For a one-year unaccompanied tour, my time in South Korea went surprisingly quick. But what makes the time go by are the people you're there with.
Thursday, November 09, 2006
End of Tour Summary: Korea
For a one-year unaccompanied tour, my time in South Korea went surprisingly quick. But what makes the time go by are the people you're there with.
Wednesday, November 08, 2006
Last Day in Korea
Ah, the fall colors, crisp morning air, and the excitement that come with rejoining your loved ones. It really is a beautiful day.
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| The view outside my room |
Since I turned over all my responsibilities to my replacement, there's basically nothing for me to do but walk around and enjoy the view. But then I came across this:
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| Broken water main...but it's no longer my problem. |
Tuesday, November 07, 2006
Promotion to Captain!
Osan Air Base, Republic of Korea
Today is my promotion ceremony to the rank of Captain. I was given the choice of where to hold the ceremony. For the last year, I would pass this one particular tree on the golf course, and it just seemed right to incorporate it. The tree's roots date back to about 1270 A.D. It has seen the rise and fall of nations. It has seen countless wars and conflicts. In fact, the Enheng-jungui Ginkgo Tree located on Osan's golf course was declared a registered local landmark by the city of Songtan in 1994.
Trees such as this are an important piece of traditional Korean culture and have often been a focal point of village life. According to tradition, most villages had some type of tree, which was often thought to influence the prosperity, fertility, health and fortune of the village.
Korean history also shows that people hold many of the large old trees in high regard due to much of the deforestation that occurred during the Korean War. A tree that has lived more than seven centuries carries a lot of history in its branches and should be treated with respect.
Today is my promotion ceremony to the rank of Captain. I was given the choice of where to hold the ceremony. For the last year, I would pass this one particular tree on the golf course, and it just seemed right to incorporate it. The tree's roots date back to about 1270 A.D. It has seen the rise and fall of nations. It has seen countless wars and conflicts. In fact, the Enheng-jungui Ginkgo Tree located on Osan's golf course was declared a registered local landmark by the city of Songtan in 1994.
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| I think the tree will be there long after the bunker crumbles. |
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| November in Korea isn't exactly the warmest time of year. |
Wednesday, November 01, 2006
Halloween in Korea
One of the best things about living in Korea is the ability to get made to order clothing...or Halloween costumes.
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| Pretty standard Pumpkin and Angel |
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| A penguin, a dog, and convict go to a bar... |
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| Bad Taste award: The Late Steve Irwin |
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| Most original: A Deviled Egg |
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| Dr. Evil, I presume? |
