Inside
February 1, 2008 • Volume 6, Issue 16
http://imcom.korea.army.mil
Servicemembers duke it out in 17bout competition
Children flock to new Humphreys Child Development Center
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Page 16
8th Army recognizes Soldiers who showed the ‘write’ stuff
Published for those serving in the Republic of Korea
Daegu students ‘D.A.R.E.’ to take a stand Page 28
U.S. military police, ROK security join forces during visit by S. Korea’s president elect
Courtesy of 8th Army Public Affairs The 8th U.S. Army announced the winners of its 36th annual Maj. Gen. Keith L. Ware journalism competition at the Public Affairs Seminar in the Dragon Hill Lodge at USAG-Yongsan Jan. 25. The 8th Army competition has three unique categories: Best Overall Photo, won by Sgt. Kim, Jae Hwan, 8th Army; Best Overall Website, won by the 2nd Infantry Division contract team; and Best KATUSA publication, won by the 2nd ID’s “Indianhead”. Contenders who do not qualify for Department of the Army level competition because they aren’t U.S. Soldiers may still compete in these three categories. The other KLW first place winners in both print and broadcast journalism move up to the DA level competition in March, and those winners then proceed to the Department of Defense Level. The 8th U.S. Army winners are: Best News or News Feature: Capt. Stacy Ouellette, 8th Army. Second place was Sgt. Fay Conroy, 8th Army. Third place was Spc. Natalie E. Kapteyn, 19th Sustainment Command (Expeditionary). Best Feature story: Pfc. Phillip Adam Turner, 2ID. Second place was Spc. Brandon Moreno, 8th Army. Third place was Spc. David E. Alvarado, 8th Army. Best Commentary: Turner won his
Lt. Col. Brodrick Bailey, 8th Army Public Affairs Officer, congratulates Pfc. Phillip Adam Turner, 2nd Infantry Division, on his award for Best Feature. Turner won two KLW awards. — U.S. Army Photo By Sue Silpasornprasit
A Korean Augmentation to the U.S. Army Soldier from 142nd Military Police Comany stands guard while a Republic of Korea MP patrols on foot during the South Korean president elect’s visit to USAG-Yongsan Jan. 15. — Courtesy Photo by 1st Lt. Erik Vaught 142nd Military Police Company Security personnel from the 142nd Military Police Company played an indispensable role during South Korean President Elect, Lee Myung-Bak’s visit to USAG-Yongsan on Jan. 15. Roaring engines broke the morning silence Jan. 15 as an Army 1089A1 Recovery Vehicle and LMTV pulled up across from Combined Forces Command Headquarters. Soldiers of the 142nd Military Police Company maintenance section dismounted and began establishing a command post. They set a perimeter around the “White House”, as it is known, and the surrounding area in preparation for this important security detail. The mission is of critical importance here on the Korean Peninsula, and the Soldiers and Korean Augmentation to the U.S. Army personnel of the 142nd MP Company have been preparing for weeks for the president elect’s visit. Massive coordination for this
momentous occasion was critical, requiring the involvement of many organizations, including USFK, CJPM, the Department of Emergency Services, the South Korean Secret Service, and the ROK Ministry of National Defense. Military Police from the 142nd and 14th MP Detachment acted as the initial line of security with the United Nations Honor Guard standing by to respond to a serious emergency. Fire department vehicles were positioned on scene as well. All told, more than one hundred personnel were involved in this mission. Before MP units could move into their designated positions, K-9 units must sweep the area. Military Working Dogs, Dato and Mickey, jumped eagerly from their patrol vehicles to take up the search for anything that seemed out of place. Once the K-9 units and their handlers swept the area, the MPs moved into position to secure the grounds. Soon after, ROK MND MPs arrived to accompany their U.S. and KATUSA
counterparts at key positions. As he was escorted to the steps of the “White House”, President Elect Lee was greeted warmly by USFK Commander, General B.B. Bell, his staff, and numerous ROK and U.S. dignitaries. After a short meeting, the president-elect returned to his waiting motorcade and was escorted off post by 142nd MPs leading the way. Though South Korean President Elect Lee’s meeting was brief, it was an important event in the history of the Alliance between the United States and Republic of Korea. His visit to USAG–Yongsan shows that the relationship between the countries and their respective militaries is only getting stronger. Here in Area II, this event is another example of how the Soldiers and Korean Augmentation to the U.S. Army of the 142nd MP Company are working sideby-side with their ROK counterparts and leading the way to a bright future between our two great nations.
The Morning Calm Weekly will not be published Feb. 8 in observance of the Lunar New Year holiday. Publication will resume Feb. 15.
NEWS • PAGE 2 http://imcom.korea.army.mil The Morning Calm
Published by Installation Management Command - Korea Commanding General/Publisher: Brig. Gen. Al Aycock Public Affairs Officer/Editor: Edward N. Johnson Senior Editor:Susan Silpasornprasit USAG-RED CLOUD Commander: Col. Larry A. Jackson Public Affairs Officer: Margaret Banish-Donaldson CI Officer: James F. Cunningham USAG-YONGSAN Commander: Col. David W. Hall Public Affairs Officer: David McNally CI Officer: Kenneth Fidler Staff Writer: Sgt. Jung Jae-hoon USAG-HUMPHREYS Commander: Col. John E. Dumoulin Jr. Public Affairs Officer: Bob McElroy Writer/Editor: Andre D. Butler CI Officer: Stacy Ouellette USAG-DAEGU Commander: Col. Michael P. Saulnier Public Affairs Officer: Ronald Inman CI Officer: Samuel G. Hudson Staff Writer: Cpl. Na Kyung Chul Staff Writer: Cpl. Jang Won il 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 Printed by Oriental Press, a private firm in no way connected with the U.S. Government, under exclusive written contract with the Contracting Command-Korea. The civilian printer is responsible for commercial advertising. The appearance of advertising in this publication, including inserts or supplements, does not constitute endorsement by the U.S. Army or Oriental Press of the products or services advertised. Everything advertised in this publication shall be made available for purchase, use or patronage without regard to race, religion, gender, national origin, 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. Oriental Press President: Charles Chong Commercial Advertising Telephone: 738-5005 or 723-4253 Fax: (02) 790-5795 E-mail:
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NEWS page 1
from ‘Write’ Stuff
second category. Best Sports Story: Pvt. Naveed Ali Shah, 2ID. Second place was Pfc Gretchen N. Goodrich, 35th Air Defense Artillery. Third place was Ouellete. Best Stand alone photograph: Moreno took first for his photo and Conroy took third. Best Photography in support of a story: Conroy won first place. Second place was Alvarado and Kim, Jae Hwan took third place. Best Stringer story: Pfc. Kim, Hyo Joong, 2ID. Second place was Pfc Sohn, Joon Hyung, 2ID. Third place was Pfc. Park Bo, Kyoo, 2ID. Best Stringer photography: Kim, Jae Hwan took first place with his photo, which then moved on to win the Best Overall Category as well. Pfc. Huh, Ho Jin, 2ID, took second place. The Rising Star award for outstanding print journalism with less than two years in the military went to Spc. Beth Lake, 2ID. Second place was Kapetyn with Ali Shah in third. Spc. Monique Sapp, 2ID, swept the broadcast competition, winning Best Radio News Report. Best Radio Features Report, Best Television News Report, and Best Television Feature Report. Civilian employees also enter the competition, but are judged separately from U.S. Soldiers. Next week: IMCOM-K winners.
THE MORNING CALM ILE Instructors Wanted: Army Reserve majors and lieuten-
ant colonels wanted to teach the Army Reserve Intermediate Level Education Course. Must be MEL 4 qualified, meet the Army height/ weight standards, and be willing to join the 4960th Multi Function Training Brigade. POC: Col. Davenport, 723-4394,
[email protected]
Chapters host Black History Month program The Alpha Omega Sigma Chapter, Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc. and Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc., Pi Eta Zeta Chapter, will host a three tiered Black History Month Program Feb. 16 in the Naija Ballroom of the Dragon Hill Lodge. The theme of this annual event is “The Legacy of African Americans in Politics”. For more information please contact Author Sandlain at 010-8682-4458, e-mail
[email protected] or Jaynene Smith 010-6440-1920, e-mail mailto:one_
[email protected]
Bush addresses military families; Army programs focus on family care
Special to The Morning Calm Weekly President George W. Bush discussed the vital role of military families, including Army Families, during the Jan. 28 State of the Union address to the nation from Washington, D.C. Army leaders appreciated the President’s important remarks and echoed many of them, noting Army plans to expand Family assistance efforts under the Army Family Covenant while continuing improvements to many existing services. “Our military families also sacrifice for America,” President Bush said. “They endure sleepless nights and the daily struggle of providing for children while a loved one is serving far from home. We have a responsibility to provide for them. So I ask you to join me in expanding their access to childcare, creating new hiring preferences for military spouses across the federal government and allowing our troops to transfer their unused education benefits to their spouses or children. Our military families serve our nation, they inspire our nation and tonight our nation honors them.” The Army recognizes the sacrifices by Families. Proposed initiatives requiring legislative changes for Army Families include: – Make GI Bill Benefits Transferable. This initiative would allow transfer to family members of the unused benefit. – Enhance Military Spouse Careers. Military families move every few years. This initiative would provide richer opportunities to gain or sustain a promising career including
continuing education, merit-based military spouse internships, direct hire status for placement in suitable jobs anywhere in the federal government. – Enact “Dole-Shalala” Commission Recommendations. The President urged Congress to act promptly on the proposals put forward by the bipartisan Commission on Care for America’s Returning Wounded Warriors headed by Bob Dole and Donna Shalala. – Quality Child Care. Two-thirds of military-families stationed in the United States live off base, sometimes in remote areas. They consistently report difficulty in locating child care, especially for infants, at the price and quality available at on-base facilities. This initiative would establish joint ventures with the private sector to make the same high quality care presently provided on base to all military families, at a comparable price. Beyond these ongoing and planned initiatives, the U.S. Army is committed to the Army Family Covenant of services and facilities for Army Families nationwide and overseas. Last year, the Army moved $100 million into Family Support Programs to jump-start family programs. Examples included hiring additional fulltime staff in “Army Community Services” as well as expanding childcare, respite care, and youth services. The Army is reworking future budgets to sustain this increased level of investment in our Families. The Army Family Covenant repre-
sents a $1.4 billion commitment this year to improving the quality of life for Army Families. The Army has listened to the feedback of families and acted on their behalf. For example, on Army installations across the nation construction is booming. To support our growing force and their families, more than 42 Child Development Centers have been built, with 133 more programmed in the coming years. 20,000 family housing units have been built or renovated, with 59,000 more scheduled. To overcome the limitations of geography for those families not living near an Army post, the Army is establishing the Army Integrated Family Support Network. This communications network promotes efforts integrating and synchronizing Family Support Services. In the area of child care and youth services, the Army has eliminated Garrison child care registration fees, eliminated off post child care registration fees in Army off post programs, and eliminated fees for extended duty day child care. For Wounded Warriors, the Army reduced full and part day child care fees in Army operated or sponsored child care programs, and now provides free hourly care in Army operated programs during medical appointments. Army leaders across the nation have led in implementing these improvements, in order to provide Soldiers and Families a quality of life that is commensurate with their service.
Word on the Street: “What wintertime activity do you enjoy most in Korea?”
Submitting to The Morning Calm Weekly Send Letters to the Editor, guest commentaries, story submissions and other items:
[email protected]. For all submitted items include a point of contact name and telephone number. All items are subject to editing for content and to insure they conform with DoD guidelines. IMCOM-K Public Affairs and the Morning Calm Weekly staff are located in Bldg. 1416, Yongsan Garrison Main Post. For information, call 724-3365.
“Basketball season in Korea is as popular as in United States. I was really amazed how popular it is.” — Mark Burton
“When winter comes, I look for nearby skiing or skateboarding events.” — Pfc. Kim, Mu-yeon
“I like to go skiing and do ice fishing. These are my hobbies I enjoyed in the States, and I also enjoy them in Korea.” — Sgt. 1st Class Berry Ronald
“My favorite activity during winter in Korea is going to ski.” — Cpl. Sung Bin Im
FEBRUARY 1, 2008
NEWS
NEWS • PAGE 3 www.imcom.korea.army.mil
MP Blotter The following entries were excerpted from the military police blotters. These entries may be incomplete and do not imply guilt or innocence. AREA I: Damage to Government Property, Failure to Perform PMCS, Subject dispatched a vehicle from the TMP and failed to conduct a PMCS on the vehicle. Subject drove the vehicle to USAGHumphreys for a prisoner transport back to USAGCasey. Subject attempted to turn in the vehicle to the USAG-Casey TMP where TMP noticed damages to the vehicle consisting of a cracked and dislodged left front turn signal cover, a dislodged right front head light and a scratched left and right front fender. Subject was escorted to the PMO where Subject rendered a written sworn statement denying the offenses. ECOD is unknown. This is a final report AREA II: Shoplifting, Subject was observed by Witness, via CCTV, remove 1 PS3 game disc from the display, and conceal it on Subject’s person. Subject then exited the PX without rendering proper payment. Subject was detained by Witness and Subject’s ID card was retained, at which time the Subject fled the scene. Subject later returned to the AAFES Security Office. Upon arrival of MP, Subject was apprehended and transported to the USAG-Yongsan PMO, where Subject was advised of Subject’s legal rights, which Subject waived, rendering a written sworn statement admitting to the offense. Subject was processed and released to Subject’s unit. The merchandise was retained as evidence. This is a final report. AREA II: Underage Drinking, Subject was observed under the influence of alcohol and incoherent. Subject was transported to 121st CSH ER by ambulance where Subject’s ID card revealed Subject to be under the legal drinking age. Witness advised Subject to remain at the ER for observation due to a reported BAC of .320%. At 6 a.m. Jan. 22, Subject was released into MP Custody and transported to the USAG-Yongsan PMO where Subject was not advised of Subject’s legal rights due to Subject’s suspected level of intoxication. Subject was processed and released to Subject’s unit. This is a final report. AREA III: Shoplifting, Subject was observed by Witness via CCTV, removing one pair of tennis shoes, concealing them in Subject’s sweater and exiting the location without rendering proper payment for the merchandise. Subject was detained by Witness and escorted to AAFES security office. Subject was transported by MP to the USAG-Humphreys PMO for further processing. Subject’s RCP was retained. Investigation continues by MPI. AREA III: Unlawful Transfer of AAFES Merchandise, Purchasing in Excess of Personal Needs, Subject was observed by MP entering the PX and purchasing numerous quantities of the same items. Subject was escorted to the USAG-Humphreys PMO where Subject rendered a written statement admitting to the offenses. Further investigation revealed Subject gave some of the items Subject had purchased in the past to family members who were not authorized to receive duty-free goods. The merchandise was returned to the USAG-Humphreys PX. Subject’s RCP was retained and Subject was further processed and released to Subject’s sponsor. This is a final report. AREA IV: Access Control Violation, Subject #1 escorted Subject #2 and Subject #3 into the PX, which Subject #2 and Subject #3 were not authorized to enter. Subject #1, Subject #2 and Subject #3 were transported to the USAG-Daegu PMO where Subject #1, was advised of Subject #1’s legal rights, which Subject #1 waived, rendering a written sworn statement admitting to the offense. Subject #2 and Subject #3 rendered written statements admitting to the offense. Subject #1 was processed and released on Subject #1’s own recognizance. Subject #2 and Subject #3 were escorted off the installation.
U.S. Army Photo By Andre Butler
U.S. Army Photos By David McNally
(Clockwise from top right) The Hanbok is the traditional dress of Korea’s Lunar New Year holiday. They come in a variety of colors, made in versions for men and women; Performers wear the Hanbok during a traditional fan dance. Cultural events like this are a major highlight of the holiday; Those who wear the Hanbok to Korea’s ancient palaces over the Lunar New Year holiday can enjoy free admission.
SIGHTS AND SOUNDS: Current events and activities Lunar New Year events (Feb. 4-10)
Korea’s biggest holiday of the year, Seollal, or Lunar New Year’s Day, falls on Feb. 7 of the solar calendar. Korean’s consider Seollal to be the most important holiday of the year, so they dedicate a three days to celebrating, including the days before and after Seollal. This year, the whole holiday period will run for five days total because the weekend falls directly after the official Seollal holidays. It is referred to as the “golden holidays”. February 4 – 10, the Korea Tourism Organization will hold a special Seollal holiday event, packed with various fun-filled cultural activities, at the Tourism Information Center in the lower level of the KTO building in Seoul. Visitors will be able to have their picture taken wearing Hanbok and play traditional Korean folk games such as tuho (arrow throwing), yut (a board game played tossing four sticks into the air), jegichagi (kicking of a shuttlecock), paeng-i chigi (top spinning), and sangmo doligi (hat spinning). The TIC staff will assist visitors in enjoying the events and hand out bok-jumeoni (good luck pouches) to wish visitors luck in the future. Tourist Information Center (02)-729-9497~9499 / Korea Travel Phone (02)-1330 (24 hours a day). During the holiday week, visitors can watch many Korean people dressed in Hanbok at palaces. A person dressed in Hanbok can enter old palaces for free during the holidays. Also, the Seollal holidays are the best time to watch Korean folk play performances because many are taking place at this time of the year. To watch a performance, the National Center for Korean Traditional Performing Arts and Chongdong Theater recommend paying a visit. They provide plenty of Korean folk performances during the Seollal holiday season. You can also enjoy various kinds of performances at little theaters throughout the Daehangno area. For additional information on these events, visit www.tour2korea.com
Folk Village (Gyeonggi-do)
The Lunar New Year holiday week is an ideal time to take in the history of the Korean Folk Village. Set in its natural environment, the Korean Folk Village allows visitors to get a feel for life in Korea during the late Joeeon Dynasty. Tourists can visit the more than 260 traditional houses reminiscent of life at that time, with various household goods from different regions. All these features have been relocated and restored to provide visitors with a broad understanding of Korean food, clothing, and housing style of the past. About twenty workshops, various handicrafts such as pottery, baskets, winnows, bamboo wares, wooden wares, paper, brass wares, knots, fans, musical instruments, iron wares and embroidery are practiced. For more information on the Folk Village, visit www.tour2korea.com
Korean palaces
– Located at the corner of the busiest intersection of downtown Seoul, Deoksugung Palace is famous for its elegant stone-wall road. It is the only one that has Western buildings beside it, adding to the uniqueness of the scenery. – Established in 1395, Gyeongbok Palace in Seoul is also called “Northern Palace” because it is located more toward the north compared to Changdeok Palace (Eastern Palace) and Gyeonghee Palace (Western Palace). Gyeongbok Palace prides itself for having the largest magnitude and being the most beautiful among the five other palaces. – Haenggung means, “a shelter where king rested or retired from a war”. Hwaseonghaenggung castle in Gyeonggi-do is the biggest one of these shelters. This is the temporary palace where King Jeongjo stayed at the time of Wonhaeng (long journey) and also where he held splendid feasts and events. For information on these and other palaces in Korea, visit www.tour2korea.com
Source: www.korea.net, www.seoulselection.com, www.hotelnet.com, http://english.tour2korea.com, www.visitseoul.net — No endorsement implied.
NEWS
NEWS • PAGE 4 http://imcom.korea.army.mil
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Command Sergeant Major Robert Winzenried, currently the command sergeant major of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (left) learns about the Deployable Power Generation & Distribution System at the 249th Engineer Battalion (Prime Power). — Courtesy Photo
Feb. 11 change of responsibility ceremony will welcome new 8th Army command sergeant major Special to The Morning Calm The former command sergeant major of the United States Army Corps of Engineers is scheduled to become the 8th U.S. Army command sergeant major in a change of responsibility ceremony scheduled for 3:45 p.m., Feb. 11 at Knight Field here. Command Sgt. Maj. Robert A. Winzenried will replace Command Sgt. Maj. Barry C. Wheeler, who is retiring after 35 years of service. Winzenried participated in Operation Iraqi Freedom as the command sergeant major of the Engineer Brigade, 1st Infantry Division, as a member of Task Force Danger at Tikrit, Iraq. He’s been to Somalia, Kosovo, NATO and is a Master Parachutist. He joined the army from High Bridge, New Jersey, in September of 1977 and attended One Station Unit Training at Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri. His first assignment was as a sapper with the 562nd Engineer Company, 172nd Light Infantry Brigade, at Fort Richardson, Alaska. Since then he’s been with the 15th Engineer Battalion at Fort Lewis, Wash.; a drill sergeant at 3rd Brigade in Fort Leonard Wood; a squad leader and a platoon sergeant with 307th Engineer Battalion, 82nd Airborne Division, at Fort Bragg, N.C.; an observer/controller at the Combat Maneuver Training Center in Hohenfels, Germany; and
an engineer with the 96th Civil Affairs Battalion in Somalia. When he returned to the 307th Eng. Bn. It was as a first sergeant if the Headquarters and Headquarters Company of the 20th Engineer Brigade, followed up by the Active Component/Reserve Component Battalion sergeant major at Fort Knox, Kentucky. He was appointed the command sergeant major of the 40th Engineer Battalion, 12th Armored Division at Baumholder, Germany, and became the ninth U.S. Army Corps of Engineers command sergeant major May 2, 2005. Winzeried completed the U.S. Sergeant Majors Academy with Class# 49 at Fort Bliss, Texas. He’s also a graduate of the Basic and Advanced Airborne Schools, Drill Sergeant School, and Sapper School with more than three years of college. His awards and decorations include the Legion of Merit, the Bronze Star, the Meritorious Service Medal with four oak-leaf clusters, the Army Commendation Medal with two oak leaf clusters and the Joint Meritorious Unit Award. Parking for the Change of Responsibility will be extremely limited. Parking lots at 1st Signal Brigade, Balboni Theater and Command Center Seoul will be closed off by Military Police for the ceremony, and barricades should not be moved for any reason. Those working in areas near Knight Field are encouraged by the provost marshal’s office to find alternative methods of transportation on the day of the ceremony.
Military Post Office announces holiday closures Feb. 8, Friday: Military Post Offices closed (Lunar New Year’s Day). Feb. 7, Thursday: Express Mail Service not available. NOTE: Military Post Offices will be operating with limited manning on 6 and 7 Feb. 6-7. Please be patient. Contact your local post office for further information. Thank you!
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FEBRUARY 1, 2008
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OHA increase allows better quality of life in USAG-RC by Jim Cunningham USAG-RC Public Affairs USAG-RED CLOUD —Warriors from E-1 to O-6 can now enjoy a better quality of life living in and around USAG-RC now that the Department of the Army decided to give them better than a 50 percent increase in Overseas Housing Allowance. The new rates took effect Jan. 16, said Col. Larry “Pepper” Jackson, USAG-RC garrison commander. Mostly spearheaded by the command leadership, the raise will bring up living standards in the quality of apartments Soldiers can afford with their counterparts in other areas of Korea. It is a team effort, Jackson said, with the help of 175th Finance, 2nd Infantry Division and USAG-RC leadership, we accomplished raising the quality of life to the same level as the other areas in Korea. “The cost of living in Uijeongbu is much higher than Dongducheon,” Jackson said. “That is why the OHA raise is so important.” The per diem committee came from the DA in Washington, D.C., to re-evaluate the OHA for USAG-RC and USAG-Casey in November, said Clara Greenway, USAG-RC division chief of housing. This was set up by the command to investigate the housing where Soldiers were living to find out if it was adequate. The committee found Soldiers were living in quarters not meeting current standards, and they were not receiving enough OHA
to permit them to live in nice sky-rise apartments. “If a Soldier is living off post right now and it is not the current standard, he will not get the raise,” Greenway said. Until the new housing offices become fully staffed, commanders will have to check off-post housing to see if it is adequate before the Soldier can move in and take advantage of the new OHA rates, Greenway said. Housing counselors will go to the selected apartments and review them by a housing checklist to rate them as adequate or inadequate. USAG-RC never had such a housing office before now. “We are developing off-post housing offices at all three camps,” Greenway said. “Our present staff will check the packets to ensure the commanders have rated the properties as adequate and the paper work is filled out correctly.” More than 500 Soldiers are now living in off-post housing, Greenway said. “Soldiers should come to our housing offices first if they are seeking off-post housing,” Greenway said. “It is their choice where they want to live. It is not a forced issue. We are hoping, in the future, to develop booklets with photos of adequate housing areas with approved lists like the other areas in Korea. Now that the OHA entitlements have gone up, it will get much better for the Soldiers and their Families.”
King’s dream celebrated at Casey by Spc. Alun Thomas USAG-RC Public Affairs
Nathaniel Greene recites Martin Luther King’s ‘I Have A Dream’ speech at the 2008 Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration Program at the Community Activity Center at USAG-Casey, Jan.18. — U.S. Army Photo By Spc. Alun Thomas
Col. Larry “Pepper” Jackson explains the benefits of the new OHA increase to the leadership of USAG-RC Jan. 29 in Bldg. 57. — U.S. Army Photo By Spc. Alun Thomas
USAG-CASEY — The memory and spirit of Martin Luther King Jr. was celebrated at the USAG-Casey Community Activity Center Jan.18 in observance of the holiday named in his honor. The ceremony was highlighted by a selection of guest speakers, music from the 2nd Infantry Division a dance recital and a commemorative candle lighting display. “We want people to leave today with more knowledge than they had when they came in,” said Sgt. 1st Class Darrick Menzie, equal opportunity noncommissioned officer for the 1st Heavy Brigade Combat Team, who delivered the welcoming speech. “This is not just an African-American holiday, but one for all races.” Following Col. Charles Parker’s opening remarks 2nd Lt. Patricia Cameron performed several songs for the audience, accompanied by Pfc. Andrew Bunch at the piano. Nathanial Greene recited King’s “I Have a Dream” speech, accompanied by pianist, Sgt. Devan Peters. Keynote speaker for the program was Chaplain (1st Lt.) Tony Hampton. He said the purpose behind the ceremony was to celebrate the life and legacy of King, and his timeless love and revolutionary spirit. “Martin Luther King’s legacy allows me today to stand in Korea at a gathering of races, cultures and ethnic backgrounds,”
Hampton said. “I used to dream as a young boy about speaking to an audience as diverse as this, emulating Dr. King, and today the dream has come true.” The Memorial Chapel Praise dancers performed a dance symbolizing King’s struggles elsewhere during the program, with the 2nd Infantry Division Jazz Funk Warriors band playing instrumentals of songs ‘What’s Going On’ and ‘We Shall Overcome,’ the latter during the candle lighting. Captain Kimberly Nelson sang the first verse of “Lift Every Voice and Sing”, which was followed by closing remarks from Denise James, Family and Morale, Welfare and Recreation director. “I’m going to adapt the old African saying, ‘it takes a village to raise a child’, and say it takes a village to successfully bring together an event of
this magnitude,” James said. “This event represents such an example.” James thanked those responsible for organizing and participating in the event, including the FMWR Division, The Gateway Club, the Memorial Chapel, the 2ID Band, the Jazz Funk Warriors, CAC director Sally Hall and Menzie. “Dreams, goals and aspiration come true if you don’t give up,” James said. “Dr. King would be proud of the talent and energy displayed in his memory tonight.” Hampton said it is important King’s legacy be carried forward well into the 21st century. Dr. King was America’s greatest champion of equality and a man who put his life on the line for freedom and justice. Regardless of background, this is the people’s holiday and we hold the keys to Dr. King’s dream.
The Memorial Chapel Praise Dancers perform a praise dance at the Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration Program at the Community Activity Center at USAG-Casey, Jan.18. — U.S. Army Photo By Spc. Alun Thomas
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News & Notes 2ID Tax Assistance Center Free Tax Preparation 2nd Infantry Division Tax Center will be preparing tax returns free of charge from Feb. 5 – June 15. For more information call: 730-3598. At Camp Casey go to Maude Hall room 241 Tues., Wed., Fri., from 9 a.m. – 5 p.m., Thur. from 1 – 8 p.m., Sat. from 8 a.m. to noon. At USAG-Red Cloud in Freeman Hall, go to room 122 beginning March 1 on Tues. from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. At Camp Stanley go to ADC(S) building beginning Mar. 1 on Wed. 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. ACS Personal Financial Readiness Training Mandatory training for all first term soldiers E-4 and below will be the 1st Tuesday of each month in the USAGCasey ACS class room. Third Tuesday of each month in the USAG-RC Education Center. For more information call: 7303107/3089/3142. Secondary Taxi Service Available on Casey Yon Hop Taxi service will be available on USAG-Casey Feb. 2 from 11 a.m. – 1 a.m. daily. Customers should call 010-47327694 for assistance. For more information call: 732-6263/6307. Over the Counter cold medicine Available at the TMC Over-the-counter cold medicines are available to Soldiers at the TMC prescription counters to minimize the amount of time a Soldier spends on sick call. For more information call: 732-7379. New Commissary Hours Beginning Tuesday, Feb. 5 on a one month trial basis the USAG-Casey Commissary will be open from 11 a.m.–10 p.m. on Tuesdays and from 11 a.m.–7 p.m. on Sundays. For more information call: 730-4451. Commissary Meats available for Bulk Purchase Meats are available in the commissary for bulk purchases, unit parties, holidays and training events if you call the commissaries within a few days of pick up. USAG-Red Cloud: 732-7649, USAG-Casey: 730-4451, Camp Stanley: 732-5513. Emergency/Urgent Situation Help Get help by calling 730-5906 for USAGCasey Fire Station or Military Police in the Dongducheon area. Call 732-9117 for Red Cloud Fire Station or Military Police in the Uijeongbu area. Call 730-4357 to get help if contemplating suicide or if feeling depressed call: 730-4303. USAG-RC Pass and Vehicle Registration, DEERS ID Card New Office Location Pass and Vehicle Registration, DEERS ID Card office relocated to building S-225 colocated with the USAG-RC Directorate of Human Resources. Army Community Services Volunteer Luncheon The Army Community Service Volunteer Luncheon will be held in the USAG-Casey Warrior’s Club April 23 from 11:30 a.m. – 1 p.m. For more information, call: 730-3143. Kosher Items in Commissaries Kosher meals and other religious food items are available in the USAG-RC and USAG-Casey commissaries if you call them and give them a few days notice. USAG-RC: 732-7649, USAGCasey: 730-4451, Camp Stanley: 732-5513.
THE MORNING CALM
Suicide prevention taught at Red Cloud by Spc. Alun Thomas USAG-RC Public Affairs USAG-RED CLOUD — Understanding the “Generation Y” culture was the theme of the Suicide Leadership Training session held at the USAG-RC Theater Jan.8, as speakers promoted the Army’s new Suicide Awareness and Prevention program. Generation Y Soldiers, born 1978 and later, currently have the highest suicide rate amongst Army personnel, said speaker Chaplain (Lt. Col.) Wayne Boyd, the behavioral health program manager of the Directorate of Health Promotion and Wellness, U.S. Army Center for Health Promotion and Preventive Medicine, Aberdeen Proving Ground, Md. “The purpose of this briefing is to better prepare United States Forces Korea leaders to maximize the capabilities and care for Soldiers between 17 and 27 years of age,” Boyd said. Maj. Gen. John W. Morgan III, 2ID commanding general, said the training was initiated due to the concern about rising suicide levels. Dr. Tracy Russo, associate professor, University of Kansas, spoke to the non-
commissioned officers and officers present at the training about the differences between the various generations currently in today’s Army.
“The reasons why so many Soldiers are killing themselves over relationships and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder are some of the questions we are trying to answer.” Chaplain (Lt. Col.) Wayne Boyd
“Generation Y is the fourth generation, born from 1978-2000, after the three generations born from before 1946 to 1977,” Russo said. Russo said members of Generation Y have developed a dependency on electronic devices such as laptops and cell phones. Speaker Chaplain (Maj.) Timothy Mallard, a candidate for the doctorate of philosophy degree in Christian Ethics from
the University of Wales, said Generation Y Soldiers equate electronics with emotional intimacy and are prone to suicide because of the greater number of broken homes and relationships. “Seventy-five percent of the suicides in the Army today are from Dear John’s,’ Mallard said. “We want Soldiers to know help is there and we think we can end all suicides in the Army if Soldiers seek help.” In his speech Boyd said suicide is not just a Generation Y problem and in 2007 research showed that veterans had a greater rate of suicides than civilians. “The reasons why so many Soldiers are killing themselves over relationships and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder are some of the questions we are trying to answer,” Boyd said. “We were asked to develop standardized suicide training.” “Soldiers are looking for someone to help them, and as leaders we are responsible for helping them, especially those hurting.” “We need to broaden our horizons and learn what we can about the state of play of our Soldiers today,” Morgan said. “Stress does some incredible things, and it’s our responsibilities as leaders to understand how to prevent that from the taking of one’s life.”
Environmental awareness training offered by Margaret Banish-Donaldson USAG-RC Public Affairs USAG-RED CLOUD — The USAGRed Cloud and 2nd Infantry Division leaders are encouraging their Soldiers and civilians to embrace the Environmental Management System by taking the general awareness training at http://emssupport. ursokr.com/index.htm. “This is a new Army requirement to comply with Executive Order 13148,” said Col. Larry ‘Pepper’ Jackson, USAG-RC garrison commander. “For an effective EMS to be developed and implemented, commitment is needed from the top as well as all the staff. I challenge all personnel to meet the area’s commitment to continual improvement in all aspects of our mission, especially the protection of the environment.” Although the execution of an EMS is
essentially a voluntary program, it can also become an effective tool for governments to protect the environment. To develop an EMS, an organization has to assess its environmental impacts, set targets to reduce these impacts, and plan how to achieve the targets. To review environmental actions affecting the garrison, an Environmental Quality Control Committee was organized and meets quarterly. The committee members review the status of the 2nd Infantry Division and USAG-RC environmental programs and plans actions in preparation for the upcoming Environmental Performance Assessment System. In addition, Ken Lee, chief, environmental division and staff engineer for Directorate of Public Works, is conducting environmental staff assistance visits for 2ID units, other tenant units, USAG-RC organizations and contractors. The focus is on key
environment concerns: EMS, drinking water, wastewater, hazardous waste, petroleum, oil and lubricants, spill prevention and response planning, storage tanks and polychlorinated biphenyls. From Feb. 25 to March 5 a 12-member EPAS team will identify the strengths and weaknesses of the environmental programs at USAG-Red Cloud, USAG-Casey and remote sites, and Rodriguez and Story Ranges, to bring the installation into full compliance with United States Forces Korea Pam 200-1, Environmental Governing Standards. “An EMS is not a static device, but rather a living and dynamic tool designed to allow for gradual changes to be made over long periods of time in order to achieve realistic and measurable goals,” Lee said. “The goal is to encourage all government agencies to evaluate their current facility operations and integrate environmental stewardship initiatives into their operations.”
Orphanage receives school supplies from 304th by Jim Cunningham USAG-RC Public Affairs USAG STANLEY — Members of the 304th Signal Battalion gathered and delivered school supplies Jan. 18 for more than 100 elementary school children living in the Kwang Myung Orphanage. The 304th Signal Battalion on Camp Stanley makes regular contact with the orphanage, said Lt. Col. Alfred Francis, commander of the 304th Signal Battalion of Headquarters, Headquarters Company. “My chaplain, Capt. Kim and I schedule visits on a monthly basis, depending on the
time of year and the holidays that may be scheduled during the time.” Money was raised among the troops of the battalion and donations were made by the Camp Stanley Commissary and the 46th Transportation Company. “The 304th has sponsored events for the children of the Kwang Myung Orphanage for a long time,” Francis said. “It is definitely something we want to continue because it is a good example of the military interacting with the people of Korea as sponsors and getting involved with the local community, but more important, it is a great part of the Good Neighbor Program.”
Lt. Col. Alfred Francis, commander of the 304th Signal Battalion of Headquarters, Headquarters Company gives packages of school supplies elementary school children of the Kwang Myung Orphanage Jan. 18.— U.S. Army Photo By Jim Cunningham.
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BOSS seeks biggest losers by Jim Cunningham USAG-RC Public Affairs U S AG - R E D C LO U D — Better Opportunities for Unaccompanied and Single Soldiers began a competition to find Soldiers who can lose the most weight and body fat index. The event was held Jan.18 in the USAG-Red Cloud Physical Fitness Center. More than 60 Soldiers, male and female, came to weigh-in for the start of the program. “This is a well-being issue for the BOSS program,” said Yong Ae Black, USAG-RC Community Activity Center manager and BOSS board member. “There are three pillars to the BOSS program, community, recreation and well-being. We didn’t have enough programs for well-being, so we decided to hold this event.” The idea for the program comes from recent popular television reality shows featuring people who need to lose weight and body fat. “This program is not only to help Soldiers
lose weight,” Black said. “They will be judged on how much body fat index they lose as well. Each team will consist of 10 people, Soldiers, officers, both male and female, and civilians are invited to participate.” Becoming the winners of this event will require special planning and strategies to implement with training. “We will weigh each team member every two weeks after today,” Black said. “I am sure the contestants will have goals to reach during their training to lose weight and fat index during this competition. This competition will last for 49 days with a finish date of March 10. Each team will calculate how much each team member lost and find the total for the team. The team who loses the most weight and fat index will be declared the winner.” The prizes will include Family and Morale, Welfare and Recreation gift certificates, plaques and medals. “We will make this event an annual one,” Black said. “Our goal is to participate next year in the Department of the Army BOSS forum, as the best well-being event.”
James Underwood (left), USAG-RC BOSS advisor, gives out T-shirts while Cpl. Christy Chatham (seated at desk) signs up Soldiers for the Biggest Loser Contest in the USAG-RC Physical Fitness Center. — U.S. Army Photo By Jim Cunningham
Pfc.Todd Norman, USAG-Stanley, jabs opponent Spc. Billy Kirkland, USAG-Casey, on his way to a unanimous points decision win at the Warrior Boxing Invitational at Hanson Field House, Jan.19. — U.S. Army Photo By Spc. Alun Thomas.
Warrior slugfest entertains Army, Marines and Air Force by Spc. Alun Thomas USAG-RC Public Affairs USAG- CASEY— More than 400 spectators filled Hanson Field House Jan.19 for a night of boxing, as area boxers from the Army, Marines and Air Force competed in the 2008 Warrior Invitational Boxing Competition. There were 17 bouts during the evening, ranging from Welterweight to Super heavyweight, with each fight consisting of three two minute rounds. The invitational is an event, which is planned to take place every two months,
said Kim, Pok Man, sports specialist for USAG-Casey. “Anybody in active duty can participate in this invitational, regardless of their branch of service,” Kim said. “The only purpose for having this event is to give those who enjoy boxing something to do.” Kim said the turnout for the invitational was impressive, with more than 400 people attending the event. Nathaniel Greene, Family and Morale, Recreation and Welfare, who refereed and judged the night’s contests, said he has been officiating boxing matches for 15 years. In one of the evening’s novice heavyweight
bouts, Pfc. Todd Norman, 61st Maintenance Company, USAG-Stanley defeated Spc. Billy Kirkland, Headquarters, Headquarters Company, 1/72 AR, USAG-Casey, by unanimous decision, three rounds to zero. “Going into this fight my record was 3-1 and I scored a knockout in my last fight, so I was confident about my chances tonight,” said Norman. “I’ve been training for a few years down in Athens, Ga. and I’m trying to bring my boxing here with me into the Army.” Marine Sgt. Omar Reece, 3rd Intel, 3rd GSP, Okinawa, Japan, won his middleweight bout by referee stoppage in the second round,
said his main intention was to knock out his opponent. “I wanted to knock him out and not let my team down,” Reece said. “I would not have been able to hold my head up if I had lost this fight.” Reece said he only had several days to prepare for his fight, as his unit arrived at USAG-Casey Jan.16, with his decision to compete a last minute choice. “We had just arrived at USAG-Casey when I saw the advertisement for the boxing,” Reece said. “I hit the heavy bags for a day or two and had some good training from my coach.”
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Yongsan welcomes new garrison CSM Honors outgoing enlisted leader by Kenneth Fidler USAG-Yongsan Public Affairs YONGSAN GARRISON — U.S. Army Garrison-Yongsan welcomed its new command sergeant major Jan. 25 at a change of responsibility ceremony at Collier Field House. Command Sgt. Major Ralph J. Rusch took over from Command Sgt. Major Diane Foster, who is retiring after 25 years in the Army. Rusch comes in from USAG Schinnen in the Netherlands where he served as the garrison command sergeant major. This is his third tour in Korea. From 1980-1983, he was assigned to 8th U.S. Army Special Troops Battalion. During his tour then, he was named NCO of the Year. He returned in 1987 as a member of the United Nations Command and later as the NCOIC of Army Community Services. “It feels good to be back,” he said, adding that he and his wife, Julie, “were ready” for another assignment to Korea. Since he’s been back, he said he’s been impressed with how the community has changed and improved to meet the changing needs of Servicemembers and their families. “Everything needs new eyes,” he said. “I’ve been impressed with how the staff has been very open to suggestions to improve what we do.” During the ceremony, Col. Dave Hall, USAG-Yongsan commander, made special note of Foster’s impact on Yongsan. “It is with deep sadness that we bid farewell to Command Sgt. Major Foster, one of the finest the Army has seen,” Hall said. “Command Sergeant Major Foster has been an inspiration to us all,” he added. “You would be hard-pressed to find someone in our organization that has not been motivated or touched in some way by this outstanding Senior NCO.” Hall said Foster focused on the welfare
PX, commissary close Feb. 7
(Above) Command Sgt. Maj. Ralph J. Rusch takes the NCO Sword from Col. Dave Hall, USAG-Yongsan commander, at the Jan. 25 Change of Responsibility Ceremony. (Below) Command Sgt. Maj. Diane Foster talks with well-wishers after the ceremony. — U.S. Army Photos By Kenneth Fidler
of Soldiers and their families and was involved in making quality of life enhancements for single and unaccompanied Soldiers. “The list of your achievements is endless…you have paved the path to success for many,” said Hall. Before the ceremony, Hall awarded Foster the Legion of Merit decoration for “exceptionally meritorious service.”
During Foster’s remarks, she thanked many people and organizations who supported her during her 18-month tour here. “Today, I am honored by your presence,” she said. She is known for fondly referring to Soldiers as “killers” and didn’t pass the opportunity to make special note of this to the Korean Augmentation to the U.S. Army Soldiers and Korean Service Corps paramilitary labor force standing in three formation squads. “Killers … you look good as always,” she said. “I will miss you.
• Entered Army August 1979 • Assignments include: Fort Hood, Texas; Fort Huachuca, Ariz.; Harrisburg (Pa.) Recruiting Battallion; Joint Forces Command, Brunssum, Netherlands; Sioux Falls (S.D.) Military Entrance Processing Station. • Master’s in public administration from Shippensburg University. Complete biography available at http://yongsan.korea.army.mil
Garrison firefighters help at off-post fire USAG-Yongsan Public Affairs
Schools off Feb. 8
USAG-Yongsan Public Affairs The post commissary and nearly all Army and Air Force Exchange Service facilities will be closed Feb. 7 for the Lunar New Year “Seollal” holiday. Department of Defense Dependent Schools are closed on Feb. 8. Seollal is the second biggest holiday in Korea, when Koreans travel to spend the week with families. (See related stories on Pages 10 and 12) Go to http://yongsan.korea.army. mil for a complete list of AAFES and MWR facilities’ operating hours Feb. 6-8 in observance of the holiday.
CSM RALPH J. RUSCH Career Brief
A Yongsan Garrison firefighter oversees the damage from a fire at an off-post building. Garrison firefighters helped the Yongsan-gu Fire Department battle the blaze Jan. 24. — U.S. Army Photo
YONGSAN GARRISON — Garrison firefighters assisted the Yongsan-gu Fire Department battle a blaze Jan. 24 at a former United Nations Compound near the post. When the Garrison got the call, it dispatched a fire engine, a four-man crew and two officers. “We supplied about 800 gallons of water to help bring the fire under control,” said Chief Alex Temporado, USAG-Yongsan fire chief. The building was undergoing demolition, so no individuals were inside, he said. “We wanted to make sure they had enough resources,” Temporado added. “We have agreements to help each other, and we were happy to help.” Every three months, the departments conduct training and planning sessions to improve joint operations.
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AREA II “The three-day period gives us a time to bring holiday spirits ... and share greetings which give us a good luck throughout the year.”
News & Notes Super Bowl Parties Last week’s Morning Calm reported the Dragon Hill Super Bowl party offered free breakfast. Breakfast will be available for a fee; admission is free. The following is a brief look at Super Bowl events set for Feb. 4. Admission is free, and all give party-goers chances to win prizes. • Navy Club: call 725-7731 or visit http:// navyclub.cnic.navy.mil. Open at 6 a.m. • Dragon Hill Lodge: call 738-222, Ext. 6445, or visit www.dragonhilllodge.com. Doors open at 7 a.m. • Main Post Club: call 738-5254. Doors open at 5 a.m. for early birds and a chance to win a grand prize. Doors open to public at 6 a.m. • K-16 Landing Zone Club: Call 741-6473. Doors open at 6 a.m. • VFW Post 8180: Call 724-7781. Doors open at 6:30 a.m. Rams’ Cheerleader Visit Today The St. Louis Rams’ Cheerleaders visit Yongsan today. At 3 p.m. at Collier Field House, the squad will provide a cheerleading clinic for youth. At 7 p.m. at the Seoul American High School Auditorium, the cheerleaders will perform and have an autograph and photo session. Domestic Violence Symposium The Army Community Services Family Advocacy Program invites the community to attend a domestic violence symposium 7:30 a.m.-noon Feb. 7 at the Multi-Purpose Training Facility. The symposium will increase awareness of domestic abuse, its causes and prevention. For information, call 738-5151. West Point Founder’s Day Dinner The 2008 West Point Founder’s Day SitDown Dinner is 6 p.m. March 15 at the Dragon Hill Lodge Naija Ballroom. A Benny Havens social hour begins the event, which is $25 for dinner and dessert. For information, call 723-4678.
THE MORNING CALM
Koreans celebrate Lunar New Year by Sgt. Kim Sang-wook USAG-Yongsan Public Affairs
YONGSAN GARRISON — After the celebration of the traditional New Year holiday, East Asia cultures prepare for a different kind of New Year celebration with families Feb. 6-8. During “Seollal” or “Gujeong,” known as the Korean Lunar New Year by the calendar based on cycles of the moon phase, Koreans start a massive movement to the homes of their eldest brother, who is responsible for the family ceremony coordination. “All of our father-side family members gather up in our house and perform an ancestor memorial service called Charye,” said Cpl. Park Ji-min, a Korean Augmentation to the U.S. Army Soldier here. “The threeday period gives us a time to bring holiday spirits for us and share greetings, which give us good luck throughout the year.” “Charye” is a brief family-memorial service to ancestors using designated foods called “charyesang.” Traditional liquor is offered in front of the ancestral tablet. Family members bow to the tablet and wish for family prosperity and great luck among the siblings. Considerable efforts are made when preparing festive dishes for offerings at the
charye. The food on the table is designated by certain rules based on the tradition, but also depends on family’s choice. Food is displayed in five rows on a table. Usually on the back row, drinks and “tteokguk,” a broth with oval-shaped slices of white rice cake soup, are placed to the left and right. The fourth row contains hot dishes including meat, vegetables and fish. The middle row has various “jeon,” or Korean pancakes containing chopped vegetables, and “jeok,” grilled meat. Pieces of “po,” or dried slices of fish, are placed on the left side of the second row with other side dishes in the middle. Finally, on the front row, fruits are placed by color order: red fruits on the right, white on the left. After the ceremony, family members bow to their elders saying “Saehae-bok Manee Baduseyo,” which means “Happy New Year,” in Korean. This custom is called “Saebae” and children look forward to this time because adults return money or “Saebaetdon,” and other types of appreciation for their polite bows. Like other Asian countries, Korea also has traditional family-fun games. Typical games are “yootnoree,” a board game using
four sticks as dice, and “Yunnal-leegee,” a traditional kite game. “When I was young, all of our family members gathered around the table and played yootnoree. Laughter was all around during the game and we definitely enjoyed it,” said Kim Min-su, U.S. Army GarrisonYongsan. “But these days we focus on family conversation because we can’t reach each other as usual like the past.” Families also share a moment of time with the mother’s side of the family, either before or after the father’s-side gatherings, to greet and participate in Charye. During the season, the peninsula’s roads are packed with cars and buses, but sometimes the final destination is not always family gatherings. Some Koreans plan to do something instead of enhancing family relationship these days. Especially this year, the five-day holiday will provide families with more time than any other Lunar New Year holiday. “Our family is usually busy these days with work going on during the holiday, so we decided to do something different this year,” said Sgt. Han Yo-han. “But after the busy times, we are still going to arrange a time to gather. Times change and customs change, but we always appreciate our ancestors and families.”
Army Family Team Building A three-day Army Family Team Building Level II seminar is scheduled 8 a.m.-2 p.m. Feb. 13-15 at the Community Services Building To RSVP and for information, call 738-3617. Saturday Dental Appointments The 618th Theater Dental Command will provide Saturday appointments 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. at USAG-Yongsan Dental Clinic #2 beginning Jan. 26. This appointment-only service is available to Servicemembers E-7 and above and their eligible family members. For information, call 736-4779/7096. USO Highlights USO 67th Birthday Celebration: The USO’s 67th birthday celebration is 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. today. Enjoy free cake and ice cream for all participants and $1 canteen special for all active-duty Servicemembers. Win great raffle prizes. Virtues Volunteers Needed: The Virtues English Program allows active-duty Servicemembers to volunteer two Saturdays per month teaching English. Being a volunteer for Virtues English classes also helps satisfy your Good Neighbor Program requirement. For information, call Ahn Mi-Hwa. Pick up the USO monthly calendars at the Main Exchange, Commissary, Dragon Hill Lodge, and Town House. The calendar is available on-line at the USO Web site at www.uso.org/korea. For information on USO programs, call 724-7003.
According to Korean tradition, the formal greeting custom on special occasions is a bow where you get down on both knees and bend your upper body. This kind of greeting is known as ‘jeol’. The Seollal jeol is called “saebae,” and this tradition is strictly observed. On the official day of Seollal, Koreans change into Hanboks to symbolize new beginnings and pay their respects to the elders by bowing or doing saebae. — Photo Courtesy Of Korea Tourism Organization
DODDS council looking for parents’ feedback
School officials invite parents of students who attend Department of Defense Dependent Schools to a Pacific Theater Education Council meeting 5 p.m. Feb. 11 in the school cafeteria. “All parents and educators are encouraged to attend this meeting,” said Eskeletha Dorsey, the U.S. Army GarrisonYongsan school liaison officer. “You will have the opportunity to give compliments on our educational programs or voice any concerns you may have.”
The PTEC consists of representatives from the Pacific Command, U.S. Forces Korea, U.S. Forces Japan, and educational representatives from component commands. Before the annual meeting, PTEC completes school visitations in order to view successful educational programs and make recommendations to the director, Department of Defense Education Activity, and to the director, Department of Defense Dependents Schools Pacific, for improving education overseas for DODDS and DODEA children.
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INTRAMURAL BASKETBALL
MEDCOM takes intramural title Shuts down favorite Signal 2-0 by Kenneth Fidler USAG-Yongsan Public Affairs
MEDCOM took a brief lead 44-42 when Nathaniel Jones pushed in a rebound. Signal’s Kendre Fletcher nailed a 3-pointer YONGSAN GARRISON — Jimmy to move Signal back in front 45-44. Barnett knew what he was doing. That was the last lead Signal had either With a minute left and the score tied at game. Fletcher’s two field goals tied the game 50 in the first game of the championship up until Barnett’s final move. matches, the MEDCOM forward and his Signal went into the championship teammates ran the clock down to 10 seconds game the favorite, winning their way to before he pounced. the finals. But MEDCOM, loser bracket He slid through a gap in Signal’s defense winner, stayed focused on their only goal and eased in a laywhen they started up to take away the season: win the Signal’s chance at the “Normally Sig has a high level championship. intramural basketball of confidence and they usually “We practiced all crown. the time and (Gray) That first win gave win everything. But I prepared had us working on MEDCOM the drive plays together,” said the team the whole year to not even let Signal MEDCOM’s Mark for this game.” take the lead once Farmer. “He knew during the second that if we played a lot MEDCOM Coach Dexter Gray game and secured together, we’d be the their title as post best team.” intramural champions Jan. 27. Game Two brought aggressive play, MEDCOM took Signal down both fouls and free throws. “It’s always that games, 53-50 and 53-39. way between Signal and MEDCOM,” “I think Signal was going to get tired Fletcher said after the game. “It’s always a eventually,” said MEDCOM coach Dexter dog fight.” Gray. “If we beat them the first game, I knew At 5:39 into the first quarter , MEDCOM’s we had the second game.” 14-6 lead was mostly won on free throws He was right. The first one was close, and and a 3-pointer from Chavis Rose. Signal the second game had its moments. But in added four more on foul shots. the end, MEDCOM’s teamwork and calm Gray’s prediction was coming true. play put them over a Signal team that wore “Normally Sig has a high level of confidence, its frustration during the second game. and they usually win everything,” he said. Signal just about had the first game “But I prepared the team the whole year for bagged. They led at the half 32-28, but let this game.” MEDCOM tie it up at 32 two minutes into the second half. — See Champs, Page 12 —
(Above) Signal’s Kendre Fletcher argues with a referee over a foul call. (Left) MEDCOM coach Dexter Gray encourages his team during a time-out in the second half of the first game. — U.S. Army Photos By Kenneth Fidler
HIGH SCHOOL BASKETBALL
Falcons hand Yongsan International two losses by Cpl. Im Jin-min USAG-Yongsan Public Affairs YONGSAN GARRISON — Seoul American walked away with two wins over Yongsan International School of Seoul Saturday on SAHS home turf. The boy’s varsity Falcons beat the YISS Guardians 76-59, and the Lady Falcons
Lady Falcons Alicia Furner, 23, blocks Guardians Eshita Gupta. — U.S. Army Photos By Cpl. Im Jinmin
came away with a 52-31 win. The Falcons have dominated the boys’ varsity games for 12 years, and aren’t ready to back down. The Falcons outscored the Guardians 23-15 in the first quarter, but YISS pushed back with several advantage free throws and came within four at the half. Falcons led 38-34 at the half. “We started off a little sluggish, but we got together at a fast pace, and that’s what brought us to win,” said Falcon Raidion Fails. Falcons coach Steve Boyd said smooth shooters like Fails and a tactical defensive system helped them win. “We ran four different types of defenses and did pretty well, which kicked the game open,” he said. “What kept the Guardians in the first half of the game was the fouls, where they gave us some deadly free throws.”
Guardian coach Ben Hale said, “We made a lot of mistakes, and were also exhausted from yesterday’s game with another school. But SAHS played beautifully, as they always do.” The Lady Falcons are also striving to become this year’s favorite in the girls’ varsity basketball tournament. Coach Ben Pak said the team was actually a junior varsity team, but that they were tough enough to challenge others. “We intend to field junior varsity players for the whole of the KAIAC regular season,” he said. “As you can see from the results of the game today, they certainly have potential.” Both halftimes was frustrating for the Guardians, who entered the game shooting only eight points in the first quarter, and managed only 25 points in all for the rest of the game. The Lady Falcons took a commanding
Falcon Raidion Fails tries to get around Guardian defense.
35-12 halftime lead and put in 17 more to seal the win. The Korean-American Interscholastic Activities conference division basketball tournaments are scheduled Feb. 15-16.
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THE MORNING CALM PAID ADVERTISING
Lunar New Year driving safety
T
he Lunar New Year Sul Nal Feb. travel is necessary, the trip must be 7 is one of the biggest holidays in thoroughly analyzed, hazards identified Korea. Traditionally, during this and steps taken to reduce or eliminate time, families gather to reaffirm family ties, those hazards. This type of composite wish each other good health and fortune, and risk management works. Use this when perform rites to their ancestors. making holiday travel plans. The Lunar New Leaders at all Ye a r h o l i d a y i s USAG-Yongsan installations will levels should give officially observed thorough safety Fe b . 6 - 8 . T h i s have RED road conditions for mili- briefings to their year, more than 30 tary vehicles Feb. 4-10. ... My intent people before million people (75 Feb. 4 with a percent of Korea’s is to have zero motor vehicle and focus on offtotal population) are pedestrian accidents in our area, duty safety, the expected to travel buddy system, both on and off all installations. during this holiday drinking and period. If you’re driving, checking planning to travel, road conditions, expect extremely heavy traffic and long weather forecast, vehicle maintenance delays. Unfortunately, in 2007, there were prior to making a POV trip, off-limits 2,013 reported traffic accidents with serious areas, curfew and other force protection injuries, 65 fatalities and 3,653 total injuries policies. during the four-day holiday period. Leaders must conduct “under the oak Because of this, USAG-Yongsan tree counseling” for Servicemembers and installations will have RED road conditions civilian employees before Lunar New Year. for military vehicles Feb. 4-10. The streets Counseling should emphasize safe driving and highways of Korea will be jam-packed techniques. with traffic during the holiday timeframe. I encourage all Soldiers, Civilians, and My intent is to have zero motor vehicle and Family Members to go out and experience pedestrian accidents in our area, both on and the wonderful sites and events, the people, off all installations. land and culture Korea has to offer. Knowing these facts in advance allows us When doing this, every individual to alter our travel plans and reduce the risk must keep safety the No. 1 priority. We of being involved in an accident. want your tour in Korea to be a time of All personnel should minimize non- creating joyous memories and not one critical vehicle travel out of the area. When overtaken by regrets.
CHAMPS At 4:15, with MEDCOM up 16-10, Signal seemed unsteady. On a turnover, Angelo Jones saw Marcus James wide open, but overthrew the pass. MEDCOM’s Mark Farmer grabbed it and ran it down court for an easy lay-up and pulled MEDCOM ahead 18-10. At the 1:59 mark, Signal’s Nick Lax charged down court to bring his team to five down, 20-15. With about a minute left in the first half, and MEDCOM up 22-19, Signal enjoyed a revenge-like moment: officials ejected Barnett after a rough rebound tussle with Tyrell Kirk. Signal and MEDCOM missed chances to bump up the score and ended the half 22-21 MEDCOM. At the half, Signal coach Jason Walton was optimistic. “I like our chances right now,” he said. “Not sure what happened at the end of the first game, but it was a tough break. Them
from Page 11 losing (Barnett) was a good thing for us.” The margin stayed slim to four minutes into the second period. MEDCOM missed shots to stretch their lead further, but still took a 29-23 lead at 8:45. After a long back-and-forth, MEDCOM’s Jones and Matt Avery hit two boards each, while Phillip Talley added two free throws. Signal’s Jones nailed a 3-pointer and Fletcher hit three foul shots. At 1:15, MEDCOM had a commanding 45-35 lead. Both stayed close to the free throw lines with Farmer taking the last two shots of the game. MEDCOM’s Jones led his team with 17 points, and Rose added 14. Fletcher contributed 15 points for Signal, and Antwan Adams put in 11. Fletcher was disappointed. “I still feel like we’re the best team,” he said. “(Barnett) never should have touched the ball at the end of the first game. But they did the right thing.”
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FEBRUARY 1, 2008
NEWS
IMCOM-K • PAGE 13 http://imcom.korea.army.mil
IMCOM-K • PAGE 16 http://imcom.korea.army.mil
FEATURE
THE MORNING CALM
Take a look inside: Humphreys CDC (Clockwise from top) — Daniela Whitman, mother, leads the way out of the new United States Army Garrison Humphreys Child Develpment Center while Cheyenne is attracted to the shadow in front of her. (2) Mina Searl, a CDC teacher, sings to little Kaylin Morelle one of many infants cared for at the CDC daily. (3) Dakota Bergemann watches through the window as parents of other CDC children arrive at the end of the day. Also, Brett Hoge gives it a go at a play computer workstation. (4) Yong Mi, a CDC teacher, entertains USAG Humphreys Part Day Preschool children, Avery Hoge (right) Spencer Butler (left) and Jersey Bergemann. (5) Airman 1st Class Jamie K. Ciciora, a broadcaster from American Forces Network, tires to capture Amaya Espy’s attention. — U.S. Army Photos By Bob McElroy.
NEWS
IMCOM-K • PAGE 14 http://imcom.korea.army.mil
THE MORNING CALM
Old tax returns: Do you need a copy or just a transcript? by Capt. Holly B. Nostrant Humphreys Consolidated Legal Center Did you lose or not keep copies of old tax returns? Do you need one now? At our legal center and tax center, we receive many requests from individuals needing copies of past tax returns. The Internal Revenue Service not only provides copies of old tax returns, but it also offers transcripts. Depending upon your situation, a transcript may be better than requesting a copy of your tax return. Form 4506, Request for Copy of Tax
Return, must be filled out to receive an actual copy of an old tax return. Available on the IRS website at www.irs.gov, this form must be mailed in along with $39 for each tax return requested. Copies can be requested for the current year’s tax return and any from the previous six years. This process is lengthy and can take up to 60 calendar days. On the other hand, a transcript provides two advantages. First, it is free. Second, the processing time is quicker. The IRS allows you to request a transcript by mail or by phone. To request a transcript by mail, fill
out Form 4506-T and mail it to the IRS. Under this method, a transcript will be received within two weeks. To request a transcript by phone, call 1-800-829-1040, follow the prompts, and get a transcript faxed to you within a matter of days. While transcripts are quick and free, your circumstances will determine which route is best for you. For example, individuals sponsoring a spouse or another individual for an immigrant visa are required to fill out Form I-864, Affidavit of Support. I-864 requires sponsors to attach either a copy of last year’s tax return, along with W-2s, or an
Military mail now allows for lost parcel e-mail inquiries Special to The Morning Calm Weekly
A
re you a military member who has deployed overseas, and are still waiting on your footlocker, duffle bag, or parcel to arrive? There is now an e-mail address to inquire or claim mail that has yet to arrive and was sent more than 60 days from the date of mailing. Military members and their families can now contact the Military Postal Service Agency at the following e-mail address:
[email protected]. mil or visit http://hpdainet.army.mil/mpsa/index.htm Go under “MPSA Took Kit” and click on “Lost Military Parcel Procedures.” Please include the following details in your e-mail to MPSA: contact phone number, e-mail address, rank, first and last name, mailing address, return address, any insured, certified, registered or confirmation number (if applicable), date of mailing, type of container used for mailing, a detailed description of the container contents, and any additional information that could be used to help identify your item such as distinctive marking. Once the information is received, MPSA will
contact the service member to positively identify the owner and ship the item to the recipient should it be found. “The best way to ensure your package is delivered, in the event the address label is lost or destroyed, would be to enclose the mailing address information on the inside of each parcel,” said Tech. Sgt. Steven L. Bennett, mail recovery coordinator for MPSA. Address information can be typed or legibly written on a piece of 8 ½ X 11, bond paper or a 3 x 5 index card, and it must include the complete address information of the mailer and recipient. This will help postal employees determine who the article belongs to and provide them an address to forward your items. “This is just one example of the Department of Defense doing what we can to better serve those that serve the American people – our Soldiers and Families. Help us help you by contacting the Military Postal Service Agency
[email protected],” said Col. David Ernst, Military Postal Service Agency deputy director.
IRS transcript. In this case, a transcript is the best option because of its faster processing time. As you begin to file tax returns for 2007, remember to keep a copy of your tax return and other documents that you file. The IRS recommends keeping tax returns for three years. In some situations, individuals should keep them for a longer period of time. For more information, visit the IRS website, consult your local tax center, or speak with a legal assistance attorney.
Food inspectors recall beans sold in 6 to 7 pound cans by 18th MEDCOM PAO On Jan. 25, 106th Medical Detachment (Veterinary Services) Food Inspectors received an recall message for various canned beans potentially contaminated by Clostridium botulinum (Clostridium botulinum is the name of a group of bacteria commonly found in soil). Army Dining facilities that stock the recalled products have been notified, and the products have been placed on medical hold awaiting refund/credit/ replacement through the normal distribution channels. Affected items have been pulled and will not be utilized. This recall only affects products in large cans, the majority of which were sold to
large dining establishments such as cafeterias and restaurants. All commissaries and shoppettes on the peninsula reported not having any of these products. To verify whether or not you may have these items, please visit http://www.fda.gov/oc/po/ firmrecalls/newera201_08.html for UPC codes. If you find that you have this product, please return it to your local retail store from where you purchased the item. This is an initial report; further updates are expected as the investigation is ongoing. If you have any questions, please cpntact the Korea Theater Food Safety Officer, CW2 Marivic J. Brown, at 736-3202.
February 1-7
Thursday
Saturday
Sunday
Monday
Tuesday
Enchanted (PG) 8:30 p.m. Golden Compass (PG13) 7 p.m.
The Mist (R) 8:30 p.m. I am Legend (PG13) 7 p.m.
Enchanted (PG) 8:30 p.m. I am Legend (PG13) 7 p.m.
Cloverfield (PG13) 7:30 p.m. The Mist (R) 7 p.m.
Enchanted (PG13) 7:30 p.m. No Show
Meet the Spartans (PG13) 9 p.m.
Meet the Spartans (PG13) 9 p.m.
Meet the Spartans (PG13) 9 p.m.
I am Legend (PG13) 9 p.m.
I am Legend (PG13) 9 p.m.
The Mist (R) 9 p.m.
The Mist (R) 9 p.m.
The Mist (R) 7 p.m.
Cloverfield (PG13) 7 p.m.
Enchanted (PG13) 7 p.m.
Cloverfield (PG13) 7 p.m.
Enchanted (PG) 7 p.m.
I am Legend (PG13) 7 p.m.
UNK
UNK
UNK
No Show
No Show
No Show
UNK
I am Legend (PG13) 9:30 p.m.
I am Legend (PG13) 9:30 p.m.
Cloverfield (PG13) 8:30 p.m.
Cloverfield (PG13) 7 p.m.
Cloverfield (PG13) 7 p.m.
Cloverfield (PG13) 7 p.m.
Golden Compass (PG13) 7 p.m.
Cloverfield (PG13) 7 p.m.
The Mist (R) 9 p.m.
The Mist (R) 8 p.m.
Enchanted (PG13) 7 p.m.
No Show
Meet the Spartans (PG13) 7 p.m.
Enchanted (PG) 8 p.m.
The Mist (R) 9 p.m.
I am Legend (PG13) 7 p.m.
The Mist (R) 7 p.m.
No Show
Today Casey 730-7354 Henry 768-7724 Humphreys 753-7716 Hovey 730-5412 Kunsan 782-4987 Osan 784-4930 Red Cloud 732-6620 Stanley 732-5565 Yongsan I
Cloverfield (PG13) 8:30 p.m.
The Mist (R) 7 p.m.
I am Legend (PG13) 7 p.m.
Wednesday I am Legend (PG13) 7:30 p.m. No Show
Meet the Spartans (PG13) 7 p.m.
The Mist (R) 7:30 p.m. No Show
The Mist (R) 7 p.m.
Cloverfield (PG13) 8 p.m.
Cloverfield (PG13) 8 p.m.
The Mist (R) 7 p.m.
The Mist (R) 7 p.m.
I am Legend (PG13) 7 p.m.
I am Legend (PG13) 7 p.m.
Yongsan II
Mr. Woodcock (PG13) 6:30 p.m.
Enchanted (PG) 6:30 p.m.
This Christmas (PG13) 6:30 p.m.
This Christmas (PG13) 6 p.m.
This Christmas (PG13) 6 p.m.
Fred Claus (PG) 6 p.m.
Fred Claus (PG) 6 p.m.
Yongsan III 738-7389
Martian Child (PG) 6:30 p.m.
Enchanted (PG) 6:30 p.m.
Enchanted (PG) 6:30 p.m.
Beowulf (PG13) 6 p.m.
Beowulf (PG) 6 p.m.
Mr. Bean’s Holiday (G) 6 p.m.
Mr. Bean’s Holiday (G) 6 p.m.
FEBRUARY 1, 2008
CHAPLAIN
God longs for fellowship by Chaplain (Lt. Col.) Youn H. Kim Deputy command chaplain, 8th U.S. Army
Sometimes I am deeply inspired by Bible verses such as, “He has showed you, O man, what is good. And what does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God” (Micah 6:8). As I meditate on this particular verse, it teaches me that God yearns for man to walk with him. He is eager to have fellowship with the human being. He wants a man to enjoy him forever. God longs for our fellowship not only because he cannot be satisfied without man but also because he knows that we can never be satisfied without him. The great Geneva reformer, John Calvin (1509-1564) said, “There is within the human mind, and indeed by natural instinct, an awareness of divinity. This we take to be beyond controversy. To prevent anyone from taking refuge in the pretense of ignorance, God himself has implanted in all men a certain understanding of his divine majesty. Ever renewing its memory, he repeatedly sheds fresh drops”. (Calvin: Institutes of the Christian Religion, Book One, pp43-44) Every man is possessed of a hunger for God that nothing else can satisfy. It is true that we often do not know what is for which we hunger and thirst, but it remains forever true that there is no true satisfaction for the human soul apart from God. Every person is important to God, and he longs to have fellowship with every one of us. God longs for our fellowship because he knows that it is only as we walk with him that we shall really be just and kind. Justice and kindness at their best flow out of a close relationship with God. When the fellowship is broken, justice and kindness will dry up. I suggest the following: Read the Scripture regularly. We can listen to God through the Scripture. Pray to God regularly. We can talk to God through our prayer. Partake in regular worship service, prayer meetings, and Bible study group. Tell other people about your personal experience with God and what God has done for you and how He guides you day by day. I am very excited to have a fellowship with God. Whenever I have a circumstance and situation, I bring these things to God. He always takes care of me. So does God to you.
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Area II Lent, Easter Services Catholic
Date/Time
Location
Ash Wednesday
Feb. 6, 1205 1205 1800 Feb. 8 – Mar. 14 (Fri.), 1730 Mar. 19, 1830 Mar. 20, 0900 Mar. 20,1830 Mar. 20, 2100 Mar. 21, 0900 Mar. 21, 1530 Mar. 21, 1830 Mar. 22, 0900
121 Hospital Chapel Memorial Chapel South Post Chapel Memorial Chapel Memorial Chapel Memorial Chapel South Post Chapel Memorial Chapel Memorial Chapel Memorial Chapel Memorial Chapel Memorial Chapel
Mar. 22, 1200 Mar. 22, 1830
Memorial Chapel Memorial Chapel
Stations of the Cross Lenten Penance Service Holy Thursday (Morning Prayer) Holy Thursday (The Lord’s Supper) Holy Thursday (Night Prayer) Good Friday (Morning Prayer) Good Friday (Traditional Good Friday) Good Friday (Passion of the Lord) Holy Saturday (Morning Prayer) Holy Saturday (Traditional Blessing of Food Baskets) Holy Saturday (Easter Vigil Mass) Welcome Reception (Newly Baptized Catholics) Easter Sunday Mass (No 1700 Mass)
Mar. 22, 2000 Mar. 23, 0800 1130 Please direct all questions to Mr. Pagano, 725-5211 Protestant
Memorial Chapel South Post Chapel Memorial Chapel
Easter Cantata Community Good Friday Service Community Easter Sunrise Service Easter Sunday Services
Memorial Chapel (Collective) Onnuri Church Seobinggo Campus South Post Chapel (Collective) Memorial Chapel (Collective) Hannam Village Chapel (Korean) 121 Hospital Chapel (Collective) South Post Chapel (Collective) Multi-Plex (ROCK Service) K-16 Community Chapel (Collective) Hannam Village Chapel (Collective) South Post Chapel (Gospel) Memorial Chapel (UPCI)
Episcopal
Mar. 16, 0800 Mar. 21, 1900 Mar. 23, 0600 Mar. 23, 0800 0930 0930 1000 1000 1030 1100 1200 1330
Ash Wednesday – Imposition of Ashes/Holy Eucharist Feb. 6, 1700 Memorial Chapel Palm Sunday – Liturgy of the Palms & Holy Eucharist Mar. 16, 1000 Memorial Chapel Good Friday Liturgy Mar. 21, 1700 Memorial Chapel Easter Holy Eucharist Mar. 23 ,1000 Memorial Chapel For more information call USAG-Yongsan Religious Support Office, 738-3011
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MWR
THE MORNING CALM
AREA III 22nd KSC conducts mobilization exercise
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February 1, 2008
Hot Zone:
400 processed daily by Andre Butler USAG-H Public Affairs PYEONGTAEK — The 22nd Armistice Korean Service Corps Company conducted a mass mobilization exercise at Pyeongtaek City Elementary School Jan. 15 to hone support skills needed during wartime operations. As augmentees for United States and Republic of Korea forces, KSCs provide logistical support to combat support and combat service support units leading up to, during and after battlefield operations. Support from KSC units ranges from setting up life support areas to providing water purification operations for warfighters throughout the peninsula. “This mobilization exercise is very important to our forces as well as Republic of Korea forces,” said Lt. Col. Douglas Fields, KSC battalion commander,” Fields runs his operations from Camp Kim in Seoul. “As part of peninsula-wide efforts,
Two members of the 22nd KSC Company demonstrate first-aid techniques during the exercise. — U.S. Army Photos By Andre Butler 21,000 Korean civilians come together to help ensure we are able to preserve peace,” Fields said. Many of the corps members are volunteers who want to play a part in reserving and
Lt. Col. Douglas Fields, U.S. KSC Bn. commander, and Chong Yong-an 22nd KSC Company commander, brief USAG-H Deputy Commander David W. Frodsham, Command Sgt. Maj. Jason K. Kim, USAG-H command sergeant major and others about the moblization exercise.
maintaining their country’s freedom. “In wartime, KSCs accept volunteers, mostly reserve forces, and supports necessary U.S. and ROK forces through mobilization stations,” said Chon In-sop, 22nd KSC Company executive officer. With the logistical support provided by KSCs, warfighters can concentrate the mission at hand and not the life support issues that are paramount to successful battlefield strategies or Soldiers well-being. Once operating at capacity, the Pyeonteak Mobilization Center can process more than 400 personnel a day, said Fields and Chong Yong-an, the 22nd KSC Company commander. “It takes 24 hours to be fully operational,” Chong said. It takes four hours from notification for all KSC personnel to get to the rally point or designated area of reporting for in-processing, said Chong. The ROK pre-mobilization concept consists of transportation, loading equipment, deploying personnel to designated MOB stations within first four hours after receiving activation orders and setting up MOB stations.
And the ROK mobilization phase deals with in-processing personnel. This process is designed to receive, train, outfit and form companies for deployment. After which, companies are transported for link-up to using units, whether U.S. or ROK. “Upon completion of processing, companies are turned over to the ROK and U.S. forces it is assigned to support,” said Fields. The final concept per the briefing is sustainment. When all personnel are processed the MOB stations remain operational in order to provide additional KSC augmentees and replacements to the forces if needed. This type of exercise is one of many conducted by KSCs. It is one that also tests the ability of the service corps to answer the call when charged to. “I want our KSC Companies to always be vigilant and maintain a high state of readiness,” Fields said. “These types of exercises are what ensure they are,” he said.
United States Senators Inouye, Stevens visit Humphreys
Sens. Daniel K. Inouye of Hawaii and Ted Stevens of Alaska visited USAG-H to learn about the installation’s transformation and visit with Soldiers from their states. During lunch at the Red Dragon Dining Facility Inouye shared a light moment with Chief Warrant Officer Malia S. Teegarden and Stevens met with Soldiers from Alaska. — U.S. Army Photos By Bob McElroy.
USAG-H • PAGE 22 www.imcom.korea.army.mil
AREA III
THE MORNING CALM
News & Notes The Morning Calm The Feb. 8 edition of The Morning Calm will not be published because of Lunar New Year. The following week, Feb. 15 editon, will be published for the community. Army Nurse Corps seeks Soldiers looking for change Are you interested in becoming a health care provider? Do you know of any Soldiers who are interested in continuing their education? Do you want a free education while receiving full pay and benefits? Now there is a program in place for you or one of your Soldiers to take advantage of. The Interservice Physician Assisant Program, the AMEDD Enlisted Commissioning Program, the Funded Nurse Education Program and other AMEDD training opportunities are open to officers, warrant offices and enlisted Soldiers. Briefings will be conducted at different times throughout December. For more information contact 1st Lt. Warrentina Berry at 011-9972-9268. Virtues Volunteers Needed at USO Korea The Virtues English Program allows active-duty Servicemembers to volunteer two Saturdays per month (second and fourthSaturday). Being a volunteer for the Virtues English classes will help to satisfy your Good Neighbor Program requirement. For more information, call Mi-Hwa and Minna at 724-7781. Humphreys CDC Child and Youth Services, Child Development Center is currently looking for Program Assistants to fill full-time, part-time, and flex’s positions, which are willing to support the CYS program hours, 5:15 a.m. - 6 p.m. Salary ranges from $10 - $13.12 per hour based on education level (Child Development Associates, completion of the Army Youth Practicum, possession of AA degree or higher with major emphasis on Early Childhood Education. Visit the website at http://cpol.army.mil for the job.
HAES primary students are enchanted with Dan Crow’s stories, songs and antics. A very expressive singer and storyteller, Crow sings each song with great enthusiasm. More than 100 Humphreys community members enjoyed a picnic dinner at the USAG Humphreys Community Activities Center while listening to Crow and his guitar, Bob, music and stories. — Photo By Diane Hobler
Crow entertains students, parents, teachers at HAES, USAG-H CAC by Diane Hobler USAG-HAES Librarian
The ‘Little Mermaid’ Audition An audition will be held for the Missoula Children’s Theatre, the original adaptation of ‘The Little Mermaid” Feb. 26 at the USAG-Humphreys CAC at 3 p.m. Approximately 50 roles are available; students ages Kindergarten through 12th grade are encouraged to audition. No advance preparation is necessary. Assistant directors will also aid in rehearsals throughout the week. The Little Mermaid performance will be March 1, at 2.p.m. and 7 p.m. at the USAG-H CAC . If interested in auditioning and for more information call Joon Auci at 753-8601/7619 or 8507. Walk-ins are also welcome. Arizona Cardinal Cheerleaders This cheerleading team brings some desert heat to the stage for a night of high-spirited fun. Their routines range from Elvis to Hip Hop, plus singing. Tonight the cheerleaders will be visiting Suwon and Camp Eagle. Youth Piano Player Needed The Missoula Children’s Theater will be coming to USAG-H in late February. MWR is seeking a youth piano player for this musical. This will be a paid position. Please call 753-8601 for more information. Please Send Us Stories and Photos To submit info for publishing in The Morning Calm Weekly, USAG Humphreys common pages, call 754-6132, 8847 or 8598. Or e-mail
[email protected].
(above) Dan Crow amazes students with a small instrument called a hummazoo that he attached to his guitar with Velcro. Using the hummazoo he was able to make incredibly realistic and incredibly loud animal sounds. Wintress Harris, Kayla Pickett, Paige Duskie, and Thomas Bain enjoy Dan Crow’s storytelling. — Photos By Diane Hobler
USAG HUMPRHREYS — HAES students enjoyed a wonderful visit from dynamic children’s songwriter and singer, Dan Crow and his guitar, Bob. Crow entertained students with songs about baseball’s screwball pitch, the Earl of Sandwich, nouns, spiders and many other topics. The stories he told to go with his music were startling, interesting, informative and hilarious. Crow even told the story of his first song, “The Brat Song”, which he wrote when he was a kid trying to annoy his big sister. For children who just didn’t get enough of that song, it is available as a free download from his website (www.dancrow.com). In addition to performing at school, Crow put on an evening performance for families. More than 100 people enjoyed a picnic dinner at the USAG Humphreys Community Activities Center while listening to his music and stories. After attending the performances, students expressed interest in writing poems and songs of their own, and starting their own bands. He was truly an inspiration. Other students really appreciated his humor, the amazing animal sounds he made on his hummazoo and his expressive style. Thank you so much to the terrific HAES parents and teachers organization for bringing Crow to delight and inspire students, teacher, and parents.
February 1, 2008
AREA III
USAG-H • PAGE 23 http://imcom.korea.army.mil
35th ADA participates in Air Force exercise by Pfc. Gretchen N. Goodrich 35th ADA Public Affairs Office OSAN AIR BASE —Soldiers with Headquarters and Headquarters Battery, 35th Air Defense Artillery Brigade, spent a week in the field with the Air Force training and preparing for an upcoming 8th United States Army exercise. During January 14-18, the air defenders participated in the Air Force PENORE training exercise which tests service member’s ability to execute combat operations and defend the base against. enemy attacks. For HHB Soldiers, the exercise was used as an opportunity to test their training skills alongside the U.S. Airmen. “This was a way for us to make sure we had all the right equipment, to test the equipment and make sure that the Soldiers knew how to set up everything for the 8th Army field training exercise coming up,” said Capt. David L. Tervin, HHB commander. “For Soldiers new to the unit, participation in the exercise gave them a chance to train on equipment new to them and learn basic Soldiering skills,” Tervin said. “Training gives you a real world experience in how you’re going to interact when you’re actually engaging in war,” said Pfc. Bobby J. Ortiz, the HHB orderly room clerk. Ortiz, a Soldier new to the unit, acknowledged that this training was important for Soldiers fresh out of advanced individual training and basic training. Another added benefit to the battery’s participation in the exercise was it gave the brigade commander and command sergeant major the chance to check out the layout of the operations center. Both Col. James H. Dickinson, 35th ADA Bde. commander, and Command Sgt. Maj. James T. Carr, brigade command sergeant major, are also new to the brigade and this gave them an idea of what to expect when they head out with their unit later on
Pfc. Hwang, Eui-Yong, a signal support KATUSA specialist, works with Pvt. Jermaine Foster, a training support soldier, to put together one of the many A-frame tents during the battery’s training exercise. — U.S. Army Photo Pfc. Gretchen N. Goodrich this year, said Tervin. The command team capitalized on their visit to the training site by using it as an opportunity make necessary changes to layout and set up for the real thing. As the week continued, 35th warfighters found themselves having to overcome factors that could potentially threaten the end state of the exercise -- lack Soldiers participating and the weather. “We had about 20 Soldiers doing the work of a lot more because of their roles in the brigade,” said Tervin. “We can’t close the entire brigade down because of an exercise.” HHB Soldiers help
run the various operations in the brigade and many of them could not leave their occupational spots to help out, added Tervin. Freezing temperatures left some Soldiers with numb fingers and toes during the set up and take down of the equipment. “Yes, it was cold, but training in such conditions helps new Soldiers get used to the climate,” said Cpl. Robert Miller, the battery training non-commissioned officer. “To help the Soldiers deal with the weather, warming tents were set up immediately,” Miller said. “Soldiers had opportunities throughout
the day to warm up inside them,” said Miller. Despite the weather and lack of participation, the Soldiers learned to set up equipment and work together. “I got to interact with other Soldiers as we all worked as one as a team,” Ortiz said. “Communication between one another was great,” said Ortiz. “New Soldiers were able to work alongside those who have been in the battery a while and learn from this experience,” said Miller. “It was a great use of the Air Force exercise.”
USAG Humphreys chaplain assists friend’s daughter by Stacy A. Ouellette 35th ADA Public Affairs Office
OSAN AIR BASE — When U.S. Army Chaplain, Maj. James O’Neal, United States Army Garrison Humphreys chaplain, met Judy Banks in grade school, neither one of them knew their friendship would last as long as it has. Their parents were co-workers and friends in the small community of West Palm Beach, Fla. where they grew up. In the 1950’s, West Palm Beach was a typical small town where everyone knew one another and family roots ran deep. As O’Neal answered the call to become a Catholic priest, Banks pursued her career in nursing, married and had two children. More than 55 years later, O’Neal will officiate the wedding of Banks’ daughter, Kristen Campbell and her fiancé Kevin. Campbell is the U.S. Army’s Family, Morale, Welfare and Recreation Command Marketing Communication Division chief in Alexandria, Va. While visiting the Republic of Korea for business, she set up a meeting with O’Neal. Initially they were
in contact via e-mail, but that would soon change. The two met for the first time at Alaska Mining Company at USAG Humphreys to have dinner and discuss plans and ideas for the wedding Jan. 17. “It was like seeing my childhood classmate all over again,” said O’Neal. “You see them in their adult children,” O’Neal said. “She resembles her mother – her smile, her mannerisms. Judy was always driven and extremely intelligent,” he said. “They are both wonderful women.” Campbell described O’Neal as “high-energy” upon meeting him and was looking forward to reviewing reading Kristin Campbell and Chaplain (Maj.) James O’Neal, USAG Humphreys Catholic Priest discuss wedding options for the wedding with details over dinner at the Alaska Mining Company. — U.S. Army Photo By Stacy A. Ouellette him. The idea of having O’Neal marry the couple came from Banks. It was asked, O’Neal couldn’t get back to Banks one of the first people notified. Banks served as a pall bearer for the services as well, said a great idea because of the Army connection quick enough to accept. and a neat way to bring the Army into her When O’Neal’s father, Hill O’Neal, died O’Neal. The wedding ceremony will take special ceremony, said Campbell. When Campbell’s grandfather, Leanard Banks was place on June 7 in Florida.
FEBRUARY 1, 2008
AREA IV
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2008 USAG Daegu AFAP Conference makes a difference for community issues
by Cpl. Na Kyung-chul USAG Daegu Public Affairs CAMP WALKER – Working together to make one’s community a better place to live, work, serve and train is a noble endeavor. That’s exactly what USAG Daegu residents did at the 2008 USAG Daegu Army Family Action Plan Conference Jan. 25 at Camp Walker’s Soldier Memorial Chapel and Fellowship Hall. Delegates addressed a variety of issues in order to not only identify, but provide suggested solutions to the community’s most pressing needs. Medical/Dental/ Employment, Housing/Relocation/ Consumer Services, Force Support/ Entitlements and Teen groups got an opportunity to review issues and concerns submitted by the Daegu and Waegwan communities. Each group then selected what it considered to be its top two issues and provided, detailed suggestions and proposed solutions during the conference’s out-briefing. All issues submitted to or brought up at the conference, from the smallest to the most significant, will be forwarded to USAG Daegu for action. “There are a lot of programs that affect Army life,” said USAG Daegu Army Family Team Building and AFAP Manager Steven Wegley. “Through this AFAP conference, policy, regulations, legislation, programs and funding can be changed to improve the quality of the Army Family’s life. If the presented issues can’t be resolved at the local level, they will go to the region level or even the Department of the Army if necessary.” USAG Daegu Commander’s Secretary, Sue O’Leary took advantage of her chance to make a difference as a conference participant. “This conference is a chance that many suggestions can come to the surface,” said O’Leary. “Even though they
are too small suggestions, they can upgrade the morale for the Army Family. All the suggestions should be heard.” To keep discussions on track, each working group had a facilitator, issue support person, recorder, transcriber and subject matter expert. Facilitators managed the work group process in an effort to keep participants focused and goal oriented. Issue support personnel screened issues for proper format, researched the history of issues, made wording suggestions and ensured issues did not duplicate active issues. Recorders wrote down discussion points and enough of the speakers’ ideas in the speakers’ words to keep track of the many ideas, topics and suggestions being bandied about. Transcribers fed paper notes into a laptop computer to preserve the group’s notes and retain a written history of the proceedings. Subject matter experts assisted work groups to describe issues and develop solutions as advisors to the group. The Medical/Dental/Employment group addressed alternative eyewear for the Army community and pediatric transportation options as top two issues. The Housing/ Relocation/Consumer Services group tackled unit-driven community informational awareness and vocational certification programs not available on-post to train spouses to fill available positions. The Force Support/Entitlements group discussed COLA inconsistency throughout Korea and adjusting the Daegu Enclave bus schedule, and the Teen group discussed behavior towards teens and opportunities for athletic scholarships. All issues and suggested solutions to correct the possible deficiencies discussed by each group will be forwarded to the USAG Daegu commander. For information about the USAG Daegu Army Family Action Plan Program, call Steven Wegley at DSN 768-7232.
Vicki O. Kingston, USAG Daegu Family Advocacy Coordinator, leads the Teen group in one of the many discussion groups at the conference.
‘Seolnal’ brings Koreans, U.S. together on peninsula by Cpl. Jang Won-il USAG Daegu Public Affairs
CAMP CARROLL - It is that time of year again, when Korean families gather together to celebrate the coming of a brand new year. The Lunar New Year’s Day known as ‘Seolnal’ is the most important of the Korean holidays, along with Chusok. The traditional Korean calendar is a lunar calendar which, like the traditional calendars of other East Asian countries, is based on the Chinese calendar. The lunar calendar is different from the Gregorian calendar in that it calculates a full revolution of the Moon around the Earth, which is 350 days as one year. The Gregorian calendar calculates the Earth’s rotation around the Sun as one year, or 365 days. Therefore, Lunar New Year’s Day, which is the first day of the year containing a new moon, falls on different dates when observed
on a solar calendar. For instance, last year Seolnal was on Feb. 18, while this year it falls on Feb. 7. It is notable that today South Koreans celebrate both Solar New Year’s Day and Lunar New Year’s Day. Koreans had only used lunar calendars until Jan. 1, 1896, when the Gojong Emperor officially adopted the Gregorian calendar. That is when Koreans began to call the Solar New Year, ‘Shinjeong,’ and referred to the traditional Lunar New Year as ‘Goojeong.’ However, people were so used to the traditional calendar that they thought the solar calendar was uncivilized, and so traditions such as ancestral memorial services for ancestors were still kept, based on the old calendar. After the 1910 Annexation Treaty between Korea and Japan, Koreans were - See Seolnal Page 26 -
(From right) USAG Daegu ACS Officer, J.J. Stewart, DAS ninth grader Evan Lobeto and USAG Daegu commander Col. Michael P. Saulnier participate in a cake cutting for the 2008 USAG Daegu Army Family Action Plan conference Jan. 25. — U.S. Army Photos By Cpl. Na Kyungchul
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News & Notes Fee Free Bus Effective, Jan. 7, there is a “fee free” bus for US/Civilian personnel providing transportation to the 121st Combat Support Hospital in Yongsan. Passenger priorities will be US military or dependents with a medical appointment, US Civilian or dependents with a medical appointment, military or civilian on official business and lastly, space available for non-official travel personnel. The medical bus schedule is from Monday to Friday but will not operate on US holidays. For bus schedule and more information, call Al Roach at 768-8755. Burger King Photo Contest Camp Walker’s Burger King holds a photo contest. Bring a print of a photo you have taken of USFK personnel working with our local Korean community. Camp Walker Burger King will post the pictures and our customers will vote to determine who presented the best photograph. Submit your photograph from Feb. 1 – 15 to Walker Burger King, voting will start from Feb. 15 – Mar. 10, prizes will be awarded Mar. 15. The first prize is iPod Classic $249.00, the second prize is HCT Mini System $99.00 and the third prize is AAFES Gift Card $50.00. For information, call Kurt Brunen at 764 5171. President’s Day Basketball Tournament There will be a President’s Day basketball tournament from Feb. 15 – 17 at the Camp Walker Kelly Fitness Center. The registration is until Feb. 11 and it is open to the first eight teams to register. All participants receive a T-shirt. For information, call at DSN 764-4800/4225.
THE MORNING CALM
DAS wrestlers grapple their way to victory
by Samuel G. Hudson USAG Daegu Public Affairs
CAMP GEORGE — Daegu American School’s wrestling team defeated both Osan and Seoul American High School’s wrestling teams Jan. 26, 35 - 23 and 32 - 19. “Dedication and lots of sweat was the primary reason for the victory,” said Daegu American School Wrestling Coach Bill Riggs. “The team is starting to come together and the first year guys are taking the training and techniques that they have learned and are applying it to the mat.” Evan A Lobeto, a freshman and first-time wrestler said that he is “willing to learn all the wrestling techniques and endure the conditioning to become a top ranked wrestler in the Pacific.” Team captains and DAS seniors Clinton A. Kim and Nicko A. Kim are headed to Minnesota State University and Northern Illinois University. Clinton contributes his wrestling success to his robust repertoire of wrestling techniques and the ability to call on them at any given time. Nicko said that DAS-determination, aggression and skills, is his key to being an elite wrestler. The two seniors’ inspiration comes from their father’s support and motivation to be superior on the wrestling mat. Both Nicko and Clinton plan on wrestling in college. “Every year there is a Pacific Far East wrestling competition and the way that DAS is performing on the mat, we should see several medal winners,” said Riggs. With the 2008 Summer Olympics coming up, the DAS wrestling team
will be devoutly watching the wrestling competition for new techniques and training tips. Student interest in wrestling is growing, with 26 wrestlers filling 12 of the 13 weight classes. Last year DAS filled 7 - 8 of the 13 weight classes and had only six wrestlers in the 2005-2006 season. Riggs said taking a hands on approach in their daily lives, especially in education and sports conditioning, sets the stage for a winning season. Scholar/athlete Andrew Davenport, a DAS senior has been accepted to the United States Military Academy, United States Air Force Academy and the United
Bill Riggs, DAS Wrestling coach, provides helpful instructions while DAS wrestlers practice.
States Coast Guard Academy. Davenport said he believes colleges look at students academics first, then athleticism. He further believes it is more important to have a good education while being a good athlete, because being an athlete has an expiration date, but knowledge doesn’t.” I expect all my athletes to setting example for other students in the school scholastically and to give 110 percent effort on all that they do,” said Riggs. Kevin S. Miller, a DAS junior with the second-most pins on the team, says that he doesn’t look at himself as the best wrestler, but as a team wrestler. Everyone on the DAS wrestling team contributed to the overall victories, but some members stood out with impressive wins. Special congratulations go out to the following wrestlers: Versus Osan 101-lb Weight class - Taka McDougal (pinned opponent) 108-lb Weight class - Elkim Yoon (pinned opponent) 122-lb Weight class - Nicko Kim Versus Seoul 122-lb Weight class - Nicko Kim (pinned opponent) 1 3 5 - l b We i g h t c l a s s - A n d re w Davenport 168-lb Weight class - Clinton Kim (pinned opponent) 215-lb Weight class - Kevin Moller (pinned opponent) Congratulations to the DAS Wrestling Team! Go Warriors!
Equipment Rental Morale, Welfare and Recreation rents out winter equipments. It features Santa suits, skis, boots and poles, snowboards and boots, fishing equipment and dozens of other recreational items. For information, call MWR at DSN 764-4123. Tax Center 30 Jan – 13 Jun 08. Free tax services to all military personnel and eligible DoD civilians and family members. Camp Henry building 1685, room 123: Mon 0830 -1200; Tue, Wed & Fri 0830 – 1830, & Thurs 1300 – 1500. Camp Carroll building T125: Mon – Wed & Fri 0900 – 1630 & Thurs 1330 – 1530. Call CPT Kimberly Aytes at DSN 768-7693 for more information. Super Bowl XLII USAG Daegu Morale, Welfare and Recreation holds Super Bowl XLII Parties 6 a.m. Feb. 4 at Henry’s Place on Camp Henry, Camp Carroll Community Center and Camp Walker’s Hilltop Club. Free breakfast will be provided and there will be a variety of giveaways, games, contest, door prizes and more. For more information, call Laurel A. Baek at DSN 768-7563.
Twins, Clinton and Nicko Kim, DAS seniors, face off to determine who is the better wrestler. — U.S. Army Photos By Samuel G. Hudson
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Seolnal eager to keep their national traditions such as the lunar calendar. In 1989, Seolnal became a national three-day holiday. Today, the term Seolnal can refer to both Solar and Lunar New Year’s Days. Lunar New Year’s Day is one of the biggest festivals in Korea. It is a time for family reunions and gatherings of friends that normally don’t happen because everyone is caught up in their everyday lives and work. It is a time to rebuild relationships, remember and honor ancestors and wish for luck in the brand-new year to come.
Various Korean traditions and festivals are concentrated during this time of the year. Especially, on Daeboreum, which is the day of the first full moon of the year, numerous activities take place around the peninsula such as kite-flying. Today, Koreans eat ‘tteokgook,’ sliced rice cake soup, on the morning of Seolnal. Ancestral services are offered before the graves of ancestors and New Years’ greetings are exchanged with relatives, friends and neighbors. Sons, daughters and grandchildren bow to elders and the whole family gathers to play traditional games.
Seolnal, along with Chusok, is the most traffic-congested holiday in Korea. Highways get packed with traffic and train tickets sell out very quickly. Those driving Privately-owned vehicles during this time must be prepared for a long drive, since a trip from Seoul to Daegu can take over five hours-about twice longer than average. Traveling by rail is the fastest and most convenient transportation method. Still, if you are planning for a trip to Seoul or Busan, it is strongly recommended that you buy train tickets at least a week or two in advance.
FEBRUARY 1, 2008
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Area IV Tax Centers set to open at Henry, Carroll Compiled by Cpl. Na Kyung-chul USAG Daegu Public Affairs
CAMP HENRY— Beginning Jan. 31, Area IV Tax Centers will offer tax preparation assistance at two locations beginning Jan. 31 to help residents through the trials and tribulations of “tax season.” Individuals eligible to receive tax services include active-duty Soldiers, mobilized reservists, Soldiers receiving retirement or disability pay, DoD Civilian employees working in Area IV and their Family Members, including surviving Family Members of active-duty members, mobilized reservists, and retired Soldiers. Contractors who do not fall into one of the above categories must bring a copy of their contract, expressly providing for tax services. Tax services are offered by appointment and on a walk-in basis at Camp Henry (Bldg. 1685) and Camp Carroll (Bldg. T125). The Area IV Tax Center has recently re-located and is now co-located with the Finance Office at Camp Henry. The hours for the Camp Henry Tax Center are as follows: Monday, 8:30 a.m. – 12 p.m. Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday, 8:30 a.m. – 6:30 p.m., Thursday, 1 – 6:30 p.m. The Camp Carroll Tax Center is open from 9 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. weekdays except Thursdays, when it is open from 1 – 4 p.m. Super Saturdays will be available Mar. 15 - April 12, with hours from 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. To make an appointment to have your taxes prepared, or if you have any tax related questions, please call DSN 768-8592 or
765-8602. In order to best prepare your tax return, please bring the following items with you. - Proof of identification - Social Security Cards for you, your spouse and dependents and/or a Social Security Number verification letter issued by the Social Security Administration - Birth dates for you, your spouse and dependents on the tax return - Current year’s tax package (if you received one) - Wage and earning statement(s) Form
W-2, W-2G, 1099-R, from all employers - Interest and dividend statements from banks (Forms 1099) - A copy of last year’s federal and state returns if available - Bank routing numbers and account numbers for Direct Deposit - Total paid for day care provider and the day care provider’s tax identifying number (the provider’s Social Security Number or the provider’s business Employer Identification Number) - To file taxes electronically on a married,
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filing joint tax return, both spouses must be present to sign the required forms, or one spouse must have a power of attorney to sign for the non-present spouse. The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) has recently announced that electronic returns and paper returns involving five tax forms will not be accepted until tax systems are updated in February 2008. As many as 13.5 million taxpayers using the forms listed below will have to delay filing their tax returns until the IRS completes the reprogramming of its systems for the new law. Taxpayers using the following five forms will be affected: - Form 8863, Education Credits - Form 5695, Residential Energy Credits - Form 1040A’s Schedule 2, Child and Dependent Care Expenses for Form 1040A Filers - Form 8396, Mortgage Interest Credit - Form 8859, District of Columbia FirstTime Homebuyer Credit The IRS has targeted Feb. 11 as the potential starting date for taxpayers to begin submitting returns that are affected by the legislation. The IRS has created a special section on the Web site www.irs.gov to provide taxpayers with additional information and copies of updated forms. Recently, the IRS has posted updated copies of all forms affected by the late enactment of the Alternative Minimum Tax patch by Congress. Area IV Tax Centers will operate through June 13.
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THE MORNING CALM
D.A.R.E graduates recognized by community at ceremony
DAS Sixth Grade Essay Winners, Eunice Lee, Benjamin Callahan and Brice Abbott pose with Volunteers of the D.A.R.E. program after graduation.— U.S. Army Photo By Samuel G. Hudson by Samuel G. Hudson USAG Daegu Public Affairs CAMP GEORGE — Daegu American School and the USAG Daegu community held a Drug Abuse Resistance Education graduation for over 70 fifth and sixth grade students Jan. 28. This graduation was a well-deserved celebration for these students, who spent the last couple of months learning, researching and writing about the negative effects of drug use. The students also became more knowledgeable about resources that can be used to help a person stop using drugs. Students participated in a wide variety of activities during their
journey in the D.A.R.E. program. One particular activity that was of great interest to the students was the essay contest. Students were given the opportunity to write an essay on what they learned from the DARE program. Each class recognized its best essay during the graduation ceremony, with the winners receiving a gift card from the Base Exchange on Camp Walker. Winners had the opportunity to read their essay to the audience (parents, teachers and friends) attending the graduation. Eunice Lee, a sixth grader at DAS, said in her essay: “We’ve learned a lot in DARE from dealing with bullying, taking charge of your life, functions of the brain, how drugs and alcohol completely affect your
body and more., Because of DARE I’m now fully aware of the situations I might have to deal with in the future, and how to handle them in a responsible, respectful, and realistic way”. Students in this program also learned about the life-long affects that drugs have on the body. Benjamin Callaghan, a sixth grader at DAS, said, “If you start using drugs, smoking, chewing tobacco or alcohol you can become addicted to them. Mainly peer pressure causes addiction to these drugs and many people need the ability to say no to whoever is trying to persuade them to take drugs but they need to say it in a nice and polite manner.” DARE is an international education
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program that seeks to prevent the use of illegal drugs, membership in gangs, and violent behavior. Students who enter the program sign a pledge not to use drugs or join gangs and are taught by local law enforcement about the dangers of drug use with a high-tech, interactive, ten week in-school curriculum. D.A.R.E. was one of the first national programs promoting zero tolerance. Keeping children safe from drugs is everyone’s responsibility and private organizations stepped up to the challenge to assist, D.A.R.E Officer, Pfc Jason Moses of the 557th MP Company educate and reward these drug free dedicated students. The District 21 Masonic organization and Annette D. Brooks, District Deputy Grand Worthy Matron, received certificates of appreciation for their tireless contribution to the program. The Odelia Walters Shining Star Chapter #87, Annette D. Brooks Court #89, Betty L. Simmons Guild #12, Kenneth H. Kendrick Council UD, Archibald Whaley Commandery UD, and the Knights of Pythagras, all from Masonic District 21, Oklahoma Jurisdiction are dedicated men and women who sincerely reflect the spirit of fraternal love and the desire to work together for good” said Brooks. The Masonic bodies were present to aid and assist the Daegu American School D.A.R.E. Program through monetary and voluntary assistance. “As Masons, we lead by example, give back to our communities and support numerous Masonic philanthropies. We invest in children, our neighborhoods and our future. We strive to make a difference in our communities through charitable giving, community service and volunteerism,” said Brooks.
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