CAMP HUMPHREYS, South Korea – For the first time, members of the U.S. Army Garrison Humphreys Fire Department were invited to the Korean Fire Fighter’s Day ceremony at the Pyeongtaek Fire Department, Nov. 9.
Joining their local counterparts at the ceremony, the Humphreys fire chief along with department fire fighters celebrated the profession while raising awareness and understanding of fire safety.
The event kicked off with various performances, followed by congratulatory messages, an award ceremony and luncheon.
Marcus Shepard, USAG Humphreys fire chief, shared the significance of joining their host nation counterparts on such an occasion.
“We work with the Pyeongtaek Fire Department about four to five times a year through training sessions, ceremonies, station tours, and whenever assistance is requested to support emergency operations with the Pyeongtaek Fire Department,” said Shepard. “Our intent is to make our bond stronger so that when we work together to save lives or property, we can operate with little to no friction points or hiccups.”
Humphreys Fire Department has been investing in building healthy relationships with its local and regional counterparts. The department hosted Gyeonggi Province Fire Services Director General Mr. Cho Seon Ho, Oct. 5, and provided a tour of the fire stations on the installation to increase understanding of U.S. fire and emergency services.
After the ceremony, Shepard met with Kang, Bong-joo, the Pyeongtaek fire chief, and presented a certificate of appreciation to show the Humphreys Fire Department’s appreciation for Kang's unwavering cooperation.
Republic Korea’s “Fire Day” is a holiday established to promote understanding of fire and preventing fires, as well as to celebrate fire fighters who selflessly protect people's property and lives from fire. November 9 was chosen as the date for the holiday because the number nine symbolizes the national emergency hotline: 119.
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