More than 40 countries represented at annual event

By Mrs. Melissa Buckley (Leonard Wood)September 4, 2014

More than 40 countries represented at annual event
(Photo Credit: U.S. Army) VIEW ORIGINAL

International students from more than 40 different countries filled Nutter Field House for the Know Your World Exposition Friday.

From Afghanistan to Vietnam the students gathered to help share their cultures and, for some even, a little taste of home.

Colorful displays, artifacts and rich smelling foods from far away lands, filled the tables.

"I really like seeing all of the uniforms and native dress," said John Arata, G-3 Training chief.

The reception was presented by the International Military Student Office and is in its 14th year.

Visitors were asked to pick up a passport at the door to log in information such as language, weather, food and something interesting, for each country they visited with.

Capt. Miroslav Kutacek, Czech Republic military police, is at Fort Leonard Wood for the Captains Career Course.

In addition to his display, Kutacek brought Czech Republic military police badges and medals, bread and goulash for visitors.

"Just like it is interesting for me to learn about your country, I think it is great that you can learn about mine," Kutacek said.

Arata brought his wife Lisa to the event. He said they never miss a Know Your World reception.

"We come every year and we love it. We like to talk to all of the students from around the world. It helps us figure out where we want to travel to next. We have decided we are going to take a trip to Croatia," Arata said.

Lisa Arata said her favorite part is tasting all the different foods.

"The Thai food is wonderful. It is worth standing in the long line for," Lisa Arata said.

"If you didn't make it this year, put it on the calendar for next year," she added.

The IMSO offers an International Military Student Friendship Program in which American military Families can sponsor international students. This program is a chance for host families to help the students learn about American family life and activities.

To find out more information on the Student Friendship Program or to become a sponsor, contact 573.563.0068.

Related Links:

Fort Leonard Wood GUIDON Newspaper

Maneuver Support Center of Excellence and Fort Leonard Wood