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ROK and U.S. Army soldiers rest after participating in a mock force on force battle.
Photo by SSgt. Suzanne M. Jenkins, USAF |
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Explosive Ordnance Disposal
During FOAL EAGLE, a U.S. marine Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) unit briefed ROK airmen on the new MK-152 remote firing device and on the use of the MK-121 remote fuse disassembly kit to open suspicious packages from a safe distance.
“This is our third year working with the ROK EOD, and every year we greatly improve the relationship and understanding between our units,” said U.S. Marine SSgt. Brian Eagmin. “The ROK EOD has shown us different ways to use the tools that we share in ways that we have never thought of using them. So we have taken turns learning from each other.” |
Combat Operations
White smoke filled the valley as 39th Tank Battalion, 5th ROK Armor Brigade attacked 2nd Infantry Division, 1st Battalion, 72nd Armor during the combined training exercise at Twin Bridges Training Area.
The 5th ROK Armor Brigade and the U.S. Army 2nd Infantry Division used Multiple Integrated Laser Engagement Systems (MILES) that create a life-like battle allowing “hits” to be counted after the laser successfully engages the vehicle or soldier. A high-pitched alarm or flashing yellow light on a vehicle says the target is hit.
“The terrain the soldiers train on is realistic to combat operations. This is one of the only places you will train where you may one day have to fight,” said U.S. Army Lt. Col. Patrick Stackpole. “Considering the high tech equipment and the number of soldiers that were involved, the exercise calls for a lot of preparation and work.”
Visiting an Orphanage
ROK airmen and U.S. Marines and sailors visited the children at the Yechon House of Love Orphanage, bringing food, clothing, blankets, and an afternoon of fun. Since the service members arrived around the children’s lunchtime, they served the children food and assisted the caretakers in feeding the children. After lunch, the service members helped brush the children’s teeth. |
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ROK Air Force MSgt. Park Kyu Tae helps U.S. Air Force MSgt. Mark Kuntz camouflage his face during the SERE portion of RSOI/FOAL EAGLE.
Photo by SSgt. Stacy Pearsall, USAF |
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U.S. Marines, sailors, and airmen visit and entertain the children of the Yechon House of Love Orphanage.
Photo by LCpl. Kevin McCall, USMC |
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After assisting with daily tasks, the service members and children sang songs and danced.
Conclusion
The coordination between ROK and U.S. forces throughout RSOI/FOAL EAGLE provided valuable lessons for both forces and highlighted the strength that comes from teamwork. |
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