’t have a “need to know.” Leave your home with a lived-in look. Use timers for lights, TV or radio. Have a neighbor collect your mail and holiday deliveries.

MP Blotter The following entries were excerpted from the military police blotters. These entries may be incomplete and do not imply the guilt or innocence of any person. Area 2 Assault Consummated by a Battery, Disorderly Conduct, Failure to ID, Conduct Unbecoming an Officer — Victim 1 attempted to identify person(s) unknown, operating a privately owned vehicle, who failed to stop at the Transportation Motor Pool compound check point. Victim 1 attempted to pursue person(s) unknown on foot and could not stop the POV, at which time Victim 1 returned to his/her guard shack. Victim 1 waited for person(s) unknown to exit the facility, at which time Victim 1 initiated the stop and revealed that person(s) unknown was identified as Subject 1. Victim 1 returned to the guard shack with Subject 1’s ID card, at which time Subject 1 exited his/her POV and followed Victim 1 into the guard shack. Victim 1 advised Subject 1 to wait outside until the situation could be resolved. Victim 1 telephonically notified the Yongsan Provost Marshal’s Office, at which time Subject 1 entered back into the guard shack. While Victim 1 was speaking with the MP, Subject 1 became physical by grabbing Victim 1 on the arm in an attempt to get the phone away from Victim 1. Victim 1 advised Subject 1 to

Morning Calm

Published by IMCOM-Korea This Army newspaper is an authorized publication for members of the Department of Defense. Contents of The Morning Calm Weekly are not necessarily official views of, or endorsed by, the U.S. Government, Department of Defense, or Department of the Army. The editorial content of this weekly publication is the responsibility of the IMCOM-Korea, Public Affairs, APO AP 96205. Circulation: 9,500 SUBMISSIONS OR COMMENTS: Phone: DSN 738-3355 Fax: DSN 738-3356 E-mail: MorningCalmWeekly @korea.army.mil

exit the guard shack and to wait outside again, at which time Subject 1 again refused to cooperate with Victim 1’s direct order and demanded to give him/her the telephone. Victim 1 stated that he/she had pushed Subject 1 outside of his guard shack for his safety and to complete his official notification to the Yongsan PMO. All parties were escorted to the Yongsan PMO, where Victim 1 rendered a written statement attesting to the incident and was released on his/her own recognizance. Subject 1 was advised of his/ her legal rights, which he/she waived, rendering a written sworn statement admitting to Disorderly Conduct, Failure to Identify and Conduct Unbecoming of an Officer, but denying the Assault Consummated by a Battery. Subject 1 was further processed and released to his/her unit. Victim 1 and Subject 1 reported no injuries during the altercation. Area 3 Assault Consummated by a Battery — Subject 1 struck Subject 2 in the face with an open hand. Subject 2 tried to leave the area and was forcibly held by Subject 1. Subject 2 then struck Subject 1 on the side of his/her face with his/her wrist trying to push Subject 1 away. Subject 2 and Subject 1 were apprehended and transported to the KNP Station where they were both charged under ROK Criminal Code, ART 257 (Simple Assault). Subject 2 was released

Installation Management Command-Korea Region Director/Publisher Public Affairs Officer Editor

Area I

Commander Public Affairs Officer CI Officer

Area II

Commander Public Affairs Officer CI Officer Staff Writer

Col. Forrest R. Newton Margaret Banish-Donaldson James F. Cunningham

Col. Ron Stephens Steve Davis David McNally Cpl. Lee Yang-won

to MP custody on a CJ form 2 and transported to the Camp Humphreys PMO, where he/she was advised of his/her legal rights, which he/she waived, rendering a statement attesting to the incident. Subject 2 was further processed and released to his/her unit. Investigation continues by KNP and MPI. Area 4 Traffic Accident with Injuries (Off-Post) — Subject 1, while operating a moped in the opposite direction of oncoming traffic, struck Victim 1’s POV while Victim 1 was making a legal U-turn. Damage to Subject 1’s vehicle consisted of dents and scratches to both sides of the moped, a broken front wheel and right side mirror. Damage to Victim 1’s vehicle consisted of dents and scratches to the front left quarter panel, front left bumper, and a broken left headlight. Subject 1 was transported by ambulance to the Dongkyong Hospital where he/she was initially treated and transferred to the Kyongbuk National University Hospital, where he/she is being treated for injuries consisting of a skull fracture, cerebral hemorrhaging, a concussion, neck fracture and hemorrhaging of internal organs. KNP charged Subject 1 with KRTL Article 48 (Obligation for Safe Driving). Investigation continues by KNP.

Printed by Oriental Press Bldg. 1440, Yongsan Main Post

Printed by Oriental Press, a private firm in no way connected with the U.S. Government, under Col. Al Aycock exclusive written contract with the Contracting CommandJohn A. Nowell Korea. The civilian printer is Sgt. 1st Class Mark Porter responsible for commercial Area III advertising. The appearance of Commander Col. Michael J. Taliento Jr. advertising in this publication, Public Affairs Officer Susan Barkley including inserts or supplements, CI Officer F. Neil Neeley does not constitute endorsement by the U.S. Army or Oriental Press of the products or services Area IV advertised. Commander Col. John E. Dumoulin Jr. Everything advertised in this Public Affairs Officer Kevin Jackson publication shall be made CI Officer Galen Putnam available for purchase, use or Staff Writer Steven Hoover patronage without regard to race, religion, gender, national origin,

Sustain, Support and Defend

age, marital status, physical handicap, political affiliation, or any other non-merit factor of the purchaser, user or patron. If a violation or rejection of this equal opportunity policy by an advertiser is confirmed, the printer shall refuse to print advertising from that source until the violation is corrected. President: Charles Chong Commercial Advertising Telephone: 738-5005 723-4253 Fax: (02) 790-5795 E-mail: [email protected] Mail address: Oriental Press, PSC 450, Box 758, APO AP 96206-0758

The Morning Calm Weekly

News

Dec. 1, 2006

http://ima.korea.army.mil/morningcalmweekly

Army ups referral bonus to $2K

Santa’s Mail Bag Parents and children may send letters to Santa at the following address: Santa’s Mail Bag ATTN: 354th OSS/OSW 1215 Flightline Ave. Eielson AFB, Alaska 99702 A stamped envelope complete with a return address should be included inside each mailing. The envelope will be returned with the bright Northpole cancellation stamp and a letter from Santa Claus. AAFES Toy Recall In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, Mattel Inc., of El Segundo, Ca., is voluntarily recalling about 2.4 million Polly Pocket Magnetic Playsets in 8 styles, because the magnets can separate from the toy and could pose an aspiration hazard, intestinal blockage and/or perforation hazard. Consumers should stop using the recalled products immediately. Name of Products: Polly Pocket dolls and accessories with magnets. AAFES sold the following items: 1. Polly Pocket “Quick Click” Boutique, style # G-8605 2. Poly Pocket “Quick Click” City Pretty Playset, style # H1537 3. Poly Pocket “Quick Click” Sporty Playset, style # H1538 4. Poly Pocket Totally Zen Play Set, style # H3211 The model number is printed on the bottom of the largest pieces on some of the play sets. Contact Mattel if you cannot find a model number on your product to determine if it is part of the recall. Children should stop using the recalled sets immediately. Contact Mattel at (888) 597-6597 anytime, or visit their Web site at www.service.mattel.com for instructions to return the recalled sets and receive a voucher for a replacement toy of customer’s choice up to the value of the returned product. SCRA Dinner Monday The Signal Corps Regimental Association will be sponsoring a dinner 6-9 p.m. Monday, with Lt. Gen. Boutelle, DA G6/chief information officer, as the guest speaker. The event will be at the Naija Ballroom, Dragon Hill Lodge, and feature the DHL Holiday Package Buffet. Price is $25. For information, call Rick Chmura at 723-4943, 1st Lt. Ruth McDermott, 7236061, or InSeon Lim, 725-3015. Online OHA Survey The Annual Overseas Housing Allowance Utility Survey is under way for Korea thru Dec. 22. All Uniformed servicemembers in Korea who reside in privately leased quarters overseas and receive OHA can reach the site at https:// www.perdiem.osd.mil/oha/SURVEY/ NOVOHA.HTML. The Overseas Housing Allowance is a valuable entitlement for members stationed overseas. The time and effort spent answering the questions enables the Department of Defense to set equitable OHA utility rates.

3

By Daisy Bueno Army News Service

SENIOR AIRMAN BARRY LOO

Republic of Korea special forces soldiers guard mock aggressors from the 8th Security Forces Squadron Nov. 15 during a 7th Air Force quarterly peninsula-wide exercise.

Korean special forces help cops ‘defend the base’ By Senior Airman Stephen Collier 8th Fighter Wing Public Affairs

KUNSAN AIR BASE — Steelyeyed and gung-ho, elements of the Republic of Korean Army’s elite special forces integrated with the Defenders of the 8th Security Forces Squadron during the 7th Air Force peninsula combat employment exercise that took place Nov. 13 through Nov. 17. The 35th Battalion, 7th Brigade ROK Army special forces unit assisted base security forces by helping to defend Kunsan from simulated North Korean sappers. Played by Alpha Battery, 2-1 Air Defense Artillery based out of Gwang Ju AB, the sappers, or opposition force, were met by stiff resistance supplied by joint U.S.-ROK forces, according to Capt. Dave Bickel, OIC, Air Base Defense, 8th Security Forces Squadron. “The ROK Army special forces integrated with security forces in a significant way,” said Capt Bickel. “In a

contingency operation, ROK units will be an intricate part of our overall defense plan. It’s imperative for our air base defense that we create and maintain a solid working relationship with our host nation forces. Joint exercises [such as the PENCERE] provide an excellent opportunity to recreate a wartime scenario and put these transition plans to work in real time.” Although the ROK unit integrated with base defenses for an exercise, the purpose was far from it. In the event a major conflict breaks out between North Korea and its neighbor to the south, U.S. forces would undoubtedly be called into action. The integration of these ROK forces allows for additional defense against North Korean special forces widely believed to target high-value assets on bases throughout South Korea, including Kunsan. During the exercise, ROK forces,

See Kunsan, Page 4

NSPS coming soon to F ar East District Far By Joe Campbell Far East District Public Affairs

SEOUL – Civilian supervisors and human resource specialists from the Far East District recently participated in a National Security Personnel System training class at Yongsan Army Garrison. Conducted by the Area II Civilian Personnel Advisory Center, the two-day class introduced the new Department of Defense civilian human resources system which, according to CPAC, will change the way the Army handles its people. “Since the Department of Defense has mandated that the NSPS be implemented it is essential that all of the Far East District employees, who will be converted to NSPS during the first part of January, become familiar with and understand how NSPS will impact, not only themselves, but also their employees, so that they can take an active part in leading the change,” said Ken Stark, Area II CPAC

WASHINGTON — Bonuses have doubled to $2K for Soldiers and retirees referring future Soldiers to the Referral Bonus Pilot Program. Active-duty and reservecomponent Soldiers, and Army retirees, are eligible for the referral bonus. Soldiers working in the Hometown Recruiter Assistance Program, Special Recruiter Assistance Program, Active Duty for Special Work Program or the Future Soldier Training Program are also eligible if the prospective Soldier has not already met with a recruiter. The bonus is not paid to Soldiers referring members of their immediate families, to include spouses, children, parents, stepparents and siblings. Referrals should be made through the Army Referral System - Sergeant Major of the Army Recruiting Team Web site at www.usarec.army.mil/ smart. An Army Knowledge Online user name and password are required to use the site, at which Soldiers must first establish a user account to make a referral. Users will be asked to submit such personal information as their social security number to facilitate payment. Referrals may also be made at (800) 223-3735, ext. 6-0473. The bonus is paid in two lump sums. The first half is paid when the Soldier begins basic training, and the second half is paid after the Soldier graduates from One-Station Unit Training or Advanced Individual Training. There are no retroactive provisions to the change. Sponsors who provided referrals before Nov. 13 are only eligible for the $1K bonus.

director. The system is designed to deliver new, more flexible and streamlined personnel processes for recruiting, hiring, promotion, and to better prepare the workforce to meet future missions. NSPS is being implemented in phases called spirals. Approximately 11,000 DoD civilians were converted with Spiral 1.1 in April of this year. Beginning in January 2007 more than 4,000 U.S. Army Corps of Engineers supervisors in General Schedule positions along with other designated USACE employees will convert to the new system under Spiral 1.2. Spiral 1.3, scheduled for April 2007, will affect all non-bargaining unit and non-supervisory employees in the Pacific Ocean Division Headquarters, Japan District, Honolulu District, South Atlantic Division Headquarters, Jacksonville District, and Omaha District. The Department of Defense proposes conversion of the remainder of the non-bargaining unit workforce in October 2007. Transition teams have been established throughout

See NSPS NSPS, Page 13

Dec. 1,7 2006

4 http://ima.korea.army.mil/morningcalmweekly

The Morning Calm Weekly

K AF A Thanksgiving AFA

STAFF SGT.

DAVE

CARDENAS

Gen. B. B. Bell, commander, United Nations Command/Combined Forces Command/United States Forces Korea presents a bronze ‘Bronco’ statue to Wang, Sang-eun, chairman, Korean American Friendship Association at the 31st annual Thanksgiving and year-end banquet hosted by KAFA for 300 unaccompanied service members at the Hotel Shilla, Nov. 21. American Ambassador to Korea, the Honorable Alexander Vershbow (right) was guest speaker at the event. KAFA sponsors provided nearly $50,000 worth of gifts to the honorees.

Kunsan together with base defenders, engaged and put down several simulated intrusions into the “wire,” or outer base defenses. Also, as opposition forces took positions to ambush base defenders and ROK soldiers, Capt. Bickel said “security forces were ready each time.” But ROK special forces can’t do it alone. The ability to repel and, if necessary, kill enemy forces is essential. But learning to navigate the base and working hand-in-hand with American forces is just as important. “The ROK special forces are highly trained and very skilled at what they do,” says Capt Bickel. “The defenders of the 8th Security Forces Squadron got a unique opportunity to work with these warriors closely and learn from their experience and expertise. On the other hand, the ROK soldiers got the chance to see how we work and defend Kunsan.” Staff Sgt. Scotty Young, 8th SFS controller, who worked along side his ROK special forces counterparts in the field during the exercise, also praised the ROK unit’s ability to not only Defend the Base, but integrate into security forces

from Page 3 quickly and efficiently. “Their ability to transition into the way we do things here was almost seamless,” said Sgt. Young. “Both sides have a lot to learn, but if we are going to practice like we fight, then we should be practicing along side them.” Just as Kunsan processes incoming forces from state-side bases, the ROK soldiers were treated like Follow-on Forces. The ROK soldiers were accepted by security forces, processed and sent to the field to help Defend the Base. Some problems, many foreseen by security forces, were identified earlier as the ROK forces processed into the squadron. Learning from and correcting these problems in the future will help as Kunsan plans to integrate the Korean forces into future exercises. “It was a pleasure and an honor to work with our Korean counterparts,” Capt. Bickel said. “As long as I’m here, you’ll see host nation forces having bigger and bigger roles in our exercises and day-today security operations.” The next 7th Air Force PENCERE exercise is scheduled for early 2007.

SENIOR AIRMAN BARRY LOO

Airman 1st Class Joel Davis, 8th Security Forces Squadron, and a Republic of Korea special forces soldier escort a mock prisoner of war during the Nov. 15 quarterly peninsula-wide exercise.

Dec 1, 2006

Page 5

JIM CUNNINGHAM

The 2nd Infantry Division Tae kwon do team begins their martial arts show with basic moves and continues with more complex stunts until they show complete mastery.

Kor ea’s best enter tain War rior s By Jim Cunningham Area I Public Affairs

CAMP CASEY—All the excitement of a new show opening on Broadway filled the air at Carey Fitness Center Nov. 21 when the 2nd Infantry Division Tae kwon do team filled the stage with demonstrations of their special skills and the best of Korean Broadway-style shows. Not only did the playbill include tae kwon do demonstrations but two of Korea’s best entertainment groups: Fusion, which is a group of classical musicians who perform with Western traditional string instruments, violin and cello, but also with amplified Korean traditional instruments. Their repertoire includes Broadway show tunes, classical favorites, and standard pop music. Nanta, the unique show featuring a quartet of performers that improvise music with kitchen utensils, performed a special edition of their program, which included Soldiers from the audience. “This event is sponsored by the 2nd Infantry Division Tae kwon do Association. It is in appreciation for the tremendous job the Soldiers have done,” said Lt. Col.

Fusion, a combination of traditional Korean instruments and amplified western instruments, perform a variety of music during the program.

Terry Hodges, Camp Casey garrison commander. “This is to give entertainment and show our appreciation for the things the Soldiers have done.”

“Tonight’s coming out of the 2ID Tae kwon do team was my favorite tonight because they did all of their training in only 30 days,” Maj. Gen. James commander

A.

Coggin,

2ID

All three shows were nonstop demonstrations with lots of bravado. The tae kwon do team showed immense skill and precision without stopping between different stunts. All were performed with acute skill that demonstrated their mastership of the martial arts. “I liked the tae kwon do Soldier’s demonstrations because they are a part of the big black patch,” said Brig. Gen. Tom Landwermeyer, 2nd Infantry Division deputy assistant commander for sustainability. “The Nanta group was very impressive. It was the right style and the right energy for the Soldiers tonight and that is what made it so impressive.” “Tonight’s coming out of the 2ID Tae kwon do team was my favorite tonight because they did all of their training in only 30 days,” said Maj. Gen. James A. Coggin, commander of the 2nd Infantry Division. “We got some support from Morale, Welfare and Recreation in terms of setting up the facility, but the expense of bringing these groups from Seoul to Camp Casey was underwritten by the 2ID Tae kwon do Association.” Fusion performed everything in nonstop fashion as

well and ended their portion of the program with Hungarian Dance No.5 by Johannes Brahms. This selection featured the virtuoso skills of the electric violin player of the group while she roamed the audience playing to the groups that would applaud as she played. “Fusion is one of the most special groups in Korea because of their cross-cultural repertoire,” Hodges said. “They are among the finest musical groups in the world.” Nanta is one of those special groups one does not see often enough in the entertainment world. They made Kimchi in a percussive performance with kitchen utensils. While performing, they actually create melody as well as rhythm while chopping, cutting and mixing vegetables. Actually, some of their utensils are disguised drums, such as the barrels they use on stage. They are musical and they are comedians in the highest order, Hodges said. “I’m a housewife so I liked the Nanta performance the best tonight,” said Chandani Buccino, FRG facilitator for the Fires Brigade. “They performed with the tools I use everyday in the home, so I was very impressed.” E-mail [email protected]

Nanta, a group that makes music with kitchen utensils while making kimchi chooses Soldiers from the audience during their performance.

Dec. 1 2006

http://ima.korea.army.mil/morningcalmweekly 6 http://ima.korea.army.mil/morningcalmweekly

Area I

The Morning Calm Weekly

Camp Red Cloud Tree Lighting Ceremony There will be a tree lighting ceremony at Camp Red Cloud Wednesday at 5:05 p.m. For more information call: 732-8869. Camp Casey Tree Lighting Ceremony All are invited to a tree lighting ceremony at Camp Casey in front of the fountain near Gate 1. The ceremony will be from 5:30 to 6:15 p.m. Dec. 8. A reception and concert will follow at the Camp Casey Warrior’s Club from 6:30 to 7:15 p.m. The concert will begin at 7:30 and continue until 9:30 p.m. at the Hanson Field House. Dress code is: Military personnel - ACU, civilians - coat and tie. RSVP no later than today. For more information on the event, call 730-2585/1413 or e-mail [email protected]. Camp Stanley Tree Lighting Ceremony There will be a tree lighting ceremony at Camp Stanley Dec. 8 beginning at 5:05 p.m. by the chapel. All are invited to attend. For further information call: 7326869. Mitchell’s Club Holiday Hours Mitchell’s Club on Camp Red Cloud will be open until 2 a.m. Dec. 22 through 25. For more information, call 732-8189. Mitchell’s Club Christmas Buffet Mitchell’s Club on Camp Red Cloud will feature a Christmas Buffet Dec. 25 from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. for $8.95. Call 732-8189 for more information. Mitchell’s Club New Year’s Eve Party Looking for a memorable New Year’s Eve Party without all of the hassle? Look no further than Mitchell’s Club. You will find all the ingredients for a good time: Variety DJ, Party Favors, Breakfast after midnight with champagne for a midnight toast. USFK Acquisition Management Hours Effective Wednesday, the USFK Assistant Chief of Staff, Acquisition Management Army Contracting Command-Korea contractor walk-in customer service office hours will be 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. For more information, call 724-6097. GPC Live Training for Fiscal Year 2007 GPC live training for fiscal year 2007 will be held at Camp Red Cloud Dec. 13, Jan. 24, Feb. 21 from 8 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Call 7328735 for location and further information. KN Leadership Skill for NonSupervisors Today is the last day to register for Leadership Skills for Nonsupervisors course scheduled for Feb. 1 through 2 in room 207 of the CRC Education Center. For more information, call 732-9060. Christmas Door Decoration Contest Win cash prizes courtesy of AAFES. Decorate your room door and let the judges decide the winners Dec. 22. Deadline for entry submission is no later than Dec.18. For more information, call 732-8854.

SALLY HALL

Soldiers from the 6th Battalion 37th Field Artillery relax and recreate at Hotel Grand Niagara on the side of Cheongpyong Lake and Mount Homyung.

Soldiers attend USO retreat By Sally Hall Area I USO director

CAMP CASEY - Twenty-seven Warriors from the 6th Battalion 37th Field Artillery, headed to a lake resort in Cheongpyong, 60 miles southeast of Camp Casey, Nov. 8 for a three-day retreat. The retreat, organized by Battalion Chaplain Capt. Valentine Ugwuanya and the Area 1 USO, aimed to give the Soldiers quiet time to rest, relax away from a busy routine, and focus on the true spirit of a retreat. “The retreat is for the Soldier to know and discover who he is, to renew himself spiritually, to have a personal encounter with God and his fellow Soldiers (by bonding together), to refocus and rebuild relationships that improve communication skills and resolve conflicts,” Ugwuanya said.. The Soldiers stayed in Hotel Grand Niagara located along the side of Cheongpyong Lake and Mount Homyung. The resort offered a quiet serene place for spiritual, physical, and mental rejuvenation for the Soldiers and their family members, with views of the sky, mountains, riverside and misty mornings. “Being close to nature brings you back

to yourself,” said Pvt. Gerald Turner of Bravo Battery. “The quietness of the place, away from a busy city and work schedule is relaxing to the mind and body.” It was a good time for rest, relaxation and bonding with individuals you work with without the pressure of a daily routine, said Pfc. Matthew Stone of HHS 6-37th FA Battalion. Spc. Devon Wildig, also of HHS, thought the retreat was a wonderful escape from his daily routine to be with his wife, Stephanie. “My wife and I really appreciated the opportunity to be in this retreat. It was indeed very beneficial to us,” he said. Ugwuanya worked out an itinerary with the participants starting from day 1 to day 3 covering different topics each session. Discussions about Army life, cross-cultural marriage, spiritual and physical fitness, speaking and listening techniques, building strong and ready families and the life of a single Soldier were covered in discussion. “It was a time of spiritual renewal and a total encounter with God. It was a time of relaxation, to get to know their fellow Soldiers and for families to have time for each other to rebuild relationships,” said 1st. Sgt. Brett

Ellington, of Alpha Battery who served as the escort of the retreat group. As the group was leaving Camp Casey Wednesday, Lt. Col. David Danikowski of HHS, emphasized that the retreat is the first one held off base, in a local area, and hoped everyone would relate this great experience to their fellow Soldiers. The group parted with a promise to the battalion commander to be safe at all times. The retreat was coordinated through the USO at Camp Casey. A recon to the site was conducted by the USO to ensure the Soldiers’ safety and security before and during the retreat after negotiating for a discounted package with the hotel management. Students reinforced the hospitality of the hotel staff and volunteers led by Kwon, Chang Young, a USO volunteer, who assisted in food preparation and service. “The tourism class students are grateful to the Soldiers for giving them hands on training experience for customer service,” said Park, Noh Goon, the hotel manager, who personally supervised the groups’ needs during the retreat. Park invited the group to visit the resort in the summertime.

Area I welcomes Shinheung culinary arts students

Area I Public Affairs C A M P C A S E Y — L t . C o l . Te r r y H o d g e s , C a m p C a s e y g a r r i s o n c o m m a n d e r, g i v e s a t o u r o f t h e C a m p C a s e y c l u b s and lodge N o v. 20 to Shinheung College culinary arts students and professors as part of the school partnership program. YANG PYONG-YONG

Area I Warriors attend masked bowl The Morning Calm Weekly

By Jim Cunningham Area I Public Affairs

CAMP CASEY—Spending four hours in a gas mask is not the kind of activity that would be considered pleasant. For the troops of the 1/38 Battalion at Camp Casey, training with gas masks is training that has to be done frequently, but this time it was an event to remember. “This is training that is adaptive to the environment, making readiness training fun and exciting and just putting a good fun spin on it for the holidays doing it here at the Casey Bowling Center and letting the Soldiers bowl with their gear on,” said Col. Keith Bean, commander of the 1/38 Battalion. Most Soldiers say they do not e n j o y w h a t i s c a l l e d n u c l e a r, biological and chemical training. The special gear Soldiers have to wear is called Model of Atmospheric Chemical Hazards 4. “We a r e b o w l i n g i n M A C H 4 trying to make NBC training fun, because when everybody thinks NBC they hate it automatically,” said 2nd Lt. Bernard Calibuso of the 1/ 38 Battalion. “Doing it while bowling, we still get the training we

have to do along with having a little fun while we are fulfilling our requirements.” The Soldiers of the 1/38 Battalion met nine of the requirements by bowling for four hours with NBC gear. “We have eight classes and our four hour requirement of being in MACH4 gear,” Calibuso said. “They have to be in special boots, gloves, mask and the full over garment.” The Soldiers took classes in groups while other groups would bowl wearing the MACH4 gear. “We split up the battalion into groups,” Calibuso said. “One group will bowl while the other will do the classes. You will see some of the Soldiers wearing special boots and not the others. We did not want to break out the ‘go to war’ boots in this kind of situation. The guys bowling only have to have their bowling shoes on.” It will be difficult to find an activity that would beat bowling with MACH4 gear. “Maybe we will try baseball next year,” Bean said. “Or, maybe we should try golf.”

Dec 1, 2006

http://ima.korea.army.mil/morningcalmweekly

7

JIM CUNNINGHAM

This Soldier is having a ball bowling with MACH4 gear on at Casey Bowling Center during NBC training. Not only did the Soldiers have t r a i n i n g i n t h e b o w l i n g a l l e y, ” a l o t o f f u n g e t t i n g t h e i r N B C said Gerald Keener, Camp Casey training, the bowling alley had b o w l i n g a l l e y m a n a g e r f o r a g o o d t i m e p r o v i d i n g t h e MWR. “It is a real gas for the support. Soldiers and us too.” “This is adaptive flexible E-mail [email protected]

Leaders carve for Warriors and orphans on turkey day By Jim Cunningham Area I Public Affairs

JIM CUNNINGHAM

CAMP RED CLOUD—Command Sgt. Maj. Greg Bunce, CSM for Area I, and Col. Forrest Newton, Area I garrison commander carve the turkey and ham during Thanksgiving lunch at the Camp Red Cloud dining facility. They toured with their wives and family around Area I that day carving for Warriors at Camps Stanley and Red Cloud Community Activities Center serving more than 800 troops and more than 60 orphans at the CRC CAC. Thanksgiving activities in Area I continued for most of the day and into the evening hours, feeding Soldiers and family members from Morale, Welfare and Recreation facilities and DFACs throughout Area I.

What were you thinking Dooley?! You know you can’t steal a bus!!

Last call for alcohol!!

What th’ #$@%&*+$!! Dooley! What are you doing in that bus?!!

Dec. 1, 2006

Page 9

Thankgiving celebrations cheer community By David McNally Area II Public Affairs

YONGSAN GARRISON — Thanksgiving 2006 gave Area II community members an opportunity to celebrate a bountiful year and to eat to their hearts’ content. Many Soldiers reflected on the meaning of the holiday. “What Thanksgiving means to me is when our forefathers first came to America and we all get together friends and families,” said Spc. Elijah Nielsen, 142nd Military Police Company. “It’s okay because wherever you are you are going to have friends by your side and they will be supporting you and treating you as if you were home.” For Koreans who may not understand the tradition, Thanksgiving is “America’s Chuseok.” “It’s a big gathering with the family and everybody you care about,” said Staff Sgt. Elver Deras, 42nd Transportation Battalion. “I keep in contact with them frequently so it’s like I’m with them always.” At Three Kingdom’s Inn Dining Facility on Main Post 430 servicemembers, families, civilians and guests lined up Nov. 23 for the Thanksgiving feast. K-16 served 449 people and Camp Coiner served 279 people. Smaller facilities at Yongin and Madison site served 113 and 50 people respectively. “The total headcount this Thanksgiving Day was a little lower from last year,” said Area II Food Service Advisor Larry Graham. Graham said one possible reason was the number of Korean Augmentation to the U.S. Army Soldiers going home over the four-day weekend. Many Thanksgiving diners wore uniforms, some

Area II prepares for winter weather By David McNally Area II Public Affairs

YONGSAN GARRISON — As the last autumn leaves hit the ground, Area II officials are ready to react to severe winter weather. Snow and ice are just around the corner. “We’re getting into where the weather can be the most destructive,” said Area II Support Activity Plans and Operations Officer Sean Lehane. People need to be prepared now. The season officially begins December 1.” Lehane outlined how community members will find out about road conditions and school closures. “Our first line of defense is the Provost Marshal,” he said. “During their patrols, they are the eyes and ears of the command. They report hazardous conditions and block hazardous roads.” The Area II commander works closely with the Department of Defense Dependents Schools superintendent to determine closures,

See Winter, Page 12

PFC. JUNG JAE-HOON

Pvt. David Sherlock (right) and Pvt. Matthew Barnett, both assigned to U.S. Forces Korea Honor Guard, eat at the Three Kingdom's Inn Dining Facility Nov. 23. formal, to the dining facility feasts, but most servicemembers wore civilian clothes to enjoy the holiday casually. Army dining facilities go out of their way to decorate for the Thanksgiving holiday.

In Area II, officials held a contest for the best decorated facility. “I was pleased with our Area II Dining Facilities again this year,” Graham said. “The decorations and

See Thanksgiving Thanksgiving, Page 12

Hannam Village fire drill tests residents By Cpl. Lee Yang-won Area II Public Affairs

YONGSAN GARRISON — Three fire trucks rush through traffic with sirens blaring, catching many people’s sight on a quiet Nov. 22 afternoon. As the trucks reach the fire scene, firefighters swiftly don protective gear and plunge into the smoking 15-story building. The firemen successfully clear rooms and rescue a simulated resident to conclude the event. This was the scene during a Hannam Village fire drill. The training tested the residents’ evacuation process and the firemen’s performances. “The drill is to ensure people know the correct and safe procedure, when evacuating high-rise facilities in case of a fire or natural disaster,” said Area II Deputy Fire Chief John Derengowski. “We made sure the residents got out safely and used the proper methods.” Smoke generators emitted mineraloil training smoke to make the drill more realistic as firemen cleared the rooms of an empty apartment. Simultaneously, firefighters escorted people residing at nearby buildings to a baseball field. More than 60 residents evacuated their

CPL. LEE YANG-WON

Hannam Village resident Gia Thompson evacuates her family during the Nov. 22 drill.

homes and gathered at the field. “This was the first time I completed a fire drill evacuation,” said Hannam Village resident Gia Thompson. “It seemed to go smoothly. The intercom went on and let us know exactly where to evacuate.” Derengowski said it is important the residents use the stairways instead of the elevator.

“In high-rise buildings, you should use provided stairwells or go to the roof,” he said. “If you stay in your apartment, you should seal the floor around the door with wet towels and wait for firefighters to rescue you with the ladders.” The Yongsan-gu Fire Department supported the drill by providing a ladder-equipped fire truck. “The ladder that the city sent reached up to 20 stories,” he said. Derengowski said the drill turned out to be a big success. Fire Department officials were impressed how quickly the dwellers responded to the fire alarm and did what they had to do. “Everything went off like it should have, as if a real fire contingency happened,” said Area II Fire Inspector Yi Tok-kyu. “The residents were really cooperative.” The Area II Fire Department is planning to do the same drill at Burke Towers next month. “This training will be made mandatory at least annually for all high-rise buildings,” Derengowski said. E-mail [email protected]

10

Dec. 1, 2006

Area II

http://area2.korea.army.mil

Tree Lighting Ceremonies The Yongsan Tree Lighting Ceremony will be 5 p.m. Dec. 7. The event will feature singing, contests and the start of a “Winter Wonderland” lighting display along 8th Army Drive and X Corps Blvd. toward Gate 17. Santa Claus will arrive on a fire engine and meet with children at the Yongsan Fire Station. There will also be a lighting ceremony 6 p.m. Dec. 11 at the Hannam Village Commissary Circle. Boy Scout Dinner The Korea District Boy Scouts of America is hosting an Eagle Scout Recognition Dinner 6:30 p.m. Saturday at the Mezzanine Level of the Dragon Hill Lodge. The event is open to all who have earned the Eagle Scout rank and their guests. For information, call 723-4833. Holiday Concert The 8th Army Band will perform a holiday concert 7 p.m. Monday at the Seoul American High School Auditorium. The community is invited to attend. Children's Choir The Far East Broadcast Company Children's Choir from Suweon Central Baptist Church will perform a free concert 6 p.m. Sunday at South Post Chapel. All community members are welcome. For information, call 738-3011 or 738-4043. American Red Cross The American Red Cross is seeking motivated individuals to provide emergency communications and casework services to members of the Armed Forces and their families. The applicant must be an American citizen; at least 18 years of age; a high school graduate; have base access; and possess basic computer skills. For information, call 738-3670. New Yongsan Visitor Center Hours The Yongsan Garrison Gate 20 Visitor Center hours are now 6 a.m.-1 a.m. daily. Visitors can also sign in at Gates 5, 10 and 17. Contracting Customer Service Hours Starting Monday, The U.S. Forces Korea Contracting Command - Korea invited contractor walk-in customer service office hours will be 1-5 p.m. Monday-Friday. For more information, call 724-6097. United Through Reading “United Through Reading” is available to all active-duty servicemembers. The USO will provide the book, and tape you while you're reading the book. The USO will send the book and video to your child back home. The tradition of reading bed-time stories at night can continue. For information, call 724-7781.

The Morning Calm Weekly

Ar ea II invites Area Kor ean National orean Police for tour By Pfc. Kim Sang-wook Area II Public Affairs

YONGSAN GARRISON — The Korean National Police standing guard outside the gates provide security for U.S. Military installations by standing guard, but they often do not know what is on the other side of the walls. Area II invited 120 Yongsan-gu police officers Nov. 20 to thank them for their tireless guard work. The visit gave the young men an opportunity to look around the garrison. “I wanted to let you know how much we appreciate what you do,” said Area II Commander Col. Ron Stephens. “You are out there 24-7, no matter what the weather, you are always on guard, always alert.” Stephens said they are part of the team based on the alliance between the United States and the Republic of Korea. After coffee and donuts and a video about the alliance and the Yongsan Garrison relocation to Camp Humphreys, the policemen got a chance to glimpse inside the gates. “I think I’m in a different country,” said Cpl. Park Hyung-mok. “It is kind of different than I imagined. Everything is so well-designed.” The one-hour bus tour started at Main Post, then went to Camp Coiner and South Post. The police officers said they were surprised at the wellorganized base that had everything in a compact area. The final stop was the Three

PHOTOS

BY

PFC. KIM SANG-WOOK

Korean National Policemen enjoy lunch at the Three Kingdom's Inn Dining Facility Nov. 21.

See Police olice, Page 12

Area II hosts 120 Korean National Police officers for a visit to Yongsan Garrison Nov. 20. For many policemen, it was their first visit inside the gates of the installation they help to guard.

Yongsan group makes quilts for wounded By Pfc. Jung Jae-hoon Area II Public Affairs

YONGSAN GARRISON — Eleven community members gathered at the South Post Chapel to share their skills and expertise on sewing and quilts Nov. 20. The “Quilts of Valor Project” is a community program from a Yongsan organization known as the “Stork’s Nest.” The project provides free quilted blankets to the wounded Soldiers from the Iraq war. The group is called the “Stork’s Nest” because it was originally a group of quilters that made free baby blankets for the expectant mothers staying at the 121st Combat Support Hospital Family Care Center. Since last fall, the women started the Quilt of Valor program. It is the first time an overseas volunteer group, has made quilts for Soldiers. The “Stork’s Nest” was organized more than 10 years ago. The organization is funded by the American Forces Spouses Club. Quilters started to show up to the chapel after 9 a.m. bringing finished quilts and fabrics to start work on the unfinished quilts. Members made the quilts in an assembly-line fashion. Each volunteer took a different role on making the quilts. “We meet every third Monday of the month at South Post Chapel in one of the upstairs classrooms,” said Stork’s Nest

See Quilts Quilts, Page 12

Photo by Pfc. Jung Jae-hoon

Volunteer Lynn Savoie prepares a quilt for sending to wounded troops.

The Morning Calm Weekly

Area II

Dec. 1, 2006

http://area2.korea.army.mil

11

Community learns Native American culture By Pfc. Jung Jae-hoon

Area II Ethics Training „Ethics Training: 9-10 a.m. Tuesday; 1-2 p.m. Dec. 13; 1-2 p.m. Dec. 19. All training will be conducted at the Balboni Theater. Larger units may coordinate for seperate unit training outside of the above schedule. For information, call 753-6631.

Area II Public Affairs

YONGSAN GARRISON — The Area II community celebrated American Indian and Alaskan Heritage Month Nov. 24 at the Main Post Club. Although the state of New York declared the first “American Indian Day” in 1916, a month-long recognition of Native Americans and Alaskans wasn’t achieved until 1990 by President George H. W. Bush. The purpose of the month is to recognize the contributions of Native Americans and the Alaskans to the United States and to celebrate Indian heritage and culture. It is an opportunity to honor and recognize the original peoples of the American soil. The Area II Equal Opportunity Office coordinated the ceremony and more than 60 servicemembers and community members attended. “Your presence here today reaffirms our appreciation and respect for the American Indian and Alaskan traditions,” said Area II Equal Opportunity Advisor Sgt. 1st Class Myra Watson. “We are here to help to preserve an important part of the American culture for generations to come.” Sgt. 1st Class Anthony Perkins opened the ceremony with a poem “Grandmother’s Blanket.” “Native Americans have given so

PFC. JUNG JAE-HOON

Boy Scout “Order of the Arrow” member Chris Behrends performs a Native American war dance Nov. 24 at the Main Post Club. much to the American culture,” Perkins said. “It is important to give our respects to them.” Guest speaker Area II Emergency Services Director Ricky Oxendine gave a speech to community members by introducing himself as a descendent of Lumbee Indians. Lumbee Indians are the 9th largest tribe in the nation and native to the state of N.C. The name Lumbee came from Lumbee river which runs through Penbroke, N.C. where Oxendine was born. “I’m honored and pleased to be here today,” said Oxendine. “Native

Americans are a strong part of our community because we have contributed to the United States in a lot of ways.” Girl Scout Troop Studio 2B38 gave a presentation on famous Native Americans, such as Pocahontas. The Boy Scout’s “Order of the Arrow” group performed a Native American traditional dance. “The ceremony was a huge success,” Watson said. “I encourage all members of the military community to contribute to promote cross-cultural harmony and awareness.” E-mail [email protected]

Commissary Idol Audition at the Commissary 2-3 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 9 and 16 to see who will be the first “Commissary Idol” Dec. 23. The competition is open to any servicemember or authorized shopper 18 years or older. Sing your favorite holiday tune to win a chance at the $200 Grand Prize. Contest winners from the audition will compete in the finale on Dec. 23. For information, call 7367070. Community of Sharing Community of Sharing is a holiday project to make sure select Area II families have a Merry Christmas is underway. Applications are available at Army Community Services in building S-4106, room 205. The application deadline is Dec. 8. For information, call 738-7505.

Area II Web site For more community notes, news and information, visit the Area II Web site at http://area2.korea.army.mil.

12

Dec. 1, 2006

http://area2.korea.army.mil

Winter delays and early dismissals along with anticipated changes to the school schedule. When the commander determines there is a need to change road conditions the staff goes into action to notify road crews and the community. They immediately notify the Directorate of Logistics so shuttle bus operations can be changed, if necessary. The schools are also notified. The Area II staff duty officer contacts tenant units and maintains contact with the 607th Weather Squadron. The Provost Marshal Office contacts the Joint Police Information Center. Updates are made to the road conditions hotline: 738-ROAD. Local radio and television services on AFN-Korea and the Commander’s Access Channel (MWR Channel 3) announce the changes. Road condition updates are also available at the Area II Web site. “It’s a process that’s been refined through the years,” Lehane said. “People shouldn’t have to worry about getting notified.” Directorate of Public Works road crews are on-call during the winter season. The crews immediately go into action to clear snow and ice from main roads and access control points. Workers have tons of calcium chloride to melt icy roads. The DPW ensure roads are passable with municipal tractors and sweeper attachments. One of two dump trucks has a snow plow and both have spreaders to spray the de-icing material.

Police Kingdom’s Inn Dining Facility for lunch with U.S. Soldiers. “The lunch was good,” Park said. “I was nervous when I stepped in to the dining facility, but I think it was good because there were lots of foods to choose from.” After lunch, the young men went to the Multipurpose Training Facility to watch a Hollywood movie, “World Trade Center.” “This is my second trip to Yongsan

Quilts volunteer Kathy Hansen. “We made 45 quilts for the soldiers so far and we make 10 to 15 quilts a month.” The group sends finished quilts to Landstuhl Regional Medical Center in Germany where wounded U.S. Soldiers stay. “We want everyone to feel appreciated and honored for their service and this is a one of the ways that we could do that,” Hansen said.

Thanksgiving table displays were good.” Madison Site Dining Facility won the competition. K-16’s 2nd Battalion, 2nd Aviation Regiment DFAC took runnerup. Graham said the staffs recognize that the meal must be a “feast.” “It even has more emphasis than Christmas dinner,” he said. “It’s weird. I miss my family so

Area II from Page 9

Hazardous roads, like those on MP Hill and Camp Coiner Hill, are given priority. Key roads necessary for operations are cleared right away. The Korean Service Corps Mobile Force then clears secondary roads and sidewalks. “The thing to remember is that tenant units and housing residents still need to clear snow and ice from their immediate areas,” Lehane said. In case of severe weather, tenant units may be required to augment the DPW and KSC crews in clearing snow and ice. At known hazardous areas there is assistance for drivers who need traction during icy road conditions. Yongsan Garrison has 98 sand containers at the foot of steep hills. The reddish boxes are loaded with sandbags. “Yongsan is very hilly and when it snows a lot, people can start sliding around,” said DPW Roads and Lands Branch Chief Enrique Blanco. “The sand gives traction.” Blanco said they do their best to clear snow and ice off the road before people begin driving on it, but drivers can still find themselves stuck at the bottom of a hill. “Sand should be scattered in front of all four wheels of a car,” Blanco said. “Each container has several bags of sand in it. People are free to use it whenever they have a need.” E-mail [email protected]

from Page 10 Garrison,” said Pfc. Lee Chul-wook. “I think it’s a good opportunity for the police officers to experience American culture and have fun today.” Lee said he had a good time during his visit on-post, and hoped that this was not his last one. The KNP Appreciation Day is part of U.S. Forces Korea Good Neighbor Program. Area II holds similar events each quarter. E-mail [email protected]

from Page 10 Soldiers showed their gratitude by sending letters of appreciation to the volunteers saying that their support is priceless to the ones that are wounded physically or mentally. “Everyone, including me, volunteered for the worthy cause,” said volunteer Lynn Savoie. “Anybody who doesn’t know what to do with their free time and wants to meet new people, this is the place. Come [email protected] help us out.” E-mail

from Page 9 much,” said Pvt. David Sherlock U.S. Forces Korea Honor Guard. “I think this Thanksgiving will be not as memorable.” “It’s not so bad,” said Pfc. Travis Vonloh, 142nd Military Police Company. “I know what we are doing over here. That and friends make up for the families.” E-mail [email protected]

The Morning Calm Weekly

Dec. 1, 2006

The Morning Calm Weekly

http://ima.korea.army.mil/morningcalmweekly

Wolf Pack test warfighting ability in PENCERE exercise Wolf: ‘Everyone came with their game face on on’’ By Staff Sgt. Nathan Gallahan 8th Fighter Wing Public Affairs

KUNSAN AIR BASE — The Wolf Pack tested its warfighting capability during its third peninsula-wide exercise this year, Nov. 13 through Nov. 17, and used lessons learned from prior exercises to help defend the Republic of Korea. “I was happy with the way we performed,” said Col. Jeff “Wolf” Lofgren, 8th Fighter Wing commander. “This is by far the best exercise I have seen yet.” Commanders and exercise evaluation team members both said that positive attitudes and motivated, teamwork-oriented Airmen, led the pack to a successful finish. “When everyone knows and understands their part in completing our mission, they become motivated and focused to see that their part is done correctly and efficiently,” said Maj. Rhude Cherry III, Wing Plans and Programs director. “During this last exercise strong indicators of

SENIOR AIRMAN BARRY LOO

An 8th Security Forces Squadron base defender stands guard outside the wing headquarters Nov. 15 during the 7th Air Force quarterly peninsula combat employment exercise. teamwork were observed and noted, so cohesion within the ranks is taking shape.” The Wolf attributed the improvements of the wing to the attitudes of Airmen, but also issued a

challenge to them when he said “the true test is all about our ability to work and refine our communications throughout the wing.” The wing will continue perfecting its mission during Wolf War Day, Dec. 11.

NSPS

13

from Page 3

the Corps to assist with and answer questions about the conversion. “The Far East District is totally committed to ensuring a smooth transition to NSPS. Timely training and effective information flow will help us succeed,” said District Transition Manager Richard Byron. The teams are led by senior management and include representatives from Human Resources, Resource Management, Public Affairs, Office of Counsel and Equal Employment Opportunity. “Now we’re at a crossroads. We’re moving to a new way of thinking,” said Far East District Workforce Management Specialist Monte Howard. “What lies ahead is the National Security Personnel System. It’s a road less traveled, a road to a more flexible system for pay, classification, recruitment and work shaping. A definite destination change,” said Howard. Additional information about NSPS can be found at http:// www.cpms.osd.mil/nsps/, or http://cpol.army.mil/library/ general/nsps/

Dec. 1, 2006

14 http://ima.korea.army.mil/morningcalmweekly

The Morning Calm Weekly

Dec. 1-7

School for Scoundrels PG-13

The Guardian

DeJa Vu

PG-13

PG-13

Stranger Than Fiction PG-13

Stranger Than Fiction PG-13

School for Scoundrels PG-13

DeJa Vu

DeJa Vu

DeJa Vu

The Guardian

The Guardian

PG-13

PG-13

PG-13

PG-13

PG-13

Flyboys

DeJa Vu

PG-13

PG-13

The Guardian PG-13

Little Man PG-13

Deck the Halls PG

Happy FFeet eet — (Savion Glover, Elijah Wood) Set deep in Antarctica and into the land of Emperor Penguins, where each needs a heart song to attract a soul mate, a penguin is born who cannot sing. Our hero Mumble, son of Memphis and Norma Jean, is the worst singer in the world – however, as it happens, he is a brilliant tap dancer!

School for Scoundrels PG-13

School for Scoundrels PG-13

The Guardian PG-13

Jet Li’s Fearless — (Jet Li, Betty Sun) The son of a great fighter who did not wish for his child to follow in his footsteps, the bullied Huo Yuanjia resolves to teach himself how to fight — and win. Years of training enable him to ace match after match in his home region of Tianjin. But as his fame as a martial arts master grows, so does his pride. After an ill-advised fight leads to another master’s death, members of Huo’s family are slain in revenge.

Gridiron Gang PG-13

Jet Li’s Fearless R

No Show Jet Li’s Fearless R

DeJa Vu

The Guardian

PG-13

PG-13

Jackass 2 R

The Guardian PG-13

R

Crank R Jet Li’s Fearless R School for Scoundrels PG-13

No Show

School for Scoundrels PG-13 The Guardian PG-13

No Show

No Show

No Show

Gridiron Gang-Gang--(Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson, Kevin Dunn) The uplifting story of detention camp probation officer Sean Porter, who creates a high-school-level football team from a ragtag group of dangerous teenage inmates as a means to teach them self-respect and social responsibility. He is joined in this experiment by co-worker, Malcolm Moore. But Porter must first overcome almost universal resistance from the powers that be — his skeptical bosses and coaches at rival high schools who don’t want their players mixing it up with convicted criminals on the football field.

No Show

No Show

Hollywoodland

No Show

School for Scoundrels PG-13

R

Jackass 2 R

The Guardian

Jet Li’s Fearless R

No Show

PG-13

PG-13

School for Scoundrels PG-13 School for Scoundrels PG-13 The Black Dahlia R

DeJa Vu — (Denzel Washington, Val Kilmer) Everyone has experienced the unsettling mystery of déjà vu – that flash of memory when you meet someone new you feel you’ve know all your life or recognize a place even though you’ve never been there before. But what if the feelings were actually warnings sent from the past or clues to the future? It is déjà vu that unexpectedly guides ATF agent Doug Carlin through an investigation into a shattering crime.

Jackass 2 R

No Show

No Show School for Scoundrels PG-13 Deck the Halls PG

Deck the Halls

The Guardian

PG

PG-13

Jackass 2 R

School for Scoundrels PG-13

School for Scoundrels PG-13

Jackass 2 R

Jackass 2 R

The Guardian

The Guardian

PG-13

PG-13

Miami Vice R

Miami Vice R

Gridiron Gang

Gridiron Gang

PG-13

PG-13

Deck the Halls

Happy Feet

The Guardian

PG

PG

PG-13

Deck the Halls

Deck the Halls

Deck the Halls

PG

PG

PG

Jet Li’s Fearless R

No Show

No Show

PG-13

PG

Jet Li’s Fearless R

The Guardian

DeJa Vu

Deck the Halls

Jet Li’s Fearless R

Jackass 2 R

Jet Li’s Fearless R

Deck the Halls (Danny DeVito, Matthew Broderick) Steve, a suburban dad and Christmas enthusiast, leads a wellordered, well-planed, and wellorganized life. His new neighbor, Buddy, is Steve’s polar opposite: a big personality with big dreams, which have yet to materialize. But Buddy’s latest dream -to create the biggest holiday light display in the world, visible from outer space – is turning Steve’s disciplined world into a chaotic nightmare.

The Covenant

Jet Li’s Fearless R

U.S.IDCardHoldersEnjoyFreeMoviesCourtesyof

ArmyMWRatU.S.

ArmyInstallationsinKorea.

Dec. 1, 2006

The Morning Calm Weekly

http://ima.korea.army.mil/morningcalmweekly

15

Are you awake on duty or asleep at the wheel Chaplain (Col.) Samuel Boone USFK Command Chaplain

Many of my seminary classmates had to work “extra” jobs to help pay tuition and living expenses. On one occasion a classmate of mine, who had trouble staying awake due to his demanding schedule, tumbled out of his chair in front of the professor. Dr. Norton, without missing a beat, remarked that if the bell failed to waken our classmate, someone should: “… wake Eutcychus and tell him class is over.” In the 20th Chapter of Acts the Apostle of Paul was preaching (on and on) in a large house. Eutychus was sitting in an upper window and after falling asleep, tumbled to the ground almost killing himself, thus becoming the patron saint of “church snoozers.” Acts says that ‘Paul prolonged his preaching until

daylight.’ (NIV) Modern worshippers find it difficult to identify with such a phenomenon. We’ve come to expect only “30 minute - preferably less” sermons, but my grandparents (and maybe yours) would have felt they didn’t get their money’s worth with such a short sermon! However, the growing membership of the Fraternal Order of Eutychus during those days, even among the most faithful, should have hinted at something. The mind can only take so much. Speech analysts tell us that the mind can only concentrate on three subjects simultaneously, and can fully comprehend only a 7 minute explanation on each subject. Add a 4 minute introduction and a 4 minute conclusion to that and you discover that after 29 minutes, in order to retain anymore, you must forget something that has already been said. So much for

the long sermon. Eutychus is a gentle reminder to those of us who preach to be merciful in planning the length of our sermons. One wise sage once observed: “the brain can only absorb as much as the seat can endure!” We are reminded of another kind of sleep far more dangerous than that of the physical kind. Paul exhorts: “… the hour has come for you to wake up from your slumber … the night is nearly over; the day is almost here. So let us put aside the deeds of darkness and put on the armor of light.” (Romans 13: 11b-12 NIV) Are you awake on duty … or are you asleep at the wheel? If so, I encourage you to awake to life and its glorious possibilities; awake to duty and its splendid rewards; awake to God! Join this week in the worship of your choice … and awake!

Area II Worship Services CatholicMass

Jewish Protestant Services Episcopal United Pentecostal Collective Protestant

Sunday

8 a.m. 11:30a.m. Tues./Wed. 12:05 p.m. Mon./Thur. 12:05p.m. Saturday 5 p.m. Friday 6 p.m.

South Post Chapel MemorialChapel 121HospitalChapel MemorialChapel MemorialChapel South Post Chapel

Sunday Sunday

10 a.m. MemorialChapel 1:30 p.m. MemorialChapel

Sunday

8 a.m. MemorialChapel 9:30a.m. 121HospitalChapel

KATUSA KCFA

9:30a.m. HannamVillageChapel (Korean) 10 a.m. South Post Chapel 10 a.m. Multipurpose Training Facility (R.O.C.K.) 10:30a.m. K-16 Community Chapel 11 a.m. HannamVillageChapel Noon South Post Chapel (Gospel) Thursday 6:30 p.m. MemorialChapel 2ndTues. 11:45a.m. MemorialChapel

3rd Tues. 11:45a.m. MemorialChapel Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints - For information , call 738-3011

Area II Chaplains Chaplain (Lt. Col.) James King [email protected] or 738-3011 Chaplain (Maj.) Leo Mora Jr. [email protected] 725-3081 Chaplain (Maj.) Adolph DuBose [email protected]

Ad goes here

Dec. 1, 2006

16 http://ima.korea.army.mil/morningcalmweekly

The Morning Calm Weekly

PHOTOS

BY

BILL SCIOTTI

A Buddhist monk walks across a stone bridge leading to one of several entrance ways to Songgwang Temple. Songgwangsa, located in the Southwest portion of the peninsula, is one of the most important Seon Buddhist monasteries in Korea, and is considered one of the Three Jewel Temples of Korea.

Fall foliage: A splash of splendor

Fall foliage lies atop a fallen tree trunk along a mountain stream at Woraksan National Park. Narrow streams, elegant green pine trees, and interesting rock formations make this national park and mountain area very beautiful. The park also boasts many Buddhist relics and cultural resources. Woraksan is located in the Northeastern part of the country, not far from the famed Soraksan National Park.

A stream trickles toward a small temple area called Mirkulbal at Woraksan National Park. The park features breathtaking scenery with statue-like rocks and stone peaks commanding fine views.

A bell hangs from the ceiling of Chickchi Temple located on the slopes of Hwangaksan in Daehang-myeon, Gimcheon, in the province of Gyeongsangbuk-do, about 30 minutes north of Daegu. The moon is highlighted by the bright blue sky and fiery red maple leaves near Sonun Temple in the southwest part of Korea.

Dec. 1, 2006

18 http://ima.korea.army.mil/morningcalmweekly

The Morning Calm Weekly

Junior officers help disadvantaged Koreans ‘give thanks’ By Senior Airman Stephen Collier

Decoder price reduction The Army and Air Force Exchange Service and the Navy Exchange Service Command will reduce monthly rental price for AFRTS decoders from $25 to $13 effective today. Contact AAFES stores for more information. VFW hosts Children’s Christmas Party VFW Post 10033 of Daegu will hold its annual Children’s Christmas Party Dec. 16 from 10 a.m. until 3 p.m. The event will feature a showing of two Christmas classics, lunch and a magic show with a special appearance by “you know who”. RSVP by Dec. 13. For more information, call Ralph Connor at 7643773.

8th Fighter Wing Public Affairs

KUNSAN AIR BASE — Whether it was the game of soccer, a re-enactment of the Village People’s famous “Y.M.C.A.” or 15 turkeys with all the trimmings, it was all smiles for a lucky group of South Koreans Saturday here. The events and 80-person dinner, sponsored by the Kunsan Company Grade Officers Council, brought residents of the Catherine-Mokyang-won house for disabled Koreans on base to sit side- by- side with 24 members of the 8th Fighter Wing to give thanks with an early Thanksgiving Day meal. “This was a chance for us to get involved with the community,” said 1st Lt. Katrina Smith, 8th Logistics Readiness Squadron Material Management flight commander

Soldier Show Casting Call Nominations for vocalists, dancers, musicians, specialty acts, technicians, and stage managers are being accepted for the 2007 Army Soldier Show. Packets should include name, rank, SSN, unit address, duty phone, e-mail address, and area of specialty. Performers must include a DVD/video and technician nominees should include resume. Nominations should reach the following address no later than Dec. 29. The U.S. Army Soldier Show, Attn: 2007 Selection Committee, P.O. Box 439, Fort Belvoir, VA 22060. Raggs Kid Club Comes to Korea The children’s group, Raggs Kids Club Band, will tour installations throughout Korea. The “dogs” integrate positive messages with their high-energy, interactive songs. The group of costumed characters has traveled nationally performing for children & their families. All performances are open to ID card holders and free of charge. For more information, contact the local MWR Entertainment Office or call DSN 7233749. Performance Schedule: Tuesday, Osan AB Youth Center at 5 p.m.; Wednesday, Camp George SAS at 10:15 a.m. and the Elementary School Gym at 1:15 p.m. and Camp Walker Kelly Gym at 6 p.m.; Thursday, camp Humphreys CAC at 6 p.m.; Dec. 8 Yongsan CDC at 10 a.m. and Moyer CSC Auditorium at 3:30 p.m. Area II Army-Navy Flag Football Game The annual Area II Army vs. Navy flag football game will begin at 10 a.m. Saturday at the Seoul American High School. AFN Korea will be onsite to do a live radio play-by-play broadcast of the game. Tune to 102.7 FM or 1530 AM.

SENIOR AIRMAN STEPHEN COLLIER

First Lt. Katrina Smith, 8th Logistics Readiness Squadron and social events coordinator for the Kunsan Company Grade Officers Council, serves up a helping of green bean cassarole Saturday.

and social events coordinator for the CGOC. “We invited them on base, which gave us a chance to interact with them while showing them a good time with a Thanksgiving Day meal.” The residents, who require constant attention due to assorted mental and physical ailments, started their visit to the “Wolf Pack,” Kunsan’s legacy namesake, with an indoor soccer game and a chance to shoot some hoops at the sports and fitness center. One basketball “coach” was Staff Sgt. Cameron Stone, 8th Civil Engineer Squadron firefighter, who said activities like the Thanksgiving dinner aided the base’s relationship with the community. “It makes you feel like you’re doing something good and productive with people who need our help,” he said. “It’s definitely something worthwhile and a good opportunity to volunteer for a good cause.” After Wolf Pack members and residents got a chance to meet one another, it was time for turkey. With a healthy helping of the 75 pounds of turkey on their plates, the Korean residents were served all the traditional Thanksgiving dishes, including stuffing, green bean casserole and cranberry sauce. Cherry cobbler, cookies and ice cream came soon after. Seeing the residents faces aglow with enjoyment, according to Smith, “was a really great feeling.” “That’s why we’re doing this,” she said. “We want to show them that not only does their community care about them, but so does the base populace as well.” Programs such as these are supported by various base organizations. Kunsan airmen, who are also assigned to United States Forces Korea based in Seoul, support the Good Neighbor Program. This specially-tailored program focuses on reaching out to South Korean communities in an effort to educate them on how Koreans and Americans have supported one another since the Korean War. The program also highlights the United States’ commitment to “being good stewards of bases in foreign lands.” “The base started visiting this facility five years ago and every month since then, we have visited the house to help clean and visit with the people,” said Rosemary Song, community relations director for the 8th FW Public Affairs Office. “While we play games and sports with them, we also provide them with a Thanksgiving Day meal. Only this year, we invited them on base to share our culture and our Thanksgiving spirit.” Once stomachs settled from the Thanksgiving feast, Koreans and Americans alike joined each other for a little song and dance. Afterwards, the Catherine-Mokyangwon residents left, but the memories of their visit will last forever, said Smith. “It’s (base community programs) important because we live here and we need the community to support us in what we do. We need to get out there and show them we care, that we’re concerned about their community and respect their culture and traditions. But at the same time, show them a little bit of ours.”

Making food and friends Ensign Alexa Holmes and Equipment Operator First Class(SCW) Kathryn Remm, both attached to Commander, U.S. Naval Forces Korea, prepare a plate of food at a soup kitchen called the DAIL Community Center in Seoul, Republic of Korea, Nov. 27. They and 13 other volunteers from CNFK served lunch to 675 elderly and homeless Koreans during the visit. They also dropped off donations, including 20 bags of rice, 20 cans of spam and 15 boxes of roman noodles.

LT. J.G. JESSICA GANDY

Page 21

Dec. 1, 2006

607th Weather Squadron always on duty

S USAN B ARKLEY

Air Force Master Sgt. Kevin E. Wendt, checks the equipment forecasters take to the field in support of 2nd Combat Aviation Brigade operations. Everything fits into a box approximately 24 by 60 inches. They are able to measure ceilings, monitor temperature and dew points, windspeed and direction. The equipment also features a handheld device that can be linked to a laptop inside a tactical operations center. By Susan Barkley Area III Public Affairs

CAMP HUMPHREYS – A small Air Force unit of 21 airmen, one non-commissioned officer and a commander located next to base operations in Building A-819 has the responsibility for a 24-hour-a-day, 365-days-a-year mission at Camp Humphreys that impacts every aviation mission, many ground missions, every school and shuttle

bus and the commuting schedule for thousands of Soldiers and civilians in Area III. According to Master Sgt. Kevin E. Wendt, non-commissioned officer in charge, the men and women of Air Force 607th Weather Squadron, Detachment 2, take regional and peninsula weather forecasts originating at 17th Operational Weather Squadron located at Hickam Air Force Base, Hawaii and refine it

for their customers. Wendt said their primary mission is to support 2nd Combat Aviation Brigade operations in garrison and field environments. In support of this mission, airmen routinely deploying to the field with CAB units . Wendt added that the unit also has a mission to support the Area III commander so he can make decisions based on accurate information about weather conditions in his area of responsibility. The airmen complete intensive training before reporting to Camp Humphreys or other assignments known as Combat Weather Teams. They complete three months of training in basic meteorology at Keesler Air Force Base in Biloxi, Miss. In addition to basic meteorology, they also learn Air Force systems and how to take and record forecasts. The follow-on assignment is to a weather hub for two or three years where they learn more about forecasting. The hubs have a large area of responsibility and publish 24hour forecasts. The 17th OWS is one such weather hub. Upon arriving at a Combat Weather Team such as Camp Humphreys, airmen have three to four years experience. They then learn Army skills that enable them to be able to deploy with the units they support, said Wendt. Wendt said it is not unusual to see Air Force personnel stationed at Army posts. He said the Army doesn’t have weather forecasters, so the Air Force

posts airmen wherever there is an Army airfield. “Anywhere there’s Army aviation, the Air Force will be there,” he said. Wendt said many airmen like working with Army units because they can see first-hand how their weather support has direct impact on missions. When working in garrison, the Airmen have a three-fold mission: provide weather briefs for pilots, including conditions for take-off and while in-flight, visibility and ceiling readings, hazards such as icing and thunderstorms, and the weather at the destination; resource protection by issuing warnings to give the installation and airfield time to take precautionary measures before bad weather hits; and, taking and recording hourly forecasts. They maintain records of localized weather phenomena such as yellow dust and fog patterns. Wendt said these weather conditions impact missions by reducing visibility for aircraft and convoy vehicles. Yellow dust also has an impact on ground troops working outside. The forecaster’s goal is to help the decision-makers make good decisions based on solid information Wendt said. Wendt called forecasting an “inexact science” and said the forecasters are very accurate in their forecasts, but added that the forecasts are for all of Area III, not just where one person is standing. “People don’t remember the good weather,” he said.

Assessment visit discovers best practices at Desiderio Airfield By Susan Barkley Area III Public Affairs

CAMP HUMPHREYS – Representatives from Installation Management CommandPacific, garrisons in the United States and other IMCOM regions completed the first ever higher headquarters assessment of Desiderio Airfield at Camp Humphreys Nov. 6-9. The visit, while not intended to be an inspection, resulted in the group finding a dynamic airfield that has instituted best practices that will be shared with other Army airfields. Calling Desiderio Airfield “one of the better airfields in IMCOM,” Randy Tucker, chief of operations, IMCOM-Pacific, also said, “This is the most dynamic airfield in IMCOM.” Among the best practices noted were a drivers training manual for anyone driving a government vehicle on the airfield; a ninephase dispatcher certification course; and, a standard operating procedure that

addresses hijacking and sabotage issues, said Staff Sgt. Crystal L. Figgs, airfield NCOIC. “Different inspection teams look for different things,” she said. “The IMCOM visit looked at the airfield as a whole.” “This was a golden opportunity to get on the runway with representatives from IMCOM and U.S. Army Aeronautical Services Agency to standardize airfield criteria and data before an inspection,” said John Albonetti, Area III director of aviation. “They were able to see our capabilities and expertise.” Chief Warrant Officer Ronald E. Thomas echoed Albonetti’s sentiments. “We have a good experience mix,” said Thomas. “We have an even balance of U.S. and [Korean Augmentation to the U.S. Army] Soldiers, a mix of Air Force and civilian experience in Mr. Albonetti, Mr. Stilley, the aviation safety officer brings an aviation background, and we have a balance of fixed wing and rotary experience in addition to base operations experience, and our Korean civilians are our institutional knowledge.

SUSAN BARKLEY

Staff Sgt. Crystal L. Figgs, airfield noncommissioned officer in charge, and Yi Chong-yun, aircraft dispatcher, looks over paperwork. Yi is responsible for briefing pilots on filling out flight plans, reviewing the plans, submitting the information to the Flight Information Center at Incheon Airport and the Flight Operations Center at K-16. He also issues notices to airmen advising of local restrictions for safe flight and airmen advisories.

Dec. 1, 2006 22 http://ima.korea.army.mil/morningcalmweekly

Area III Ethics Training The Area III Legal Center conducts required annual Ethics Training every Thursday for the rest of the calendar year. Training focuses on the Joint Ethics Regulation and particularly on proper uses of government property, private organizations, gift giving, informal funds, and fundraising. Area III Ethics Training will take place every Thursday at the Camp Humphreys PostTheatre at 1 p.m. Contact Capt. Graham Smith at 753-3756 if you have questions regarding the training.

Area III

The Morning Calm Weekly

DFACs celebrate Thanksgiving Bell visits DFACs for Thanksgiving meal (from left) Pfc. Darrin Shields, 3rd Military Intelligence Battalion, his wife Chelsea, and their two-month-old son Tylan, chat with Gen. Bell and his wife Katie. Shields works at the Red Dragon Inn. The Bells visited there for lunch on Thanksgiving Day and then went to the 2nd Combat Aviation Brigade DFAC for dessert.

Holiday Food Vouchers A limited number of Holiday food vouchers will be available for those in need this holiday season. For information contact your first sergeant or the chapel at 753-7274.

F. NEIL. NEELEY

DF ACs COMPETE DFACs FOR AWARDS

Tax Assistance Volunteers Needed The Area III Tax Assistance Center is looking for motivated volunteers to assist with tax return preparation for Soldiers and family members in the coming tax year. Training will be provided. Hours are flexible. Interested persons should call 753-6245 and leave their contact information. IG Positions Available in Areas II, III The United States Forces Korea and Eighth Army Inspector General’s Office is looking for officers and NCOs who desire to become Inspector Generals in Areas II and III. You should be in the rank of major. (branch immaterial) and sergeant first class (MOS 42A/42L and 92Y) to apply. There is also an opening for an Inspector General position in the rank of captain (Career Course graduate and successful Company-level command) at Camp Humphreys. For additional information, call 725-6739. Exercise Set for Camps Long, Eagle Camps Long and Eagle will conduct a U.S. Forces Korea anti-terrorism exercise Sunday thru Dec. 8. During parts of the exercise access to the installation will be limited and services may be limited or closed. For information on specific closures during the exercise, contact the Garrison Command at 721- 3629. Christmas Concert Set for Dec. 9 A Camp Humphreys Community Christmas Concert will be held 2 p.m. Dec. 9, at Freedom Chapel. The performance will include the Camp Humphreys Elementary Honor Choir, a Community Adult Choir, and a children’s nativity performance. Submitting to TMCW To submit items to the Area III section of The Morning Calm Weekly, call 754-8847 for information.

F. NEIL N EELEY

(from the left) Soldier judges are Pfc. Kim Du Kong, Headquarters and Headquarters Company, Area III, Pfc. Jo, Ryun Bin, HHC Area III IG, Pfc. Steven Searles, Alpha Company, 304th Signal Company and Spc. Jaime Gonzalez, Alpha Company, 304th Signal Company

Area III Public Affairs CAMP HUMPHREYS – All Area III dining facilities competed for the title of “Best in Area III” during the Thanksgiving meal Nov. 23. Each facility was judged by a panel led by David Duffie, Area III Food Program Manager, and four Soldiers. Awards will be presented to the first place winners and runners-up. The results were still pending at press time but the winners of the large and small category dining facilities will each receive a Certificate of Achievement and will be presented a plaque from Col. Michael J. Taliento Jr., Area III commander. “I really want to thank the single Soldiers who volunteered their off day to go to act as judges,” said Duffie.

Robot Convention Held at HAES Special to The Morning Calm Weekly CAMP HUMPHREYS – It was robot-making time in Dinah Tague’s third grade class at Humphreys American Elementary School Nov. 22. The students had been challenged to apply their problemsolving skills by using the school’s problem-solving model which is called UPSL (Understand, Plan, Solve and Look Back). The third graders had to create a robot prototype that would solve a personal problem they had. First the students had to make their blueprint of their robot design; then they had to create their robot and next they wrote reports describing their robots. The grand finale was the day when they brought all their robots to school and had a convention where other classes, parents, teachers and adults were invited to come in and view their robots and listen to the students as they explained their robots and how their robots solved their problems. Robots that do all your

Dinah Tague’s third grade class pose with their robots. chores, and your homework, robots that clean the house, and bring you to school; the room was full of solutions, fun and problem-solving. As the third graders look back, they’re

DIANH TAGUE

happy with their solutions and ready for their next problemsolving challenge. (Editor’s Note: Dinah Tague contributed information for this article.)

The Morning Calm Weekly

Area III

Dec. 1, 2006

23

http://ima.korea.army.mil/morningcalmweekly

POWERMAN 5000 rocks Humphreys Area III Public Affairs CAMP HUMPHREYS – The Community Activities Center rocked Monday night thanks to a performance by the Powerman 5000 band. Several hundred enthusiastic Soldiers jumped and danced to the music as huge speakers thumped out base so powerful that it vibrated audience members to their bones. The tour was a partnership between the USO, the band and Armed Forces Entertainment. This was the second of a three concert series played by the band on peninsula military bases and the first on an Army base. The band was already on tour on the Korean peninsula,” said Jeff Harvey, United Service Organizations tour manager for entertainment. “Their manager Stacy Slater, called and said that ‘We’re going to be there and we’d like to give some time to the troops over there.’” “The band thought performing for the troops would be a good thing because they get quite a bit of mail from the military,” Harvey said.

PHOTOS

BY

F. NEIL NEELEY

Powerman 5000 rocks out (left, top left) to an appreciative Camp Humphreys’ crowd (above).

Native American Heritage Month celebrated By Daisy Watson Area III United Service Organizations

CAMP HUMPHREYS – In keeping with the celebration of Native American heritage during the month of November, Soldiers gathered at the Red Dragon Inn Dining Facility Tuesday to catch a glimpse of Native American history. The celebration featured stories told by two Native American Soldiers stationed at Camp Humphreys, as well as Indian artifacts, traditional Indian food tasting, a slide show presentation, and traditional flute music. Sgt. Raymond Lancer Jr., 52nd Ordnance Company, and Sgt 1st Class Karen Brown, 2nd Combat Aviation Brigade, shared their Native American experiences. A Navajo Indian from the four points region of Arizona, Colorado, Utah and New Mexico, Lancer grew up on the reservation at Winter Rock, Ariz., capital of the Navajo reservation. Lancer shared childhood experiences of being raised on the reservation by his grandparents and father. “My mother’s clan is the Tent Tree clan,” Lancer said. “My father’s clan is the Towering House clan and my paternal grandfather is from the Salt People clan and maternal grandfather is from the Red Cloud clan. This is how we introduce ourselves and identify ourselves, by clan.” A third generation servicemember, Lancer followed in the footsteps of his father and grandfather into the military. “My grandfather served in World War II,” Lancer said. “He died in action. My grandmother and father never spoke of him. My dad served four

years and my brother served 12 years as a combat medic.” Giving thanks is something we all do during the month of November. It is a ritual that we have come to observe and celebrate with family and friends. For Lancer, giving thanks has a different meaning. “My father taught me the traditional Navajo way of giving thanks,” he said. “I remember him showing us how to greet the day. We would wake up every day before sunrise. “We would take some corn puff and face east; you put a little in your mouth and a little on your head and then wave to the east three times. This was the way we would show appreciation to the sun for the day it has given us.” Lancer shared more stories of life on the reservation and told the audience about how his grandmother got him accustomed to cold weather. “I remember her making us go out in the first snow dressed with only shoes and shorts,” he said. “We would run out of the house and run around for a while and make a run back home. “Before we could come in we had to stand outside for a few minutes to get warmed up before we came in. My grandmother said it was a good way to get used to the cold and keep from being cold.” “All my friends that I tell that story to think I’m crazy,” Lancer said, “But I did that from the time I was five until I was 13. Remembering things like that, what my grandparents taught me, what my dad taught me, makes me proud to be a Native American.”

Lancer

Lancer paused momentarily in his story to wipe a tear from his eye. “These memories make me weepy because I remember my grandmother who passed away about 19 years ago.” “My grandparents taught me that there was more to life than possessions,” he continued. “Even though I grew up without much, I learned a lot from them. Spending summers and winter breaks with my grandparents I was able to learn about the ways of our people and living on the land, raising cattle and sheep, and riding horses.” “These days, the young folks do not want to learn the old ways,” Lancer said. “They refuse to learn the language and respect their elders. They do a lot of back talk and get into trouble.” Lancer explained that loss of language is a problem of all tribes but he is trying to make a difference. “Many of the young folks refuse to learn,” he said. “But I have a 4-year-old daughter who is learning how to speak Navajo. She is learning single little words like ‘hello’ and now she can say the whole Pledge of Allegiance in Navajo.” Lancer said that he will continue passing down the heritage from his father and grandparents. “I will teach my children what they taught me; to be proud of whom we are and our heritage.” Brown, the event’s guest speaker, is part Choctaw Indian from the Mississippi area. Although not raised on a reservation, Brown embraces her Native American heritage through her great-grandmother. “Taking pride of one’s Native American heritage is

something that transcends all tribes and clans,” Brown said. Brown gave the audience a brief history of the Native American and then shared a few thoughts on being of mixed heritage. “I am part Native American and part African American,” she said. “I don’t have a conflict with that at all. I’m proud of both heritages and want to honor both. “I always knew I had a connection with Native American heritage, Brown said. “I just didn’t know what that meant. Around 10, I began to understand when I visited my greatgrandmother. I always knew that she was an Indian; I just didn’t know what that meant.” Brown credits her influence in awakening her interest in her Native American past. “She took me to the reservation; she spoke of the traditional ways of being concerned with mother earth and traditional medicines, and she was very rooted in her heritage. It’s such a simple way of life.” Brown has been struggling with the bereaucracy at the Bureau of Indian Affairs to get her heritage recognized. “Throughout the years there have been many interracial marriages within the Native American community,” said Brown. And this has created a difficult process for the children of those marriages to be recognized by the Indian Affairs Council.” If anyone is part Native American and interested in being recognized by Indian Affairs, Brown said it is important to have all family records in order before submitting them for review by the council.

Brown

Page 25

Dec. 1, 2006

School Age Services receives reaccreditation By Steven Hoover Area IV Public Affairs

CAMP WALKER – For those who have children in kindergarten through fifth grade enrolled in the Area IV School Age Services here, if you haven’t realized it already, rest assured that the children are in very capable hands. SAS, located in Bldg. 257, is the bridge between early child care and Middle School and Teen Programs under the Child and Youth Services umbrella of oversight and management. Their mission is to work in partnership with staff, children and families to provide before and after school activities which promote physical, cognitive, emotional, creative and social development of children. According to Carmen Ortiz, SAS director, the staff was recently notified that their daily efforts of providing quality care has paid off with a program reaccreditation from the National After School Association. Since 1987 the NAA, a professional organization considered to be one of the leading voices of the after-school profession, has been evaluating programs on military installations and in the private sector. Ortiz said that the reaccreditation is

PHOTOS

BY

STEVEN HOOVER

Carmen Ortiz, Area IV School Age Service director, provides instruction Wednesday during “Homework Power Hour” at SAS. good for four years. “This reaccreditation assures parents of our commitment to responsive and loving care, a trained and competent staff, a safe and healthy environment and consistent program improvement and quality,” she said. “We plan our programs in cooperation with all CYS programs, Morale, Welfare and Recreation programs, and all other community organizations that

Matthew Ellis, 5, (left) and J.P. Malott, 7, search for answers during “Homework Power Hour” Wednesday at Area IV School Age Services on Camp Walker. can support the health, safety, education and welfare of children.” SAS staff – which is made up of both paid and volunteer personnel – does this by focusing on several developmental areas which include: leisure and recreation; sports and fitness; life skills and citizenship; mentoring and support; and homework and tutoring.

“The staff serves as facilitators who provide materials and opportunities for interaction,” Ortiz said. “The children involved with our program get similar types of structure to what they receive at school. And like school, they also get opportunities to do fun things as well.”

See SAS SAS, Page 28

Terrorism exercise slated for next week

Curtain Call

Area IV Public Affairs

GALEN PUTNAM

Liam Baek, a member of Jennifer Sharp’s second grade class at Taegu American School, can’t resist the temptation to take a peek at the gathering crowd prior to the class’s performance of “The A, B, Cs of the First Thanksgiving” Nov. 22 at the school.

CAMP HENRY – The Area IV Support Activity will conduct an anti-terrorism exercise in the Daegu enclave Tuesday to evaluate and validate first responders’ reaction and procedures for handling emergencies in the community. Dubbed a “consequence management exercise,” the training entails several events and stressors, which typically occur within a one week time period, culminating in a simulated bomb explosion, and require a command response to contain and neutralize the simulated installation disaster. “Our intent is to train and exercise selected Area IV mission essential tasks that are related to our ability to respond to a bomb incident explosion on our installation. The focus for executing this training is the actions and response of the Area IV installation crisis management team and our first responders,” said Victor Lowe, director of the Area IV Support Activity’s Directorate of Emergency Services. It will also test the application of task organization and the use of resources necessary to address a bombing incident, as well as the ability to treat the injured and restoration of installation operations. The exercise will involve simulation on an isolated part of one of the installations. However, depending upon the force protection level, some people may be delayed or temporarily inconvenienced getting on or off post during parts of the exercise. Every attempt will be made to minimize the impact of the exercise on normal installation routine.

Dec. 1, 2006

26 http://ima.korea.army.mil/areaiv/sites/local/ Gift Wrapping Holiday gift wrapping hosted by the Taegu Spouses Association and the Camp Walker Post Exchange will be conducted Saturday – Sunday, and Dec. 9 – 24. For information, contact Amy Duray at 010-8671-6868, or [email protected]. Employment Awareness Seminar Army Community Service is holding an Employment Awareness Seminar 9 a.m. – 2 p.m. Monday at the Evergreen Community Club on Camp Walker. Family members and transitioning military personnel are welcome to enhance their job searches, meet subject matter experts from hiring agencies and ask questions. The event will also feature mock interviews and a “Dress for Success” fashion show. Lunch will be provided for free. For information, contact Leticia Villarosa at 768-7951, or [email protected]. TAS Day With Santa Santa will be coming to the Taegu American School 1–4 p.m. Dec. 9 at the TAS Multi-Purpose Room on Camp George. Santa will be arriving by a fire truck. The event will feature picture taking with Santa, Happy Valley Train rides, face painting, Santa’s gift workshop where kids can buy gifts for their parents, food and more. For information, call Dr. Marguerite Green at 768-9501, or Robert Chartier at 010-3333-6436. Christmas Cantata The annual community Christmas Cantata, “Emmanuel – God with Us,” will be 7 p.m. Dec. 10 at Soldier Memorial Chapel on Camp Walker. Refreshments will be served after the performance. For information, call the chapel at 764-4498. TAS Winter Concert The Taegu American School Annual Winter Concert will be 6 p.m. Dec. 14 in the TAS Gym. The concert is presented by the TAS Advanced and Beginning Bands. The performance is open to the entire Daegu enclave military community. For information, call Dr. Marguerite Green at 768-9501. What’s On Your AFN Korea Tonight? American Forces Network Korea has launched an e-mail service allowing viewers to preview the stories on AFNKorea’s nightly newscast. The service, “What’s on your AFN Korea Nightly Newscast,” offers a daily e-mail summary of that evening’s newscasts and scheduled primetime shows. Each Friday, the e-mail will also include links to stories AFN-Korea aired earlier in the week. A sample message can be found on the AFN-Korea Web site at www.afnkorea.net. Viewers interested in subscribing to the service may log-on to the AFN-Korea Web site to sign up. For information about the service, call 724-3282.

Area IV Tree lighting provides fun, excitement

The Morning Calm Weekly

PHOTOS

BY

GALEN PUTNAM

Col. John E. Dumoulin Jr., Area IV Support Activity commander (left), Spc. David White, Soldier Memorial Chapel fund clerk, and a crowd of eager young helpers flip the switch to turn on the Camp Walker Christmas tree at the annual lighting ceremony Monday at Soldier Memorial Chapel.

Cpl. Kim Taek-soo, a chaplain assistant with Headquarters and Headquarters Company, Area IV Support Activity, leads the Camp Walker KATUSA Choir while guests enjoy refreshments.

Crowd favorite Song Seon-a, a 5-year-old from the Love and Hope Orphanage for handicapped children, wows the crowd as she belts out a tune with other children from the orphanage at the Soldier Memorial Chapel Fellowship Hall.

James Dumoulin, 5, beams as Santa arrives by fire truck.

Personality Spotlight: 1st Sgt. Venesia Denson Area IV Public Affairs Rank: First Sergeant Name: Venesia M. Denson Age: 37 Hometown: Alexandria, Louisiana Unit: HHC, Area IV Support Activity, Installation Management Command –

Korea Region Duty Station: Camp Henry, Daegu, Republic of Korea Duty Position: First sergeant of Area IV Support Activity, IMCOM – Korea How long you been in this position? Four months

CPL. CHA HYUN-JOON

First Sgt. Venesia Denson, Headquarters and Headquarters Company, Area IV Support Activity, tends to administrative duties, just one of her many responsibilities as a first sergeant.

How long have you been in the U.S. Army? 19 years What is your MOS? Track vehicle repairer Have you had other jobs with the U.S. Army? Yes, administration specialist List some of your duty assignments: Hanau, Germany; Ft. Hood, Texas; Camp Casey, Republic of Korea; Baumholder, Germany; Aberdeen Proving Ground, Maryland What is the best part of your job? I love to take care of Soldiers. What is the best thing about your unit? We have senior leaders who care about the Soldiers, civilians, Korean employees and the community. Why do you like working there? Once chosen to do the job, I knew it would be a challenge, but no challenge is too hard to conquer. What is the best thing about being in the Army? The Army has saved my life in so many ways ... and it has allowed me to experience things in life, I could never imagine. What is your personal philosophy? “Do the right thing, and you will never go wrong!”

Area IV 27 Carroll KSC personnel learn sling load techniques Dec. 1, 2006

The Morning Calm Weekly

http://ima.korea.army.mil/areaiv/sites/local/

By Sgt. Jimmy Norris 19th ESC Public Affairs

It’s a short list of people who can lift one of the Army’s High Mobility Multipurpose Wheeled Vehicles off of the ground and move it from one destination to another, and no one from the 37th or 6th Korean Service Corps Companies is on that list. Luckily, thanks to training they received Nov. 20 at Camp Carroll’s helipad, they won’t have to. Members of both Camp Carroll-based companies received sling load training from Soldiers in the 501st Sustainment Brigade. During a one-day course, 17 members of the KSC learned to prepare various types of equipment for transport via helicopter using numerous types of slings, ropes and nets. Although a helicopter was not available, participants simulated one using a crane. “We’re hoping to follow up this training using real helicopters sometime after the holidays,” said Rick Patton, Materiel Support Center – Korea KSC coordinator. Patton went on to explain that the KSC is an organization which provides maintenance, supply and heavy labor support to U.S. forces in Korea. “Sling load training is one of 11 battle tasks for KSCs during both contingency and armistice,” Patton said. “This training was a golden opportunity for them.” Participants spent the first half of the day in a classroom at Camp Carroll’s small arms range, where instructors Sgt. 1st Class Courtney Brown, Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 501st STBE, and Sgt. Justin Kim, 595th Maintenance Company, went over the basics of sling load equipment, safety and hand signals. Brown used printed handouts, visual

A crane lifts a sling load-ready High Mobility Multipurpose Wheeled Vehicle off of the ground during sling load training.

PHOTOS BY SGT. JIMMY NORRIS

Ho Chae, 6th Korean Service Corps Company, gathers netting used to prepare an engine box for airlift during sling load training Nov. 20 at the Camp Carroll Helipad. aids and a translator to bridge the language gap between herself and the students. “It was easy to teach them, even with the language barrier,” said Brown, who spent two years as a sling load instructor at Fort Lee, Va. “They went into this

with a lot of enthusiasm and great attitudes.” In the afternoon, students went outside to receive the hands-on portion of their training. “You learn more with hands-on training than you do when you’re in a classroom,” Brown explained. During this portion of the training, instructors helped KSC members prepare a Humvee for airlift by removing the canvas cover from the top, taping mirrors and windows, and attaching a series of specialized ropelike devices referred to as sling legs. Students demonstrated their proficiency at preparing the Humvee for transport by attaching the prepared sling legs to the hook on a crane, then watching in awe as the vehicle left the ground. The class went on to perform similar operations using a net and an engine container. “The training was a lot of fun and the instructors were very helpful,” said Lee Sang-yong, 37th KSC Co. “I’m looking forward to trying this training with actual helicopters.”

A d goes here Ad goes here

Dec. 1, 2006

28 http://ima.korea.army.mil/areaiv/sites/local/

Area IV

The Morning Calm Weekly

SAS

Hialeah Histor Historyy

CPL. CHA HYUN-JOON

Yoon Soon-ho, an official with the Archaeology Division of Republic of Korea’s Cultural Heritage Administration, (left) and Robert Chartier, Area IV Support Activity Department of Public Works Environmental Division chief, along with Busan Metropolitan City Museum representatives, inspect a carved stone figure, one of four Korean cultural properties saved during the closure of Camp Hialeah. The items were stored by the Area IV Environmental Division on Camp Walker following the closure of Camp Hialeah. The artifacts were turned over to the Korean government Nov. 17 and will be placed at the Busan Metropolitan City Museum.

from Page 25

She pointed out that field trips, along with summer and winter camp-type activities, and partnerships with the Boys and Girls Clubs of America and 4H, help provide participating children with a more well-rounded life. “We consider ourselves (staff and children) to be one big family, both on and off the job,” Ortiz said. “I think the programs we provide help some of the children to become ‘little leaders’ or at least very confident in themselves.” Ortiz said that “we did not view the achievement of reaccreditation as an end point, but as a beginning. With input from our children, we have continued to improve our programming and physical environment.” They recently opened a “Discovery” room where the staff offers hands-on math and science activities. And, thanks to Capt. Joshua D. Bast, the 154th Medical Detachment (Preventive Medicine) executive officer, the children have recently begun participating in photography and entomology clubs. SAS also participates in the Good Neighbor Program by employing two interns and four volunteers from Kyungpook National University. They also partner with the KNU after school program in which children from KNU visit SAS during the summer and school year. “Our children have a motto,” Ortiz said. “It is, ‘SAS is the best, kids don’t want to rest!’ That pretty much sums it up.”

Ad goes here

The Morning Calm Weekly

Dec. 1, 2006

http://ima.korea.army.mil/morningcalmweekly

29

Dec. 1, 2006

30 http://ima.korea.army.mil/morningcalmweekly

Korean Language

The Morning Calm Weekly

Learn Korean Easily

The Phrase of the W eek : Week

“Do you like skiing?”

Suki joahamnikka? skiing Vocabulary

do you like

4 minutes

‘sabun’

5 minutes

‘obun’

6 minutes

‘yukbun’

Situation of the W eek : Sports Week Is this the ski season? Jikumee suki shijunimnikka?

Where do you go skiing? Suki taroe odiro kasimnikka?

Where is a nearby ski resort? Kakkaun sukijangi odio issumnikka?

Can I rent skis? Sukirul bilril su issumnikka?

: Hotelul yeyakaeya hamnikka?

Should I make a reservation for a hotel? Do you like snowboarding?

Area II invites Korean National Police for tour

Sunoubodu joahashimnikka?

Korean Expression of the W eek Week

Have you eaten yet? Siksa haessoyo

A casual greeting among South Koreans