'Pfc. Jung, Pfc. Lim, Cpl. Yang, and Sgt. Harr discuss which slope to go up next at the bottom of the hill. Vivaldi Park offers a range of slopes to accomodate skiers and snowboarders of all levels, and beginners were even offered preliminary courses prepared by MWR in order to enhance the experience of the Quest.' (U.S. Army Photos by Pfc. Byun, Hyejoon)
YONGSAN GARRISON – Flecks of snow carried by the winter breeze hit against excited faces as the sun started unveiling itself from behind the clouds. Beyond squinting eyes, the morning light illuminates the stretch of gleaming white slopes, which are speckled with colorful skiers, who would soon be joined with more company.
“Alright, crew. Be at the right place at the right time!” With that, the air filled with the sounds of boots from “Dragon Knight” soldiers trudging through the snow for the Warrior Adventure Quest, Feb. 5, at Gangwon Province.
The Warrior Adventure Quest, a program managed by Morale Welfare Recreation, is designed to allow soldiers to challenge themselves through leisure activities. It is held several times a year, and for this particular time, the group of Dragon Knight soldiers had an opportunity to visit Daemyung Vivaldi Park which is located in Gangwon Province.
Though going to enjoy winter sports normally has a hefty price tag in Korea, all the expenses were provided by MWR so that the soldiers could have the best of the experience. With all the equipment and lifts having been provided, the group was able to enjoy an entire afternoon of skiing and snowboarding.
The experience was not only limited to individual skill honing, but also encompassed the aspect of helping out one’s battle buddy. Having spent a substantial amount of time on the slopes together, the group of KATUSAs and U.S. soldiers had stronger bonds both among and between each other by the time they got on the bus to go home.
“There were two goals for the Warrior Adventure Quest today,” said Alexander Kim, company commander, Headquarters and Headquarters Company, U.S. Army Garrison Yongsan.
“One was to have fun. The second goal was to learn how to look out for those next to you and share the knowledge that you have with each other. I hope you all were able to accomplish both of those goals today.”
Smiling despite their aching joints, the Dragon Knight soldiers returned home victorious from their icy challenge.
For more information about the next Warrior Adventure Quest, please contact your unit BOSS representative.
