"What is your name' Where do you live'"
Soldiers and officers were bombarded with questions by young kids. High-pitched excited voices filled the long queue at the Thunder Inn Dining Facility where Wangnam Elementary School students were waiting for lunch.
As a part of a national security cultural excursion, sponsored by Gyeonggido Provincial Office 2, Wangnam Elementary School students from Sungnam visited Camp Casey April 23.
Upon their arrival, they were given briefings on the 2nd Infantry Division and the importance of its presence in Korea. The group then toured Camps Casey and Hovey.
They then had a chance to look at some of the tactical displays prepared by 6th Battalion, 37th Field Artillery. The students rushed into the vehicles as soon as the briefing was done, fulfilling their curiosities about the Army's equipment.
"With this helmet on, I can't hear anything." said Kim, Min Ki, a fifth grader from Wangnam School. "We are not in war right now, but I am proud to see both ROK and U.S. Army working together to protect our country."
The students and Gyeonggido government officials were further entertained at Carey Gym, where the 2ID Tae Kwon Do Team demonstrated Combat Tae Kwon Do. The students' jaws dropped and they clapped after every kick, drawn into the rather charismatic force of the team.
"I thought there was a big cultural difference between Americans and Koreans but it's cool to see American Soldiers demonstrating our national martial arts," said Lee, Sam, a 5th grader from Wangnam School. "I feel like I know more of the Army which isn't all about the guns."
Children gave the Soldiers big high fives when they sat down to get a picture taken with the children.
"We tried to make it educational and fun," said Spc. Ira Solomon, a 2ID Taekwondo Team member. "I believe they really enjoyed it."
The students then moved to the dining facility for corndogs and mini pizzas, but soon they were distracted by the mouthwatering desserts like ice cream.
They also ran around to get Soldiers' autographs, showing gratitude and much enthusiasm in their attempts to speak some English.
"My oldest son is the same age," said Lt. Col. Robert Hanley, commander of the 6th Battalion, 37th Field Artillery. "(Today was) just to let them see what we do for the country and to meet the Soldiers. After all, we are here for the kids, both American and Korean."
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