The latest news from the Army in Korea is available online at: www.Army.mil/Korea The latest news from the Army in Korea is available online at: www.Army.mil/Korea

January 9, 2015 Published for those serving in the Republic of Korea Volume 13, Issue 4

Feature Page P16

USAG Red Cloud P04USAG Casey P04USAG Yongsan P09USAG Humphreys P18USAG Daegu P24

GARRISONS

Insi

de

Page 9

U.S, ROK Army work together

on CBRNE doctrine

Reading in OverdriveBy Franklin Fisherfranklin.s.fisher2.civ@mail.mil

Army offers downloadable books, videos, music

CAMP RED CLOUD – Whether you've only heard of eBooks or are already a fan, Area I libraries are ready to be your digital-age gateway to the world of books you can download and read on your computer or other digital device.

The libraries will do that by helping you register to use the Army Digital Media Library, which allows military ID

card holders -- U.S. service members, KATUSA Soldiers, civilians, family members, contractors and retirees -- to download books, videos and music for use on their computers and other digital devices.

The Army Digital Media Library offers free access to more than 25,000 eBooks and audiobooks.

Using it is easy; all you need is a library account with any Army library worldwide, the kind that allows you

to check out books from the libraries, and a pin number for the Army Digital Media Library. The library will give you a pin number if you ask for one.

Then you just log on to the Army Digital Media Library website, insert your pin number, and you can browse their varied offerings of eBooks, videos and downloadable music.

You can use them on computers and major devices including iPhone, iPad, Nook, Android phones and tablets, See “eBooks” on page 5

and Kindle."When the eBooks first started

becoming popular I didn't think that I would like them," said Tracey Klippert, Supervisory Librarian for the Casey Enclave libraries.

"Because I was thinking 'A computer screen with the white background, Why would I want to stare at that?'" she said. "I preferred a regular book where you could flip the pages."

Page 4

Opn. Santa Express

brings smiles to Unsung Heroes

THE MORNING CALMMORNING CALMPAGE 2

Submitting stories or photos to The Morning Calm Weekly

Send your Letters to the Editor, guest commen-taries, story submissions, photos and other

items to: ricardo.j.branch.mil@mail.mil. All items are subject to editing for content and to

insure they conform with DoD guidelines.

The Morning Calm Online Edition:www.army.mil/korea

The Morning Calm

Published byThe United States Army Garrison Yongsan

Public Affairs Officein coordination with

USAG Red Cloud, USAG Humphreys and USAG Daegu

Public Affairs Offices

USAG RED CLOUD Commander: Col. Jack Haefner

Public Affairs Officer: David R. OtenCommand Information Officer: Dave Palmer

Writer/Editor: Franklin FisherStaff Writers: Staff Sgt. Mark A. Kauffman,

Cpl. Noh Ha-kyung

USAG YONGSAN Commander: Col. Maria P. Eoff

Public Affairs Officer: Michelle L. ThomasCommand Information Officer: Nikki L. Maxwell

Writer/Editor: Staff Sgt. Ricardo J. BranchStaff Writers: Sgt. Jung Young-ho,

Cpl. Moon Hyung-joo and Pfc. Yi Jung-uk

USAG HUMPHREYS Commander: Col. Darin S. Conkright

Public Affairs Officer: Edward N. JohnsonCommand Information Officer: Steven Hoover

Staff Writer: Pfc. Cho Jeong-wonInterns: Min Kwon, Kate Ko

USAG DAEGU Commander: Col. Jim M. Bradford Public Affairs Officer: Philip Molter

Command Information Officer: Mary GrimesStaff Writers: Pfc. Kim Si-woong

Interns: Park Ga-hyun, Park Ye-sin, Park Bit-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 U.S. Army Garrisons in Korea.

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. 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 of the equal opportunity

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Managing Editor: ricardo.j.branch.mil@mail.mil

Much ahead for Warrior Country in 2015

— Col. Jack Haefner —

CAMP RED CLOUD – The bright lights and cheerful spirit of the holidays are only just behind us, we’re at the start of a brand new year, and I wish you a very good one.

On those cold, crisp nights last month when we held our annual Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremonies on Camp Casey, Camp Stanley and Camp Red Cloud, there was a cheerful excitement you could see as much on the faces of the adults as on those of the kids.

But if we’ve said goodbye to one year and to the holiday excitement that closed it out, this new year too brings plenty to look forward to and be excited about.

For the first time in the Army’s history, an entire combat brigade will move to South Korea for a nine-month rotation. And that brigade is coming right here to Warrior Country next summer as part of the 2nd Infantry Division.

The unit is the 2nd Armored Brigade Combat Team of the 1st Cavalry Division at Fort Hood, Texas.

Before that happens the 2nd Infantry Division’s 1st Armored Brigade Combat Team will be hard at work as it readies for inactivation. When the time comes it’ll turn over what we call its mission authority to the 2nd ABCT coming over from Fort Hood.

Throughout this process the U.S. Army Garrison Red Cloud and Area I will continue to play its indispensable role in supporting the war fighter, which, as I’ve said here before, is our garrison’s paramount mission.

It’s our garrison that makes sure the Warrior Division and our other tenant units have the facilities and other help they need around the clock to live, work, train and stay “Ready to Fight Tonight.”

That means providing them things like electricity, heat and hot water; computer and phone lines. Keeping roads, barracks, and other buildings in proper condition. Keeping fire trucks and ambulances ready to roll out if called. It also means we make sure they have the recreational, shopping and other facilities they need for day-to-day living and emotional resilience.

But the role we have in supporting

the rotational units is just one of the things that makes the year ahead an exciting one.

This is also the year that we expect to have a sharper picture of what the Area I footprint will look like in coming years after certain Area I installations have closed and forces here have relocated to new state-of-the-art facilities being readied at Camp Humphreys in Area III.

The details of what, how and when those services will be gradually curtailed is something we have from the beginning been very carefully thinking through.

And as you already know, last year we put in place several steps to ensure you in our community get all the needed details – practical, accurate, official – from us, in time to make important plans for yourselves and your families.

Keeping you well-informed is a high priority for us, and at the same time we’ll be as focused as ever on continuing to improve the services we maintain for our Soldiers, civilians and family members.

The ways for you to suggest improvements to Area I will continue to be available.

These include the Army Family Action Plan process. AFAP allows you to suggest improvements to our community, which are then outlined

in priority order to Warrior Country senior leaders at our annual AFAP conferences. We take it from there and make the most urgent improvements happen, or, where necessary, forward them to higher headquarters for their help in bringing them about.

Also a good option is submitting an “ICE comment” through the Interactive Customer Evaluation system. Through ICE comments you tell us things you think need improvement. We keep careful track of these comments and make sure they get to the people who can act on them. We are required to respond within 72 hours.

A few examples show how we’ve been able to make good changes thanks to what you’ve told us through the various means we have for getting your views.

You saw the need for shorter waiting times for dining service at the Casey Golf Course. We brought in new kitchen equipment and shortened the waiting times.

You told us Soldiers here on nine-month rotations needed shorter mobile phone contracts. We got with AAFES and got the shorter contracts.

There was a need to give our Soldiers a chance to see movies during the weekends. With the help of our BOSS volunteers we’ve reopened our move theaters on Camp Red Cloud and Camp Stanley for movie showings Friday and Saturday nights.

You spoke, we listened.Well, moving forward on all these

important things isn’t all that’s ahead for us in 2015.

We also have the winter – plenty of winter – still to come, and with it the possibility of snow, ice, frigid temperatures and the hazards they pose.

We’ll continue posting on our Facebook page and elsewhere winter safety tips as well as bulletins and other updates that will be useful in the face of harsh weather. And you’ll also find very good guidance on coping with winter by visiting our Ready Army website.

Meanwhile, keep safe and resilient in 2015, and be listening for more as this exciting new year unfolds here in Warrior Country. x

January 9, 2015 MORNING CALM PAGE 3

THE MORNING CALMUSAG RED CLOUDUSAGRC • PAGE 4http://redcloud.korea.army.mil

Soldiers from across South Korea gathered at Camp Casey to spend time with, give gifts to and eat a holiday meal with children from the Noah Rehabilitation Center Dec. 13. The Noah Rehabilitation Center is a home for orphans with disabilities. Out of the 66 children at the center, 51 of the children do not have contact with any family members. Soldiers came all the way from Area 4 to bring holiday cheer to these children. – U.S. Army photo by Staff Sgt. Steven Schneider

Soldiers 'adopt' an orphan

U.S., ROK armies work together on CBRNE doctrineBy Pfc. Lee, Seo-won1st Armored Brigade Combat Team Public Affairs

A Republic of Korea soldier from the 25th Infantry Division demonstrates the decontaminating process on a simulated casualty during the combined demonstration training at H22 Camp Casey, South Korea, Dec. 10. The exercise was held in order to work toward the completion of combined doctrine for a mass casualty incident. – U.S. Army photo by Pfc. Lee Seo-won

CAMP CASEY – Republic of Korea Army soldiers from the 25th Infantry Division and Soldiers from the 1st Armored Brigade Combat Team, 2nd Inf. Div., demonstrated their handling process of a mass casualty incident due to chemical, biological, radiological, nuclear and high-yield explosive weapons on Camp Casey, South Korea, Dec. 10.

The exercise was held in order to work toward the completion of combined doctrine for a MASCAL, according to Col. Kang, Jong-gu, chief of Medical Division ROK and U.S. Combined Forces Command. The idea of the combined doctrine was proposed from the medical officers of CFC.

“Today, we had time for discussion in ROK-U.S. doctrine, and we also saw how both ROK and U.S. treat their patients,” said Kang. “For the most part, patient treatment procedure is similar, but for some, there is a clear difference.”

Even though the U.S. Army and ROK Army have been together for more than 60 years, they had almost no interaction for the medical processes concerning CBRNE. Kang strongly emphasized during wartime, it is important to know each other’s medical capabilities to efficiently evacuate Soldiers and save lives.

“Through today’s demonstration training, we could determine both countries’ doctrines,” said Lt. Col. Kim, Yeong-sin, division surgeon with the 25th Inf. Div. “Thus, for combined trainings, we would know the differences between two countries and how to overcome them. I hope to form a combined medical team that can take care of patients from both countries.”

At the helipad, the CBRNE Soldiers set-up their demonstration sites. They introduced their devices and procedures with descriptive explanations and answered any questions. The demonstration participants included the ROKA surgeon, the U.S. Forces Korea surgeon, and the 8th Army surgeon.

“They [ROKA soldiers] walked us from the point of injury, all the way to triage, lastly to

decontaminating the patient,” said Capt. Ariel S. Castro, medical planner, 1st ABCT, 2nd Inf. Div. “What we were asked was to show a static display of our capabilities. We are not going to have as thorough demonstration as they did. But, what we have out here, we have a M1135 which is the reconnaissance platform that does decontamination of soil, atmosphere so and so forth. It is a striker piece of equipment from 23rd Chemical Battalion. We also have Charlie medics from 302rd Bde. Support Bn. that are going to demonstrate decontamination of a row one. They

are going to talk from point of injury, all the way to evacuation and FLA [Field Litter Ambulance]. Ours is similar to them, but it is more compressed and short.”

The plan has just begun. If both armies work toward finishing the plan, it could be done quickly.

“Since soldiers from both countries acknowledge the needs of the combined doctrine, there would be a lot of developments for the plan as we go on,” said Kang. “We will work on creating it through annual combined field exercise trainings like KR/FE [Key Resolve/Fall Eagle] and UFG [Ulchi Freedom Guardian].” x

January 9, 2015 USAG RED CLOUD USAGRC • PAGE 5http://redcloud.korea.army.mil

News & NoteseBooks from Page 1

But Klippert gave eBooks a try, reading them on an electronic device known as a Kindle. Kindles are available at the Camp Casey Library in Dongudcheon and the Camp Red Cloud Library in Uijeongbu, she said.

"Once I used eBooks I really liked them," said Klippert. "And you can take it anywhere. If you're traveling, you can load your device with three or four books. And I quite like it."

When you see the items you want, you select them and then download them.

If all the digital copies of the book you want to read are already signed out by other readers, the website will tell you that.

And the rules for checking out an eBook are the same as for printed books and other library materials.

"They're just like library books," said Klippert. "If somebody has it checked out, you'll have to put a hold on it."

"When your checkout period expires, you won't be able to access it any longer," Klippert said. "The titles will automatically expire at the end of the lending period."

And, there are no late fees.Ebook categories are Art & Culture,

Biography & Autobiography, Business & Careers, Children's eBooks, Comics, Computer Technology, Cooking & Food, Educational, Family & Relationships, Finance, Health & Fitness, Historical Fiction, History, Home Design and Décor, Horror, Humor, Language Learning, Legal,

Literature, Management, Military, Mystery & Thrillers, Nature, Pets, Philosophy, Poetry & Short Stories, Politics & Current Events, Psychology, Religion & Spirituality, Romance, Self-Improvement, Sociology, Science, Science Fiction & Fantasy, Travel, and True Crime.

The selection of audiobooks offers many of the same categories as that of eBooks.

The Camp Casey Library in Dongducheon and other Army libraries worldwide offer library account holders the chance to use the Army Digital Media Library, which offers free access to more than 25,000 eBooks and audiobooks, as well as collections of downloadable videos and music. – U.S. Army photo by Staff Sgt. Mark A. Kauffman

Video categories are Action & Adventure, Cartoon, Children's Video, Classic Film, Comedy, Cooking & Food, Documentary, Drama, Feature Film, Foreign Film, Health & Fitness, History, Horror, Instructional, Nature, Politics, Romance, Science, Science Fiction & Fantasy, Technology, Travel, and TV series.

Music categories are Country, Hip-Hop, Pop, Rock, and Soundtrack.

In addition, the Army Digital Media Library offers featured collections, whose categor ies inc lude , for example, holiday titles, relaxation and stress management, and the U.S. Army Chief of Staff's Professional Reading List.

For more information, call the Camp Casey Library at 730-4563 or the Camp Red Cloud Library, at 732-6723, or visit: http://army.lib.overdrive.com. x

THE MORNING CALMUSAG RED CLOUDUSAGRC • PAGE 6http://redcloud.korea.army.mil

Lt. Col. Kim Jong-wook, Commander of the Republic of Korea Army Support Group that oversees KATUSA Soldiers assigned to the U.S. Army in Area I, relinquishes command during a formal ceremony Dec. 16 in the Camp Red Cloud Physical Fitness Center on Camp Red Cloud in Uijeongbu. Kim was replaced by Lt. Col. Lee Il-soo. Kim held the position for 36 months and moves to a new assignment. KATUSA Soldiers in Area I are assigned to the 2nd Infantry Division and the U.S. Army Garrison Red Cloud and Area I. Among those attending were Warrior Country senior leaders, including Maj. Gen. Thomas S. Vandal, Commanding General, 2nd Infantry Division, and Col. Jack Haefner, Commander, U.S. Army Garrison Red Cloud and Area I. Music was performed by a South Korean army band. – U.S. Army photo by Cpl. Noh Ha-kyung

Area I welcomes new RSG Commander

Soldiers conduct convoy exerciseBy Pfc. Lee Seo-won1st Armored Brigade Combat Team Public Affairs

M88 Recovery Vehicles and a Platoon Leader truck from maintenance platoon with Company E, 302rd Brigade Support Battalion, 1st Armored Brigade Combat Team, 2nd Infantry Division, move as a group along routes while engaging in live fire during a convoy security exercise at Rodriguez Live Fire Range, South Korea, Dec. 17. Company E supports the 2nd Battalion, 9th Infantry (Mechanized). The convoy exercise incorporated three primary tactical tasks: engaging and destroying targets, recovering a vehicle, and assessing casualties. – U.S. Army photo by Lee See-won

RODRIGUEZ LIVE FIRE RANGE — Soldiers with Company E, 302nd Brigade Support Battalion, 1st Armored Brigade Combat Team, 2nd Infantry Division conducted a convoy live-fire exercise at Rodriguez Live Fire Range, South Korea, Dec. 17 to familiarize themselves with weaponry and maintain readiness.

Company E directly supports the 2nd Battalion, 9th Infantry (Mechanized), 1st ABCT, 2nd Infantry Division and participated in the live-fire convoy at the end of the 2-9th Infantry Gunnery.

Each platoon conducted a convoy onto Digital Multi-Purpose Range Complex. They engaged four targets, and their job was to link up with a broken vehicle and to recover the vehicle. Finally, they assessed a casualty on the vehicle site.

“Today we are doing a convoy security live fire,” said 1st Lt. Benjamin E. Nygaard, operations assistant plans off icer with Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 2-9th Infantry. “Very often in the Army, the distribution platoon or the maintenance platoon, they have to conduct convoys. They have to move as a group along routes, highways or dirt roads.”

Twenty-four personnel between the two platoons participated in the training. Each platoon was made up of five vehicles. The distribution platoon had four light medium tactical vehicles and a platoon leader truck, and the maintenance platoon had four M88s and a PL truck. It was the first time for 2-9th Infantry to do the convoy exercise.

Soldiers started with dry and blank runs. After having two blank runs, the maintenance platoon conducted the exercise live for the first time.

“Compared to dry runs and blank runs, we improved a lot,” said Spc. Andor C. Cudjoe, a recover vehicle operator from Company E. “Communication is a lot better and scanner is a lot better now, too.”

The convoy training is crucial because it shows “overall readiness of recovery team” according to Cudjoe.

“It [the exercise] shows that we are able to go out there and recover a vehicle on time,” he said. “If we do engage with fire coming at us, we can engage to shoot enemy as quick as possible, and get that vehicle down to recover. Then we move back out.”

Cudjoe said in order to secure

a broken vehic le , i t could be i n e v i t a b l e t o f a c e e n e m i e s .

“While in the convoy, they have to have certain level of security,” said Nygaard, “So they can identify enemy targets, enemy threats and potential hazards. They do this so they can move throughout two objectives in a safe manner either to deliver supplies or conduct recovery operations.”

The weather was harsh for Soldiers at the range. The ground was covered with ice and the temperature had dropped down to 10 degrees Fahrenheit. For the Soldiers, this was a good opportunity to experience natural

hazards they could face in the future.“It [weather condition] definitely

increases hazards of the training, but it also increases proficiency of the crews and allows them to overcome these kinds of natural hazards,” said Nygaard. “It increases their combat effectiveness.”

He said Soldiers’ hard work and dedication throughout the training was truly amazing. The training had lasted for nearly 48 hours with about six hours of rest cycle in between.

“ They have gone above and beyond,” Nygaard said. “They’ve b e e n r e a l l y h i g h p e r f o r m e r s throughout this entire exercise.” x

January 9, 2015 USAG RED CLOUD USAGRC • PAGE 7http://redcloud.korea.army.mil

Following are Commander’s Cup standings as of Dec. 31, 2014

Commander’s Cup standings are also online at the Area I Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/RedCloudCasey

PLACE UNIT POINTS

1 46 TRANS 8682 C Co, HHBN 7833 HHC, 1-72 AR 6864 HHB, 210 FAB 6405 B Co, HHBN 6166 HHSC, HHBN 5857 HHC, 3-8 CAV 5508 55 MP CO 5499 E, 6-52 ADA 548

10 HHC, 1 ABCT 54411 C, BSTB 528

12 F, 1-72 AR F 302 BSB 505

13 A, 302 BSB 49414 A Co, HHBN 48615 HHB, 1-15 FA 48416 HHC , BSTB 43617 E, 2-9 IN/E 302 BSB 43318 HHC, 2-9 IN 40519 HHT, 4-7 CAV 289

PLACE UNIT POINTS1 62 CHEM/CBRN 10102 4 CHEM/CBRN 8943 61 CBRN 8074 C, 4-7 CAV 6855 579 FSC 6826 G, 1-15 FA/G 302 BSB 6607 B, 4-7 CAV 6508 580 FSC 6069 61 MAINT 603

10 C, 302 BSB 58011 A, BSTB 57412 A, 3-8 CAV 52513 B, 302 BSB 51814 HHC, USAG AREA I 46115 D, 3-8 CAV 46016 A, 1-72 AR 45617 B, 3-8 CAV 42718 C, 3-8 CAV 41519 C, 1-72 AR 40920 HHB, 6-37 FA 40021 HHC, 302 BSB 39922 A, 70 BSB 38823 B, 1-72 AR 38524 A, 1-15 FA 37725 D, 4-7 CAV/D 302 BSB 37126 H, FSC, 3-8 CAV 37027 A, 4-7 CAV 36728 B, 1-15 FA 36629 A, 2-9 IN 33230 B, 2-9 IN 32531 D, BSTB 31832 HHC, 70 BSB 28133 HHB, 1-38 FA 280

PLACE UNIT POINTS1 B, 1-38 FA 9772 C, 6-37 FA 9183 17 ORD CO 7004 2ID BAND 6965 501 CHEM/CBRN 6896 A, 1-38 FA 6277 560 MCGA 6088 B, 6-37 FA 5999 HHD, 23 CHEM/CBRN 598

10 F, 333 FA/FTAB 333 57911 579 SIG 57412 629 MCAS 49513 C, 1-38 FA 44914 D, 1-72 AR 44215 D, 2-9 IN 42416 552 SIG 42117 WRC 40618 403 LRC CRC 40419 C, 2-9 IN 40420 B, BSTB 38921 B, 70 BSB 31922 A, 6-37 FA 31423 602 DET 28524 618 DENTAL 26625 604 ASOS 25226 403 AFSB 22527 8 ARMY NCOA 20028 D Det, 176 FIN 20029 21 MP DET 15030 106 MED DET 10331 19 AG (Postal) 100

Area I Commander’s Cup StandingsSmall UnitsMedium UnitsLarge Units

THE MORNING CALMMORNING CALMPAGE 8

January 9, 2015 USAG YONGSAN USAGY • PAGE 9http://yongsan.korea.army.mil

Col. Maria P. Eoff, USAG Yongsan Commander, shakes hands with Superintendent Kim Jung Hwan of the Yongsan Police Office at the Itaewon Area Police Office. This was the fourth destination of this year's Operation Santa Express. The Garrison Command and the DES showed gratitude to the police officers who continuously communicate with the Garrison for protection of the area, even during holiiday seasons. (U.S. Army Photo by Pfc. Yi, Junguk)

Santa Express Brings Smiles to Unsung Heroes

Ricky Oxendine, Director of DES, provides his 'little token of appreciation' to the Yongsan Emergency Room with the Garrison Command. He encourages and revitalizes the crew of the ER with a heartwarming speech and multiple treats. (U.S. Army Photo by Pfc. Yi, Junguk)

BY PFC WHO WHOUSAG PAO

YONGSAN GARRISON, Republic of Korea – The Garrison Command and the Directorate Emergency Services (DES) delivered a ‘Holly Jolly Christmas’ by bringing Christmas Stockings and goodies to the Area II First Responders working on Christmas Eve, December 24th. Operation Santa Express is an annual event encouraging and bringing holiday cheer to those who hold down the fort during the holidays. Ricky Oxendine, DES Director, has conducted this seamless appreciation to the people who have relinquished their holiday for others since 2007. It was then when he came up with this idea to appreciate them who protect not only the Garrison, but all of Area II, even at ‘the most wonderful time of the year.’ “The whole intent for Operation Santa Express is to show our appreciation for what they (the first responders) do 24-hours a day, seven days a week. They are protecting the community’s health, life, and safety. They are our unsung heroes," said Oxendine. "This is my way of showing how much we care for them, and for what they do.” Oxendine said. Col. Maria P. Eoff, Commander, USAG Yongsan, and and acting command sgt. major, Master Sgt. Sean R. Sparks- represented the Garrison Command Group. They along with Oxendine, and members of the DES – some dressed as Santa and Elf – delivered boxes and stockings of gratitude. With the first destination being the Yongsan Fire Department, the crew carried their journey on to the Yongsan Emergency Room, Helipad, Itaewon Police Office, the Yongsan Military Police Station, and the Consolidated Mailroom. They didn’t stop there. Their 'cheer train' reached all the way out to the gate guards working at the more-than-twenty gates in the Garrison. This year being the 8th anniversary of the project, Oxendine had this to say to the service

providers who give up their holidays to protect the Garrison. “In our line of business, we don’t necessarily get to be home when everybody else is enjoying their holidays. We don’t get to relax at our biggest holidays. We are here to say thank you for what you do, for your relentless work, and show up a little bit of our appreciation for the thing that you do,” Oxendine said. Eoff, who took command last summer, shared her feelings and gratitude to each and every person of the many Garrison first responders she and the group gave a visit to. “We don’t say thank you enough. We do it during Thanksgiving. We do it during the times of giving. But I think, more so, we need to thank every single one of you for all you do. People don’t see a lot of the things that you do. Very invisible, but very powerful and very impactful. I hope that

Santa continues to bring you all blessings. We need every single one of you here. Thank you, and merry Christmas to you all.”

What started as a small donation event, where the gifts were not as much as homemade cookies, Operation Santa Express has now grown bigger than Oxendine ever imagined, receiving donations from not only the service members and their families, but reaching out further to the Commissary, the PX and more. When asked on his future plans about this operation, Oxendine replied;

I’m very passionate about this program and what it does. It is what I have started, and I have a lot of affection for what it has become. We can never be sure about the future, but I can tell you one thing; as long as I am here, there will always be an operation Santa Express.”

Story by Pfc. Yi, JungukYongsan Public Affairs Office

THE MORNING CALMUSAG YONGSANUSAGY • PAGE 10http://yongsan.korea.army.mil

Jan. 6: R&R Bar and Grill, 1700-2100, Beef and Crab NightJan. 10: Hiking Tour Namhansansung, 1100-1500 (K16CAC)Jan. 10: USAG Yongsan MWR "8" Ball Pool TournamentJan. 17: Trip to Korean Folk Village, 0830 CACJan. 24: Health Fitness Expo. (Commiskey's, 0900-1200)

AREA II EVENTS CALENDAR

News & NotesUSAG YONGSAN’S OFFICIAL WEBSITE: Visit and bookmark USAG Yongsan’s

official website at http://www.army.mil/yongsan where you’ll find the latest news, photos, and lots of other Community information. Also, visit and “LIKE” USAG Yongsan’s official Facebook page at: https://www.facebook.com/usagyongsan. #YongsanStrong

FORTCOMING SPOUSE ORIENTATION TOUR: The spouse orientation program from ACS is being improved and the garrison is gearing up a two-day orientation for spouses to start in Jan. 2015. The process is being refined through the ACS Relocation Program for implementation.

SAFE WINTER DRIVING: - Winterize your vehicle (check antifreeze, battery, wipers, windshield washer fluid, belts, lights, heater, defroster, oil, brakes, hazard lights, tires); replace oil with winter grade oil.

- Pack a winter car kit (snow brush with scraper, f lashlight with extra batteries, blanket, mittens, socks, hat, small shovel, jumper cables, hazard sign, flares or flag, extra windshield washer fluid).- If skidding on ice, ensure to steer in the direction of the skid and make gentle corrections to regain control! DO NOT make sudden steering corrections, brake suddenly, or accelerate.

PORTABLE HEATERS REMINDER: - The use of portable electric heaters are prohibited IAW USFK Reg 420-1. Exception, Army Family Housing (AFH).

HEALTH FITNESS

EXPO

24 JAN 2015

Commiskey's Community Activity Center 0900-1200

Bring in the NEW YEAR with information on: - Access to Care - Prevention Methods - Free Fitness Classes: - Jazzercise, 1000-1030 - Zumba, 1045-1145 * For More info, call 737-1751 or 736-3340

January 9, 2015 MORNING CALM PAGE 11

THE MORNING CALMUSAG YONGSANUSAGY • PAGE 12http://yongsan.korea.army.mil

YONGSAN GARRISON – Large, teeming crowds and loud noises are what can usually be expected at the end of the year no matter where a party goer travels. Although not the typical New Year’s Eve atmosphere, the Yongsan Lanes bowling alley offered something different with its annual New Year’s Eve Extravaganza event at U.S. Army Garrison-Yongsan.

Promoting a family-friendly atmosphere, the Yongsan Lanes not only provided a dinner buffet, which included a variety of delectable foods, but also allowed everyone who had a ticket to enjoy unlimited cosmic bowling (bowling in the dark with a glow-in-the-dark ball) with opportunities to win an assortment of prizes.

“All over the other bases, you won’t find a place where there’s a true family-oriented event for kids,” said Dan Melton, the Business Operations Manager of the Lanes. “We gave prizes out to both children and adults.”

People who attended the event seemed to agree. 1st Sgt. Hugo Rucobo, intelligence and sustainment company, Headquarters and Headquarters

Brigade, 8th Army, said, “It’s not your normal New Year's- type celebration that you will see. You’re away from the big crowds, so it’s great to be able to just hang out with your family and friends.”

According to Melton, it has been approximately eight years since the Lanes started hosting the New Year’s Eve Extravaganza and the event has gained more popularity during the last four years.

This year, the grand prize included two round trip “US Airline Alliance” Airline tickets to anywhere in Asia, making the night even more memorable.

By the end of the night, more than 165 people came out to bowl the night away, to include families as well as a substantial amount of single soldiers. Breakfast was served before the clock struck midnight, and five minutes before the anticipated moment, a toast was held with champagne and apple juice to herald in the New Year. Considering the fact that every child left with a gift in their hand, and everyone walked out the door with their bellies full, Yongsan Lane’s New Year Extravaganza was the last family/single-soldier event of the year that did not let anyone’s hopes down.

Yongsan Lanes 'Cosmic bowling' strikes in New YearBowlers prepare to start a new game at Yongsan Lanes, Dec. 31. Cosmic bowling, a popular pastime for avid bowlers, brought out crowds of competiors on New Year's Eve, 2014. (U.S. Army Photo by Pvt. Byun, Hye Joon)

Story by Pvt. Byun HyejoonYongsan Public Affairs Office

(Above) Constantly changing scores and crashing pins keep everyone's eyes fixed toward the front. (U.S. Army Photo by Pvt. Byun, Hye Joon)(Right) Top hats and color ful leis are a common site to be seen as families enjoy quality time at the end-of-the-year event.(U.S. Army Photo by Pvt. Byun, Hye Joon)

January 9, 2015 USAG YONGSAN USAGY • PAGE 13http://yongsan.korea.army.mil

Yongsan Garrison welcomes first baby of New Year

Congratulations to Sergeant First Class Frederick McHaney from the 41st Signal Battalion. His wife, Cynthia gave birth this month to the first newborn of the 2015 year. Their daughter Kayla named her new baby sister, Gianna Brielle McHaney. USFK's newest edition came into this world at 00:17 a.m. Jan. 5, weighing 7 pounds, 15 ounces at a length of 20 inches. The happy family received a welcome basket from the WICU staff of Brian Army Allgood Army Community Hospital as well as a gift basket from AAFES (U.S. Army Photo by William Wight, 65th Med. Bde. PAO).

THE MORNING CALMMORNING CALMPAGE 14

This information is provided by the Korea Tourism Organization as a courtesy, and is not endorsed by or affiliated with the US Government.

'The Most Unique Tour'Ride a bike along the DMZ

Korea is home to an area unique and famous all over the world. That area is the DMZ (Demilitarized Zone), dividing the Korean peninsula into two nations along the ceasefire line, which has a 4km width, extending 2km into each country according to the truce agreement. After going through the Korean War and the following national division, the DMZ

became a symbol of this tragic conflict. However, this place offers hope and life as well. After the separation, people were prohibited from visiting the area, inadvertently making this zone an ecological preservation. How about riding a bike along this area on a special DMZ bike tour?

The DMZ Bike Tour is a special DMZ experience program, operating on the fourth Sunday of each month from February to November. Both individuals and groups are eligible to participate in this program, which takes three hours to complete. A reservation must be made in advance, and only the first 300 people are accepted, making this tour a very special experience. All participants must get a background check before applying to the program. When the background check is accepted, the applicant will get a confirmation message and the reservation will be completed after payment of the 10,000 won participation fee, which is a low price for this unique bike trip only available in one location around the world. Participants can bring a personal bike or rent a bike and helmet for an additional 3,000 won, so there is no need to worry about not having a personal bike.

Unique security trip, ‘DMZ Bike Tour’

DMZ Bike Tour departs from Imjingak, located in Majeong-ri, Musan-eup, Paju-si, Gyeonggi-do. Imjingak’s official name is ‘Imjingak National Tourism Site’, and is Korea’s representative unification tourism site, comprised of Imjingak, North Korea Memorial Hall, various monuments, a unification park and more. The bike tour departs from the right-hand side of Gyeonggi Pyeonghwa Center.

To get to Imjingak, get off at Munsan Station (Seoul Metro, Gyeongui Line) and take Bus Paju 058, or take the “Pyeonghwa (peace) DMZ-train” from Seoul Station. Imjingak has an underground bunker that was really used during the war, a train riddled with bullet wounds, and other interesting things to see related to the history of the North-South Division. We recommend arriving at the site early to look around the area before the tour begins.

Security tourism site, ‘Imjingak’

January 9, 2015 MORNING CALM PAGE 15

This information is provided by the Korea Tourism Organization as a courtesy, and is not endorsed by or affiliated with the US Government.

DMZ Bike Tour is a 17.2 km course along Imjingang River. When looking at a map, the bike tour passes by Imjingak, crosses Tongildaegyo Bridge, and continues on to Gunnae Samgeori (three-way intersection), before crossing back over Tongildaegyo Bridge, and visiting Chopyeongdo Wetland and Imjingak 64 Tongmun, the last stop on the tour. The tour ends at the Imjingak bike information center, going on a straight path back from Imjingak 64 Tongmun. The course is divided into two sections for beginners or intermediate levels and higher. Beginners can opt to shorten the trip to a little over 14km, returning to Imjingak from the resting area near Chopyeongdo Island at Tongilchon Sageori (four-way intersection).

[Course] Total Distance: 17.2- Imjingak Tongmun (Departure) ~ Tongildaegyo Bridge (South gate) ~ Gunnae Samgeori (turning point) ~ Tongildaegyo Bridge (North gate) ~ Near Chopyeongdo Island

(break time) ~ 64T Tongmun (return point) ~ Tongildaegyo Bridge ~ Imjingak Tongmun ~ Imjingak Bike Information Center - Beginners will return from Tongilcheon Sageori, near Chopyeongdo Island (resting area).

[Participation] Two levels: Beginners / Intermediate and higher - Beginner (Shortened course): about 14 km- Intermediate and higher (Full course): about 17.2 km

Since the DMZ Bike Tour runs through the Civilian Controlled Zone, it has a strict background check policy. All Korean participants must bring their driver's license or citizen card, and foreigner participants must bring their passport.

After the ID card is checked, participants will receive an RFID (radio frequency identification) card and green vest, and move to the bike storage area, located next to Gyeonggi Pyeonghwa Center, to get a bike as well as safety equipment, such as a helmet and gloves. The RFID card is very important, as bikers cannot pass the Civilian Control Line without it, and is required to be attached to the front of the bike.

Participants gather 10 minutes before departure for a short information meeting on the course and notices, followed by a simple warm-up exercise. Advanced rid-ers enter the iron fence first, and proceed in order along the road lined in wire-entanglements. Bikers should be careful to note that photos are not allowed as they are riding through areas included in the Civilian Controlled Zone. Photos are only allowed in the two designated photo zones, located before Chopyeongdo Island and at Chopyeongdo Observatory. Tongildaegyo Bridge, seen while riding along the barbed-wire fence, has no iron fence, offering a broad view of the beautiful Imjingang River. Tourists can see the wide river with resting water birds, as well as a grassland. Across the river are rice paddies, showing the peaceful scene of golden fields waving in the breeze during autumn.

The scenery of a security trip, the river of time, 'Imjingang River'

Originating in the Masikryeong mountain ridges in Deokwon-gun, Ham-gyeongnam-do, North Korea, Imjingang River passes through the areas of Gang-won-do, and Gyeonggi-do, including the cities of Yeoncheon, Jeokseong, Gorang-po, Munsan, and Seoul before passing onto Hwanghae. Imjingang River runs a total of 254km with 100km of the river in South Korea. This river, flowing through the divided Koreas, unites the Korean peninsula as one through time.

The route connecting the halfway point at Gunnae Samgeori and Tongil-daegyo Bridge to Chopyeongdo Wetland runs along an embankment road of Imjingang River. A photo zone allowing pictures is at the halfway point, with a telescope in the observatory to see Chopyeongdo Island. Chopyeongdo Island, located in the center of Imjingang River, appears quite peaceful, but no one can set foot on the island as it is covered in landmines and unexploded bombs, in addition to being past the Civilian Control Line. From the observatory, visi-tors can see Chopyeongdo Island and North Korea by telescope or binoculars. At the edge of the observatory, pictures related to the DMZ are displayed. There is also a small red post box and letter paper, where visitors can send let-ters that will actually be delivered.

Chopyeongdo Island Observatory

Peaceful nature and a wish for unification

On the way to back to Imjingak, riders are presented with peaceful scenery be-yond a wired fence, allowing people to release the tension they felt when starting out on the bike trip. Time has erased the signs of the hardships and aches of war that can be clearly seen in other parts of the DMZ, leaving behind an ambience of peace. The stained and rusty fences are decorated with written messages and prayers for peaceful unification. The site, overlooking the land of North Korea in the far distance, helps us to think about what happiness means to us. Filled with meaningful things, this bike trip will surely be remembered as a special time for all visitors.

A 17.2 km bike ride along Imjingang River

THE MORNING CALMFEATUREFEATURE • PAGE 16

Story by Park, YesinPhotos by Park, Ga-Hyun and Mary B. GrimesUSAG Daegu Public Affairs

DAEGU GARRISON — Being physi-cally fit is as important to a Soldier’s life and well being, as the proper main-tenance and care of his assigned weap-on. Like that weapon, the more that a Soldier does to maintain his physical fitness and readiness, the better he is likely to perform. Few would argue the strength of this statement, and many like CSM Ray Thornton, CSM, USAG Daegu know all too well how impor-tant fitness is to successfully accom-plishing the unit or Army mission. Seeking to start the New Year off on a healthy note, in a recent interview CSM Thornton spoke to the issue of physi-cal fitness and readiness. He said, “Sol-diers have to always be ready to step up and move out in support of whatever the Army mission might be. We have to be mentally and physically tough while we are performing our military duties. Good fitness through a regular work-out is so important to Soldiers. A good work-out not only helps in elimi-nating stress, but is vital in the devel-opment of the body. Further, that’s why we attach profound importance on actual training for about one hour in the morning. The morning physical training or PT plays such a vital role in a Soldier’s daily routine.” Like any great leader, leading by ex-ample can make all the difference in how well a team, a unit or even an organization is able to accomplish its goals. The holidays now behind us, the CSM sees today as an ideal time to return to a schedule that ensures the spotlight remains on physical train-

Soldier fitness and readiness take center stage in Daegu

ing and Soldier readiness. He knows that neither is done by resting on one’s laurels. In other words, both take hard work, and a strong commitment. “I participate in PT and PRT in the morning with Soldiers. Simply put, to get the ideal body shape, one should work out with as the most power as one can use. I have been doing it for 27 years and I do so by applying a lot of different exercise techniques dur-ing a physical fitness session. One thing that I do is the cardio-vascular workout. It is the exercise that gets the whole body moving. It’s an aerobic and muscular exercise. For example, while in the gym, we lift dumbbells while riding the bicycle. In my case, I can train one muscle group in the morn-ing and others in the evening. It really

works for me,” said the Area IV CSM While the CSM may be

completely committed to fitness, he realizes that not all soldiers are alike. For some, meet-ing the Army’s physical fitness requirements is both a challenge, and a struggle. CSM Thornton pointed out that there are some Soldiers who have physical limita-tions that exist, and may be the result of a num-ber of different medical or physical issues. Even

so, the individual is still responsible for meeting the standard the Army has established for physical fitness, and it’s not something any Soldier should take lightly. The CSM explained however, that the U.S Army has programs for those Soldiers who might find themselves struggling during a workout. Adher-ence to Army FM 21-20, which pro-vides guidelines for creating or devel-oping programs that will improve and or maintain physical fitness levels, is crucial to meeting the Army’s fitness requirements, and the unit’s training goals. He addressed the matter of a medical profile which provides the in-dividual recovery time if the medical official has declared that an injury or medical issue makes such a time nec-essary. “The PT profile is for Soldiers who incur some type of physical in-jury via an accident or something of that nature. The profile speaks to the extent to which a Soldier can work out or the type of duty he is able to per-form during whatever the designated period,” explained the CSM. Addressing another topic related to physical fitness and Soldier readiness CSM Thornton touched on the issue of overweight personnel. He said, “Soldiers who fall in this cat-egory may have difficulty per-forming Army tasks because of their weight. In many instances they need guid-

ance on how to manage their weight, and that’s what the Army’s overweight program does.” Taking the overweight issue a step further, the CSM mentioned one thing in particular that is a major culprit be-hind the problem...energy drinks. He stated, “We frequently see Soldiers downing these energy drinks. Unfor-tunately, there are some Soldiers who tend to think energy drinks really play a role in keeping them energized, fit, and able to build muscles. I totally, totally, totally disagree with their line of thinking. These drinks consist of a whole lot of sugar. So much sugar. It is false to think that they are healthy in any way.” Before closing the interview, CSM Thornton reiterated the importance of every Soldier keeping himself fit, and ready at any time to step up in support of whatever the assigned unit or Army mission. Touching on the importance of those principles key to training the force, he said that every Soldier must be able to successfully meet work re-quirements and the physical strength capacity his duties may require. “In the end, however, it’s up to the in-dividual to reach out and embrace the training and the guidance we provide

so that he can meet the demands of the Army. Maintaining and participating in a healthy, and appropriate fitness program is one way to achieve this,” com-mented CSM Thornton. x

January 9, 2015 FEATURE FEATURE • PAGE 17

'Sweet Apples'Rock the Night Away in Yongsan

Sweet Apples is a talented band that performs around the Garrisons for the entertainment of service members and their families in the Republic of Korea. Apple, Rhea, Mikee, Roberto, Rhick and Bien rocked the night away at R&R Bar & Grill, Jan 7 at U.S. Army Garrison Yongsan. Their next performance at the R&R is scheduled for Jan 21 (U.S. Army Photos by Pfc. Yi Junguk).

THE MORNING CALM USAG HUMPHREYSUSAGH • PAGE 18http://www.army.mil/humphreys

January 9, 2015 MORNING CALM PAGE 19

THE MORNING CALM USAG HUMPHREYSUSAGH • PAGE 20http://www.army.mil/humphreys

January 9, 2015 USAG HUMPHREYS USAGH • PAGE 21http://www.army.mil/humphreys

THE MORNING CALM USAG HUMPHREYSUSAGH • PAGE 22http://www.army.mil/humphreys

This information is provided by the Korea Tourism Organization as a courtesy, and is not endorsed by or affiliated

with the US Government.

Enjoy unforgettable winter memories at the 'Taebaeksan Mountain Snow Festival'

Frolic in the fantastic world of white snow at Taebaesan Mountain! Danggol Square of Taebaeksan Provincial Park, the festival’s main venue, will hold a snow sculpture exhibition for visitors to enjoy ice sculptures and a range of other winter-themed artwork from home and abroad.

There are also be a wide variety of amusement facilities such as a snow tunnel, slide and rafting area as well as snow and ice sculptures. Around Hwangji Pond, visitors may enjoy the light & ice festival along with the beautiful world of lights created by Luminaries and the shining stars in the sky.

A number of other interactive programs such as a snow sculpture competition for university students, Dr. Fish foot bath, snow sledding, dog sled rides and other fun games will be held during the festival period. The festival full of fun and excitement will be the best winter destination providing worthwhile memories for adults dreams of happiness for kids. Visit the Taebaeksan Mt. snow festival for an exciting winter with friends and family.

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More Info

Period: January 23, 2015-February 1, 2015

How to get there: From Dong Seoul Bus Terminal, take an intercity bus to Taebaek.* Bus Schedule: 06:00-23:00, 30-40min intervals

From Taebaek Bus Terminal, take a bus bound for Danggol.Get off at Taebaeksan Provincial Park.* Bus Schedule: 07:38-22:25, runs 24 times a day

* Hwangji Pond is a 10-min walk from the Taebaek Bus Terminal.

Website: festival.taebaek.go.kr (Korean, English)

Inquiries: +82-33-550-2828,+82-33-550-2741, +82-33-550-2085

1330 Korea Travel Hotline: +82-2-1330 (Korean, English, Japanese, Chinese)

Taebaeksan Mount ain Snow Festival

News & Notes Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Step Show

Saturday, Jan. 10: Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Inc. is sponsoring their annual Step Show, starting at 7 p.m., in the Humphreys Community Fitness Center. This activity is used to help support their scholarship fund. There will be an adult after party, in the Alaska Mining Company until 2 a.m.; admission is included with the cost of the show ticket. Tickets are $20 in advance, $25 at the door. Children's tickets may only be purchased at the door, for $10 (ages 5-18); ages 4 and under are admitted free. For more information, contact Vickie Osborne at 010-2111-8994 or Paula Knox at 010-2836-1508.

Painted Door Thrift Shop Bag Sale

Saturday, Jan. 10: The Painted Door Thrift Shop is having a Bag Sale. Fill a bag for $5, $10 or $15 with donated clothing, shoes and accessories (consignments not included). The Thrift Store is located in Bldg. 550. The sale hours are 10 a.m.-2 p.m.

Weight Management Class

Monday, Jan 12: A Weight Management Class will be held via VTC at the Humphreys Medical Clinic (Bldg. 555) starting at 9 a.m. This class meets the nutrition-counseling requirement for the Army Body Composition Program. No appointment is required. For additional information contact the Nutrition Clinic at 737-1570.

Teen Cyber Café Grand Re-Opening

Thursday, Jan. 15: Teen Cyber Café Grand Re-Opening from 5 to 8 p.m. open to all CYSS-registered youth in grades 9 - 12. Located at Bldg. 570, the Teen Cyber Café is now fully operational. The space opened in August, but has been a work in progress, gaining new items, furniture and decoration which each passing week. The Café offers 3 Alienware gaming computers featuring the latest and most popular games for teens. It boasts 2 PlayStation 4 consoles and 2 XBox One consoles, all fully equipped with the most up to date video games for the New Year. The soft couches, bean bag chairs and table settings create a comfortable atmosphere to relax with friends. Free wifi, phone charging stations and Keurig coffee is also available. Join us on Jan. 15 to see what the Café has to offer, enjoy the atmosphere, relax with friends and enjoy a free pizza dinner. For more information, call 753-5614

Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day of Service Project

Saturday, Jan. 17: Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day of Service Project. Youth and staff will participate in a local trash cleanup initiative in the Korean community. The project will take place from 2 - 6 p.m., and youth should meet at the Youth Center to participate. The trip will be outside the main gate, so a parent permission slip is required to attend and due no later than Jan. 16. There is no registration fee, and the project is open to all CYSS-registered youth in grades 6 - 12. Dinner in the Ville will be provided by CYSS to all youth participants. For more information, call 753-5614

Government Purchase Card (GPC) Training

Tuesday, Jan. 20: The Government Purchase Card (GPC) Team, 630th Contingency Contracting Team, will conduct training available to all Camp Humphreys/Area III Units at its Pyeongtaek Regional Contracting Office (P-RCO) Bldg. S-1406. It is a first come, first serve basis, with a MAXIMUM 15-seats available from 8:30 a.m. –noon. Additional projected dates: March 24, May 26, July 28 and Nov. 24 (all dates subject to change). For more information, contact SSG Canty, at 754-8342 or jorico.s.canty.mil@mail.mil

OH Roller Derby Bout

Saturday, Jan. 24: OH Roller Derby Bout begins at 5 p.m. at the MP Hill Fitness Center. Visit www.facebook.com/OHRollerDerbyFan for details.

Building Resiliency in Children Parent Education Class

Thursday, Jan. 29: Building Resiliency in Children Parent Education Class from 9 to 9:30 a.m. at the CDC. Free to attend, no pre-registration needed. For more information, call 753-3413

Parent Date Night

Friday, Jan. 30: Is the registration deadline for the Friday, Feb. 13 Parent Date Night from 6 to 10:30 p.m. at the Child Development Center. For children 6 weeks through 5th grade cost is $4/child/hour. Children must be registered with CYSS. Registration should be made through the program that your child is enrolled in. For CDC youth, please call 753-8601 and for SAC youth, call 753-8507.

Morning Calm, Notes From The Garrison Contact

Anyone needing to have information put out to the community through Notes from the Garrison or has a story idea for The Morning Calm, should contact Clint Stone at clint.l.stone.civ@mail.mil or call 754-0034.

January 9, 2015 MORNING CALM PAGE 23

THE MORNING CALMUSAG DAEGUUSAGD • PAGE 24http://daegu.korea.army.mil

Story by Sgt. Ferdinand DetresPhotos by Sgt. 1st Class Norman Llamas and Sgt. Ferdinand Detres501st Sustainment Brigade Public Affairs

DAEGU GARRISON — Soldiers of the 501st Sustainment Brigade fin-ished a week long exercise that took them just a few miles short of the de-militarized zone Dec. 1-7. The Champion Thunder exercise involved all the battalions under the 501st SBDE, to include the Head-quarters and Headquarters Compa-ny, the 501st Sustainment Battalion, the 194th Combat Support Sustain-ment Battalion, the 498th CSSB, and the 94th Military Police Battalion. The Republic of Korea Army's 3rd Lo-gistics Support Command was also a key player in the exercise. Champion Thunder's intent was to deploy and establish a combined lo-gistical support area to train in the combined environment on mission command, logistical support, area and base security operations. With the high turn around rate of Soldiers coming in and out of the Korean peninsula it becomes a chal-lenge whenever there is a field exer-cise of this magnitude. One of those challenges was the fact that many Soldiers were not familiar with con-voy operations. "Some of the concerns of the young-er Soldiers as they told me were, 'Yes first sergeant I'm driving because I have to but, it was briefed to me that at anytime you have an accident no matter if someone walked in front of your vehicle, drove a bicycle in front of you, or hit a car that pulled in front of you, it's always going to be your fault,' that's what they have on their mind," said 1st Sgt. Verlinzy Burns, first sergeant, HHC, 501st SBDE.

Champion Thunder Strengthens Bonds

During the first day of the exer-cise Soldiers were met with below-freezing temperatures, which made setting up equipment in the middle of the night more difficult. Despite the obstacles, the brigade was able to establish operations within a little more than 24 hours. "We are getting there," said Master Sgt. Victor Taylor, brigade operations noncommissioned officer in charge, 501st SBDE. "It was the first time a lot of people were able to work to-gether between the brigade primary staff and the battalion primary staff. We have to be nested from the com-pany to the brigade level." "We have a lot of work to do, the best way to go after it is to focus small. We have learned that from an equipment and process standpoint we need to work on some areas. By process I mean battle drills, how we transfer information. The equipment speaks for itself, we need to do better with our equipment," said Command Sgt. Maj. Jason Willett, command sergeant major, 501st SBDE. "We are going to start putting a lot of emphasis on sergeant's time train-ing after the holidays," Willett con-tinued. "From a brigade perspective we are going to make that our focus. If we start doing the small things right and more consistent, the over-all operation on our next exercise will go much smoother." Champion Thunder not only gave the command a clear picture of ar-eas that needed improvement, it also brought a unique opportunity for Soldiers to work side by side with

the Republic of Korea Army Soldiers and their equipment. It also created stronger bonds along the way. Maj. Timothy Ryu, 501st Brigade chaplain, organized a religious event called Combined Interfaith, "Diverse yet unified," which brought Soldiers of the ROK Army and U.S. Army to-gether. During the event there were five religions represented by speak-ers from the ROK and U.S. sharing their beliefs. Right after the event Soldiers from both the U.S Army and ROK Army were able to enjoy snacks and bond with one another. "We really strengthened the ROK Army and U.S. Army alliance from all levels," said Willett. "I am ex-tremely proud of our Soldiers and the ROK Army Soldiers. I've been in

the Army for almost 22 years and this event was one of the more inspiring things I've seen." Despite the cold weather and a few concerns in regards to the experience level of the Soldiers, both the 501st SBDE's leadership and the 3rd LSC's leadership agreed that Champion Thunder was a success. It helped strengthen the alliance between the U.S. Army and the ROK Army be-cause the exercised allowed the two entities to work side by side and learn from each other. Both units expressed their satisfac-tion with the results of the exercise and look forward to working with each other in the future. x

Soldier s gather t h e i r g e a r t o load ont o thei r vehic les, whic h were headed to t h e C h a m p i o n Thunder combined exercise.

S o l d i e r s w i t h H e a d q u a r t e r s and Headquarters C o m p a ny, 5 01 s t S u s t a i n m e n t B r i g a d e , p u l l a generator to power the brigade tactical

oper ations center during the Champion

Thunder, combined exercise held the week of Dec. 1-7, in South

Korea. The exercise brought together the 3rd Logistical Support Command Soldiers and the 501st Sustainment Brigade Soldiers whom all learned to work with each other.

Soldiers assigned to the 348th Quar termaster Company, 194th Combat Sustainment Support Battalion, 501st Sustainment Brigade, instruct Republic of Korea Army Soldiers on mounted and dismounted convoy operations as well as Improvised Explosive Devices recognition and reporting procedures. Following the block of instruction, the Soldiers had a chance to put their newly learned skills to the test by actually going on a mounted patrol around their field exercise compound.

Republic of Korea Army Soldiers assigned to the 3rd Logistical Support Command, pose for a photo at the conclusion of field exercise Champion Thunder. All throughout the exercise, ROK Army Soldiers and US Soldiers had a chance to exchange patches, rank insignia, Meals Ready to Eat and other objects as a sign of support and acceptance for one another. Both units agreed on the fact that their bond grew stronger by the time the field exercise culminated.

January 9, 2015 MORNING CALM PAGE 25

THE MORNING CALMMORNING CALMPAGE 26

January 9, 2015 USAG DAEGU USAGD • PAGE 27http://daegu.korea.army.mil

Quality pet care gives community good reason to "paws"

DAEGU GARRISON — The Camp Walker Veterinarian Clinic has been providing qual-ity veterinary services to pets belonging to military family members, for years, and with a New Year now upon us, there's no sign of that changing. That's why officials from the clinic want to share with the USAG Daegu and Area IV com-munity, especially those newcomers who are now making the area their home, a few tips and suggestions that will aid in the care and well-being of their pet throughout their stay in Korea. According to Capt. Daniel Christensen, Offi-cer in Charge (OIC), Camp Walker Veterinary Clinic, there are a host of services the clinic has available to authorized users of the pet medical facility. He gladly pointed out specific areas of im-portance to any pet owner by stating, "First, pet owners should make sure their pets are up-to-date on their vaccines. A lot of owners don’t pay attention to this, and sometimes they don’t get their pet the required shots or immunizations. This can result in animals be-coming really sick." Second, treats can pose a problem because what is really delicious for humans, can be perilous for pets. Raising pets to be healthy depends as much on what you feed them, as how you treat them. Owners must be care-ful not to feed foods consumed by humans to their pets, and should be equally careful not to leave foods like raisins or nuts around, as they could be harmful to the pet if ingested."

Story and Photos by Park, YesinUSAG Daegu Public Affairs

Tips for a healthy pet diet are not all that the OIC had to offer. He went on to share that among other services available at the pet care facility, animal surgery is among them. He explained that veterinary surgeries are car-

ried out three or five times a week on average, and might include ani-mals; dogs, cats, rabbits, turtles, birds, and ferrets. "They are all treated here. I'd have to say that of these animals, ferrets seem to be especially difficult to treat when cancer is the cause of their illness. Cancers are, of course, difficult to treat in any animal," he comment-ed. As one could imagine, surgery takes time, and according to Capt. Christensen, even the shortest surgeries usually take 30 minutes, while the longer ones can take up to two hours. "It could easily take two hours if multiple procedures are applied to the same animal," said the OIC. While the surgical procedures keep him busy, the duties of Capt. Christensen are not limited to just the surgeries in the clinic. In fact, there are times when he finds him-self playing referee when two pets either want the same item or equal attention. "Sometimes two dogs of the same sex will fight each other to obtain

possession of food, or another pet's interest," he said. "It's important that while the pet is in the clinic, the owner maintains complete con-trol of their animal." While Capt. Christensen and the Camp Walker Veterinary Clinic staff certainly appear to have their hands full, their work doesn't end at the clinic. Adding to the tremendous sup-port they render to the USAG Dae-gu and Area IV community, they are also hands on when it comes to conducting food inspections. "Anywhere food is served, we are there to ensure that it meets the established policy guidelines re-garding storage and preparations," explained Capt. Christensen. Finally, Camp Walker Veterinary Clinic is a major player in the qual-ity of life of pets and humans alike. Located adjacent to the Camp Walker Lodge, this veterinary clinic is open to all authorized I.D. cardholders --including DoD civil-ians and retirees.x

THE MORNING CALMUSAG DAEGUUSAGD • PAGE 28http://daegu.korea.army.mil

Unattended candles nothing to glow about

DAEGU GARRISON — Around the world, in rich and poor countries, light-ers and matches are the dominating symbols of fire and fire ignition. Every-one uses lighters and matches to ignite candles, pilot lights, campfires, ciga-rettes, fireplace fires, and countless oth-er “safe” fires. Easy to buy, to transport and use, matches and lighters are conve-nient and efficient, but can quickly and easily become deadly and destructive. Annually, an estimated 23,600 fires in homes are caused by candles. These fires injure 1,525 people, and kill 165, plus cause 390 million dollars in direct prop-erty loss. Lighters and matches caused an esti-mated 20,200 home fires, resulting in 276 deaths, 1,445 injuries, and 322 million dollars in property loss. However, if we look at matches and lighters involved in all types of structure and wildland fires, we find that they start the fires that lead to 80 percent of all fire related deaths, 76 percent of the injuries and 68 percent of fire related property loss. Children play-ing with matches and lighters are a very

Contributed by USAG Daegu Fire Department

“Candle Circle of Safety”

• Burn candles inside a 1-foot circle of safety, free of any¬thing that can ignite.

oNext to candles – Curtains, decorations, things on the same level as the candle.

oAbove the candle – lamp shades, shelving above the candleoBelow the candle – table cloth, papers laying about, bedding, carpet, etc.• Place on a Non Combustible surface• Extinguish candles after use.• Keep candles out of the reach of children and pets. • Use a sturdy metal, glass, or ceramic candleholder.

Never leave a burning candle unattended; leave the room, extinguish the candle! Candles have long been a part of just about everyone’s life, from birthday candles, to power outage emergency lights and everything in between. Un-der the safest conditions, candles are still an open flame source looking for more fuel to consume. We must go beyond common sense as most of us have grown up not following proper candle safety, so we think it is safe, but reality says we are but a simple mistake away from a catastrophic fire!

Home fires started by candles, lighters and matches are preventable. Just keep in mind some simple precautions and reinforcements:

• Proper use and storage of matches and lighters in the home – This is an around the clock job.

• Teach children about the dangers of fire and the ramifications of play-ing with it – This is not a onetime discussion! Again and again and again and …….. It is that important!

• Education in the proper use of candles, start with the person in the mirror!

• Remove all candles from all bedrooms! Use wisely in other rooms and put them out when you leave the room, even for a minute!

• Fire can strike anytime; respect this fact and treat anything that can be an ignition source (anything that can become hot) with respect and care!

Firefighters have a great respect for fire; if you need help identifying pos-sible sources of fires in your home or at work, contact us! We are here to help you eliminate fires in our community. x

large portion of all of these fires. When we look at candle related inci-dents, women are more likely to be in-jured (30 percent more) or killed (45 percent more likely) in fires in the home where candles are the ignition source. Of great concern to community leaders is over a resent 10-year period, candle sales climbed 700 percent With a trend like this, we can all see the writing on the wall. In lighter/match related fires where children are involved, we see a drasti-cally higher percentage of fire damage, injuries and the heart wrenching one, deaths! Arson related fires cause less av-erage damage, injuries and deaths then children playing with these deadly in-struments according to national data. With matches and lighters, we find-that most of the fires in the home oc-cur in a bedroom; can you guess whose bedroom? Do you know 100 percent for sure that your kids are not playing with matches and lighters? When we look at candles, not surpris-ing, most candle related fires occur dur-ing the winter, however, due to the use of candles as a fragrance, we still see many candle fires in the middle of the summer. What does a candle first ignite in a deadly rampage? In December it is holi-day decoration; during the rest of the year it is furniture, curtains, and bed-ding. The most deadly place for candles is the bedroom where nearly 40 percent of fires occur; why? You have the big three items found year round, bedding, curtains and furniture. Top the big three off with falling asleep and you see why candles are a huge problem in the bedroom! Do your children have can-dles in their bedrooms?

January 9, 2015 USAG DAEGU USAGD • PAGE 29http://daegu.korea.army.mil

From visas to KIS issues, the legal office can help

Story and Photo by Pfc. Kim, Si-woongUSAG Daegu Public Affairs

DAEGU GARRISON — There are many U.S. personnel who find liv-ing in South Korea both exciting and challenging. For many, their experi-ences in the Land of the Morning Calm are limited only by the extent of their dreams and imagination. However, for some U.S. Soldiers and family members what started out as a dream assignment, can quickly be-come a nightmare--especially if legal documents required while traveling or living abroad, are not in order. Thankfully, for members of the

USAG Daegu and Area IV communi-ty, such worries do not have to exist because of the guidance and support available at the Office of the Staff Judge Advocate (OSJA), HQ, 19th ESC, on Camp Henry. For visas and any questions you might have, the Camp Henry legal office stands ready to assist authorized U.S. personnel in matters that newcomers to Korea, as well as those who've visited before, might find a tad overwhelming. For individuals serving in Area IV, a visit to the legal office can make all the difference. That's because at the legal office on Camp Henry people like Ms. Yong-Hui So, an experienced

specialist on matters per-taining to U.S. visas, Status of Forces Agreement (SOFA) issues, and claims process-ing, is ready to help. Speaking from her personal experience she said, "When I traveled to the U.S. for the first time, it was a war to me. Taking care of everything that comes up every day -- every week was so tough. Therefore, as a sur-vivor of that experience, it is not hard to imagine when newcomers arrive in country, how they struggle and stum-ble. I feel I have a responsibil-ity to explain to them step by step because I know that in dealing with matters involv-ing visas it's something they may not be familiar with." Ms. So, doesn't just talk, she is very serious about her job and responsibilities, and that is clear by the patience and professionalism she exhibits as she tries to put customer's

at ease. One way she does this is through the bi-monthly newcomer's briefings hosted by the Garrison, and fully supported by the legal office. During these briefings Ms. So pro-vides newcomers and family mem-bers with a checklist to help guide them in preparing those documents required by families who are in need of a SOFA stamp. This checklist is also provided at the legal office. As a liaison between the Area IV community, and the Korea Immi-gration Service (KIS), each week Ms. So reviews, and then submits all the documents collected from SOFA stamp applicants--rather than

have them deal directly with KIS. "Of course, if the applicant chooses to contact KIS himself, I will gladly review their documents beforehand. However, they can allow me to do this for them, and that will be one less thing for them to worry about," she said. Understanding that the right in-formation is vital to the process-ing of visas, and an A3-Visa (SOFA stamp), Ms. So explained that the KIS doesn’t require military personnel to get a visa or passport because of Status of Forces Agreement (SOFA). She stressed however, that "In the case of dependents, and U.S. civilian employees, it’s another story. They need to get an A-3 Visa, stamp. The Visa Waiver Program (VWP) allows citizens of participating countries to travel without a visa for stays of 90 days or less. If you have any ques-tions, visit the Camp Henry legal Of-fice regarding this process. While there is a lot to absorb regard-ing the visa process, Ms. So said that the legal office can be very helpful, and encourages anyone with ques-tions to not hesitate to contact her office. "Every case will vary, and the necessary documents will be deter-mined case by case. Should anyone have any questions or concerns, we encourage them to contact the le-gal office as soon as possible...before they encounter any serious problems. Please don’t hesitate contacting our office. We look forward to hearing from you, and will assist you as best we can." The Legal Office is located on Camp Henry in Bldg.1805 adjacent to the Gate 1 entrance. Call DSN: 768-6631 or 763-4424 for assistance. x

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January 9, 2015 MORNING CALM PAGE 31

Korea-wide Army chaplain points of contactArea II and USAG Yongsan Chaplains

Chaplain (Lt. Col) Daniel S. Ohdaniel.s.oh.mil@mail.mil, 738-3009

Chaplain (Maj.) Michael Fraileymichael.l.frailey.mil@mail.mil, 738-3058

Area III and USAG Humphreys Chaplains

Chaplain (Maj.) Ricky A. Way:ricky.a.way.mil@mail.mil 754-7274

Chaplain (Maj.) Steven H. Tompkinssteven.h.tompkins.mil@mail.mil, 754-7042

Area I and USAG Red Cloud Chaplain

Chaplain (Capt.) David Mvondodavid.mvondo.mil@mail.mil 732-6169

Area IV and USAG Daegu Chaplains

Chaplain (Maj.) Sun C. ‘Charlie’ Leesun.c.lee4.mil@mail.mil, 764-4192

Chaplain (Maj.) Paul Wilbournpaul.d.wilbourn.mil@mail.mil, 764-5455

Area III Worship ScheduleArea I Worship Schedule Area IV Worship ScheduleArea II Worship Schedule

Liturgical Sunday 9:30 a.m. Memorial ChapelTraditional Sunday 9:30 a.m. Brian Allgood HospitalContemporary Sunday 9 a.m. South Post Chapel Sunday 10:30 a.m. K-16 Chapel Sunday 11 a.m. Hannam Village ChapelNondenominational Sunday 11 a.m. South Post ChapelGospel Sunday 1 p.m. South Post Chapel

Mision Pentecostal Hispana Sunday 1 p.m. Hannam Village Chapel

United Pentecostal Sunday 1 p.m. Memorial Chapel

KATUSA Tuesday 6:30 p.m. Memorial Chapel

Seventh-Day Adventist Saturday 9:30 a.m. Brian Allgood Hospital

Episcopal Sunday 11 a.m. Brian Allgood Hospital

Catholic Services

Catholic Mass Saturday 5 p.m. Memorial Chapel Sunday 8 a.m. Memorial Chapel Sunday 11:30 a.m. Memorial Chapel M, W, T, F 11:45 a.m. Memorial Chapel 1st Sat. 9 a.m. Memorial Chapel

Jewish Friday 7 p.m. South Post Chapel

Latter-day Saints worship POC: seoulbp@gmail.com

Daegu

SundayCollective Protestant 9 a.m. Walker ChapelCatholic Mass 10:30 a.m. Walker ChapelMulti-Cultural Gospel 12:30 a.m. Walker ChapelChurch of Christ 11:00 a.m. Walker Chapel Annex Contemporary 6 p.m. Walker ChapelYouth Ministry 6:30 p.m. Fellowship Hall

TuesdayKWBS 10:30 a.m. Walker Chapel AnnexKATUSA Service 6 p.m. Walker Chapel Annex

WednesdayPWOC 10 a.m. Walker Chapel AnnexLDS Youth Bible study 6:50 p.m. Walker Chapel Annex

FridayLDS 6:30 p.m. Walker Chapel Annex

Saturday (1st of each month)Men of the Morning Calm 7:45 a.m. Walker Chapel

Camp Carroll

SundayCollective Protestant 10 a.m. Camp Carroll ChapelCatholic Mass 11:45 a.m. Camp Carroll Chapel

Thursday KATUSA Service 6 p.m. Camp Carroll Chapel

Latter-day Saints worship POC: daegubp@gmail.com

Collective ProtestantSunday 11 a.m. Stanley ChapelSunday 11 a.m. CRC Warrior ChapelSunday 9:30 a.m. West Casey Chapel

Liturgical ProtestantSunday 10 a.m. Hovey Chapel

Gospel Sunday 10:15 a.m. Memorial Chapel

COGIC Sunday 1:00 p.m. CRC Warrior Chapel

KATUSA Sunday 7 p.m. CRC Warrior ChapelTuesday 6:30 p.m. Memorial Chapel

PWOCWednesday 9:30 a.m. West Casey Chapel

Catholic Services/Mass Sunday 9 a.m. CRC Warrior ChapelSunday 11:30 a.m. West Casey ChapelSunday 3 p.m. Stanley Chapel

Latter-day SaintsSunday 1:30 p.m. West Casey Chapel

Traditional ProtestantSunday 11 a.m. Freedom Chapel

Spanish 1 p.m. Freedom Chapel

Chapel Next 4 p.m. Freedom Chapel

Korean Worship Wed 7 p.m. Freedom Chapel

Korea Women Bible Study Tue, 9:30 a.m. Freedom Chapel

KATUSA Bible Study 6 p.m. Freedom Chapel

PWOC Bible Study Wed 6:30 p.m. Freedom Chapel

Spanish Bible Study Thur,7 p.m. Freedom Chapel

Catholic MassSunday 9 a.m. Freedom ChapelM, W, T, F 11:45 a.m. Freedom Chapel

Religious education Sun 10 a.m., Freedom Chapel Tue 6 p.m.

MCCW 3rd Th 9:30 a.m. Freedom Chapel

PWOC Wed 9:30 a.m. Bldg. 557

PMOC 2nd Sat 8:30 a.m. Freedom Chapel

Youth Wednesday 3:45 p.m. Bldg. 557 and 5:30 p.m.

Latter-day Saints worship POC: cphumphreysbp@gmail.com

Army aims to avoid sleep casualtiesStory by Cpl. Lee, Hosu8th Army Public Affairs Office

A U.S. Forces Korea Soldier shuts off his alarm before beginning a new work day on U.S. Army Garrison Yongsan. Sleep deprivation when Soldiers pull 'all-nighters' is a growing concern in the military that hinders mission success due to decreased activity from poor resting among troops.

Anyone who knows about cars can tell about the dangers of constantly redlining a vehicle’s engine. Eventually, the engine gives out. The same thing happens when some pull “all-nighters” – that time when one stays up all night only to be so tired the next day that staying awake is impossible. Eventually, the body gives out and must rest.

“You require sleep to perform optimally,” says Col. Michael Mysliwiec, a sleep medicine specialist at Brian Allgood Community Hospital.

Mysliwiec says that just as Soldiers need to refuel with food after physical training and they also need adequate hours of sleep in order to reduce the chances of becoming a sleep casualty.

“They could be driving a military vehicle and crash or cause a major accident, or they could be doing a security mission and fall asleep,” says Mysliwiec. “Sleep is required for us to maintain our mental acuity and our cognitive function so that we could perform optimally every day.”

Lisa Young, a health educator at the U.S. Army Public Health Command, wrote in a Feb. 2014 article that poor sleeping habits can also have long-term consequences.

“Studies have shown that not getting enough sleep can lead to an increase in heart rate and blood pressure, increases inflammation, impairs glucose tolerance, and increases in appetite,” wrote Young.

While the exact amount of sleep required to avoid becoming a sleep casualty varies between people, Mysliwiec recommends eight hours of sleep per night.

Mysliwiec says sleep is required for Soldiers to maintain mental sharpness and cognitive functions.

“People produce growth hormones, testosterone, other recovery type hormones that recovers the body and mind,” says Mysliwiec. “Although the exact pathophysiologic reason for sleep is not clearly determined, it is clear that we cannot live without sleep. Sleep is a process that allows the brain to recover.”

Even though many know the importance of sleep, some still have trouble falling asleep. Mysliwiec has a few

suggestions to help people initiate sleep better. The first is to avoid staring at the clock while trying

to fall asleep. “Either you are asleep or you are awake,” says

Mysliwiec. “If you wake up, toss, turn, and can’t fall back asleep, you need to get out of bed.”

He says this will help one’s body better associate a bed with sleep. Mysliwiec recommends that Soldiers find something boring to do in order to feel sleepy again.

“My universal instruction to Soldiers since coming to Korea has been to read a field manual, or read an army regulation,” Mysliwiec says. “For most people that is something they are not going to really want to read.”

Another factor is the activities that Soldiers do before they go to bed.

Mysliwiec recommends avoiding smartphones, laptops and tablets for at least 60 minutes before sleeping.

“Blue light from any type of computer devices is definitely not recommended,” he says. “When direct light comes into our eyes, it decreases melatonin production (a naturally occurring hormone that allows us to go to sleep at night).”

It is also very important to maintain a steady sleep schedule during the week and the weekends.

For more information about the nutrition, sleep and exercise, check out the free smartphone app for iPhone and Android by searching “performance triad.”

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