Gunsan City recognizes base English volunteers

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Stephen Collier
  • 8th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
GUNSAN CITY, Republic of Korea --  Airmen stationed at Kunsan Air Base were recognized by members of the Gunsan City educational community during an English volunteer recognition ceremony here May 16. 

  The 55 Airmen who have donated their time over the past months teaching elementary and middle school children English received a certificate of authorization, giving the bearer full recognition for teaching English in Gunsan. Through a translator, Mr. Moon, Won ik, Gunsan City Educational Board president, said the English volunteer program has been helpful in building a friendly relationship between Koreans and the U.S. 

  "I take pleasure in having this event with the U.S. air base volunteers as well as teachers who work hard for [their] students," Mr. Moon said. "Although you leave Korea (after your assignment), I hope you will cherish the relationship." 

  Each English volunteer from Kunsan instructs three to four classes each Saturday, totaling more than 110 Gunsan children. With Airmen volunteering at more than 40 local schools, they potentially reach 3,000 students a weekend, helping them learn vital English skills needed in the Korean education curriculum. 

  After Mr. Moon's address, Col. Jeff "Wolf" Lofgren, 8th Fighter Wing commander, stressed the base's commitment to the English volunteer program for many years to come. 

  "A year ago, when we continued this program, I was excited by this opportunity our Airmen would have because teaching English gives us a chance to interact with the great people of South Korea," Colonel Lofgren said. "Sharing our cultures and experiences are very important to this alliance. Our volunteers will not only remember the experiences they've had, but in reality, they will become life-long friends with their Korean teacher hosts and students." 

  As the evening continued on, volunteers and distinguished guests alike were entertained with songs sung by students from the local Jikok elementary school.  Afterward, middle school violinists from around the city played for the group. 

  "Gunsan City's English volunteer program makes it much more special to interact with children at the elementary and middle school level," the colonel said. "The children truly enrich the Airmen's lives."