Migration News
More than 300 volunteers help at Yongsan’s ‘June Jamboree’
June 6, 2007
A group of children give it their all during a tug-of-war battle at the 21st annual “June Jamboree” Friday at Yongsan Garrison, South Korea. (Todd Macdonald / Courtesy of U.S. Navy)
A group of children give it their all during a tug-of-war battle at the 21st annual “June Jamboree” Friday at Yongsan Garrison, South Korea. (Todd Macdonald / Courtesy of U.S. Navy)
Elijah Sampson gives his best Spider-Man impression during the “June Jamboree.” (Todd Macdonald / Courtesy of U.S. Navy)
Ben Johnson waits patiently as he gets a soccer ball painted on his face during the “June Jamboree.” (Todd Macdonald / Courtesy of U.S. Navy)
Marquis Robinson creates an enormous bubble Friday during the “June Jamboree.” (Todd Macdonald / Courtesy of U.S. Navy)
YONGSAN GARRISON, South Korea — Members of Commander, U.S. Naval Forces Korea lent a hand to the 21st annual “June Jamboree” on Friday, according to a Navy news release.
The event — which included bowling, swimming, games and a barbecue — offered special-needs students “a day of fun and fitness” at Yongsan Garrison, according to the release.
Alexander Carter, who manages the Army Community Services’ exceptional family member program, said in the release the event gives his staff a chance to evaluate the children’s future needs.
“This is a way for the parents and the agency to get some face-to-face time and discuss the areas where the children need a little more attention,” Carter said. “And while we are doing that, the volunteers are making it possible for the kids to have a great time.”
More than 300 volunteers — including CNFK personnel — assisted.
“It really is a good thing to see how much the kids enjoy themselves, and I think the time we spend here lets us be kids for a day as well,” Petty Officer 1st Class Kevin Goodman was quoted as saying in the release.
“I can’t believe how much fun I had,” Petty Officer 2nd Class Abel Garcia added. “This was supposed to be a day for the kids, but I think the volunteers got something out of it as well. I can’t wait until next year.”
CNFK is the regional commander for the U.S. Navy in South Korea and provides expertise on naval matters to area military commanders. CNFK also serves as liaison to the South Korean navy, the Combined Forces Commander staff in armistice and in wartime and to the Commander, U.S. 7th Fleet, based in Yokosuka, Japan.