Environmental Division stresses the importance of environmental training

By Pfc. Cho Yong HyunFebruary 11, 2016

Environmental Division stresses the importance of environmental training
(Photo Credit: U.S. Army) VIEW ORIGINAL

USAG Yongsan -- Military installations around the world must adhere to local environmental standards, regardless of where the installation is located. To meet local standards, here in Area II, USAG Yongsan's Department of Public Work's Environmental Division trains newly assigned environmental officers to not only ensure compliance, but also to bring a greater understanding of the cultural significance of the local area.

According to Army Regulation 200-1, environmental officers are required to be trained once they have been appointed by their commanders and directors. Area II Environmental Division standard operating procedures requires environmental officers to receive training within 90 days of their assignment.

"The Environmental Division welcomes any Soldiers or civilians who have interest in being trained in environmental management," said Mr. Richard E. Santos, the Environmental Training Program Manager for USAG Yongsan.

Newly assigned environmental officers as well as interested Soldiers can enroll in the program by contacting Mr. Hong, Chang Ki. Mr. Hong has been the Environmental Training Coordinator for over 20 years and manages course enrollment. Enrollees can download the environmental training registration form from the Yongsan Environmental Division website (http://www.army.mil/article/117495), fill in all the required information, and email it to Mr. Hong for enrollment. For any questions regarding the enrollment, call Mr. Hong at 724-6175.

The five-day long course, given in English and Korean, specifically trains unit environmental officers in organizational compliance with the United States Forces Korea Regulation 201-1, as well as providing them information on the natural and cultural resources in Yongsan and Area II.

"Training students on the natural and cultural resources of Yongsan and Area II helps them to become more aware of their surroundings and the historical significance of some of the monuments and buildings they work and live in" said Santos.

Course instructor Mr. Douglas explained, "many students in the course are surprised to learn, for example, some of the building they are living in once served as Japanese troop barracks. Within walking distance from the Camp Coiner training room, are charred and spray-painted ritual stone blocks dating back to the Lee Dynasty, which unfortunately had been used as a BBQ pit in the past by unknowing personnel."

"I think seeing the damaged ancient artifacts in person will remind them of the importance of recognizing and preserving the hundreds of cultural artifacts that are on our installation that our host nation has entrusted to us," said Han.

The course not only consists of the classroom academic training information, but also includes hands-on activities like inspecting a maintenance facility so the students can learn what "right" looks like. Han also demonstrates the proper way to respond to spills.

Soldiers, as members of the community, can help boost both the safety and quality of life on post, by understanding the surrounding environment deeper.

For more information contact the Yongsan Environmental Division at 724-6151.

Related Links:

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