TONGILCHON VILLAGE, Republic of Korea -- Since January, service members have been training continuously aboard the Korean Warrior Base here to improve their combat readiness. With training ending in the area, the service members decide to branch out and help a small village just outside the base.
Republic of Korea Army soldiers with 3rd Battalion, 12th Regiment, 1st Infantry Division, along with U.S. Marines and sailors with 2nd Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment, currently attached to 4th Marine Regiment, 3rd Marine Division, III Marine Expeditionary Force, under the unit deployment program, sought to improve relationships with local community members through cultural exchanges March 16 in Tongilchon Village, Republic of Korea.
“I’m grateful for the service members being able to come here and help out,” said Byoung Youp Cha, the village manager. “It’s a good opportunity for all of us to become closer.”
The day started with the approximate 120 service members along with local government officials and local civilians separating into five groups to help the elderly village farmers prepare their peppertree fields for spring planting.
The groups put dead peppertrees, plastic soil coverings and stabilization poles in a pile and removed them from the fields. In less than two hours, more than three acres of field was cleared.
“Helping the farmers gave me an idea of what the local life in that area is like,” said U.S. Navy Petty Officer 3rd Class Nathan D. Dufoe, a hospital corpsman with the battalion. “They were very hospitable to us in response to our work. I had a good time.”
To show appreciation for the service members hard work, the farmers served energy drinks and Makgeolli, a rice wine, to the groups.
Following the work, the service members transitioned to the Tongilchon Village Museum where they learned the history of the village ranging from ancient times to present day.
“It feels good to be around these people and learn their culture,” said U.S. Marine Lance Cpl. David E. Irvin, a rifleman with the battalion. “It’s been a knowledgeable and rewarding experience.”
After the museum, some service members joined local civilians for a worship service at the Tongil Church. The service members were welcomed and ushered into the sanctuary. All participated to sing Amazing Grace. Following the service, the church offered cold drinks to attendees.
“It was encouraging to see the service members show their enthusiasm for the events throughout the day,” said Maj. Jonathan Hayes, the executive officer of the battalion. “Their efforts proved that they are not only good service members, but they are good representatives of America as well.”