IndianheadVol. 43, No. 10 www-2id.korea.army.mil May 26, 2006

Inside...

News Briefs...............page 4Joint band concert....page 5Korean War hero.......page 9

Combined force live fireshowcases joint air power

EFMB Testingsee pages 3

Have you ever doneP.T. in foggy condi-tions in the last twomonths? It looks likejust fog but the truth isit’s yellow dust.

In Korea, everyyear, from March toMay yellow dustblows from the dry,desert regions of Chinaand Mongolia. It con-tains not only sand, butalso metallic particleswhich cannot be seenwith the naked eye.

The yellow dustderives from CentralEurasia where it isvery dry and has littleprecipitation. Fromthere, the barren soilwhich has been frozenthrough the winter sea-son starts to melt andthere comes the fragilesand dust.

This sand dustfloats in the air with asand storm or a strongwind and ends up trav-eling to Korea and

Japan.Soil blown by the

wind causes the sur-face of the earth toweaken and fertileland to turn barren,hindering plants fromgrowing.

According to theKorea MeteorologicalAdministration, about16 percent of China’sterritory turned intodesert due to yellowdust. Even worse, inMongolia, 90 percentof their land is facingthe threat of desertifi-cation.

Since the 1970s,69,000 square kilome-ters of their grasslanddecreased and thetypes of plants werelessened by 25 percent.The yellow dust that

reaches the KoreanPeninsula causesvision disability, respi-ratory disorder, eyeinfection and varioustypes of allergies.

See YELLOW, Page 5

By Pfc. Kim, Sang PilStaff Writer

Yellow dust warningpasses for Area I

RODRIGUEZ RANGE – Itwas a rare day at RodriguezRange where helicopters, mili-tary vehicles and F-16 jets fromROK Army, U.S. Army and U.S.Air Force came together for

their first Combined Arms Live-Fire Exercise, May 14.

Many military units from thetwo ally countries participatedin this large-scale exerciseincluding 2nd Combat AviationBrigade, 2nd Infantry Division;109th Aviation Battalion, 1stAviation Brigade and 66thArmor Brigade, 20th

Mechanized Division fromROK Army; and, 604th AirSupport Operation Squadronand 8th Fighter Wing, located atKunsan Air Base, from U.S. AirForce.

“The main purpose of thisexercise is to simulate the real-

See TRAINING, Page 4

Story and photo byPfc. Lee, Yoon JooStaff Writer

Airmen initiate communication with air support shortly after being dropped off by a helicopter.

2nd InfantryDivision said fare-well to theAssistant DivisionCommand forManeuver, Brig.Gen. Joseph E.Martz, May 16 atthe Camp RedCloud VillageGreen. Martzleaves WarriorCountry to serveas the AssistantChief of Staff, C-3,Coalition ForcesLand ComponentCommand, Kuwait.

Patch Ceremony

Opinion2 IndianheadMay 26, 2006

VOICE OF THEWARRIOR:

Where is yourfavorite place to

go shopping in Korea?

�Jay�s Computer. It�sconvenient, close

and has everything I need.�

Pfc. Phillip BarkerB Co., STB

�Dongdaemun.Latest fads for the

lowest prices.�

PV2 Jang, Seung JoonHHSC, STB

�COEX Mall. They have every-

thing I need.�

Pfc. Lee, Min TaekHHSC, STB

�Lotte Dept. Store.The whole first floor

is for make-up.�

Pfc. Jennifer DammHQ, 2ID

�Myungdong. Wide clothes

selection.�

Pfc. Joseph SpohnHQ, 2ID

�On the train ride.Everything is 1,000Won and useful.�

Sgt. Jamie DoemerHQ, 2ID

IndianheadMaj. Gen. James A. Coggin

Commander, 2nd Infantry Division

Command Sgt. Maj.James A. Benedict

Command Sergeant Major,2nd Infantry Division

Maj. Karl S. IveyPublic Affairs Officer

karl.ivey@korea.army.mil

Sgt. 1st Class Kanessa R. TrentChief Public Affairs NCO

kanessa.trent@korea.army.mil

Newspaper staffPfc. Amanda Merfeld

Editoramanda.merfeld@korea.army.mil

Cpl. Yoo, Je HoonKATUSA Editor

jehoon.yoo@korea.army.milSgt. Ko, Sang Soon

Pfc. Lee, Seung HyubPfc. Lee, Yoon JooPfc. Kim, Sang Pil

Staff Writers

Mr. Yu, Hu SonStaff Photographer

Mr. Kim, Pyong HyonPublic Information Specialist

The Indianhead is an authorizedpublication for members of theDepartment of Defense. EditorialContent is the responsibility of the2nd Infantry Division Public AffairsOffice. Contents of the newspaper arenot necessarily the official views of,or endorsed by, the U.S. Government,or the Department of the Army. Thisnewspaper is printed bi-weekly by theIl-Sung Yang Hang Co., Ltd., Seoul,Republic of Korea. Circulation is7,000.

Individuals can submit articles bythe following means: email2IDpao@korea.army.mil; EAID-PA,APO, AP 96258-5041 Attn:Indianhead; or drop by the officelocated in building T-910 on CampRed Cloud. To arrange for possiblecoverage of an event, call 732-8856.

The summer season beginsin a few weeks and it is timefor us to focus our efforts onpreventing hot weather relat-ed accidents, and mitigatingthe effects of destructiveweather. Whether we are talk-ing about summer militarytraining or recreational activi-ties, the common denomina-tor is that we will all bespending more time outside.

The 2006 Summer SafetyCampaign began May 1 andruns through September 30.The Summer SafetyCampaign Memorandum(available on the USFKHomepage) provides moreinformation about the cam-paign and tasks commandersto develop summer safetyprograms for their units.

The success of this cam-paign depends on all of us.Leaders at every level mustlead this campaign and ensurethat their unit summer safetyprogram is fully developedand implemented.

These programs must pro-vide a comprehensive, proac-tive means of identifyingrisks and implementing risk-mitigating measures down tothe individual servicememberlevel in unit training, opera-tions and off-duty activities.

Leaders will ensure thatevery member is aware of andcomplies with the unit sum-mer safety program. TheSummer Safety Campaignfocuses on the followingareas:

Leader Accountability.Command involvement is akey factor to a successfulsafety program. Commandersof units involved in trainingand mission support opera-

tions must conduct riskassessments, set safety condi-tions and conduct operationsto standard. Operational riskmanagement is to be integrat-ed into every aspect of theunit’s activities.

This applies to bothground and aviation opera-tions. Engaged leadershipsets the tone for success.Throughout the SummerSafety Campaign, our mosteffective approach will be tomitigate the risks associatedwith the off-duty activities ofour young servicemembers.We will do this through arange of engagement strate-gies, including one on onecounseling which I refer to asa meeting “Under the OakTree.”

Heat Injuries. The dangerof heat injuries is a significantthreat to our ServiceMembers and to missionaccomplishment. Training onrecognizing and preventingheat injuries is essential.

Water Activities. Alcoholuse, horseplay, inexperience,lack of supervision, andswimming in unauthorizedareas are the most commonfactors involved with water-related accidents. Safetyawareness and swimmingonly in authorized areas arethe keys to preventing acci-dents. Each Area must dis-tribute information on author-ized swimming areas.

Alcohol and SubstanceAbuse. Leaders must beaggressive in preventing alco-hol and substance abuse fol-lowing long deployments andduring the summer season.

Motor Vehicle Safety. Thedangers of drinking and driv-ing and the hazards associat-ed with operating vehicles,especially motorcycles, must

b eempha-s i z e d .N e warrivalsa n dindivid-u a l st r a v e l -ing to CONUS are at higherrisk.

Recreational Activities.Personnel must be madeaware of the hazards associat-ed with activities such asbicycling, camping, hiking,skating and summer outings;and precautions they shouldtake to avoid injury.

Wellness. Family separa-tions can be stressful for ser-vicemembers and their fami-lies. Leaders must be able torecognize the warning signsof suicide and domestic vio-lence and know where to gethelp when needed. The timeto start preparing for summeris now. We can make a differ-ence.

We must do everything wecan to prevent injury and lossof life and to ensure our ser-vicemembers, civilians, con-tractors, and family membersare protected as we executeour mission here in Koreawith excellence. There is nogreater priority than the safe-ty of the people with whomwe are privileged to serve.My greatest desire is for all ofus to serve in this wonderfulcountry of Korea safely, withno loss of life.

Together and by aggres-sively executing our individ-ual and leader responsibili-ties, we can all return to theUnited States alive, havingdone our best to assure peaceand stability in this wonderfularea of the world. We GoTogether!

By Gen. B. B. BellCommander UNC/CFC/USFK

Safety emphasized

“Prepare to lift! Lift!”No matter how difficult the

obstacle Four Soldiers were striving

to carry the casualty, crawlingunder barbed wire and overmuddy ground. No matter howdifficult the obstacle, themedics were determined tocarry the casualty to safety.

The 151 candidates whoarrived at Warrior Base May 9had four days of preparationand then were tested to earnExpert Field Medical Badge,one of the most difficult testsin the U.S. Army, from May 14to May 19.

The EFMB test had beenheld every October up untillast year. The new EFMB teststarting this year, is being heldin May in order to provide theparticipating Soldiers with bet-ter environment. “It wasthought that when done inOctober, there would be manynew comers with insufficientexperience,” said Maj.Douglas McKnight of DivisionSurgeon’s Office. “So it wasmoved to May, by when theSoldiers would have enoughtime to practice. Also, betterenvironment could be provid-ed due to nice weather.”

The participants are taskedwith eight missions includingland navigation, emergencymedical treatment, evacuation,common skills tasks, litterobstacle course, written testand 12 mile road march.Among the eight missions, theparticipants can practice fiveduring the preparation period.Divided into six platoons, theywere briefed about the mis-sions they were expected toaccomplish. Through thisprocess, they were able tocheck on what they needed.

Despite the time to preparebeforehand, the EFMB test is abig challenge for the partici-pants. “To successfully passlitter obstacle course which ismost challenging in physicalterms, one would have to findthe muscle strength that he orshe did not even know he orshe had,” said Staff Sgt. KirkScott, one of the cadres at thelitter obstacle course. “Stayingactive at this kind of obstacle ismost difficult for the Soldiers.”

The litter obstacle course,the most challenging missionin physical terms, is accom-plished when four Soldiersevacuate a casualty throughthe obstacles together. TheSoldiers went down the hillwith the casualty fixed to thelitter, made through narrowstairs and rested for a while infront of a big wall. Because itwas assumed to be a war situa-tion, the Soldiers stood fastwith their personal weaponseven during the break. Afterthe brief rest, the Soldiersclimbed the wall by twos.Then, in order to pass throughthe trench where water cameup knee-high, they lifted up thelitter above their heads. At thefinal spot of the litter obstaclecourse were waiting barbedwires and mud. As they passedunder the barbed wire crawlingon mud, they became one andfinally got through after mov-ing 20 times, little by little.Then they went up the hill tosuccessfully evacuate the casu-alty to the vehicle that awaitedthem.

“The moment I finished upthe course, I was lost for wordswith joy and fulfillment,” saidSpc. Daniel Realini of 702dBrigade Support Battalion.“The barbed wire was thehardest part. It was physicallychallenging but EMT was themost challenging of all the

EFMB missions because I hadto pay attention to every littledetail.”

“I don’t mind getting dirtyin the mud,” said Pvt.Alexander Lefave of 702ndBrigade Support Battalion whowent through the litter obstaclecourse with Spc. Realini.“Passing the trench and barbedwire was my favorite.”

“They accomplished anenormous mission,” said Sgt.James Greene of 168thMedical Battalion. “Given thatthis was their first try, theyaccomplished it in 52 minutesout of 60 minutes. It seemedthat resting in the trench whileholding onto the casualty wastheir critical moment.”

The EFMB test is com-posed of not only the 151 can-didates’ spirit and effort, butalso twice as many supportSoldiers. The support Soldiersarrived before the participantsto set up the training site, playthe roles of casualties, do sitemaintenance, and support allelse so that the testing went

smoothly.“Being given the opportuni-

ty to guide the participants ismeaningful,” Greene said. “Ifeel as if I am winning theEFMB when I watch themunderstand the missions andget closer to the badge throughmy guidance.”

“It was a unique experienceto pass through the mud that Imyself had made,” said Pfc.Kyle Robinson of 1/15 FieldArtillery. “I wish maximumnumber of Soldiers earn theEFMB and I feel satisfiedalso.”

“I feel high self-esteem to

participate as a KATUSASoldier among many AmericanSoldiers going for EFMB,”said Cpl. Jang, Joon Soo of154th Medical Detachment“Last year, I participated as asupport element. But this year,I am the participant and it isvery meaningful and fun.”

Historically, the EFMB hasless than a 20 percent successrate among testers. This timearound, those who tested did-n’t quite hit that percentage.Out of out of the 151 Soldiersthat started the journey, 19graduated earning the covetedbadge.

News 3IndianheadMay 26, 2006

By Pfc. Lee, Seung HyubStaff Writer

A team of medics carry a casualty uphill to a vehicle.Soldiers move under barbed wire and through the mud to dodge bullets and get to safety.

Soldiers hoist a casualty over an obstacle, an event that requires teamwork.

Mr. Yu, Hu SonMr. Yu, Hu Son

Mr. Yu, Hu Son

Medics vie for coveted badge

Warrior News Briefs

News4 IndianheadMay 26, 2006

Flood damage takes paperwork

Flooding is a common occurrence inKorea during Monsoon Season. If andwhen you have flood damage to yourPesonal Operated Vehicle or quarters, youshould contact the closest claims officeimmediately for information about filinga claim.

It is important for you to get the infor-mation needed to file your claim as soonas possible to ensure timely payment ofproper claims. The information belowprovides helpful tips to settling yourclaim efficiently.

What property is covered? The claimsoffice can compensate you for flood dam-age to personal property, including cloth-ing, stereo equipment, televisions andappliances, and your POV.

However, you still have a duty to mit-igate your damage by salvaging as muchof your property as possible, either byelevating it to a dry area or moving it toanother facility.

For damage to government-issuedequipment, such as TA-50, contact yourunit’s supply sergeant (S-4) who willcoordinate with your unit commander.

What should you do before filing yourclaim? Do not throw away any damageditems until your claim is approved! Werealize the inconvenience of keeping wetclothes and appliances; however, main-taining these items will ensure that youhave the best chance of receiving the

maximum amount allowable for yourclaim.

If possible, take pictures of all dam-aged items and/or damaged areas.Pictures will help substantiate ownershipand the condition of your damaged items.

If any personal property has beenwashed away, make a list of those itemsdescribing each item in detail. You willalso need to get a written statementsigned by a neutral party providing thathe/she knew you had that item anddescribing the item.

Finally, make a personal list of allitems you wish to claim before going tothe claims office. Doing so will enableyou to fill out the necessary paperworkquickly and permit the claims office tosettle your claim in the shortest time pos-sible.

Honesty is the best policy! A few peo-ple are always tempted to exaggerate thevalue of their property or claim itemsthey did not actually own. Submitting afalse claim is fraud and punishable underthe Uniform Code of Military Justice.

The claims office has a duty to pay alllegitimate claims servicemembers sub-mit. However, the claims office also hasa duty to ensure suspicious claims areinvestigated. Please be honest when fil-ing a claim.

If you would like more informationabout filing a claim, please contact thenearest claims office, Camp Casey at730-1910 or Camp Red Cloud at 732-6017.

2ID Claims OfficeClaims Judge AdvocateAsian-American

FestivalMitchell’s Sports Bar is

hosting an Asian-American fes-tival today from 11:30 a.m. to 4p.m. There will be Korean andFilipino ethnic food sampling,Korean folk music and aFilipino band. There will alsobe a Jokgu and martial artsdemonstration. This event isfree and open to the public tosupport Asian-American her-itage awareness.

Sgt. Audie MurphyClub

If you’re interested inbecoming a member of the Sgt.Audie Murphy Club, or are cur-rently a member looking foractivities to get involved inwith the club, call Master Sgt.Chris Patterson at 732-7999 or011-9155-4650.

Goad ClaimIf anyone has a claim against

the estate of Staff Sgt. Alan R.Goad, contact Capt. Ryan Cryerat 753-3875 or 011-9972-2669.

Tax AssistanceThe 2nd Infantry Division

will be offering a TaxAssistance Program for the2005 tax year until June 15.

The TAP provides free fed-eral income tax preparation andelectronic filing services to allactive-duty servicemembers,military retirees, dependentsand eligible civilian employeesin Warrior Country.

For more information, callCapt. Erin Delevan at 730-1885.

CIA Informationsession

The Central IntelligenceAgency is holding a two-hourinformation session June 12and 13 from 9 to 11 a.m. at theBalboni Theater in Yongsan.

The session will cover abroad range of topics, includingagency mission, potential careeropportunities and a questionand answer period.

Attendees not in uniformmust have proof of U.S.citizenship. To make reserva-tions, call 738-7334.

TRAININGfrom page 1

war situation and to practice how we will fight onthe battlefield as a combined force,” said Col. PeterForeman, 2nd CAB commander. “This will be agreat chance to integrate the weapon systems oftwo countries.”

The combined exercise commenced as a BlackHawk helicopter touchdown on the helipad near thecontrol tower at the range.

The camouflaged and armed Tactical AirControl Party team quickly got off the helicopterand hid in the green bush, covering for each other.Then they started making communication with theair units, using small radar.

“TACP plays an important role in this exerciseas well as on the battlefield,” explained Staff Sgt.Nikolai Gazdzik, 604th ASOS. “The main job ofthe TACP team on the battlefield is to request anddirect air strikes against enemy targets in closeproximity to friendly forces.

“Our mission for today’s exercise is to guide F-16 Fighting Falcon to hit the enemy targets accu-

rately so they don’t damage our friendly troops.”“Actual TACP team consists of two men, but,

since this is a large-scale exercise, we maximizedthe participation by joining two more men on theteam,” Gazdzik added.

While the TACP team was coordinating with F-16s, three Apache helicopters, from 2nd CAB,appeared on the field and started firing 2.75 inchrockets toward the enemy targets located betweentwo mountain ridges.

As the rocket firing went on, nothing but smokefrom the rocket strikes could be seen at the targets.

After about 15 minutes, the Apache helicoptershalted their portion of the attack. A few minuteslater, a loud roar from the blue sky shook up therange.

Without any vehicles or flights in sight, severalbomb explosions, which seemed to come fromnowhere, struck the targets.

It was only after a few more bomb explosionsthat two F-16s made their appearance high in thesky.

Making a loud, swift move, these faster-than-sound aircrafts initiated a few more rounds of

bombing. During the bombing from F-16s, four AH-1

Cobra Helicopters, from ROK 1st AviationBrigade, and four K1A1 tanks rushed into therange. The tanks drove in concurrently while thehelicopters flew in two-by-two.

The units gathered up into a one-line formation,four helicopters in the air and four tanks on theground, then commenced firing.

After a round of the rocket fires from theground, units came the machine gun attack fromthe air units. This sequenced assault harmonizedthe air and ground units perfectly.

After another 15 minutes, the helicopters andthe tanks ceased fire and the bombings from F-16swere not heard anymore.

This concluded the whole phase of the exercise.Spectators and participant clapped their hands atthe successful finish of CALFEX.

“The training demonstrated a great teamworkand professionalism with our ‘brother’ ROKArmy,” Foreman said.

“This exercise went very smoothly without anycommunication problem,” said Senior Airman RyanCornelis, 604th ASOS, one of the members of theTACP team. “We have gone through a lot of plan-ning, practices and briefings. We earned this.”

“This exercise was truly awesome, and it reallygained us more trust toward our ROK alliance andour confidence towards them,” said Capt. DylanMorelle, 3rd Battalion, 6th Cavalry Regiment, 2ndCAB, who served as Tower OIC during this exer-cise.

“I have done a few live-fire exercises, but thiswas the first time with ROK Army. It was a greatexperience, and I would love to do it again,”Morelle said.Apache helicopters fire rockets at targets during the Combined Arms Live Fire at Rodriguez Range.

MoviesCamp Red Cloud

Show times: Fri.-Sat. 7 & 9 p.m., Sun.6 & 8 p.m., Mon.-Tue. & Thur. 7p.m.

May 26 ... Stay Alive; Goal! the Dream Begins

May 27 ... Stay Alive;Larry the Cable Guy

May 28 ... Larry the Cable Guy;Inside Man

May 29 ... Larry the Cable GuyMay 30 ... Stay aliveJune 1 ... PoseidonJune 2 ... Poseidon;

Basic Instinct 2June 3 ... ATL

June 4 ... Basic Instinct 2June 5 ... Slither

June 6 ... UltravioletJune 8 ... The Da Vinci CodeJune 9 ... The Da Vinci Code;

Lucky Number Slevin

Camp CaseyShow times: Fri.-Sat. 6:30 & 8:30

p.m., Sun. 3, 6:30 & 8:30 p.m., Mon.-Thur. 7:30 p.m.

May 26 ... Larry the Cable Guy;Stay Alive

May 27 ... Stay Alive; Inside ManMay 28 ... Underworld : Evolution;

Goal! the Dream BeginsMay 29 ... Goal! the Dream Begins

May 30 ... Larry the Cable GuyMay 31 ... Freedomland

June 1 ... Madea’s Family ReunionJune 2 ... ATL

June 3 ... Basic Instinct 2; SlitherJune 4 ... Poseidon; ATL

June 5 ... PoseidonJune 6 ... Slither

June 7 ... Basic Instinct 2June 8 ... ATL

June 9 ... Lucky Number Slevin;Ultraviolet

Camp HoveyShow times: Mon. -Fri. 7 p.m., Sat.-

Sun. 3 & 7 p.m.May 26 ... Inside Man May 27 ... Firewall;

Goal! the Dream BeginsMay 28 ... The Pink Panther;

Inside ManMay 29 ... Stay Alive

May 30 ... Goal! the Dream BeginsMay 31 ... Stay Alive

June 1 ... Larry the Cable Guy: Health InspectorJune 2 ... Slither

June 3-4... Eight Below; PoseidonJune 5 ... ATL

June 6 ... PoseidonJune 7 ... ATL

June 8 ... Stay AliveJune 9 ... Take the Lead

Camp HumphreysShow times: Mon. -Fri. 6:30 & 9

p.m.., Sat.-Sun. 3:30, 6:30 & 9 p.m.May 26 ... Goal! the Dream Begins

May 27 ... Stay Alive;Goal! the Dream Begins

May 28 ... Stay Alive;Goal! the Dream BeginsMay 29 ... Inside ManMay 30 ... Inside Man

May 31 ... Larry the Cable Guy

For more information on movieschedules or to see if there are

any changes, visit www.aafes.net.

Community 5IndianheadMay 26, 2006

YELLOWfrom page 1

Moreover, the fine dust particles chemically react withthe atmosphere to produce oxidized substance and exacer-bate smokers’ chronic bronchitis and causes respiratorydisorder of young children and elderly.

Recently, due to China’s industrialization, heavy met-als like lead, cadmium, and cancer inducing materials arefound within the yellow dust.

Yellow dust covers sunlight, making vision blurry turn-

ing the sky into color of brown which adversely affectsairplane flights and the particles get inside fine gadgetscausing malfunction.

In addition, the yellow dust clogs up plant’s pores,stunting growth. On the positive side, however, the lime inthe yellow dust, which is mainly composed of alkali sub-stances, neutralizes the acid rain.

In Korea, this yellow dust phenomenon usually occursfrom March to May. In the past, it has lasted only for threeto six days. Now, the time length is about 25 days.

In order to cope with this yellow monster, avoid out-door activities, keep windows and doors closed.

If you wear contact lenses, make sure to remove andclean when coming in from outdoors. Also, brush teethand wash hands, face and eyes with warm water.

Drink plenty of water to keep tears flowing well, use airfilter to keep air clear and humidifier to increase indoorhumidity level.

Wash dust exposed fruits and vegetables before con-suming and wash hands carefully before handling andpreparing food.

After this yellow monster is gone, it is recommendedyou air out your room or house and carefully wash dust-exposed objects before using them.Courtesy Photo

YEONCHEON – PaleolithicPeriod Festival was held inJungokri, the northern part ofGyeonggi-do May 4-8. On May 5,the 2nd Infantry Division Band andRepublic of Korea Army 5thInfantry Division Band held a jointconcert.

Due to the Change of Commandceremony of Second InfantryDivision that morning, 2ID Bandwas scheduled to perform in theafternoon.

The sudden rain shower rightbefore the performance made manyof the people head home or insidewhile the performance was to beheld outside.

Despite the weather, the twobands tuned in to play under 2IDBand Commander, Chief WarrantOfficer 2 Jeffrey Larson and ROKA5ID Band Commander, 1st Lt. Choi,

Hyo Seok after a short ten-minutedelay.

“We are celebrating the commu-nity event and also promotingROK/U.S. friendship,”Choi said.

“This concert has been going onfor five years, now since 2001, andwe will entertain the crowd withmusic from original sound trackslike Disney’s ‘The Incredibles,’ andmodern music like ‘West SideStory’ and Korean Traditional songslike ‘Sailor’s Song’ and ‘Arirang’Choi said.

“We invited ROKA 5ID Band toCamp Red Cloud the other day andrehearsed by sections and had lunchtogether,” said Staff Sgt. JeremyDavis, 2ID Band operating supervi-sor.

“These Korean Soldiers come tojoin the military band without anyexperience of playing any of theinstruments. Events like today willhelp them improve their playingskills,” Davis said.

The rain shower lasted for about

half an hour, so the 2ID Band mem-bers had to hop back on their buswith their instruments so as not toget them wet.

Staff Sgt. Terence Brown whoplays the French Horn, said theturnout would have been better ifthe weather would have been nice.

“Last year at Soyo Mountain, itwas the cold weather that was both-ering, but today it’s the rain. But aslong as it lets up, we’re good,”Brown said.

“It’s always good to play withROK Army fellow musicians,”Brown said. “It builds good commu-nity relations. We should do more ofthese.”

Despite little experience beforejoining the Army, ROKA 5th IDBand Soldiers displayed impressiveskills which could also be told bytheir passionate facial expressions.

“This is the 5th yearly event andit’s first time for me to emcee anevent this big,” said 2nd Lt. Yoo,Seung Hyun. “I was a little nervousand did not do a perfect job eventhough I prepared for this as muchas I could. This is meaningfulbecause it promotes ROK/U.S. rela-tionship.”

“I feel whole lot different fromlast year when I participated, onlyin preparing the event as a staffmember,” said ROKA 5th ID Band,Cpl. Lee, Eun Sung who played theeuphonium.

“It is nice to entertain peoplewith our music and to improve ourskills. Music is an international lan-guage. I hope to have contributed atleast a little to ROK/U.S. friendshipthrough this concert,” Lee said.Band members from both ROK and U.S. Army play music together.

2ID and ROK Army bandsplay together at joint concertStory and photos byPfc. Kim, Sang PilStaff Writer

Feature6 IndianheadMay 26, 2006

Judgement Day for KTAThis is the fourth story in a

four-part series on the train-ing Korean Soldiers receive atthe KATUSA TrainingAcademy after leavingRepublic Of Korea Army basictraining. This series followsSoldiers as they get accus-tomed to living and workingwith U.S. Soldiers.

CAMP JACKSON – Onthe last week of the cycle, withall training done in the pasttwo weeks, came the unitassignment which eachSoldier had waited for allalong.

The unit assignment wasfollowed by a graduation cere-mony and family day forKorean Augmentees To theU.S. Army Soldiers two dayslater.

Assigning of the units was

held in Wightman Hall April11. The 167 KATUSAs wereall ears when they gathered inthe auditorium. The atmos-phere was tense when a ROKArmy Support Group officerbegan to explain the selectionprocess.

Capt. Kim, Ki Hwan ofROK Army Support Groupexplained to the Soldiers howthe software program that isused to assign units worksusing Power Point slides.

There was no confusion ormisunderstanding as to howeach Soldier is assigned to aunit. American LanguageComprehension Test scores ofeach Soldier were added todetermine one’s English abili-ty.

Each Soldier’s educationalbackground including hismajor and years in collegewere considered. The certifi-cates that Soldiers had wereaccounted for in calculatingthe overall score which was

used in the unit assignment.The 2ID Band and Tango

Security Force volunteers likePvt. Lee, Jong Hyun and Pvt.Park, Kwang Hoon were thefirst ones to be assigned totheir units with a 50 percentchance.

Prior to the real running ofthe software program, Capt.Kim did a simulation in orderto let the Soldiers know thatthey never get the same uniteach time the program is run.

“I was choosing tovolunteer for eitherTango or 2/9 Infantry,”Park said. “But then Idecided Tango would bemy future for the nexttwo years because Iliked what they showedus on the screen, a 10-minute video clip oftheir life in Tango and itcame to my mind thatwas exactly what I want!”

The two Soldiers got whatthey wanted. “I feel static(calm),” said Park. “One ofmy friends got through and Iam lost for words because thatwas where I really wanted.”

“I can’t wait to get started,”Park said. “I had to wait aweek for this result and I feelbig weight off my shoulders.”

“I was nervous at themoment but now I feel sogood,” said Lee. “I will proba-bly have problems with com-munication in English at first,but a few months into the lifein the Army, I am sure I willbe okay.”

“I kind of wanted this job,”said Pvt. Kim, Yoon Ho. “I gotan admin job in Camp Caseyat the first run, but either way

is God’s decision and doesn’tbother me.”

Kim, who had been the pla-toon guide of 3rd platoon forthree weeks, got a translatorjob in Headquarters, 18thMedical Battalion in Yongsan.

Graduation Day, alsoknown as the ‘Family Day’ isthe day the Soldiers finally getto meet their loved onesbefore they leave for theirassigned units. It was held inthe Bubble Gym where

friends, families and girlfriends came to congratulatethe 167 KATUSA SoldiersApril 13.

“Time really flied unlikeNonsan (ROK Army) basictraining,” Kim said. “Beingwith new people, new buddiesand the comradeship was thebest part of this training. Myparents and my girlfriendcame today. It has been almosttwo months since I last sawthem, but I am used to beingaway from the loved onesbecause I had studied abroadin Canada for eight years.However, seeing them todayreally delighted me.”

“I have no idea what I willbe doing at my unit,” Kimsaid. “But I am more thanready to find out.”

“The whole course wasinteresting and I learned a lot,”Park said. “But it was tooshort. I’d prefer it to be threeweeks in Nonsan and fiveweeks in KTA so that webecome better preparedSoldiers since we go toAmerican military bases any-way.”

“Staff Sergeants Campbelland Weathers treated us wellthrough the three weeks,”Park said. “My favorite part

was the marksmanshipbecause I love shootingand that’s what theArmy is all about. Forme, it’s infantry all theway.”

“I did not invite myparents who live inKangwon-do which isfar away from here,”Park said. “When I getto my unit, I expect my

fitness level to go up more andgain leadership quality byattending WLC, the WarriorLeader’s Course back herelater on.”

“I enjoyed my time here inKTA and met some friends forlife,” Park said.

“Learning new stuff wasvery fun and I am a little wor-ried if I will be able to makeuse of everything I’ve learnedhere,” Lee said. “I’ve neverbeen away from my familythis long but it felt like I hadjust met them a few days ago.However, seeing them offmade me sad.”

Lee, who had experience ina youth orchestra playing theclarinet, said he is very muchlooking forward to his life as amember of 2ID Band.

Story and photos byPfc. Kim, Sang PilStaff Writer

“Hooah! Commandant!” shouted Pvt. Kim, Yoon Ho toCommand Sgt. Maj. Preston Mingo, Commandant of 8thArmy NCO Academy as they shook hands. Kim was beingcongratulated for successfully graduating from KTA.

KATUSA Soldiers watch the unit assignment process in Wightman Hall, Camp Jackson.All kinds of facial expressions are captured here as they are anticipating, gasping, nerv-ous, tense, curious or horrified as they find out where they will spend the next two yearsof their life in the Army.

“Being with new people,new buddies and thecomradeship was the

best part of this training.”

Pvt. Kim, Yoon HoKTA trainee

Feature 7IndianheadMay 26, 2006

April 15th has come and gone, but here inKorea the tax season does not end until June15th.

That is because taxpayers who are outsidethe United States on April 15th receive an auto-matic two-month extension to file their taxes -so if you have not yet filed, the Camp CaseyTax Center is still here to help you.

However, after May 15th, we will no longerbe in Building 1876, and we will no longer beopen outside of normal business hours.

We will be moving to the Camp Casey Legal

Assistance Office in Building T-43, right nextdoor to the helipad, and our hours will be thesame as those of the Legal Assistance Office -Monday through Friday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., closedduring Sergeant’s Time.

The Camp Red Cloud office will close untilnext year. Soldiers at camps Red Cloud andStanley will have to travel to Camp Casey toreceive tax preparation services. Remember,unlike some things in life, tax problems do notget better with age.

If you have not yet filed this year, did not filelast year, or have received a letter from the IRS,let us help you. Come to the Legal AssistanceOffice or call 730-1885 for more information.

“I would like to make reservations.”“Yay-yak / ha-go / ship-uh / yo.”* This phrase is useful when calling a hotel (ho-tel).

“Where is the bathroom?”“Hwa-jang-shil / uh-dee-eh-yo?”* Good to use when in someone’s business or home (jip).

“Can I get the check please?”“Gye-san-suh / Joo-say-yo.”* Good to use when in a restaurant (shik-dahng).

Learn to survive withKorean! By Capt. Erin M. Delevan

Staff Judge Advocate Office

Tax date extended for Soldiers

YEONCHEON, SouthKorea – The Soldiers of CBattery, 1st Battalion, 38thField Artillery Regiment car-ried out a Mass CasualtyExercise May 11.

The Mass CasualtyExercise tests the medics withtheir skills on how to copewith casualties in an emer-gency situation.

The exercise re-enactedwar time situations more thanmost exercises would be ableto, giving Soldiers hands-onpractice with medical equip-ment and real subjects to prac-tice their skills with.

It helps not only the

medics who are being tested,but also the Combat LifeSavers and those Soldierswho guard the perimeter.

The Soldiers who werestanding by at the batteryoperations center moved totheir designated places whenthe commander shouted“Incoming!”

There were two Soldierswho imitated dead victimsand one who imitated awounded victim. Then, Spc.Chad Parrish quickly tookcare of the casualties.

“It is important to catego-rize the wounded and the deadapart from one anotherbecause the wounded wouldbe shocked to see the dead,”Parrish said.

“We quickly evacuated the

wounded that were pretendingto be hurt in the chest after weinjected him with an Intra-venous,” Parrish added.

Training like this is thefirst time that some of theSoldiers had seen some of theprinciples they were taught.They implemented their skillsin a practical environment,which could prove to beinvaluable if ever deployed.

“This one is harder thanother training because thisevaluates how Soldiers react,”Parrish said. “Being in Korea,you don't see a lot of injuries.We can let the Soldiers knowwhat combat is really like.”

“This exercise went suc-cessfully,” said the platoonleader, 2nd Lt. Scott Dickson.

“I expected aggression,

actual ground troops but thereweren’t any and we tookincoming and the Soldiers gotinto fighting position,” saidSgt. Ryan Hayes. “Throughthis exercise, we let Soldiersget to be able to cope with thecasualties calmly.”

“The Soldiers did their bestshot and immediately got peo-ple where they needed to beand found out what needs tobe replaced,” Dickson said.“This training is done once ayear and the Soldiers complet-ed the training successfully.”

Story and photo byCpl. Yoo, Je HoonKATUSA Editor

Exercise tests medics

Spc. Chad Parrish gives an IV to a chest wound victim.

FORT SAM HOUSTON,Texas – Soldiers can now par-ticipate in the Army’s weightmanagement program fromthe comfort of their ownhome.

The Army has launched anonline version of “Weigh toStay” to improve the pro-gram’s accessibility and con-venience for Soldiers, familiesand retirees.

“The site has been hugelysuccessful,” said Lt. Col.Danny Jaghab, site creatorand nutrition staff officer forthe Directorate of HealthPromotion and Wellness, U.S.Center for Health Promotionand Preventive Medicine atAberdeen Proving Ground,Md. “We recently had 23,000hits, the most any medicalpage has received on (Army

Knowledge Online) other thanthe ‘myMedical’ page.”

The Weigh to Stay pro-gram is an Army requirementfor Soldiers who have been“flagged” for weight, andcomprises three one-hour ses-sions and three half-hour fol-low-up sessions with a dieti-tian.

Before the online program,reserve and active-dutySoldiers had to attend sessionsin person. While the require-ment wasn’t generally a prob-lem for the active duty, whohave easier access to dieti-tians, it often createdheadaches for reservists andtheir leadership.

“Reservists have to taketime off from their civilianjobs and, in some cases, travela distance to attend a sessionwith a dietitian,” Jaghab said.“As a result, the program’sreturn rates were poor forreserve and Guard members.”

Hoping to remedy theproblem and improve theoverall health of reservemembers, Army leadershipasked Jaghab to find a solu-tion.

Jaghab turned to theInternet for inspiration. “Itmade sense; people would beable to do the program fromhome at any time.”

The online site duplicatesthe standard version, offeringthe same number of sessionsand content, which includesnutrition basics and myths,supplement use, menu plan-ning, behavior modificationand the importance of exer-cise. The only difference isthat participants attend ses-sions online rather than in-person.

“You sign up, go onlineand pick a class,” Jaghab said.“Then, at the scheduled time,you log on and participate in avirtual class.”

Participants can interactwith other students and theinstructor, as well as viewslides and a participant list.

The site also includes linksto health and weight lossinformation and special fea-tures. In a recent section,dietetic interns reviewed ninepopular weight loss books,scoring them for such areas ashunger satisfaction, healthi-ness and effectiveness.

“Weigh to Stay is theArmy ‘gold standard,’ butthere are other ways that areeffective,” Jaghab said. “Sincethere are other methods outthere, we want to make surewe provide information sopeople can make smart choic-es for themselves.”

The site’s success hasprompted Army officials toextend the online program toactive-duty Soldiers, familymembers and retirees,although only reserve Soldiers

are able to forego the tradi-tional program for the onlineone. It could also prove par-ticularly beneficial fordeployed Soldiers who takerisks when traveling backfrom the frontlines to attendsessions with a dietitian,Jaghab said.

“Statistics show that 70percent of our population isnot flagged but know theyhave a problem now or one inthe past,” he said. “There's aneed for this type of onlineprogram in the Army.”

The ultimate goal is to cre-ate a multi-service site for theDepartment of Defense,Jaghab said.

“I’m hoping the site even-tually becomes a ‘one-stopshopping’ site for weightmanagement,” he said.

For more information or toregister for the Weigh to StayWeb site, e-mail danny.jaghab@apg.amedd.army.mil.

Online program helps Soldiers lead healthier livesBy Elaine WilsonFort Sam Houston Public Information Office

Sports & Leisure8 IndianheadMay 26, 2006

For mid-tour this year, I saidgood-bye to Korea andAloha to the tropical para-

dise known Hawaii. The beautifulbeaches, countless activities and thelegendary performer, Don Ho werewaiting. Although visitors can travelbetween the islands via airplane, ourgroup chose to spend our vacation onOahu.

Of the Hawaiian Islands, Oahu isthe second largest island behind theBig Island. Honolulu the state capi-tol, resides on Oahu.

Pearl Harbor Naval Base resideson this island with many fascinatingattractions like DiamondheadMountain and Waikiki Beach, whichhave been featured in many filmsover the years.

We visited the memorial for theU.S.S. Arizona and toured the U.S.S.Missouri Battleship. After reviewinga video recounting the sinking of theU.S.S. Arizona, we traveled via boatto its location. There were white con-crete blocks along the way markingwhere the other ships stood. TheU.S.S. Arizona suffered the largestnumber of casualties and was permit-ted to stay where it fell.

It was mind-blowing to standabove the U.S.S. Arizona knowingthe history of how this battleshipcame to rest.

As a tribute, the names of the serv-ice members whose remains areentombed within the ship are dis-played on a memorial wall within thestructure.

Only those service members whoserved on the U.S.S. Arizona and sur-vived the sinking are allowed to be

buried with it at sea. Those servicemembers are also listed in the wall.

Nearby is the U.S.S. Missouri,nicknamed the ‘Mighty Mo.’ It wasthe last active battleship in any navyin the world.

It was the location where GeneralDouglas MacArthur and FleetAdmiral Chester Nimitz, signed theunconditional surrender of theJapanese at the end of World War II.

While touring this massive pieceof history, we were able to visit eachlevel that towered over the ground.My father was able to show us areplica of the guns he loaded whileserving in the U.S. Navy years ago.

The next evening we continued totravel back in time when dining at theRock Island Café, a ‘50s style restau-rant.

Hamburgers, fries and shakes hus-tled past while a cover band playedmusic from the Beatles. Memorabiliafrom the period also decorated thewalls. Still, the best show of our tripcame a few days later.

Since the 1960s, Don Ho hasentertained millions with unique per-sonality, songs, and film credits.

He continues to host a show twonights a week and meets with allattendees after the show wishingthem their best.

For a small fee, photos with thelegendary star are taken prior to thestart of the show as well or afterwithout a fee. His banter about hislife and other members in the showwas truly entertaining.

Another great show was aboardthe Atlantis Navtek I. We journeyedon a sunset dinner cruise and hadimpressive entertainment while trav-eling to our spot to view a truly beau-tiful sunset. It was breathtaking andunlike any I had seen before.

We kept with the sea theme andvisited Sea Life Park, which is asmaller version of Sea World. Withvarious shows and opportunities toview animal feedings, there was plen-ty to entertain the whole family.

My sister and niece signed up fora dolphin encounter program wherethey got to be trainers for an hour andswim with the dolphin.

I, on the other hand, chose to par-ticipate in the sea trek, which I wouldbe able to walk around in the giantaquarium at the entrance of the park.

I also fed the sea turtles while init. My niece participated in feedingthe sea lions. Each extra event has anadditional fee, but well worth themoney.

Although there are many luaus tochoose from, the Paradise Cove Luaucame recommended by the ticketoffice on Pearl Harbor Naval Base.Each visitor receives complimentaryleis when arriving. The trip includeda variety of cultural events such ashula dancing lessons, climbing palmtree for coconuts, and net fishing.

While watching a performancedisplaying a variety of Hawaiian styledances, flame throwing, and history

of the culture with music, we enjoyeda Hawaiian-American buffet thatincluded Kalua pig, (roasted pig) poi,(taro potato) haupia, (coconut pud-ding) chicken, long rice, lomilomi,salmon, fresh pineapple, island fish,rice, vanilla coconut cake, teriyakibeef, pineapple coleslaw, chocolatecake, fried chicken, three bean salad,tossed green salad and dinner rolls.

My absolute favorite part of thetrip was the shark diving adventure.

I was able to climb into a cage thatwas lowered into 365 feet of water toview Gallapos and Sandbar sharks.

It was a memorable experience tosee these amazing creatures swim by.I was surprised at how clear the waterwas. I was able to view the sharkthrough my mask without any diffi-culty.

The water park Hawaiian Waters,the Honolulu Zoo, and WaikikiAquarium are additional attractions.

Local beaches and shopping areasare right outside your door whenstaying in the Waikiki area.

Using military bases to purchaseattraction tickets, groceries and sup-plies at the exchange can help yousave a few dollars.

Story and photos byCapt. Stacy Ouellette8th U.S. Army Future Operations

Soldier visits Hawaii, learns historyof WWII, sinking of U.S.S. Arizona

The names of the men who are entombed inside the U.S.S. Arizona are listed on this memorial. Only those who worked on the ship are allowed to be buried there.

The U.S.S. Arizona sinks after being attacked in Pearl Harbor Dec. 7, 1941.Courtesy Photo

Feature 9IndianheadMay 26, 2006

I met a real hero today and hisname was Lon Wise.

I met Mr. Wise on his 91st birth-day. He and his wife met me at thePensacola Naval Air Museum in theirhometown of Pensacola Florida.

They had just completed a 5Kwalk/run and told me that they try toparticipate in three or four of themeach year “just to prove that we canstill do it.”

They met me on a sunny Mondaymorning so that I could share withthem my 1942 Ford GPW Jeep. Afterrestoration was completed it was ded-icated to him and the men he servedwith.

It is marked as if it were in the HQCompany, 2nd Battalion, 38thInfantry Regiment, 2nd InfantryDivision in World War II.

I wanted to honor his service andto share his experiences in World WarII as I show the jeep at variousMilitary Vehicle shows around theSoutheast.

Over 60 years ago Lon Wise tookpart in the war to end all wars andlike many men of that time he put hislife on hold to defend this greatnation.

He did not capture Hitler’s EaglesNest, nor did he land in a glider andcapture a well-known bridge on D-Day. He did not receive the Medal ofHonor or even a Purple Heart but hewas there; he stood up and wascounted.

He was there from day one, anddid not stop fighting until Victory inEurope day. He looked the enemy inthe eye and did not back down and inmy book he is the best kind of hero, areal hero, a down to earth God fear-ing hero.

Mr. Wise served as a technical ser-geant in the 2nd Infantry Divisionand was a squad leader placed incharge of 10 men.

He and his men crossed the beach-es of Omaha on June 7, 1944 andmoved inland, just one day after D-day. His job was to protect the frontline soldiers with his weapon ofchoice, a 57mm anti-tank gun.

Day and night he was ready toprotect them from German tanks. Andthey faced the tough German defend-ers that they had been training to

fight since being drafted into theArmy in 1942.

They slowly made there wayacross the French hedgerows, into St.Lo., Landernau, Brest and many othersmall towns. They moved acrossFrance, then Belgium and participat-ed in the Battle of the Bulge.

They fought their way acrossGermany and then ended the war inCzechoslovakia.

Mary and Lon Wise said to methat they are about all that remainsfrom all of those great men in the HQCompany.

After just a few stories, I decidedthat I could have stayed with them fordays listening to the tales of theiryouth, the days of fear and survivaland the days when he returned to herfrom war.

He wrote a fantastic book detail-ing his 33 months in the Army and itis perhaps one of the best writtenaccounts of the war that I have everread.

There are only a handful of copiesand I feel honored to have one ofthem. In his book he says it like itwas.

He makes you believe that you arethere with him each day of the war. Itis one book that I cherish above allothers.

It is men like Lon Wise that weneed to seek out, find them and thankthem for their service. Ask themquestions, share some stories andhave a laugh.

At 91, I am sure that Mr. Wisewould love to hear thanks from peo-ple as would the thousands of veter-ans still alive to tell you about what itwas that heroes did in WWII.

Thank you Lon Wise for doingwhat had to be done.

Story and photo by Michael NewmanSpecial to the Indianhead

Remembering a WWII veteran

Lon Wise stands beside a 1942 Ford GPW Jeep. This vehicle was dedicated to him and the men he served with.Newman shows the jeep at various military vehicle shows across the Southeast and shares Mr. Wise’s stories.

Heroes and legends neverdie when the hero is laudedby those that remember themand those that carry theirspirit to new generations.

This was the spirit of theFifth Annual Kim Yong KeunGolf Tournament held May13 at Camp Red Cloud GolfCourse.

“Kim Yong Keun has beena great friend of theAmerican Soldier since1976,” said Yang, Pyongyong of the Camp Red Cloudgarrison. “He was a keymember of the 2nd to None

Support Group. This event isa tribute to his memory. Bysharing in this golf tourna-ment, Koreans and AmericanSoldiers share cultural under-standing and friendship.”

Kim Yong Keun was aman that was born in NorthKorea. He worked on a farmand lived under communistrule until he was 37 yearsold, said Lt. Col. WilliamHuber, CRC garrison com-mander. He decided to movesouth to become a free man.

He became a contractor,and he cleaned buildings forthe U.S. Army. After becom-ing a very successful busi-ness man, he began a con-struction business and con-

tracted that business with theArmy as well.

“It is only fitting that weremember Mr. Kim today,”one Korean golfer said. “Hisspirit and friendship with theSoldier is legendary.”

Although the rain endedthe tournament for some lateplayers, all gathered atMitchell’s restaurant for asteak dinner and to rememberKim and his legacy of friend-ship.

Soldiers and Korean citi-zens have been comingtogether for this celebrationfor five years, Huber said. Itstrengthens the alliance thatwas forged in steel since theKorean War.

Story and photo by James CunninghamArea I Public Affairs

Golfers gather to remember Kim, Yong Keun on May 13.

Golf tournament honors friendship

Feature10 IndianheadMay 26, 2006

There is an old saying ‘Like father like son.’There is a father and son in 2nd Infantry Divisionthat this applies to exactly.

In 2/9 Battalion, there are two Todd MichaelShepherds on duty. One, the father, is a first ser-geant and his son is a sergeant.

Their army life in the same battalion started inMay 2004. The father, who came to Korea inAugust 2003 got a call from his son who was inAdvanced Individual Training. His son informedhim that he was going to be stationed in Korea.Because of his son’s Military OccupationalSpecialty he knew that his son was coming toCamp Casey.

“I was glad to hear that my son was coming toKorea,” said 1st Sgt. Todd Michael Shepherd. “Icould guide my son to do the right thing at his firstduty station.”

“Since I knew I was going to Korea where myfather was on duty, there was nothing to worryabout,” said Sgt. Todd Michael Shepherd II.

Although they knew they were both going to bestationed at Camp Casey, they didn’t know thatthey were going to be working together in the samebattalion.

Since they started Army life together in thesame battalion, they experienced unique events.Shepherd promoted his son three times fromPrivate First Class to Sergeant. Moreover ShepherdII promoted his father to 1st Sgt. which is veryrare.

“I think this situation is very unique in theArmy,” Shepherd said. “I’m very happy because Ihave my son to talk to about the Army life in

Korea after my retirement.” “He always looks after me and make sure that

I’m doing the right thing,” Shepherd II said. “Notto disappoint my father I could always push myself more, and the best thing is I have a very closeperson to ask.”

Since two family members are stationed togeth-er, they had a couple of chances to bring the rest oftheir family to Korea.

“My wife came to Korea July 2005 and wecould spend time together,” Shepherd said.

“If I went to another place, I would have missedmy family a lot,” said Shepherd II. “But I’m withmy father. We eat dinner and go shopping together.I feel like I’m home.”

“We can make friends everywhere, but theycan’t be my family. There is nothing like a fami-ly.” Shepherd said.

1st Sgt. Todd Michael Shepherd and Sgt. Todd Michael Shepherd II pose in front of 2/9 headquarters.Both father and son are stationed together in the same battalion.

Story and photo by Pfc. Lee, Seung HyubStaff Writer

Father and son serve together in Korea,promote each other in same battalion

YONGSAN GARRISON – Forservice members and their familiesstationed in South Korea, China is ahot spot for travel. Many shop andenjoy the experience of climbing theGreat Wall. For others climbing isn’tenough, they run a marathon across itinstead.

This May, Maj. MicheleThompson, 8th U.S. Army FuturePlans, will participate in the GreatWall Marathon by running the halfmarathon portion. The race takes run-ners up and over the legendary, GreatWall of China in Beijing.

“I wanted to tour China, but dosomething different than the normaltourist sites. I saw it in the interna-tional listings of marathons inRunner’s World Magazine a few yearsago. I also needed some motivation toimprove my physical fitness,”Thompson said.

Thompson’s training for the race

began three months ago. To preparefor the race, she worked on her baseresulting in a training regiment thathighlighted the long slow run.

“My long runs included large hillsand stairs to prepare for the 3,700stairs and the uphill finish to the race.I have a foot injury, so I don’t actuallyrun a lot,” Thompson said.

“I conduct cross training on thebike, improving my endurance withincreasingly long rides that I do with alocal triathlon club. I also swim andlift weights, focusing on plyometricsand full body movements three times aweek,” she added.

Thompson is no stranger to racing.For years, she has participated inadventure races, duathlons, triathlonsand the Baghdad half marathon.

In most cases, she placed fourth orhigher in her age category for theseevents.

As for this race, Thompson admitsshe’ll be happy just to finish the race.After that, she has set a few smallergoals for her to keep motivated andimprove her overall fitness level.

“My goal for the race is to finish inless than three hours. The recommen-dation is for runners to add an hour totheir normal running times to accountfor the Great Wall and stairs portion ofthe race,” Thompson said.

According to Thompson, signingup on the day of the race isn’t an

option, so anyone looking to partici-pate needs to be part of a tour.

Runners will not only get to partic-ipate in one of the most extraneousrace worldwide, but view the beautyof China as well.

Over a 16 day period, the tour willtake the group through Beijing, Xianand Shanghai.

China has been a location of studyfor Thompson as part of herInternational Relations Master’sDegree program. She has never trav-eled there before.

“I’m really excited about going andexperiencing the culture. Outside ofthe actual race, the Yangtze RiverCruise, I hope to see the GoldenMonkeys, the White Dolphins and dosome hiking. I really enjoy the naturalhabitat,” Thompson said.

Thompson signed up via theInternet, but said there are Korean tourcompanies that offer similar packages.

Check out www. marathontour.comor contact Thompson at 723-8497 formore information.

By Capt. Stacy Ouellette8th U.S. Future Operations

Great Wall Marathon gives vacationing a new twist

Courtesy Photo