Eighth Army Soldiers Visit Orphans

Camp Humphreys, South Korea--U.S. Army Soldiers delivered smiles and laughs to children at House of Love Orphanage, located in Pyeongtaek, Feb. 15, 2018.

The Soldiers, assigned to Operations Company and Intelligence and Sustainment Company, Headquarters and Headquarters Battalion, Eighth Army, took time out from work to spend a few hours with more than 20 boys and girls who live in an orphanage specializing in caring for disabled children.

"I volunteered because I have three kids of my own and I miss them, as well as knowing how kids can get lonely around the holidays," said Spc. David Rankine, a Florida native.

The Soldiers spent their time making art, and playing sports and games with the children.

Continuing a long history of volunteering in South Korean communities, the Soldiers plan on visiting the orphanage on a regular basis to play with the children and assist the staff.

"We are trying to make sure that we provide a presence the staff can rely on regularly, giving the children the attention they miss." said Cpt. Michael Carkhuff, commander of Operations Company. "It shows the U.S. [Army] is not just concerned with its mission sets, but the community that surrounds us."

*Note: To find out more about volunteering in the community, contact the Pyeongtaek International Exchange Foundation or an Army Community Service center near you.