CAMP HUMPHREYS, South Korea -- The 501st Military Intelligence Brigade recognized Pom-Chae Yi, a Republic of Korea civilian employee, for 50 years of dedicated service at a ceremony held at Camp Humphreys, South Korea, Feb. 25.
Col. Kris Arnold, commander, 501st MI Brigade, presented Yi with his 50-year certificate in front of the entire brigade. Following completion of mandatory service with the Republic of Korea military, Yi has served five decades as the brigade commander's driver (formerly the 508th Army Security Group).
"Mr. Yi has served both his nation and ours with great distinction over the last 50 years, an accomplishment few people have achieved," said Arnold. "He is categorically a national treasure."
Yi's professionalism and dedication is not lost on those that have been in his presence.
"My military service helped to instill the standards that have guided me throughout all of my years as a driver," Yi said.
Seventy-seven years old and always impeccably dressed, Yi is always the consummate professional.
"Always displaying the utmost courtesy and respect, Mr. Yi is truly a pleasure to have in the office. To this day, he continues to add great value to this command," Arnold added.
After receiving his award, Yi spoke of what it takes to stay at a job for 50 years.
"While this is a great accomplishment, I could not have done any of it without the support of my wife and three children," Yi said. "While I didn't anticipate doing this job for 50 years, I look forward to driving for another 50 years if they'll allow it."
Yi, also the recipient of the Superior Civilian Service Award, six Honorary Commander's Awards for Civilian Service and countless other driving commendations, has driven accident-free for 26 commanders over 750,000 kilometers.
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