YONGSAN GARRISON, Republic of Korea -- Servicemembers from Area II, who throughout the year volunteered their time and selfless service, were honored at the People to People International award banquet at the Grand Ballroom of the Grand Ambassador Hotel in Seoul, Dec. 20.

The awardees were each presented medallions around their necks and certificates displaying their names and a brief description.

Area II was represented by: Cpt. Vladislav Silayev, Headquarters and Headquarters Company commander, USAG Yongsan; Cpt. Amy Alexandra Rupert, adjutant assigned to 524th Military Intelligence Battalion; 1st Sgt. Donna Swan, HHC USAG Yongsan; Spc. Jessica McDonald and Spc. Ronald Bunno, both assigned to 2-2 Assault Battalion.

Silayev, who led his company to multiple volunteering events, to include delivering coal and rice to the less fortunate, and cleaning up the streets of Itaewon, shared his thoughts on receiving the award.

"I accepted this award on behalf of the Soldiers who went out there and participated in all those volunteering events," said Silayev. "It shows that U.S. forces and Korea can really work together in a strong relationship and also give back to the community."

The event was overseen by Dr. Kim Gil Youn, Chairwoman of PTPI Korea National Headquarters, who addressed the assembly with praise.

"I congratulate and salute all the honorees of our PTPI membership," said Kim. "The exemplary UN military personnel, the multi-racial families, and our exemplary citizens."