The Morning Calm Korea Weekly - Nov. 16, 2007

Inside

November 16, 2007 • Volume 6, Issue 07

http://imcom.korea.army.mil

Published for those serving in the Republic of Korea

Covenant creates Army Family bond at Casey signing

Volunteers make Kimchi for a cause

Family Reading Night, beyond words

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Page 10

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‘All hands on deck’ for Yongsan Garrison townhall meeting

See page 9 for story and photos Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Navy Adm. Michael G. Mullen speaks to more than 800 Servicemembers and Civilian Employees Nov. 7 at Collier Field House on Yongsan Garrison. The chairman took time to answer questions from the audience during a one-hour televised town hall meeting and outlined his goals while reemphasizing importance of the U.S. – Republic of Korea Alliance. — U.S. Army Photo By Kenneth Fidler

Thanksgiving-themed worship service schedule Camps Long/Eagle Protestant Combined Services Nov. 18 at 10 a.m. in the Camp Long Chapel Open House and Thanksgiving Celebration Nov. 18 at 1 p.m. in the Camp Long Chapel – free lunch provided USAG-Humphreys/Area III Thanksgiving Ecumenical Service Nov. 21 in the Freedom Chapel – lunch to follow USAG-Yongsan/Area II Thanksgiving Mass Nov. 22 from 9–10 a.m. at Memorial Chapel Thanksgiving Service Nov. 22 from 10 – 11 a.m. at the 121 Hospital Chapel

Soldiers become honorary citizens Pyeongtaek City Mayor Song, Myeong-ho presented Certificates of Honorary Citizenship to Sgt. First Class Chris A. Fick, Jr. and his wife Staff Sgt. Pamela K. Fick during the official groundbreaking ceremony for the USFK Base Relocation to Pyeongtaek held at Humphreys on Tuesday. The Ficks serve in units based at Humphreys Garrison. — U.S. Army Photo By Bob McElroy

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: Ken 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 Oficer: Stacy Ouellette USAG-DAEGU Commander: Col. Michael P. Saulnier Public Affairs Officer: Ronald Inman Public Affairs Specialist: Samuel G. Hudson Staff Writer: Cpl. Kyung Chul NA 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: [email protected] Mail address: PSC 450, Box 758, APO AP 96206-0758 Location: Bldg. 1440, Yongsan, Main Post SUBMISSIONS OR COMMENTS: Phone: DSN 724-TMCW (8629) Fax: DSN 724-3356 E-mail: MorningCalmWeekly @korea.army.mil

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Post office reminds customers to ship early for holidays 1st Class Letters/Cards: CONUS: Dec. 10 APO/FPO AP: Dec. 10 APO/FPO AE: Dec. 10 APO/FPO AE (09502,09508,09568, 09587,09588,09593,09596,09704,09709, 09725,09727,09728,09729,09730,09731): Dec. 10 APO/FPO AA (Zips 340): Dec. 10

PAL: CONUS: Dec. 3 APO/FPO AP: Dec. 10 APO/FPO AE : Dec. 10 APO/FPO AE (09502,09508,09568, 09587,09588,09593,09596,09704,09709, 09725,09727,09728,09729,09730,09731): Dec. 3 APO/FPO AA (Zips 340): Dec. 3

Priority: CONUS: Dec. 10 APO/FPO AP: Dec. 10 APO/FPO AE : Dec. 10 APO/FPO AE (09502,09508,09568, 09587,09588,09593,09596,09704,09709, 09725,09727,09728,09729,09730,09731): Dec. 10 APO/FPO AA (Zips 340): Dec. 10

SAM: CONUS: Dec. 3 APO/FPO AP: Dec. 10 APO/FPO AE : Dec. 10 APO/FPO AE (09502,09508,09568, 09587,09588,09593,09596,09704,09709, 09725,09727,09728,09729,09730,09731): Nov. 26 APO/FPO AA (Zips 340): Nov. 26

SAM (Over 15lbs/60” combined length and girth): CONUS: N/A APO/FPO AP: N/A APO/FPO AE : N/A APO/FPO AE (09502,09508,09568, 09587,09588,09593,09596,09704,09709, 09725,09727,09728,09729,09730,09731): Nov. 13 APO/FPO AA (Zips 340): Nov. 13

IMCOM-KOREA: Safety Update

Training enhances Soldier driving skills by Chris Frazier U.S. Army Combat Readiness/Safety Center FORT RUCKER, ALA. — The Army is teaching Soldiers some practical skills with tactical applications in hopes of reducing on- and off-duty vehicle accidents. Since its inception in December 2005, Area Support GroupKuwait’s Army Safe Driver Training program has given more than 5,500 Soldiers the tools needed to safely manage the roadways in and out of CONUS. The Army is now taking steps to increase those numbers. The ASDT course takes place in a four-hour block of instruction and includes hands-on exercises involving controlled braking, emergency off-road recovery, evasive steering, skid control and straight-line backing and parking. The training builds confidence and enables drivers to react quickly and properly evade danger while behind the wheel, said Lt. Col. Randall Cheeseborough, U.S. Army Combat Readiness/Safety Center Ground Task Force chief. “There’s a skill gap in the Army in driver’s training,” Cheeseborough said. “This course will help bridge that gap by creating safer drivers.” The training translates to all four-wheeled vehicles used by the Army and allows commanders to ensure their Soldiers can react properly to road hazards. Since Soldiers spend most of their driving time behind the wheel of their privately owned vehicles, these skills are applicable to POV operations, as well. “There’s nothing we teach you that can’t be used on another vehicle,” said John Hutchinson, safety director, ASG-Kuwait. Hutchison was introduced to ASDT by representatives from the U.S. Army Combat Readiness/Safety Center in 2005. After participating in a variation of the course in Phoenix, Ariz., he then sold his command on the training program.

“I knew the statistics on the accidents we were having, and I was looking for a way to give some skills to Soldiers that have to drive over here,” Hutchinson said. “Driving here can just be a nightmare.” General Motors donated six commercial vehicles to the Army to help get the program started. Since then, the Army has added another six vehicles to maximize training. The course can also support M1114, M1151 and Armored Security Vehicle training. However, units wishing to take the course with those vehicles will have to supply their own equipment. Another training course Soldiers will soon have the opportunity to participate in will allow them to experience the dangers of driving a vehicle while intoxicated. The training is designated for units redeploying from Iraq, Kuwait or Afghanistan back to their home stations. The course uses Fatal Vision® goggles to distort vision and cause behaviors that are similar to those exhibited by someone under the influence. Soldiers then take a ride in the Simulated Impaired DriviNg Experience®, a battery-powered vehicle that simulates the effects of impairment from alcohol or drugs on a motorist’s driving skills. SIDNE® operates in two modes: normal and impaired. In normal mode, the vehicle’s steering, braking and acceleration respond appropriately. In impaired mode, the vehicle reacts with delayed steering, braking and acceleration, simulating the effects of a vehicle being driven by an impaired driver. Cheeseborough said all these tools can potentially save Soldiers’ lives. The Army must first get the word out to commanders that these programs are available. “If other units and installations adopt programs similar to what ASG-Kuwait is doing,” Cheeseborough said, “we’ll see a reduction in accidents and noted improvement in driving skills.”

Word on the street: “Do you have a favorite memory of celebrating Thanksgiving overseas ?” 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.

“Getting together with new friends and “I remember celebrating Thanksgiving neighbors in Korea and spending the when I was in Kosovo, formerly Yugoholiday with them. They cooked up a slavia. It was great because I was an feast with all the food you can imagine.” enlisted Soldier at the time and they had a great dinner with lobster and steak.” — Pamela Foe — 2nd Lt. Douglas Purucker

“Last year, a couple of the “Thanksgiving after returning Soldiers in the barracks got home from AIT and Basic Traintogether. We all made dif- ing. I was supposed to bake all the pies and burned them all!” ferent dishes and we came —Pvt. Sabrina Sepeda together as family.” — Spc. Monica Garcia

NOVEMBER 16, 2007

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: False Official Statement, LID through Neglect, Investigation determined Subject #1 committed the offense of False Official Statement and Loss of Government Property by Neglect when he provided a sworn statement in which he reported he and his finance were robbed at knife point by six unknowns, which he knew to be false. Subject #1 later admitted he lied in his original statement and he lost wallet in an off-post taxi. This is a final report. AREA II: Purchasing in Excess of Personal Needs, Subject #1 was observed by MP via CCTV, purchasing 4 Duel Package Dove bars, nine different Pantene products, four Head and Shoulders shampoo, five Aveno products, eight makeup products, seven consumable items, eight packages of medicine, 12 packages of candy, 15 hygiene items, six vitamin bottles, four household items, a belt, and a watch at the Main PX. Subject #1 was followed out to her vehicle, where Subject #1 was observed by MP to have AAFES bags located in the vehicle. The bags contained merchandise previously purchased containing two cases of beer, four cases of alcohol, two Whiskey, two containers of wine. Subject #1 was apprehended and transported to the USAG-Yongsan PMO where she was advised of her legal rights, which she waived, rendering a written sworn statement admitting to the offense. Subject #1’s RCP was retained. Subject #1 was issued an order of show cause memorandum and released to her supervisor. The merchandise was collected, evaluated as evidence, and returned to Subject #1. Investigation continues by MPI. AREA II: Shoplifting, Subject #1 was observed by AAFES Security via CCTV, remove four music compact discs from the display, and concealing them on Subject #1’s person, and then exiting the PX without rendering proper payment for the merchandise. AAFES Security detained Subject #1 and escorted Subject #1 to the AAFES security office where Subject #1 surrendered the merchandise. Subject #1 was transported by MP to the USAG-Yongsan PMO where Subject #1 was advised of Subject #1’s legal rights, in the presence of Subject #1’s sponsor, which Subject #1 waived, rendering a written sworn statement admitting to the offense. Subject #1 was processed, issued an order show cause memorandum and released to Subject #1’s sponsor. The merchandise was returned to AAFES. The estimated cost of the merchandise is unknown. This is a final report. AREA III: Assault Consummated by a Battery, Subject #1 and Victim #1 were involved in a verbal altercation which turned physical, when Subject #1 struck Victim #1 in the face with a closed hand. Victim #1 proceeded to walk away while spiting blood onto the door and walls. While Victim #1 was walking away, Subject #1 proceeded to inform Victim #1 to clean the blood. Victim #1 refused, and Subject #1 then ran up behind Victim #1, grabbed him, and struck him one more time in the left jaw with a closed hand. Victim #1 rendered a written statement attesting to the incident. Subject #1 was apprehended and transported to the USAG-Humphreys PMO where he was advised of his legal rights, which he waived, rendering a written sworn statement admitting to the offense. Victim #1 sustained injuries consisting of a left black eye and lacerated lip, was treated and released. Subject #1 was processed and released to his unit. Investigation continues by MPI.

While touring the DMZ, visitors can experience what life is like on this heavily guarded border. The 155-mile cease fire line streches from the East Sea to the Yellow Sea and has become a haven for plants and animals to inhabit the land, undisturbed. Guards on both sides of the zone partol the Joint Security Area. — U.S. Army Photo By Ed Johnson

SIGHTS AND SOUNDS: Off-post events and activities Battle Reenactment (Nov. 19)

DMZ Tour (Panmunjeom)

B-boyz Performance (Seoul)

JUMP (Seoul)

The highlight of Chungmugong Noryang Haejeon Seungcheopjae Festival is the reenactment of General Lee’s final battle on the Namhae’s Sea. The scale of the reenactment is dynamic. This is the greatest victory during the war with Japan, vividly recaptured with 100 ships decorated under the name of Korea’s “Turtle Ship”, Japanese and Chinese ships recreating the famous battle scene. The Turtle Ship was designed and created by General Lee just before his final battle, which is the world’s very first ironclad warship with a dragon’s head in the front where cannons are fired from its mouth. Festival highlights include navy guard demonstrations, a close-up look at a Turtle Ship, and onboard ship tours. The festival is help annually on Nov. 19, the day General Lee died in battle. For more information, visit www. tour2korea.com

The fall is an ideal time of year to visit the Korean DMZ. Panmunjeom is the site where the Korean War armistice agreement was signed in 1953. Visiting the Demilitarized Zone established by that agreement offers a first-hand look at one of the most heavily-fortified borders in the world and a thorough understanding of the history behind the Korean War. Panmunjeom is located in the Joint Security Area at which troops from North and South Korea maintain a presence. Visitors can tour the 3rd Tunnel, dug to infiltrate South Korean territory as well as the Dora Obseravtory, which provides a view of the second largest city in North Korea. Those wishing to perticipate in the tour must adhere to the dress code and present appropriate ID/passport. For information on tours to the DMZ, contact the USO or visit www.tour2korea.com

The Ballerina Who Loves a B-boy is a unique dance performance featuring a combination of ballet and street dance. This 90minute, nonverbal performance is held weekly at the B-boy Theater in Seoul. The show follows the story of a ballerina who assimilates into the world of street dance after falling in love with a B-boy. The performance schedule is: Mondays and Tuesdays at 8 p.m.; Wednesday through Saturday at 4 p.m. and 8 p.m.; Sundays and holidays at 2 p.m. and 6 p.m. For more information, visit www.sjbboyz.com or call 02-336-5377 for booking.

JUMP is a comic martial arts performance that started in Korea and is now playing globally. The plotlines revolve around the misadventures of an unusual family of acrobatic martial artisits. There are four mini-episodes to the show. Performances are Tuesday – Saturday, 4 p.m. and 8 p.m.; Sundays and holidays, 3 p.m. and 6 p.m.; no show on Mondays. Performances are held at the IBK JUMP Theater in Seoul. For information, visit www. hijump.co.kr or visit www.tour2korea.com

Guard Changing (Seoul)

Lotte World

The Changing of the Palace Guard reenacts a historic ceremony that was perofmred daily for more than 400 years, during the Joseon Kingdom. Performers dressed in the colorful traditinal uniforms recreate the scene with swords, shields, armor, and precise movements, making for a great photo oppotunity. The 45-minute performace takes place at the Front Gate of Deoksugung Palace in Seoul at 11 a.m., 2 p.m. and 3:30 p.m. every day except Mondays. For more information, visit www. tour2korea.com or www.visitseoul.net

Lotte World is a huge shopping and entertainment complex featuring a folk village, adventure rides, sports center with a skating rink as well as a hotel and department store. Some of the most popular attractions include Atlantic Adventure, Pharoh’s Fury, Gyro Drop, World Carnival Parade and a Laser Show. The parade takes place at 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m, and the laser show is held in the late evening at 9:30 p.m. For more information, visit www.tour2korea.com

NEWS • PAGE 4 http://imcom.korea.army.mil

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Garrisons ‘take a shot’ at Flu prevention

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Medical technicians from the 18th Medical Command admnister the Flu vaccine to Brig. Gen. Al Aycock, Commanding General, Installation Management Command Nov. 8. Personnel from the 18th MEDCOM have been making the rounds on the garrisons, encouraging people to take advantage of the annual Flu vaccinations. — U.S. Army Photo

Help troops call home

Gift of phone card worth 28,600 words Special to The Morning Calm Weekly OKINAWA — If a picture is worth 1,000 words, 550-Minute Military Exchange Global Prepaid Phone cards sent through the Army & Air Force Exchange Service’s (AAFES’) “Help Our Troops Call Home” program can be worth more than 28,000 to children, parents and spouses of troops spending the holiday season far from home. Considering the average person has a conversation speed of approximately 200 words per minute, Military Exchange Global Prepaid Phone cards make it possible for friends and family to squeeze 28,600 words of affection and encouragement into more than two hours of available talk time. “AAFES has been aggressively engaged in negotiating the best value for troops calling friends and family from the contingency theater for more than five years now,” said AAFES’ Senior Enlisted Advisor Chief Master Sgt. Bryan Eaton. “The result of our civilian and military staff’s commitment to this issue is paying off for military Families and their advocates as 550-Minute Military Exchange Global Prepaid Phone cards now provide 143 minutes of calling from any of seventy phone centers throughout Iraq, Afghanistan and Kuwait.” Designed for the unique of deployed Soldiers, Airmen, Sailors and Marines,

any American can help connect troops and their Families with a Military Exchange Global Prepaid Phone card by logging on to www.aafes.org or calling 800-527-2345. From there, “Help Our Troops Call Home” phone cards can be sent to individual service members (designated by the sender) or even directed to “any service member” through the American Red Cross, Air Force Aid Society, Fisher House Foundation, NavyMarine Corps Relief Society, Soldier & Family Assistance Center and USO. When the holidays come calling, military personnel are generally quick to answer. In fact, troops deployed in support of Operations Enduring and Iraqi Freedom scooped up almost 80,000 Military Exchange Global Prepaid Phone cards in November and December last year, ultimately spending some 23 million minutes on the phone during the last 60 days of 2006. “At $27.50 it would be easy to say ‘talk is cheap’ when using a 550-Minute Military Exchange Global Prepaid Phone card, but anyone who has spent the holidays far from friends and family knows better,” said Eaton. “What I can say is Military Exchange Global Prepaid Phone cards facilitate affordable communication between the front lines and the home front, making it possible for military Families to share as many words as they need to feel closer to one another during this important time of year.”

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NOVEMBER 16, 2007

AREA I

USAG-RC • PAGE 5 www.imcom.korea.army.mil

Senior leaders of USAG-RC sign the Army Family Covenant in a ceremony to finalize the AFAP conference on USAG-Casey in the Casey Digital Conference Center Nov. 8. First to sign (center) Brig. Gen. Joe E. Ramirez, assistant division commander for manuver, Col. Larry Jackson, USAG-RC garrison commander, Command Sgt. Maj. Brian Stall, 2nd Infantry Division Command Sgt. Maj., Command Sgt. Maj. Marshall Downs (3rd from left) USAG-RC garrison Command Sgt. Maj.—U.S. Army Photo By Jim Cunningham

Army signs covenant with Soldiers, Families at Casey by Jim Cunningham USAG-RC Public Affairs CASEY GARRISON—The Army signed a covenant with Soldiers and their families in a ceremony to finalize the annual Army Family Action Plan conference held in the Digital Conference Center Nov. 8 at USAG-Casey. Present to sign for the 2nd Infantry Division commander was Brig. Gen. Joe E. Ramirez, assistant division commander for maneuver, Col. Larry Jackson, USAGRC garrison commander, Command Sgt. Maj. Brian Stall, 2nd Infantry Division Command Sgt. Maj. and Command Sgt. Maj. Marshall Downs, Command Sgt. Maj., USAG-RC “We all know how important it is to be a family member, or to have a family and be a service member today,” Ramirez said. “A Soldier in Korea today who is training at Rodriguez Range that has problems with his family living outside the gates at Camps Hovey, Casey, Stanley or Red Cloud is not going to be a very effective Soldier for us. The Army Family Action Plan was designed to give Soldiers and family members a voice to the senior leaders of our Army. It allows the Soldier to speak his concerns and give those concerns visibility.” The work completed by the committees of the AFAP conference has gone a long way to giving Soldiers and their families’ visibility for their needs, according to Ramirez. “Times have changed,” Ramirez said. “The Global War on Terror, Operations Enduring Freedom and Iraqi Freedom has changed the paradigm in Korea. Now, more

and more, Soldiers are deploying to Korea Army family dependants, according to and bringing their families with them. They Ramirez. have been on two or three deployments “We have a significant presence of already and come to Korea and want to spend family members here,” Ramirez said. some time with their families. They can still “We have to address their concerns. train and still be a We cannot ignore productive member “We have a significant presence them. They are of our Army, still family members of s e r v e , b u t a l s o of family members here,” Ramirez U.S. Army Soldiers. have their family We owe it to them m e m b e r s w i t h said. “We have to address their to take care of them. them even though We will assure them they are forward concerns. We cannot ignore them. they will get all the deployed.” benefits due them as There has been They are family members of U.S. dependants of U.S. a change in the way Army Soldiers.” the Army looks Army Soldiers. We owe it to them “I want to thank at deploying to our sponsors, Korea, according to take care of them. We will assure facilitators, and to Ramirez. subject matter “What Soldiers them they will get all the benefits experts,” Jackson bring to the table said. “Special thanks today in the Army due them as dependants of U.S. t o o u r So l d i e r s Family Action Plan and their family conference are Army Soldiers.” members. There those kinds of issues were a lot of issues we didn’t know we Brig. Gen. Joe E. Ramirez, assistant divithat came forward had visibility on sion commander for manuver about which many because some of of you are ver y them are unique,” Ramirez said. “Here in passionate. I can assure you no one here has the Casey/Hovey enclave where I live; we turned a blind eye, no one here is resting on have no command sponsored dependants. their laurels, and no one here thinks we have At the same time we have more than already solved all the issues. There is a lot 1,000 family members and they are not of work remaining to be done, and as long going away.” as we keep working at it and asking for the While the Army is planning to needed resources we will certainly improve eventually move south, they still have to the quality of life for everyone here. I thank address the fact that in the USAG-RC you for your support and efforts in making area alone there are more than 1,000 this AFAP conference a great success.”

Charles Lyons, USAG-RC AFTB/AFAP program manager, addresses delegates, senior leaders, and family members during the closing ceremony of the 2007 AFAP conference Nov. 8. — U.S. Army Photo By Jim Cunningham

AREA I

USAG-RC • PAGE 6 www.imcom.korea.army.mil

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News & Notes Army vs. Air Force Flag Football Game Warrior Country Sports will host the first “Warrior Cup” Army vs. Air Force Flag Football game tomorrow at 1 p.m. at Soldier Field USAG-Casey. For more information call: 730-4681. Free Korean Language Textbooks The University of Maryland is very interested in Servicemembers and other U.S. personnel in Korea learning to speak Korean. Each person who enrolls in the Korean 101 course at “Camp Stanley in Term II will receive a free text book. For active-duty personnel, the Army will pay 100 percent of the tuition. For more information call: 732-7015. Gifts from the Home Front Gifts from the home front can be sent to deployed troops by logging on to www.aafes. org or callling: 877-770-4438. The gift certificates are sent to individual Servicemembers or distributed to any Servicemember through the Air Force Aid Society, American Red Cross, Coalition to Salute America’s Heroes, Fisher House, Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society, Operation Home front, Operation Interdependence or the USO. “Gifts from the home front certificates can be redeemed at exchange facilities worldwide. Marvel’s Captain America Returns Marvel Comics Captain America comic books are available free in the PX in the Casey and Red Cloud enclave. HR Supervisors Course Available Online The HR for Supervisors Course is mandatory for all Department of Army civilian (DAC) and military supervisors who supervise appropriated fund DAC employees. This course covers Human Resources (HR) management legal and regulatory requirements, HR processes, HR services and HR automated tools designed to assist supervisors in requesting and tracking Request for Personnel Actions (RPAs). The course is 40-hours long and is intended to help the supervisor in performing his/her HR management duties. Completion of this course can enhance the supervisor’s confidence and performance. For more information call: 732-9060 Coming Events PBC Red Cloud The Pear Blossom Cottage Thanksgiving luncheon will be held Nov. 21 from noon to 1 p.m. Cooking class will be held Nov. 30 from 11 a.m. to noon. The Outreach luncheon will be held Dec. 13 from noon to 1 p.m. The Christmas Party will be held Dec. 21 from 3 to 5 p.m. For more information call: 732-7168. Camp Stanley Christmas Tree Lighting Camp Stanley Christmas Tree lighting will be held Dec. 5 at 5 p.m. 2008 DECA Scholarships Available Now Applications for the Defense Commissary Agency’s 2008 Scholarships for Military Children Program are available now in commissaries worldwide or online through a link at http://www.commissaries. com and directly at http://www.militaryscholar.org. The program kick-off each year in November coincides with “National Military Family Month,” and the scholarships are a great way for commissaries to get involved with the community and demonstrate support and respect for the contributions of military families.

Twelve delegates in three working groups discuss AFAP issues Nov. 8 in USAG-Casey Digital Conference Center. Subject matter experts also shared in discussions of issues. —U.S. Army Photo By Jim Cunningham

AFAP conference hammers out solutions by Jim Cunningham USAG-RC Public Affairs CASEY GARRISON —Three working groups of 12 delegates of the Army Family Action Plan conference hammered out solutions to 28 identified concerns in three days of deliberations Nov. 6, 7 and 8 in USAG-Casey’s Digital Conference Center. Making sure the AFAP conference is planned correctly and all the needs of the delegates are met and all the issues are considered is a year long process. “It takes months of clear precise preparation,” said Charles Lyons, Army Family Team Building/Army Family Action Plan program manager for USAG-RC Army Community Services. “The conference gives Soldiers an opportunity to voice their concerns in an Army community forum setting that actually works.” Soldiers write their issues on forms available to them through ACS. The issues are worked and reasoned through by work groups at the yearly conference and then voted on as to its priority level. “If an issue is one of the top priorities of a work group, then they brief it to the commander,” Lyons said. “Just because an issue is not voted on, does not mean the issue gets thrown out. The issue then goes to our steering committee to fix the issue.” Issues unsolved in USAG-RC local levels go to the next conference at the Installation Management Command conference held in the spring. If an issue cannot be solved at the IMCOM level it goes before the general officers steering committee. Once it has passed on to the steering committee, it will go to the Department of the Army. “The AFAP Conference offers a forum to assure Soldiers voices are heard by the senior leaders of the 2nd Infantry Division, USAG-Red Cloud and of the Army,” said Brig. Gen. Joe E. Ramirez, assistant division commander for maneuver. “It gives them an opportunity to express their views about what we are doing well and what we are not doing well. We need to address their needs and the needs of their families because we have a lot more families than in the past. It is important we give them an opportunity to

voice their concerns, and let us know what we need to do to help them achieve a good quality of life in Korea.” In past weeks representatives from Office of the Secretary of Defense came to USAGRC and looked at some of the housing available off post to Soldiers assigned in Warrior Country, according to Ramirez. “Right now the Soldiers just cannot afford to live off post because the Overseas Housing Allowance levels are not high enough,” Ramirez said. “I feel confident our Soldiers will see OHA increases in the near future. The exact time lines I cannot tell because I have no say over the processes inside Washington D.C., but they left on a very positive note we would see increases in the foreseeable future.” Ramirez finds the issues that arose in this year’s AFAP conference are important and viable. “I live in USAG-Casey and I find these issues need to be addressed,” Ramirez said. “When a young Soldier is in Korea with his family, he or she will be a much more effective Soldier knowing his family is taken care of here. I think the fact so much was done from last year’s AFAP conference until now and the fact they do have a voice and we listen to them, especially in regard to their family, that has a big impact on Soldier’s morale.” Top importance to delegates in this year’s AFAP conference working group one was given to USAG-RC’s left behind wives and children. Making USAG-RC a command sponsored assignment would be a step in the right direction, according to Ramirez. “I am not sure we were cognizant of the impact of left behind families on the Korean peninsula,” Ramirez said. “I was not here when the 2nd brigade got deployed off the peninsula to Iraq. But, I can imagine in a theater where we are forward deployed with a de-militarized zone separating North and South Korea, with a heavy U.S. military presence that has been here for more than 50 years, then I can imagine taking a unit off the peninsula and deploying them to another theater was a tough thing to do. I am unsure we as an Army thought of the second and third order effects of all these families that were here because I am not

sure they had visibility.” There are as many as 600 families and more than 1,000 individual family members, according to Ramirez. “We have a large population of young children under the age of 5,” Ramirez said. “It is significant when one talks about ‘left behind or stay behind’ families and the impact it has on them. We have to do all we can, just as if we were leaving these folks in Texas or Missouri, Kansas or Florida; we have to do the same for them as we would for any other military family member in the United States or Germany or any place else. I think for Korea that was kind of a foreign thing. “In the old days when you came to Korea, that was your deployment. You were here for a year without your family. You did your year long tour and you went back to your family in what ever base you came from. Times have changed. We have to deal with a paradigm shift of, ‘hey, we have Soldiers coming here for two years, three years, either bringing their families or marrying here and growing their families here.’ That is a new paradigm for Korea and we have to adjust accordingly. I know from General Bell on down, everybody is committed to ensuring we are doing right by our military families.” Ramirez is well aware of the situations and challenges that arise when Soldiers marry third country nationals then move on within one or two years. “It is a new issue to me that I have been made well aware by everyone from garrison commanders to brigade commanders, to the legal folks.” Ramirez said. “I know there is a concerted effort to ensure we do right by our military families.” There are rules in effect for those Soldiers who want to marry local nationals or third country nationals, according to Ramirez. “There are stringent rules in effect to make sure we do right by our Soldiers as well,” Ramirez said. “We do not want to contribute to human trafficking, which is a big problem. We want to make sure we are not contributing to that under the guise of a See AFAP page 7

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(Left to right) Brig. Gen. Joe E. Ramirez, assistant division commander for manuver, Col. Larry Jackson, USAG-RC garrison commander, Maj. Gen. James Coggin, 2nd Infantry Division commander, Command Sgt. Maj. Brian Stall, 2nd ID Division Command Sgt. Maj., and Kim, Mun Ok, master taekwondo instructor, Col. (P) David Teeples, assistant division commander for support, cut the ribbon to open the new 2nd ID Taekwondo Headquarters Nov. 7 on USAG-Casey.—U.S. Army Photo By Jim Cunningham

Taekwondo Headquarters opens on Casey by Jim Cunningham USAG-RC Public Affairs CASEY GARRISON—A ribbon cutting ceremony heralded the opening of the new 2nd Infantry Division Taekwondo headquarters Nov. 6 on USAG-Casey. “We dedicate this facility for the Soldiers who represent us,” said Maj. Gen. James A. Coggin, commander, 2nd Infantry Division, “This is not about us. It is about our Soldiers and they deserve the best we can give them.” The 2nd ID Taekwondo Team competed in Suwon and won second prize recently, according to Coggin. On the count of three Coggin cut the ribbon to open the new headquarters with Brig. Gen. Joe E. Ramirez, assistant division

AFAP marriage. I cannot say we are going to solve everything in a year.” Another top concern raised during the AFAP conference was quality of food in USAG-Casey. “Just in the Casey-Hovey complex there are eight dining facilities,” Ramirez said. “I have dined in three of them already. I am going to spend my Thanksgiving Day eating in the various dining facilities. Quality of food at the dining facilities is excellent. I shop at the commissary and while I agree it is probably small and probably does not have all the items one would like to have, it is good. I have no complaints with the commissaries.” The final day of the conference concluded with the signing of the first ever Army

commander for maneuver, Col. Larry Jackson, USAG-RC garrison commander, Command Sergeant Major Brian Stall, 2nd ID division command sergeant major, and Kim, Mun Ok, 2nd ID taekwondo master instructor. “Taekwondo has a key mission in terms of readiness,” Jackson said. “Having a first class facility for Soldiers to train and operate is something that will benefit everybody.” The 2nd ID and USAG-RC Soldiers have a great relationship with the community and with grand master instructor Kim, according to Jackson. “I am glad we can be a part of this event,” Jackson said. “This place is first class. It is a good benefit for our Soldiers who train in taekwondo and a good benefit in terms of our relationship among the garrison, 2nd

Continued from page 6 Family Covenant signing ceremony. “The Army Family Covenant is significant because it shows Soldiers and their families the Army is committed to addressing our issues and our needs,” Ramirez said. “When I came in the Army, about 30 percent of the Army was married. Now, we are probably around 60 percent married. The Army cares and the Army will take care of its own. The garrison commander, the assistant commander for support, myself and, of course, Maj. Gen. Coggin, have all talked about this, the importance of it and what it means to our Soldiers and their families. Now there is a document saying the Army is committed to addressing the Soldiers issues and needs.”

Infantry Division and grand master Kim.” These efforts make the new Taekwondo Headquarters a reality, which came from several different directorates in the garrison, according to Jackson. “The directorates of logistics and public works, along with grand master Kim all played an important part in making this facility a reality,” Jackson said. “All of these people had a part in pulling this together so we can go and train. This whole thing is part of readiness, and a big day for all of us.” “Today, this building is opened as the new Taekwondo Headquarters, Kim said. “All of the 2nd Infantry Division Soldiers will train in this new facility.” Although the headquarters is now established at USAG-Casey, the taekwondo team moves around the peninsula giving

shows and participating in competitions, according to Kim. “The 2 ID has had a team since 2000,” Kim said. “The current leadership thinks it is the right thing to provide a building for our headquarters and training facility.” Taekwondo gives the Soldiers an opportunity to expand their physical training, according to Lt. Col. Chuck Parker, deputy commander, 2nd brigade heavy combat team. “Soldiers are given an opportunity to learn a martial arts skill, which is in line with our combative skills and the warrior ethos,” Parker said. “Since taekwondo is a sport here on the peninsula, this gives the Soldiers a chance to integrate into the cultural activities by participating in taekwondo events.”

Children earn awards during Fire Prevention Week

John Cook (far left), fire chief, USAG-RC gives awards for best fire prevention week posters to the children of the International Christian School in Uijeongbu Nov 8.—U.S. Army Photo By Cpl. Im, Sung Bin

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Chairman: U.S. committed to Korean security Adm. Mullen hosts Yongsan town hall by Kenneth Fidler USAG-Yongsan Public Affairs YONGSAN GARRISON — The U.S. military remains committed to the Republic of Korea security and the continued strength of the 54-year-old Alliance, said the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Nov. 7. This was one of many messages Navy Adm. Michael G. Mullen, who took over as chairman Oct. 1, had for the U.S. Army Garrison-Yongsan community during a town hall meeting gathering at Collier Field House. Speaking to more than 800 community Service Members and civilian employees, he said the U.S. presence on the peninsula directly impacts stability in the region. “Stability in this part of the world is directly tied to our national interests, and that’s why you serve. You really underpin that stability,” he said. He highlighted the 54-year Alliance between the U.S. and South Korea as a model partnership that has strongly evolved. “We live in a time of great change, and there’s no better representation (than the Korea-U.S. Alliance),” he said. “You’re serving at a really critical time in our nation’s history,” Mullen added. “Our nation is a fortunate nation … borne on the backs of people like you who raise their hands to serve the constitution and make a difference in the world.” Mullen was in the Republic of Korea with Secretary of Defense Robert M. Gates, who participated in the 39th Defense Consultative Meeting between the two countries and met with South Korea’s Minister of Defense, Kim Jang-soo. Since taking over as chairman, Mullen said one of his priorities is to try to balance the U.S. military priorities around the world while managing Iraq and Afghanistan operations. “We have to make sure we have our focus right from the military perspective and develop our strategy in the Middle East,” he said. “That

(Above) Navy Adm. Michael G. Mullen, chairman of the Joint Chief of Staff, speaks with Yongsan Garrison community members during a town hall meeting Nov. 7. (Below) Mullen answers a question from a Soldier. — U.S. Army Photos By Kenneth Fidler is still an incredibly challenging part of the world. There’s instability there that we need to stabilize. With that focus on Iraq and Afghanistan, we cannot lose focus on challenges we’ve got in other parts of the world. As we focus heavily in one area, there’s a tendency to not focus in other important areas.” Mullen said deployments are taking a toll, and he wants to “make sure we reset, revitalize, and reconstitute our armed forces,” especially the Army and Marine Corps. “The Army and Marine Corps have borne the burden of this war,” he explained. “This war has created a great pace for our ground forces. We have pushed our ground forces very hard. It’s not that they can’t continue to do the mission. They’re hungry to continue to do the mission, from what I can see. But, what they’re looking for is a reasonable deployment cycle, some time home with their families, and look at basically to be able to get a break

when they’re off deployment. We need to focus on that to be sure that we don’t put ourselves in a position that we have an exodus from our armed forces at this really vital time.” During his remarks, Mullen thanked the crowd for serving in the armed forces. “It’s a noble calling and it’s one that I am very proud to be in with you,” he said. “Not a

day goes by that I don’t think about what you’re doing out here and the difference you are making. “I also want to extend that to your families. None of us serve well without tremendous sacrifice, support, and service on the part of our families, as well. They make a huge difference. We just couldn’t do it without them.”

Community issues at forefront of tenant unit commander conference By David McNally USAG-Yongsan Public Affairs

YONGSAN GARRISON — U.S. Army Garrison-Yongsan hosted a Tenant Unit Commander’s Conference for more than 50 senior officers and noncommissioned officers Nov. 8 at Commiskey’s. Garrison Commander Col. Dave Hall said the conference confirmed that tenant unit commanders are “genuinely concerned about their community, their people and their units.” “Attendance surpassed my expectations,” Hall said. “Commanders want to know what is going on. They also want to ensure the Garrison understands their concerns and they are adamant about working together for solutions.” Hall started the conference by explaining the latest significant community events.

Hall said the Army Family Action Plan conference (Oct. 25-26) was a fine example of community involvement in “hot-button issues.” The commander listed the top five AFAP issues, so tenant unit leaders would “know what’s going on in the community.”  High school lunch options  Child Development Center caregiver shortages  Commissary operating hours  Include the safety vest/belt as part of the Army Physical Fitness Uniform  Release of teachers/timing of final report cards Hall said the Garrison would aggressively pursue the top three, while the final two have a chance of going to Army level AFAP. Hall told the gathering about the official visit of the Army Communities of Excellence evaluation team. USAG-Yongsan is one of

four finalists worldwide in the annual Army competition. The Garrison is vying for a $2 million prize and the title of “Army Communities of Excellence.” Tenant unit leaders learned about ongoing construction and renovation projects at K-16 Air Base and Yongsan Garrison. Hall explained how the Directorate of Public Works is maintaining installation infrastructure despite funding challenges and the Yongsan Relocation Plan. “We did a safety assessment, and because of that, you may have seen additional speed bumps and stop signs,” Hall said. “These steps mitigate the risk. Actually what that has done is to slow down traffic,” he added. “The safety assessment is that this is a good thing.” Hall also told the group about sidewalk improvements adjacent to the South Post Burger King.

“We’ve made it real safe for our kids,” Hall said. “This is a huge improvement for our kids who are crossing the street to eat at Burger King.” Tenant unit leaders listened to a presentation from Alcohol and Substance Abuse Prevention officials, the 175th Financial Management Center commander, the Noncombatant Evacuation Operation exercise coordinator, among others. Hall said he plans to hold regular meetings with the tenant unit leaders. “This was a good team building event as it was the first time our tenant leadership gathered since the summer’s transition,” Hall said. “I have the utmost confidence in the ‘Way Ahead for Yongsan’ because the commanders and senior noncommissioned officers demonstrated they are concerned about the community in which they live.”

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News & Notes

(Right) Spouses from Yongsan Garrison participate in the 2007 Charitable Kimchi Making Event Nov. 12 at the former Sudo Women’s High School Playground site in Seoul. More than 800 volunteers – 10 from Yongsan Garrison – volunteered at the event. The kimchi will be distributed to needy families in the Yongsangu district. (Below) Pamela Foe, left, and Marrion Moses make kimchi. (Below right) Hartley Hall performs a taste test on her kimchi creation. — U.S. Army photos by Sgt. Kim Sang-wook.

Power outage in Black Hawk Village and Embassy Housing A power outage will occur in Black Hawk village and Embassy Housing today from 1-3 p.m to allow for power line rerouting. Single/unaccompanied Soldier Thanksgiving dinner The Girl Scouts-Seoul invite 150-200 single or unaccompanied Soldiers to a Thanksgiving dinner Nov. 23 at the Army Community Services building. Those who would like to attend must RSVP by Nov. 19 by e-mailing [email protected]. A confirmation email will be returned with attendance time and other details. Free concert for Beethoven lovers The Korean American Association sponsors a special concert for all Yongsan community members and families Nov. 30 at 8 p.m. at the Seoul Arts Center. The Korean Senior Symphony Orchestra will perform Beethoven selections. Reserve free tickets before Nov. 26 by calling the U.S. Forces Korea Public Affairs Office at 723-4685 or e-mail [email protected]. Buses will leave at 6 p.m. and provide round-trip transportation from Main Post to the concert for $3 per person.

KIMCHI CUISINE

USO News Sign up for Jeju Island three-day and two-night tour: The USO offers a tour Nov. 22- 24 that includes round-trip airfare, twonight accommodation, two days breakfast and lunch and admission fees. For information, call 724-7003. USO Tour Highlights: -Nov. 22: Everland Amusement park -Nov. 23-25: Gyeongju (Two-day and threenight) -Nov. 24: Paintball and All Terrain Vehicle tour USO Treasure Hunt: There will be two chances to find the USO treasure and win a $500 AAFES gift card. The contest starts Dec. 3. Check USO Korea Web site (http:// www.uso.org/korea) for details. Discounted Concert Tickets: 8 p.m. Nov. 30 for Linkin Park. USO monthly calendars are available at the Main Exchange, Commissary, Dragon Hill Lodge and the Town House. For information, call 724-7003.

Garrison volunteers stuff cabbage to help needy families

Community of Sharing Project Community members E-6 and below and GS-7 and below are eligible to receive a special holiday benefit through the Yongsan Community of Sharing project. For information, call 738-7186.

By Sgt. Kim Sang-wook USAG-Yongsan Public Affairs YONGSAN GARRISON — The Army gave the art of kimchi-making a literal helping hand Nov. 12. Ten Yongsan spouses helped stuff thousands of cabbages with seasonings at the biggest kimchi-making kitchen in Seoul at the 2007 Charitable Kimchi Making Event near Yongsan’s Gate 20. They were among hundreds of Seoul residents who volunteered at this annual activity, which provides the final products to needy families in the Yongsan-gu district. “Kimchi is the most essential part of our Korean cuisines,” said Kim Hak-jin, program coordinator. “We really appreciate their attendance here, mingling and helping us on a good day.” In Korean tradition, families gather just before the onset of winter to pickle vegetables to prepare for winter, Kim said. “This event is kind of like the Korean tradition, but a bigger one for the community.” Each year, Yongsan district officials

design kimchi-making events to aid needy families. Volunteers from local companies, Republic of Korea Army soldiers, and veterans spend the day mixing cabbage and seasonings. “It is wonderful. It is special to us to come and experience with Koreans friends and culture,” said Sue Aycock, one of the Garrison’s volunteers. “We are honored to be here also to support Yongsan’s effort, which will provide kimchi to needy people.” Korean volunteers carried and loaded the cabbage and seasonings such as hot pepper, salt, and garlic. Others donned plastic vests and rubber gloves to mix the seasonings into

the cabbage to create fresh kimchi. This event is part of the Good Neighbor Program, designed to help strengthen the relationship between local and U.S. military communities throughout Korea, said An Chang-sin, U.S. Army Garrison-Yongsan community relations officer. “This festival resulted in more than 33,000 heads of kimchi cabbage for needy people in Seoul,” he said. Another volunteer, Beth Anne Hall, said, “We are also having a lot of fun. Making kimchi was one part of what I wanted to do. Both my daughter and I had a blast, though we had to get into a little bit of mess.”

National American Indian and Alaskan Native Heritage Month A commeorative cultural event is 11 a.m.-12 p.m. Nov. 19 at the Multipurpose Training Facility. Performances, poetry, storytelling, food sampling and other activities highlight the event. It’s free and open to the community. For information, call 723-7743. Santa’s Mail Bag The 354th Operational Support Squadron Weather Flight at Eielson Air Force Base, Alaska, is now accepting “Dear Santa” letters. Visit the Yongsan Garrison Web site’s announcements section for details. Reflective Vests Required A reflective vest is required on any military installation when biking, running or jogging any time of the day. Think Safety!

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Garrison offers options to enjoy Thanksgiving meal YONGSAN GARRISON — U.S. Army Garrison-Yongsan offers no shortage of opportunities to enjoy a Thanksgiving meal Nov. 22, in or out of the house.

Garrison dining facilities

Garrison dining facilities offer a Thanksgiving meal for $5.90 per person for officers, military personnel on BAS, DOD civilians, and guests. Children 6 and younger dine at no cost, and spouses and other family members of enlisted members E-1 through E-4 will be charged $5. The dining facilities open on Thanksgiving are Three Kingdoms Inn, Camp Coiner, K16 Air Base, Madison Site, and Yongin.

(Left) Boy and Girl Scouts carry a wreath to lay at the 8th Army War Memorial during a Veterans Day ceremony Nov. 11. (Below left) Lt. Col. Steve Lee, representing the U.S. Embassy in Korea, lays a wreath on behalf of the U.S. ambassador. — U.S. Army photos by Pfc. Im Jin-min

Townhouse Food Court

The American Eastery at the Town House Food Court has two special offers. For $59.99, a complete Thanksgiving meal for 12-15 people is available for takeout. It includes turkey, mashed potatoes, vegetables, pumpkin pie, plus trimmings. Those dining in can enjoy a meal for $7.49 per person.

Main Post Club

The Main Post Club will offer turkey or ham meals to go from as low as $69.95, serving up to 10 people. Call in advance to place an order.

Commiskey’s

A Thanksgiving buffet is from 10:30 a.m. -3:30 p.m. for $16.95 for adults and $7.95 for children 6-10 years old. From 4-9 p.m., a dinner plate is $10.95 for adults and $5.95 for children 6-10.

Honoring veterans USAG-Yongsan Public Affairs

YONGSAN GARRISON — Community members honored America’s veterans during a ceremony at the 8th Army War Memorial Nov. 11. Gen. B.B. Bell, Commander of U.S. Forces Korea and Combined Forces Command, was the guest speaker for the event. “It is a solemn day,” he said in his remarks. “Because we do indeed recognize not just those of us who are still living, but those of us

who have died in battle, and certainly many of us here, wounded in battle.” He said the United States has had 12 major wars and many other encounters with one single goal in mind: “set conditions for freedom and democracy, ensure those conditions are set, that they last, and protect our citizens so that our children and grandchildren can grow and proper in liberty. That’s why our veterans are so important and vital to our constitution. Our veterans have never let us down.”

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Education reaps lifetime rewards

M

any of us have heard stories of fellow Soldiers finishing college degrees while deployed to Iraq or Afghanistan. That shows those Soldiers have the personal dedication, perseverance, and commitment to incorporate higher education into their development. Not an easy task while in a combat zone -– not an easy task at home, either -- but one that should be applauded. The Army has made it very attractive to pursue higher education; there are just too many benefits – promotion and recognition are two that are critical to advancing your career. But our profession of arms demands not only technical know-how, but also a broad perspective on the world around us. Higher education has a big impact on personal and professional development. It broadens our perspective and enhances our ability to perform our missions, increases our ability to lead our people, and benefits the greater strength of our Army. A knowledge-enabled Soldier is a powerful force. This past week, Army educators joined educators from across the nation to celebrate American Education Week. The week highlights the importance of bringing together educators, school staff, parents, students, and communities in a unified effort for education. The Army again refocused on strengthening its resolve to educate America’s Soldier students to meet the challenges of leadership today and tomorrow under the theme, “America’s Responsibility: Ensuring

great educational opportunities to a mobile military.” I can’t stress it enough – higher education leads to success. There’s just no downside to it. I strongly encourage leaders to make higher education a priority. The Education Center staff offers a wide variety of educational programs and services. Counselors are ready to help you identify your career and educational goals and help you plan a program for your development. A great alternative to face-to-face classes in this millennium is the ability to take classes virtually. This is a fantastic option for our busy Soldiers. Every college and university that offers classes on Yongsan provides comprehensive distance education opportunities, with nearly every class needed to graduate available on-line. Hundreds of other accredited institutions in the United States offer degrees via distance learning. And on top of that, tuition is free! The Army pays 100 percent of the tuition costs in just about every case. There’s just no reason to say no. The Army has made the process of getting you through the door to a degree fairly simple – you just need to give the time and effort. Even though we set aside a week to provide special recognition of the importance of education, pursuing higher education should be embraced year-round. The cost of time and book money is nominal; the payoff is absolutely priceless.

Combined Federal Campaign YONGSAN GARRISON — Garrison officials continue to track participation in the Combined Federal Campaign-Overseas. As of Nov. 14, 80.8 percent of USAG-Yongsan had been contacted, with $284,739.09 donated. “We’re on target to exceed our expectations,” said Steven Carpenter, USAG-Yongsan Human Resources director. The Garrison also held a CFC extravaganza Nov. 15 from 6-9 p.m. at Seoul American High School to continue educating community members on the importance of CFC donations. The annual fund drive ends Nov. 30. Last year, Yongsan’s total donation was $361,777.60.

PAID ADVERTISING

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NOVEMBER 16, 2007

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Commissaries remove recalled frozen pizzas from shelves Consumers advised to check products against list of items identified for recall

USFK Veterinary Food Inspectors and DeCA personnel have identified and recalled Jeno’s and Totino’s Frozen Meat Pizzas produced by General Mills potentially contaminated with E-Coli O157:H7 in commissaries on the Korean peninsula. Both items have been removed from commissary shelves as a safety precaution. The recalled products found in commissaries on the peninsula are listed below. Consumers should check for these products at home against this list. These items must be returned to the commissary from which it was purchased for a refund or should be disposed of immediately. No cases of Salmonella infections from food have been reported on the peninsula. Veterinary Food Inspectors and DeCA personnel were rapidly notified by the US Army Veterinary Command of these potentially contaminated food items and responded immediately to remove them from commissary shelves. Risk of foodborne Salmonella infection remains low as long as consumers identify any contaminated food they may have purchased and return it to the commissary or dispose of it. Recalled Products Found at AAFES and DeCA Commissary Product Name / Est. # Jeno’s Crisp ‘ N Tasty Pizza, Pepperoni Jeno’s Crisp ‘ N Tasty Pizza, Combination Sausage & Pepperoni Totino’s The Original Crisp Crust Party Pizza Pepperoni. Totino’s The Original Crisp Crust Party Pizza, Combination Sausage & Pepperoni Pizza

Product Size 6.8 oz. 7.0 oz. 10.2 oz.

UPC Code 35300-00572 35300-00576 42800-11400

Production Dates/Identifying Codes “EST. 7750” as well as “best if used by” date on or before “02 APR 08 WS” “EST. 7750” as well as “best if used by” date on or before “02 APR 08 WS” “EST. 7750” as well as “best if used by” date on or before “02 APR 08 WS”

10.7 oz.

42800-11600

“EST. 7750” as well as “best if used by” date on or before “02 APR 08 WS”

Available photo of the recalled items: http://www.fsis.usda.gov/News_&_Events/Recall_049_2007_Release/index.asp

Be aware of hazardous snakes found in Korea 18th MEDCOM Four species of poisonous snakes exist in South Korea. Recently a Servicemember was bitten by a pit-viper snake (also known as “mamushi” or “sal-mo-sa”) at his off-post residence while clearing brush. He was evacuated to an off-post hospital and the snake was confirmed to be poisonous. He killed the snake and took it with him to the emergency room. The hospital treated the individual with anti-venom. Taking the snake to the hospital was essential to

identifying the treatment protocol. Snakes are generally afraid of humans and sightings are rarely reported by U.S. Forces personnel in Korea. Do: Use caution when turning over rocks or firewood; Stay out of tall grass and remain on hiking paths as much as possible; Watch where you step and where you sit when outdoors; When walking in tall grass and heavy underbrush areas, wear protective clothing such as high top boots; Seek medical attention immediately. All snakebites require immediate medical attention. Transport a snakebite victim to a medical treatment facility immediately, even if only suspected. Don’t: Don’t handle a snake, even if you

think it is dead. A recently-killed snake may still bite by reflex; Don’t keep poisonous snakes as pets; Don’t put sleeping bag near piles of brush, tall grass, or trees where snakes are known to live and nest; Avoid sleeping on the ground whenever possible; Don’t panic if a snakebite does occur. Apply a bandage, but do not restrict circulation. Antivenin available at the following locations: Area I: Ilsan Paik Hospital - western corridor and Area II St. Marys Uijeongbu CRC Jackson, Stanley and Casey. Area II: Ewha Woman’s University Hospital (Mokdong only, not Dongdaemun); Severance Hospitals (both Yongdong and

Shinchon); St. Mary’s Hospital (Kangnam only, not Yeoido Area III: Dankook University Hospital Camp Humphreys;;Ajou University Hospital - Camp Humphreys, Eagle & Long plus Osan AB; Wonju Christian Hospital - Camps Eagle & Long Area IV: Kwangju Christian Hospital - Kwangju;Yeungnam University Medical Center - Daegu; Dongsan Medical Center - Daegu; Dong-eui Medical Center - Busan; Kumi Cha General Hospital - Camp Carroll For more information contact 18th MEDCOM, Preventive Medicine at DSN 736-3025, or (02) 7916-3025

NEWS

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THE MORNING CALM

Servicemembers Civil Relief Act helps Soldiers save by Cpt. Holly B. Nostrant USAG–H Consolidated Legal Center The Servicemembers Civil Relief Act provides great protections for Servicemembers. In some cases, spouses also receive these protections. The 6% interest cap is one of the most commonly invoked SCRA protections. If you qualify, this protection can save you money. Even if it doesn’t apply, you may be able to help out someone else by telling them about it. After reading this article, if you have additional questions or want to know more about other SCRA protections, please contact a legal assistance office. Who qualifies for the 6% interest cap? All Servicemembers on active duty. If the servicemember and spouse are both liable for the debt, the spouse is protected too. What types of obligations can receive the 6% interest cap? Most pre-service obligations. For example, car loans, private student loans, personal loans, credit cards, mortgages and more are eligible. Are any types of obligations excluded? Yes. Any obligation incurred after you enter active-duty is excluded. Also, federally

guaranteed student loans (Perkins, Stafford, and Parent PLUS Loans) are excluded, even if you incurred them before going on active- duty. How do I request the 6% interest cap? It’s simple! You only have to send the creditor two things: (1) written notice and (2) a copy of your active duty orders. What does the creditor do when my request is received? The creditor must do three things. First, the creditor must immediately reduce the interest rate to 6%. If the creditor does not believe that your military Service materially affects your ability to pay, they have the burden of proving otherwise. Second, the creditor must forgive any interest greater than 6%. Third, the creditor must reduce the amount of your monthly payment to reflect the new interest rate. For example, James has a private student loan with a 10% interest rate. He joins the Army and invokes the SCRA. His creditor must forgive the extra 4% interest and lower his monthly payment. The SCRA strictly prohibits the creditor from accelerating payment of the principal, i.e. keeping your monthly payment the same and using the excess to reduce the amount

you owe on the loan. When does the 6% interest cap take effect? On the date you entered active duty! This is true even if you wait a while to notify the creditor. For example, Jane entered active- duty on Feb. 1, 2007. Before she entered active duty, she took out a personal loan at 8% interest. From February through July, Jane attended basic training and AIT. Jane did not request the 6% interest cap until July 23, 2007, after she reported to her first duty station in Korea. Upon which date does the 6% interest begin – Feb. 1, 2007 or July 23, 2007? The answer is Feb. 1, 2007. The extra 2% in interest that Jane paid from Feb. 1 until July 23 should be credited to her account and reduce the amount she owes on the loan. Why should I care? You will save money! Even if you are not eligible, you may be able to help out a friend, co-worker or subordinate receive assistance. For example, Joe took out a car loan for $20,000 at 9% interest for 4 years on April 1, 2007. On May 1, 2007, Joe entered the Army and requested the 6% interest cap. As a result, Joe will save $28 per month in interest. While this does not sound like a lot, over

the course of the loan Joe will save $1,344 in interest. How can a legal assistance attorney help? We can determine if you qualify for the 6% interest cap. We also can help you write a letter to the creditor. Additionally, we can advise and assist you if the creditor refuses to grant you relief. Therefore, if you believe that you are eligible for the 6% interest cap, please schedule an appointment with a legal assistance office. What should I bring with me once I have an appointment? Any documentation that you have about the obligation. A billing statement or original loan document is great, but at a minimum we will need to know the following: (1) creditor name, (2) creditor mailing address, and (3) information about the obligation (type, balance, and current interest rate). Like all other SCRA protections, you must be proactive to receive the 6% interest cap. Creditors will not magically know that you entered active-duty and that the SCRA now applies to you. Therefore, you should examine all of your obligations to see if you might be eligible to receive the 6% interest cap.

Overseas Housing Allowance and Move-In Expenses survey needs you! Special to The Morning Calm Weekly

T

he Annual Overseas Housing Allowance and Utility and Move-In Expenses Survey for Korea is underway and will continue through Dec. 7. Annually, the Per Diem Travel and Transportation Allowance Committee conducts a survey to collect utility and recurring maintenance expense data from Servicemembers who receive OHA. PDTATAC uses this data to compute OHA Utility and Recurring Maintenance Allowances, as well as, Move-In Expenses for Servicemembers worldwide. All Servicemembers in Korea who reside off-post and receive OHA should take the survey via the 175th Financial Management Center website.It may be taken at work or at home, if you have the necessary security required for use of your home center. A sample

OHA Utility/MIHA Survey in PDF format is available on the 175th FMC website. OHA is a valuable entitlement for Servicemembers stationed overseas. The time and effort spent answering the questions enables the Department of Defense to set equitable OHA utility and MIHA rates. To complete the survey, respondents should review actual bills or records of their utility and maintenance expenses for the last twelve months. A monthly average for the utility and maintenance portion will be required. Respondents whose utilities are included in their rent are not required to report the actual monthly average of utility bills because a monthly flat rate utility supplement is already included in their OHA. For the MIHA portion of the survey, respondents should identify expenses associated with making their residence livable. Examples of MIHA items to report are included in the survey briefings found on the 175th FMC website.

November 16-22

Saturday

Sunday

Monday

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

Mr. Woodcock (PG13) 8:30 p.m. Resident Evil (R) 7 p.m..

Halloween (R) 8:30 p.m. Dan in Real Life (PG13) 7 p.m.

Mr. Woodcock (PG13) 8:30 p.m. Dan in Real Life (PG13) 7 p.m.

Illegal Tender (R) 7:30 p.m. Mr. Woodcock (PG13) 7 p.m.

Bee Movie (PG) 6:30 p.m.

Halloween (R) 9 p.m.

Resident Evil (R) 7 p.m. 30 Days of Night (R) 8:30 p.m.

Halloween (R) 6 p.m.

Yongsan I

Today

Tuesday Resident Evil (R) 7:30 p.m. No Show

Halloween (R) 9 p.m.

Mr. Woodcock (PG13) 9 p.m.

Mr. Woodcock (PG13) 9 p.m.

Bourne Ultimatum (PG13) 7 p.m.

Rescue Dawn (PG13) 7 p.m.

Mr. Woodcock (PG13) 7 p.m.

Halloween (R) 7 p.m.

30 Days of Night (R) 8:30 p.m.

Resident Evil (R) 8:30 p.m.

No Show

No Show

Fred Claus (PG) 7 p.m.

Resident Evil (R) 8:30 p.m..

We Own the Night (R) 7 p.m.

We Own the Night (R) 7 p.m.

Mr. Woodcock (PG13) 9 p.m.

Resident Evil (R) 7 p.m.

Mr. Woodcock (PG13) 7 p.m.

Halloween (R) 7 p.m.

Mr. Woodcock (PG13) 7 p.m.

Halloween (R) 7 p.m.

Resident Evil (R) 7 p.m.

No Show

Fred Claus (PG) 8:30 p.m.

Fred Claus (PG) 8 p.m.

Mr. Woodcock (PG13) 8 p.m.

Mr. Woodcock (PG13) 7 p.m.

Halloween (R) 7 p.m.

Yongsan II

Evan Almighty (PG) 6:30 p.m.

Evan Almighty (PG) 6:30 p.m.

Evan Almighty (PG) 6:30 p.m.

Resident Evil (R) 6 p.m.

Yongsan III 738-7389

Stardust (PG13) 6:30 p.m.

Illegal Tender (R) 6 p.m.

Fred Claus (PG) 7 p.m. Mr. Woodcock (PG13) 9 p.m.

Bratz (PG) 6:30 p.m.

Bratz (PG) 6:30 p.m.

Wednesday

Thursday

Halloween (R) 7:30 p.m. No Show

Mr. Woodcock (PG13) 7:30 p.m. No Show

Resident Evil (R) 9 p.m.

Resident Evil (R) 9 p.m.

Mr. Woodcock (PG13) 7 p.m.

Resident Evil (R) 7 p.m.

No Show

Resident Evil (R) 6 p.m.

Illegal Tender (R) 7 p.m.

3:10 to Yuma (R) 7 p.m.

No Show Fred Claus (PG) 7 p.m.

Fred Claus (PG) 7 p.m. Mr. Woodcock (PG13) 7 p.m.

Halloween (R) 7 p.m.

Wonder Emporium (G) 7 p.m.

Resident Evil (R) 6 p.m.

The Invasion (PG13) 6 p.m.

Wonder Emporium (G) 7 p.m.

Illegal Tender (R) 6 p.m.

Rush Hour 3 (PG13) 6 p.m.

Wonder Emporium (G) 7 p.m.

CHAPLAIN

NOVEMBER 16, 2007

Area IV Worship Services Protestant Services Collective Sunday Sunday Sunday Sunday Sunday

1000 1030 1030 1245 1300

Camp Carroll Camp Walker Camp Henry Camp Walker Camp Carroll

Church of Christ Collective Friday Korean Tuesday Korean Wednesday Korean Thursday

1700 1900 1900 1830 1100

Camp Walker Camp Walker Camp Carroll Camp Walker Camp Hialeah

Catholic Mass Saturday Sunday Sunday

1700 0900 1130

Camp Walker Camp Walker Camp Carroll

Additional Programs Bible and Bagels Tuesday 0630 Protestant Women of the Chapel Tuesday 0930 Korean Bible Study Tuesday 1030 Catholic Women of the Chapel Saturday 1000 Church of Christ Bible Study Wednesday 1900 Ladies Prayer Meeting Monday 1400 Contemporary Bible Study Tuesday 1900

Camp Walker Chapel Annex Walker Chapel Sanctuary Walker Chapel Annex Walker Fellowship Hall Walker Fellowship Hall Camp Carroll Chapel Sanc. Camp Carroll Chapel Annex

USAG - Chaplains Chaplain (Maj.) Edward Martin, [email protected], DSN 768-5455 Chaplain (Capt.) Byung Min, [email protected], DSN 765-8991

IMCOM-K • PAGE 15 http://imcom.korea.army.mil

Start small, love big: helping our ‘neighbors’ by Chaplain (Capt.) Kim, Eun Soo 501st Special Troops Battalion “Who is my neighbor?” That is the question posed to Jesus by an unnamed lawyer, which Christ answered in the parable of the Good Samaritan. He showed that our neighbor does not mean merely one of the church or faith to which we belong. It has no reference to race, color, or class distinction. Our neighbor is every person who needs our help. Recently I read about Paull Shin, an uneducated kid who used to wander the streets of Seoul, but who later became a State Senator in Olympia, Washington. When the Korean War erupted in 1950, Shin was an impoverished youth, having no home and no place to go. So he began working as a houseboy for U.S. Army officers stationed in South Korea and it was there that he met Dr. Ray Paull, a U.S. Army dentist, who genuinely cared for him and later adopted him. In 1954 Shin was brought to America, and studied for a high school graduation qualification examination while sleeping only three hours daily. After passing the GED exam, he continued in educational pursuits and earned a bachelor’s and master’s degree, and later a Ph.D. from the University of Washington. Through his diligence he achieved his dream to become a college professor, and then went into politics and served in the Washington

Yes, we ate it all!

Fridays mean food, fun, faith Special to The Morning Calm Weekly Kids from Kids Bible Club Korea gathered Friday night, Nov. 9, for their monthly activity and tackled two six foot long sandwiches! More than 30 kids met for the night party to play games, sing songs, study the

State House of Representatives in 1993-94, and later became a State Senator in Olympia, Washington. Senator Shin was a Korean homeless kid who didn’t even know how to write ABC’s. But because of the help of the Good Samaritan named Dr. Ray Paull who brought him out of nowhere, providing loving home, family and education, Shin was able to become a U.S. Senator. Our Battalion has a Good Neighbor Program with a local Samsungwon orphanage. The orphanage is located in Gumi city and currently a home to ninety children, aged eighteen months to twenty. Every other month we go to the orphanage. But sometimes I wonder if our visit is really helping them in any way, since what we do is just small things, such as delivering donations, holding birthday parties, and playing with the kids. But, here is the encouragement: Jesus said in Matthew 25, “I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in, I needed clothes and you clothed me….I tell you the truth, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of mine, you did it for me.” And Mother Teresa said, “We can do no great things, just small things with great love. It is not how much you do, but how much love you put into doing it” Let us start small in loving our neighbor. Bible and spend hours laughing together. Seventh grade student leaders conducted the activities and J.P. Horton, seventh grader at Osan Middle/High School, was the Bible study leader. Activities started at 5 p.m. and the fun never stopped! Kids Bible Club Korea is a weekly club sponsored by Cornerstone Freedom Chapel and meets on Fridays after school in the school building. It is not a school-sponsored activity. Contact Dinah Tague at 010-6696-7343 for more information.

IMCOM-K • PAGE 16 http://imcom.korea.army.mil

NEWS

THE MORNING CALM

Gen. (retired) Gordon Sullivan stands with Holly Chavez her children and her husband Lt. Col John Chavez as the family was recognized as the AUSA Rubbermaid-Irwin Volunteer Family of the Year at the D.C. Convention Center during 2007 Association of the United States Army Annual Convention. The family won the award for its many hours of community service, even 3-year old Nicholas and 5-year old Sebastian contributed by frequently visiting a senior living facility near Osan Airbase Korea. Lt. Col Chavez was assigned to 1st Battalion, 43rd Artillery when the family put in the many hours of service to the community. The family has since moved to Fort Bliss, Texas.

Ceremony honors local family for community service work

Family logs countless hours of volunteer activities by Spc. Fay Conroy October was a big month for the Chavez family. At the annual Association of the United States Army Convention in Washington D.C. they were recognized for their dedication to volunteering. Lt. Col. John Chavez, his wife Amy and their five children, Rosemary, Noelle, John, Sebastian and Nicholas were named 2007’s AUSA Rubbermaid-Irwin Volunteer Family of the Year Award. Chavez was stationed in Suwon with the 1-43 Air Defense Artillery Battalion when he was nominated. “Volunteering is an important part of being a member of a community, whether military or civilian,” said Chavez, “to me and my family there is no better way to become personally involved with your neighbors than to work side beside them or while helping them.”

While stationed in Korea Chavez also got the Soldiers in his command involved. “He tried to maximize his Soldiers’ involvement, so that they could experience Korean life and Korea culture,” said Capt. Mark Mudrinich, assistant current operations with Eighth Army G9, “he taught English at three different schools in the Suwon and Songtong area as did his Soldiers.” Being personally involved with his neighbors is something took on an unique aspect during his tour here in Korea. “In Korea in particular we took advantage of the great Good Neighbor programs and worked with the Korean in their schools, orphanages, and elderly homes while maintaining our active stance with religious education and Boy Scouts.” Even the youngest members of the Chavez family did their part. Sebastian and Nicholas went to nursing homes to visit with the residents. The Chavez family has since moved to Fort Bliss, Texas.

IMCOM-K • PAGE 18 http://imcom.korea.army.mil

MWR

THE MORNING CALM

IMCOM-Korea BOSS hosts Mount Sorak Bargain Weekend Special to The Morning Calm Weekly This Veteran’s Day Weekend was filled with a once-in-a-lifetime trip to the beautiful Mount Sorak National Park located in the far northeastern portion of Korea. Installation Management CommandKorea Better Opportunities for Single and Unaccompanied Soldiers hosted the annual Mt. Sorak BOSS Bargain Weekend which took 41 single and unaccompanied soldiers from all over Korea on a weekend long trip to Mt. Sorak and various other scenic, cultural, and historical tours of the area. Not only did the BOSS Soldiers hike the beautiful Mount Sorak, but they were also able to tour the Daepohang Port in Sokcho, see the 38th Parallel, tour Buddhist Temples to include Sinheungsa Temple and the 1,300 year old Naksansa Temple, the Goseong Unification Observatory in the DMZ, and partake in the wonderfully relaxing Cheoksan Hot Springs in Sokcho. This trip was a true bargain for the Soldiers of Korea. This trip to Mount Sorak and the outlying areas is a $360 plus value offered to the Soldiers of Korea for $99. The Mount Sorak participants

were in for a surprise early when we pulled in to the hotel and they discovered that they were going to be staying in the beautiful Hotel Maremons located on Sokcho Beach with every room having an ocean front view. After settling in at the hotel, the Soldiers were able to rest their travel weary muscles at Cheoksan Hot Springs located in downtown Sokcho. Day two was a mixture of hiking Mount Sorak, visiting the Sinheungsa Temple and the largest Buddha Statue in Korea, and visiting the Goseong Unification Observatory located within the DMZ. Throughout the tours, the Soldiers were also encouraged to eat the local Korea cuisine. Day three consisted of touring the Naksansa Temple and Naksan Beach and the return trip home. IMCOM-Korea would like to thank all the Single and Unaccompanied Soldiers who signed up to go on this trip. It was an overwhelming success and we look forward to seeing you on our next BOSS Bargain Weekend which will be the BOSS Winter Games held in February. Check your local Community Activity Centers soon for more information.

—USAG-Y— USAG-Y Preseason Men’s Basketball Tournament SAHS 62 Navy 47 41st Sig 47 UNC HG 28 SAHS 61 8th Army A 58 94th MP 36 8th Army B 17 Navy 48 18th Med 42 Kanakas 38 SAHS 32 41st Sig 46 94th MP 45 8th Army A 57 UNC HG 35 Navy 44 8th Army B 29 8th Army A 49 94th MP 41 SAHS 64 Navy 46 SAHS 65 8th Army A 48 41st Sig 49 Kanakas 43 SAHS 62 Kanakas 46 SAHS 65 41st Sig 63 41st Sig 54 SAHS 45 League play begins Nov. 18 at Collier Field House. A 5K Fun Run was conducted in conjunction with Education Week at 9:30 a.m., Nov. 10 with 187 participants. A 5K Fun Run was conducted for Seoul American Middle School 11 a.m., Nov. 10 with 92 participants. Upcoming Events at Yongsan 10K Roadrace 9:30 a.m., Nov. 17 at Collier Field House Yoga Classes Hannam: Mondays and Wednesdays at 6 p.m. Collier Field House: Tuesdays and Thrusdays 8:30 a.m. and 5:15 p.m.; Saturdays 9 - 10 a.m. Spinning Class Tuesdays and Thursdays from 5:156:15 p.m.; Wednesdays from 8-9 p.m. at Collier Field House Aerobics Class Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays, various times at Collier Field House Indoor Swimming Adult Swim Class: Sundays at 4 p.m., Indoor Pool; Pool Hours: Weekdays, 6 a.m.- 9 p.m. Weekends/ Holidays: 10 a.m.- 6 p.m. For additional information on fitness classes held at Yongsan Garrison, call 736-4588 Combatives (Korea-wide) All Soldiers, KATUSAs, D.O.D. and Civilian contractors (No P3 profiles). Classes are held every week from 8 a.m.-5 p.m., Monday-Friday at the 498th CSSB Combatives Gym, Bldg. S151, Camp Carroll, Area IV. For more information, contact 498th CSSB, S3 at 765-8637/1026 or 010-4697-1555 or visit the 498th CSSB website at http://19esc.korea.army.mil/498th_ CSSB/Home.htm

AREA III USFK, ROK officials reaffirm commitment to Alliance at groundbreaking ceremony

USAG-H • PAGE 21 http://imcom.korea.army.mil

November 16, 2007

by Bob McElroy USAG-H Public Affairs Office HUMPHREYS GARRISON —United States and Republic of Korea officials reaffirmed their commitment to the alliance and continued American military presence on the Korean peninsula Tuesday during the official groundbreaking ceremony for the U.S. Forces Korea base relocation to the Pyeongtaek area. Hosted by the Republic of Korea Ministry of National Defense on land adjacent to Humphreys Garrison, the ceremony included traditional Korean performances, speeches by U.S. and ROK officials, presentation of awards and fireworks. About 2,000 people attended the ceremony. The United States ambassador to the Republic of Korea Alexander Vershbow and U.S. Forces Korea Commanding General B.B. Bell led the American contingent at the ceremony, joining a host of senior ROK military officers and civilian officials. Speaker after speaker reaffirmed the commitment the U.S. and ROK governments share to their alliance and its role as a guarantor of peace and stability in Korea and Northeast Asia. Korean President Roh, Moo-hyun sent a congratulatory message, read by Cha, Sungsoo, Secretary to the President for Civic and Social Agenda. Roh praised the work done by U.S. and ROK representatives to develop solutions to the redeployment of U.S. forces, relocation of Yongsan Garrison and wartime operational control. “Based on these advancements, the Korea-U.S. alliance will evolve into a more efficient and stronger one, contributing to peace and prosperity on the Korean Peninsula and in Northeast Asia as well,” Roh wrote. The expanded Humphreys Garrison “…will serve as a cornerstone in further developing the Korea-U.S. alliance. It will guarantee the stability of U.S. Forces in

U.S. Forces Korea Commanding General B.B. Bell presents Paengsoeng County Mayor Lee, In-jae and Bae, Yeon-seo, Chairman of the Pyeongtaek City Council with USFK Scrolls of Appreciation following his remarks at the groundbreaking ceremony. Bell praised both men for their support of USFK personnel who live and work at Humphreys Garrison. Here he applauds Mayor Lee. — U.S. Army Photos By Bob McElroy. Korea,” he added. Roh concluded by affirming the Korean Government’s commitment to the success of the U.S. base relocation. “For its part the Korean government will not spare any effort to make sure that the construction of the new base progresses without discrepancy.” Korean minister of National Defense, Kim, Jang-soo followed and echoed the themes of Roh’s message, especially the strength of the ROK-U.S. alliance which, he said, was “secured in blood” during the

Pyeongtaek City Mayor Song, Myeong-ho presented Certificates of Honorary Citizenship to Philip and LaVita Vincent during the official groundbreaking ceremony for the USFK Base Relocation to Pyeongtaek held in the USAG Humphreys area on Tuesday. The Vincents are Department of the Army Civilians who work at Humphreys Garrison.

Korean War. The expansion of Humphreys and relocation of U.S. Forces Korea here will help the alliance to grow stronger and help to secure regional and global peace, Kim said. Vershbow praised the ROK-U.S. alliance, noting that working closely together to keep the peace has enhanced the natural friendship between the Korean and American people. “I can think of no more fitting future role for this great Alliance than for it to help secure peace in the region for the next generation to come. That is why we are working together. Our Alliance was forged in war, but our paramount goal is and has always been to keep peace,” Vershbow said. “I believe that our shared commitment to the defense of peace and freedom is as solid as ever because the bonds between us as allies, as partners, and as friends, are truly unbreakable,” he concluded. Bell called the groundbreaking ceremony “…a moment that will powerfully shape our Alliance for the future. “This historic moment says to all Koreans and Americans, as well as to our mutual friends and potential adversaries, that the Republic of Korea desires a long-term military alliance with the United States, to maintain US military forces on the peninsula. It also says as a valued and trusted ally, the United States will continue to sustain and nurture this alliance as long as we are welcome and wanted in this land, throughout the 21st Century and beyond,” he said. Bell thanked Minister of National Defense Kim for his leadership and

U.S. Ambassador to Korea Alexander Vershbow delivered remarks at the ceremony. commitment to the alliance’s transformation efforts. Bell also thanked the government and citizens of Gyeonggi Province and Pyeongtaek City, saying that they have made U.S. personnel feel like members of their family. “You have welcomed us with open arms and we are excited about being Good Neighbors and Good Ambassadors on behalf of the United States of America here at the Humphreys Garrison,” Bell said. As he concluded his remarks Bell stressed the commitment to the ROK-US alliance both countries share. “From this moment, we will go together into the future. Our motto in Combined Forces Command is “We Go Together -Katchi Kapshida.”

AREA III

USAG-H • PAGE 22 www.imcom.korea.army.mil

THE MORNING CALM

News & Notes USAG Humphreys Army Family Covenant Signing Ceremony Postponed At the request of Senior Army Leaders to allow for their participation, the Humphreys’ Army Family Covenant Signing Ceremony is postponed until further notice. An announcement with the new date and time will be released to the local community following notification from higher headquarters. Virtues Volunteers Needed at USO Korea The Virtues English Program allows active-duty service members 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. U.S. Army Reservists Wanted The 343rd Support Center, USAG Humphreys, is seeking Soldiers interested in continuing to serve in the U.S. Army Reserves. Train one weekend a month and 14 days in the summer and continue to receive many of the benefits of serving on active duty. Contact Richard Scott, 753-8634, [email protected] for additional 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].

Humphreys and Area III Thanksgiving Meal Hours USAG Humphreys 2nd CAB Breakfast - 6 - 7 a.m. Lunch - 11:30 a.m. - 2:30 p.m. Dinner - 4 - 5:30 p.m. 194th CSSB Breakfast - 6 - 7 a.m. Lunch - 11 a.m. - 2 p.m. Dinner - 3:30 - 5 p.m.

Everyone loves Seuss. Chaplain Kyle Taylor read a classic Dr. Seuss story with great enthusiasm. Sixth Grader Kayla Pickett and her father as well as many other students and parents enjoyed hearing it. (right) Joan Islas, Humphreys American Elementary School principal, chose a patriotic theme during her read aloud, reading Where is Home?, a book about the transient life of Army families and America. — Photos By Diane Hobler.

Parents, teachers initiate Family Fun Night for area children to enjoy by Diane Hobler HAES Librarian HUMPHREYS GARRISON —The HAES Parent Teacher Organization initiated their new Family Fun Night program with Family Reading Night during the first quarter of the school year. They invited community leaders to come to school and read stories to families. Students were pleased to have people they recognized from outside the school share their love of reading. The PTO also kept both the book fair and the HAES School Library open until 8 p.m. for students and their parents to enjoy together. The reading night was one of the many ways the HAES PTO supports and encourages reading at the school. They plan to organize activities at least one night each quarter to provide some extra fun for families and encourage a strong school community. Thanks PTO for everything you do for HAES.

USAG Humphreys Fire Chief Anthony Marra encouraged students to participate in a discussion of the Froggy book he read during Family Reading Night.

527th MI Bn. Breakfast - 6 - 7 a.m. Lunch - 11 a.m. - 2 p.m. Dinner - 4 - 5:30 p.m. 249th MP Det. Breakfast - 7 - 8 a.m. Lunch - Noon - 1:30 p.m. Dinner - 5 - 6 p.m. Wonju Camp Long Breakfast - 7 - 8 a.m. Lunch - 11 a.m. - 2 p.m. Dinner - 3:30 - 5 p.m. Camp Eagle 1-2nd Aviation Breakfast - 6 - 7 a.m. Lunch - 11 a.m. - 2 p.m. Dinner - 4 - 5:30 p.m. Suwon Air Base 1-7th Air Defense Artillery Breakfast - 7 - 8 a.m. Lunch - 11 a.m. - 1:30 p.m. Dinner - 4 - 5:30 p.m.

After listening to some stories from the guest readers, Michael and Robert Sherrod and their parents browsed the library together and checked out some books to take home.

Fifth Grader Alex Meyer assisted Second Grader Michael Reynolds in searching for books on the library computer system. Both boys, along with many other children, visited the library during Family Reading Night.

November 16, 2007

AREA III

USAG-H • PAGE 23 http://imcom.korea.army.mil

Air Defense Artillery conducts live-fire exercise by Andre Butler USAG-H Public Affairs Office

CHLOMAE — The 2nd Infantry Division newest air defenders received hands on training with the Avenger Air Defense Missile System during “Sea Strike 2007” Nov. 8 at Cholmae, Daecheon Beach. Echo Battery, 1st Battalion 43rd Air Defense Artillery, deployed 104 warfighters to Cholmae range site to validate their weapons system. “We are here certifying our crews,” said Capt. Anthony E. Douglas, Battery E, commander. “This live-fire exercise gives us the opportunity to validate our wartime capabilities of engaging and destroying aerial enemy targets,” Douglas said. The unit’s primary mission is to provide surface to air defense for the Division during battlefield operations. “We provide early warning and air defense to 2ID assets,” said Sgt. Larry D. Goodman, an Avenger team member and team chief for 1-43rd. “We enable them to do their jobs on the ground without worrying about air strikes from opposing forces,” Goodman said. “This gives them the freedom to maneuver.” This mission for the battery is important and unit members take pride in their operations – considering they are the only warfighters on the peninsula who can perform their duties. “We are the only short-range air defense unit in the United States Army in Korea,” Douglas said. “And we are the only ones who can do our job,” he said. For some of the Soldiers in the 1-43rd, this is the first exercise they’ve had the chance to see how the unit’s equipment works as well as operate the systems themselves. “This gives my Soldiers a realistic view of what we do on the battlefield – especially the new guys,” said Goodman. Avenger crew teams consist of two Soldiers – a gunner and team chief. Goodman’s gunner has been in the Army for a year. Private First Class Henry Lopez, an Avenger crewman for

This Avenger takes a shot at an aerial target Nov. 8 at Cholmae, Daecheon Beach. The 1-43rd ADA took part Sea Strike 2007 in order to certify 18 Avenger Air Defense Missile System crews. — U.S. Army Photo By Kim, Youn-chan. 1-43rd, is not Goodman’s gunner, but this is Lopez‘s first time experiencing what his unit is capable of during war. “This is good training,” said Lopez. “This is my first exercise and it has been great seeing how our systems fire,” he said. Another of 1-43rd’s noncommissioned officers said his overall mission is to train warfighters such as Lopez. “I’m all about training Soldiers,” said Staff Sgt. Marcus Sanchez, an Avenger section sergeant for 1-43rd. “I like molding new Soldiers into the crew members I know they have the potential of being.” Sanchez said. “I double check everything my Soldiers do. I’m hard during training but it’s for a reason.” “This is the equipment we have, and these are our Soldiers if a war was to break out,” Sanchez said. “And I teach them that if they don’t take care of these systems – they won’t take care of them during wartime

situations.” “Training is very important and I take it very seriously,” he said. Even though Sanchez may come across as a little tough, the rewards of such training far outweigh his meticulous leadership type style. “It’s nothing like watching gunners fire for the first time. It’s something great,” Sanchez said. “During exercises like these, we are showing our young gunners our actual capabilities.” Sanchez also said he enjoys seeing Soldiers getting fulfillment out of the job they chose in the Army. Sanchez ended Sea Strike 2007 as the “Top Gunner” for 1-43rd. Goodman finished second. The battery is part of the 210th FIRES Brigade in 2ID. They finished the eight day live fire exercise with 18 crews certified.

Humphreys takes more steps toward transformation Roadways get face-lift, pave way for future projects by Stacy A. Ouellette USAG-H Public Affairs Office HUMPHREYS GARRISON — The United States Army Garrison Humphreys Directorate of Public Works is paving the way for a better future with an ongoing road repair campaign to keep the installation running as it transforms. This campaign is scheduled to conclude in December 2007. “Even though the installation is now going through a transformation process it is still imperative that we continue to maintain the facilities and infrastructure of the existing installation,” said Mark Cunningham, USAG Humphreys Directorate of Public Works construction and inspection section chief. Road paving projects here are a challenge due to the current road system. The majority of the installations 1,200 plus acreage is Desiderio Army Airfield, which is encircled by Perimeter and Freedom Roads. Additionally, weather and asphalt availability also dictate the window of opportunity for repairs. “Due to the late, year end release of funds for the projects, we are trying to complete as may of the roadway sections as possible before the weather changes. Korean Asphalt plants close after the first freeze making it impossible to continue,” said Cunningham. These roads must be repaired one section at a time to

USAG Humphreys is undergoing road construction through December. — U.S. Army Photo By Stacy A. Ouellette. allow traffic flow adding some challenges for commuters. Cunningham understands the frustrations of drivers and need for the projects. “I do understand your frustrations about the detours and closures of the roads for the upgrading of the surfaces. All I can ask is for the Humphreys Community is to bear with us as we try to make the installation a better place to be,” said Cunningham. The DPW team also goes to great measures to keep the community informed and aware of upcoming projects to ensure drivers are able to avoid high volume construction areas through the command channel and press releases.

Road repairs are an important step for the overall transformation to improve the current standing here and prepare for the future. The work will improve the safety of the driving conditions and create less wear and tear on the community’s and military vehicles by providing a smooth driving surface, Cunningham said. Planners do their best to arrange repaving and other needed maintenance projects are times when they will cause the least negative impact. Recently, DPW completed another road paving project after duty hours and during the long, holiday weekend since traffic volumes would be lower.

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Daegu community shows appreciation for military retirees’ contributions Nov. 10 by Ronald Inman USAG Daegu Public Affairs CAMP WALKER — United States Army Garrison Daegu got a jump on Veterans Day with its own tribute to those who have served our nation, hosting a Military Retiree Appreciation Day event Nov. 10. Over 250 retirees and their families received the gratitude of a grateful community in a variety of forms, from free medical and dental exams for retirees at Camp Walker’s Wood and Bodine clinics to on-site services at Kelly Gym for retirees and family members such as blood pressure, cholesterol and vision checks, flu shots, legal services and information booths for a variety of organizations, ranging from the Directorate of Emergency services (fire safety pamphlets and smoke detectors) to the Association of the U.S Army (membership and benefits information). Attendees enjoyed a delicious buffet lunch of barbecued chicken and ribs with all the trimmings and a selection of pies, thanks to generous donations by a host of private organizations which paid for the meal prepared by Daegu’s Morale, Welfare and Recreation directorate. “Without the generous support of private organizations, the events would not have been such a success,” said Steve Davis, USAG Daegu’s Human Resources and Community Activities manager, the even’ts action officer and a U.S. Army retiree. Veterans in attendance ranged from 38 to 80 years of age, with military service spanning from the Second World War to Operations

Enduring Freedom and Iraqi Freedom. The day truly was a cooperative effort as many command and community organizations directly contributed to its success. Plans, Training Mobilization and Support, Human Resources, Morale, Welfare and Recreation, Logistics, Emergency Ser vices, USAG Daegu Headquarters Company, Civilian Personnel Advisory Center, 168th Medical Battalion, 618th Dental Company, AAFES and the Commissary all donated services or materials. Throughout the day, raffles were held for a variety of prizes. Those in attendance had a chance to win digital cameras, DVD players, sound systems, camcorders or digital picture frames - if they had the right ticket number. In addition, numerous coupons were given away for free brunch, lunch or dinner at MWR dining facilities at USAG Daegu. Each retiree received a commemorative bag containing a hat, coffee cup and pin as a way of thanking them for their service. Appropriately enough for an event recognizing military veterans, planning and conduct for the event began several months before, with garrison organizations working cooperatively to ensure mission success. The vets would have expected nothing less, and the community did not let them down. “I come every year,” said Robert Hattendorf. “It’s just a fun thing with me, and I can get my flu shot and different little things that you don’t quite get all year long. I joined the U.S. Air Force in 1952. I retired in 1972. My first time in Korea was 1961

Military retirees register with Soldiers of USAG Daegu’s Headquarters Company upon entering Kelly Gym for Military Retiree Appreciation Day 2007. — U.S. Army Photo By Ronald Inman at Osan Air Base. It’s a fun day and I’m enjoying myself.” Some of the organizational representatives present were veterans helping their fellow veterans. Sharon Quigley, nurse practitioner at the Wood Clinic and a military retiree, was one of them. “This is exciting to see,” she said of Military Retiree Appreciation Day. “It’s a nice place for them to get their shots, to get their blood pressure and cholesterol screened, so I think this is really good for them. I think it’s a great opportunity.” Burke Stankiewicz, 80, also assisted his fellow veterans at the event as an AAFES

representative - and was the oldest retiree present. “I was in the Army in 1945, until they formed the Air Force,” he said. “I went in the Air Force in 1947. In the Army I was an infantryman. In the Air Force I was with B-29s, and later in the supply field. I went over to the European theater, and ended up in the Azores, working with the 95th port platoon. My infantry platoon was mostly basic [training]. I retired March 1, 1976, and I’ve been working with AAFES since then.” “It makes me feel proud,” Stankiewicz said, “not only for myself but for all the other guys who people are recognizing.”

Human rights supported by U.S. Soldiers at Ulsan (From left) Capt. Joseph Borg, Sgt. Michael Wells, Sgt. Edward Broadnax, Staff Sgt. Jeremy Logan, Capt. Audrey Smith and Sgt. Kiyoko Allen pose with their medals before the finish line. Some Soldiers from Camp Carroll participated in the Ulsan Marathon held Nov. 4. All the Soldiers who raced in the Ulsan Marathon have run several prior. Each member contributed greatly to the explosive energy felt during and after the race. Everyone was excited to finish and be part of a Korean race to support human rights. It was a good cause to go out and support the community but to put a face to positive activities by Soldiers. Not only was it a race that took them on a journey of at least 10K, it was a cultural experience as well. — U.S. Army Photo By Pfc. Ko Dong-hyun

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News & Notes A+ Class There will be an A+ Class Nov. 26 – 30 at the United States Army Garrison Daegu Information Center. This course is open to Army Personnel, DA and KGS Civilians working in the IT/IA field. For information or registration, call Mr. Leo Kelley at 764-5069. Emergency Placement Care Provider The USAG Daegu community is in need of EPC Providers, previously known as Foster Care families. Get more information on becoming certified by contacting the Family Advocacy EPC Program. For information, call Tiana Marratta at 768-8090. Holiday Gift Wrapping Fundraiser Taegu Spouses’ Association sponsors the Holiday Gift Wrapping Fundraiser 11 a.m. – PX closing Nov. 23 – 25, Dec. 1 – 2 and Dec. 8 – 24. Applications are available at the Apple Tree Gift shop or Kelly. [email protected] until Nov. 20. Time slots will be filled once all applications are received. Come earn money for your organization. For information, contact at kelly. [email protected] or at 010-8671-7042. USA Girl Scouts Overseas Program If you are interested in registering your daughter in the USA Girl Scouts Overseas Program, please contact in Daegu Ms. LaTondra Anderson at 011-9857-6638 or email at [email protected], in Seoul Mrs. Shelly Matautia at 011-98836239 or email at [email protected]; and in Pyeongtaek and Osan Mrs. Caroline Schultz at 010-8694-4166 or email at [email protected]. Maximum Speed Limit Reduction Effective Nov. 5, the maximum speed limit will change on designated roads at Camp Henry and Camp Walker during physical fitness training, which is normally conducted from 5:30 – 7:30 a.m., Monday – Friday, the maximum speed limit will be 25KPH. Signs are currently being posted to alert all drivers to the speed reduction. The speed reduction is being made in the interest of safety for the Soldiers who use the roadway to conduct daily fitness training. Drivers are reminded that the speed limit must be reduced further to 15KPH, when passing troop formations on the roadway. Violators will be stopped and cited by military police as necessary. For information, call Mr. Lowe at 764-4167. Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony Area IV Chaplain Unit Ministry Team sponsors the Christmas tree lighting ceremony 6 p.m. Nov. 27 in front of Camp Walker Chapel. Come out and celebrate in the spirit joyfulness.

International Christian School Pyeongtaek players and coaches make strategy to defeat Yongsan International School Nov. 8 at Kelly Gym. U.S. Army Photo By Cpl. Na Kyung-chul

Far East Girls compete for volleyball championship by Cpl. Na Kyung-chul USAG Daegu Public Affairs CAMP WALKER – Daegu American School and the Daegu community hosted the 2007 Class “A” Far East Girls’ Volleyball Tournament Nov. 5 - 9. Camp Walker’s Kelly Gym and Camp George’s Daegu American School Gym were full of enthusiastic volleyball players and cheering onlookers during the competition to decided the top squad in the region. “It gives me great pleasure to welcome each one of the 2007 Class “A” Far East Girls’ Volleyball Tournament players,” said Col. Michael P. Saulnier, United States Army Garrison Daegu commander. “It is our privilege not only to host this great event but to participate as spectators, watching some of the best female high school volleyball players in the Far East.” “It is my hope that this year’s tournament will continue in the spirit of the past tournament,” said Keith Henson, principal of Daegu Elementary School and High School. “The Class “A” Girls’ Volleyball tournament provides an excellent opportunity for students to build self-esteem, character and pride while experiencing team success.” 12 teams including the Daegu American School Warriors, Osan American School

Cougars, Korea International School Phoenix, Yongsan International School, Global Vision Christian School, and International Christian School Pyeongtaek from the Republic of Korea, the E.J. King Cobras, M.C. Perry Samurai, International School of the Sacred Heart, Kyoto International University Academy from Japan, the Faith Academy Vanguards from the Republic of the Philippines and the Morrison Mustangs from Taiwan competed for the honor of the championship title. The tournament began with an opening ceremony and welcome dinner Nov. 4 at the Evergreen Community Club on Camp Walker. In the end, the Osan American School Cougars jubilantly celebrated their victory. Osan defeated Morrison in three out of four matches and Celine Baldevia, Osan American School 11th grader, was honored as this year’s Most Valuable Player. “This was the first year for Daegu to host the Girls’ Volleyball tournament since 2001,” said Michelle Chandler, Daegu Elementary School and High School Athletic/Activities Director, “and it was a great week of volleyball for the girls. The community was very supportive and thanks to the Command for making this a memorable week for all involved.”

Christine Pak, Yongsan International School 9th grader, spikes the ball with avoiding blocker’s hands. — U.S. Army Photo By Park Hye-ji

Thanksgiving Ecumenical Prayers Service There will be Thanksgiving Ecumenical Prayers Service 7 p.m. Nov. 21 at Camp Walker Memorial Chapel. For information, call Sgt. Midine Beauvais at 7645534. American Red Cross The American Red Cross holds a class about CPR, and First Aid for the workplace 5 - 8 p.m. Dec. 4, 5, and 6 at the American Red Cross office on Camp Henry. For information and signing up call Jimmy Finch at 768-7993.

One of Yongsan International School spikers (right) tries to spike the ball to International Christian School Pyeongtaek’s area Nov. 8 at the Kelly Gym. At this game, Yongsan International School defeated ICSS. U.S. Army Photo By Cpl. Na Kyung-chul

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Thanksgiving day, a feast of bountiful harvest USAG Daegu Public Affairs The Pilgrims who sailed to this country aboard the Mayflower were originally members of the English Separatist Church (a Puritan sect). They had earlier fled their home in England and sailed to Holland (The Netherlands) to escape religious persecution. There, they enjoyed more religious tolerance, but they eventually became disenchanted with the Dutch way of life, thinking it ungodly. Seeking a better life, the Separatists negotiated with a London stock company to finance a pilgrimage to America. Most of those making the trip aboard the Mayflower were non-Separatists, but were hired to protect the company’s interests. Only about one-third of the original colonists were Separatists. The Pilgrims set ground at Plymouth Rock on December 11, 1620. Their first winter was devastating. At the beginning of the following fall, they had lost 46 of the original 102 who sailed on the Mayflower. But the harvest of 1621 was a bountiful one. The remaining colonists decided to celebrate with a feast -- including 91 Indians who had helped the Pilgrims survive their first year. It is believed that the Pilgrims would not have made it through the year without the help of the natives. The feast was more of a traditional English harvest festival than a true “thanksgiving” observance. It lasted three days. Governor William Bradford sent “four men fowling” after wild ducks and geese. It is not certain that wild turkey was part

of their feast. However, it is certain that they had venison. The term “turkey” was used by the Pilgrims to mean any sort of wild fowl. Another modern staple at almost every Thanksgiving table is pumpkin pie. But it is unlikely that the first feast included that treat. The supply of flour had been long diminished, so there was no bread or pastries of any kind. However, they did eat boiled pumpkin, and they produced a type of fried bread from their corn crop. There was also no milk, cider, potatoes, or butter. There was no domestic cattle for dairy products, and the newly-discovered potato was still considered by many Europeans to be poisonous. But the feast did include fish, berries, watercress, lobster, dried fruit,

clams, venison, and plums. This “thanksgiving” feast was not repeated the following year. But in 1623, during a severe drought, the pilgrims gathered in a prayer service, praying for rain. When a long, steady rain followed the very next day, Governor Bradford proclaimed another day of Thanksgiving, again inviting their Indian friends. It wasn’t until June of 1676 that another Day of Thanksgiving was proclaimed. On June 20, 1676, the governing council of Charlestown, Massachusetts, held a meeting to determine how best to express thanks for the good fortune that had seen their community securely established. By unanimous vote they instructed Edward Rawson, the clerk, to proclaim June 29 as

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a day of thanksgiving. October of 1777 marked the first time that all 13 colonies joined in a thanksgiving celebration. It also commemorated the patriotic victory over the British at Saratoga. George Washington proclaimed a National Day of Thanksgiving in 1789, although some were opposed to it. There was discord among the colonies, many feeling the hardships of a few Pilgrims did not warrant a national holiday. And later, President Thomas Jefferson scoffed at the idea of having a day of thanksgiving. It was Sarah Josepha Hale, a magazine editor, whose efforts eventually led to what we recognize as Thanksgiving. Hale wrote many editorials championing her cause in her Boston Ladies’ Magazine, and later, in Godey’s Lady’s Book. Finally, after a 40year campaign of writing editorials and letters to governors and presidents, Hale’s obsession became a reality when, in 1863, President Lincoln proclaimed the last Thursday in November as a national day of Thanksgiving. Thanksgiving was proclaimed by every president after Lincoln. The date was changed a couple of times, most recently by Franklin Roosevelt, who set it up one week to the next-to-last Thursday in order to create a longer Christmas shopping season. Public uproar against this decision caused the president to move Thanksgiving back to its original date two years later. And in 1941, Thanksgiving was finally sanctioned by Congress as a legal holiday, as the fourth Thursday in November.

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Korean students learn about Halloween holiday by Cpl. Jang Won-il USAG Daegu Public Affairs CAMP CARROLL – Korean/American friendship activities are always encouraged and one way to achieve favorable relationships with the local community is through English education. U.S. Soldiers of 16th Medical Logistics Battalion, and Korean Augmentation to the United States Army Soldiers of United States Army Garrison Daegu have been deeply involved in teaching children from 3rd to 6th grades English conversational skills at Waegwan Joongang Elementary School. Every week on Wednesday and Friday afternoons, three U.S. and three KATUSA Soldiers pair up and visit Waegwan Joongang Elementary School, located in Seokjeon-Ri, Waegwan-Eup. There are three classes— third and fourth grade, fifth grade and sixth grade, each consisting of 10 to 15 students. The school has been involved in numerous friendship activities with the 16th MEDLOG Battalion. Voluntary English Education program is one such program, and for Waegwan Elementary school and Camp Carroll it is far more than mere English teaching. The school had invited Soldiers to many school events such as field trips, sporting events, annual student concerts, luncheons, farewell parties and national holiday ceremonies. Soldiers in return, provide teachers and students chances to experience American culture, the fun way.

On Oct 31, Soldiers held a Halloween costume party during class with the students who were mostly unfamiliar with the holiday. “I have only heard of Halloween,” said a sixth grade student. “But now that I know, I think I understand the culture more fully. Also it was very interesting to wear costumes and masks.” A week before, Soldiers taught Thanksgiving day to the students by introducing them to numerous Thanksgiving traditions and showing them illustrations, while school teachers surprised them with boxes of apples for a Thanksgiving present. 16th MEDLOG also invited Waegwan Elementary students on post July 6, for a tour of Camp Carroll. Students were given a taste of American food culture, went around base to see what a Soldier’s life is like, and played games at the Community Activities Center. Although student’s interests are mainly focused on American Soldiers, KATUSAs play a vital role in the English Education program. “I’ve realized how hard it is to teach kids a new language, but most of all I think the most important thing is that everyone is having fun and I am proud that we are playing a significant role in building friendships that will last for a long time in this community,” said Cpl. Oh, Ki-woong, Senior KATUSA, USAG Daegu after a field trip to Gumo Land ice-skating rink, Nov 7. KATUSA teachers of USAG Daegu have

provided support to 16th MEDLOG since 2006, after the USAG Daegu Camp Carroll ROKA Staff Office decided to assist the program in order to foster a more friendly ROK-US community relationship. During the one-and-a-half-hour classes, KATUSA teachers assist the Soldiers and provide interpretation whenever necessary. “They help us a lot when we learn from US Soldiers,” said a fifth grade student. “It is not easy to ask questions or express our thoughts

to foreigners in English. We wouldn’t have been able to have this much fun if it weren’t for KATUSAs.” The teaching experiences that Soldiers here have received are not only fostering positive relationships in the classrooms but also building positive friendships that will last a lifetime. A small initiative has made Soldiers into teachers and given a positive influence to the students’ lives and to the local community of Waegwan.

Spc. Janet Taylor, 16th Medical Logistics Battalion, and Cpl. Nam, Joo-suk, USAG Daegu explain to students of Waegwan Joongang Elementary School about Halloween Day and prepare masks which they wore on the English class held on Oct. 31. — U.S. Army Photo By Cpl. Jang Won-il

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LEARN KOREAN

Garrison volunt eer olunteer eerss stuf stufff cabbage tto o help needy families