CAMP HUMPHREYS, Republic of Korea -- Warriors kicked off the long weekend with a Turkey Bowl football game between enlisted Soldiers and officers, but the highlight was enjoying a delicious home-cooked meal, with all the traditional Thanksgiving fixings.
The 2nd Infantry Division/ROK-U.S. Combined Division gathered at dining facilities throughout the Korean Peninsula to celebrate Thanksgiving Nov. 22.
"It's great to have a meal with my team, especially since our families are so far away," said Staff Sgt. April E. Pehoski, Brooklyn, New York native and geospatial engineer, 2ID/RUCD. "The staff at Tomahawk DFAC went all out to ensure we had a great Thanksgiving meal as close to 'mom's' dinner as possible."
Since the official opening of Freeman Hall Nov. 20, Tomahawk Dining Facility feeds the more than 1,300 newly relocated Soldiers from both 3rd Armored Brigade Combat Team, 1st Armored Division out of Fort Bliss, Texas and 2ID/RUCD.
"A lot of teamwork and preparation went into creating the holiday meal because we know Soldiers miss their home, so we wanted to provide a taste of that," said Sgt. 1st Class Michael A. Johnson, a native of Philadelphia, and Tomahawk Dining Facility manager, 3rd ABCT, 1st AD. "We aspire to provide a welcoming environment, a home away from home, to combat homesickness."
Maj. Gen. D. Scott McKean, San Jose, California native, commanding general, 2ID/RUCD and Command Sgt. Maj. Phil K. Barretto, Aiea, Hawaii native, 2ID/RUCD sergeant major traveled around the Republic of Korea, ensuring they served meals to as many Warriors as possible, a long-standing military tradition on the holidays where leaders serve their Soldiers to demonstrate appreciation for their hard work and dedication.
"Soldiers, civilians, families and friends of the Warrior Division: Kim and I, along with DCSM Barretto and Marlene wish you a safe and Happy Thanksgiving," said McKean. "As we reflect on all the reasons we are grateful, CSM and I are especially thankful to have you on the 2ID/RUCD team. We appreciate all you do each day. It's your hard work, dedication, and professionalism that makes the Warrior Division truly Second to None!"
For more imagery of the Warrior Division's Thanksgiving celebration, please visit https://www.flickr.com/photos/2id/albums/72157702357318171
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