CAMP CASEY, South Korea - As the year 2015 comes to an end, there is no greater joy than helping those in need.
Soldiers assigned to Headquarters and Headquarters Battery, 210th Field Artillery Brigade, 2nd Infantry Division/ROK-U.S Combined Division, residing in the Dongducheon community have been reaching out and supporting the local community throughout the year.
20 Soldiers visited the Issac House, a children's center near Mangwolsa station, Uijeongbu to develop a positive relationship with the children and learn what support the Soldiers can provide to the children.
"The purpose of this trip was to introduce our Soldiers to the children," said Maj. William A. Brickenridge, a Houston, Texas native and brigade chaplain of 210th FA BDE, 2nd Inf. Div. "The Soldiers were able to learn a little bit about them and their culture and share a little bit about themselves with the kids."
Upon arrival at the 'Isaac House', both Soldiers and children were hesitant. However, as they participated in programs such as viewing a dance performance put on by the children, singing Christmas carols and playing soccer and basketball together, the Soldiers were able to develop a positive relationship with the kids.
"This is a great opportunity for the children," said Hyesoon Noh, the director of the 'Isaac House'. "They have always wished to meet people from overseas; it feels like our prayers have been heard and Christmas came early this year."
"My desired goal is for our Soldiers to see this [volunteering at Isaac House] as an opportunity and for them to adopt it," said Brickenridge. "We would be able to come and visit the children and the staff on a monthly basis and possibly provide donated supplies that are necessary for the [Isaac House]."
With the volunteer event coming to a successful end, the Chaplains Office has begun collecting donations for the children to be delivered on a future visit to Isaac House.
"I represent 210FA Brigade but at the same time represent my God as a chaplain," said Brickenridge. "I believe religion is helping those who are in many cases helpless."
"It was highly interactive and many Soldiers wish to come back in the months to come," said Brickenridge.
Social Sharing