Dogok Elementary School students gain hands-on experience in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) during an educational visit to U.S. Army Garrison Humphreys, hosted by the 607th Combat Weather Squadron.
About 30 students from Dogok Elementary School in Pyeongtaek, South Korea, were given a unique opportunity to delve into the world of meteorology through a STEM visit at U.S. Army Garrison Humphreys. The visit, hosted by the 607th Combat Weather Squadron, provided the students with a behind-the-scenes look at the critical role weather technology plays in military operations and day-to-day life. Through hands-on activities and interactions with weather experts, the students gained a deeper understanding of how weather conditions impact military operations and the importance of accurate weather forecasting.
Exploring the Partnership between the U.S. and Republic of Korea
Bae Hye-deuk, the weather squadron’s chief meteorologist at Humphreys, emphasized the partnership between the U.S. and Republic of Korea and highlighted the significance of weather technology in military operations. He shared a historical anecdote about Admiral Yi Sun-sin, who used unpredictable weather to his advantage during the Battle of Myeongnyang in 1597. This highlighted the importance of understanding and utilizing weather conditions in strategic decision-making.
Hands-On Orientation to Weather Equipment
During the visit, the students had the opportunity to explore the weather station and learn about the various instruments used to analyze weather data and track atmospheric conditions. Staff Sgt. James Jang, a weather forecaster with the 607th Combat Weather Squadron, provided a comprehensive overview of the weather instruments and answered the students’ questions. This hands-on experience allowed the students to gain practical knowledge about different weather phenomena and the importance of accurate weather forecasting.
Understanding the Impact of Weather on Military Operations
Following their visit to the weather station, the students visited the 2nd Combat Aviation Brigade, 2nd Infantry Division, to understand the impact of weather on military aviation. U.S. Army Warrant Officer James Jun explained how weather conditions affect flight safety and aircraft performance. The students had the opportunity to tour the 2nd CAB hangar and see a CH-47 Chinook helicopter up close. This firsthand experience provided valuable insights into the role of accurate weather information in pilot decision-making.
Promoting STEM Education and Careers
The STEM visit to U.S. Army Garrison Humphreys aligns with the Department of Defense’s STEM initiative, which aims to promote STEM education and careers. By providing students with hands-on experiences and interactions with experts in the field, the initiative seeks to strengthen national security, foster innovation, and build allied partnerships. The visit to Humphreys not only exposed the students to the world of meteorology but also highlighted the importance of STEM education in a military setting.
Conclusion:
The STEM visit at U.S. Army Garrison Humphreys provided Dogok Elementary School students with a unique opportunity to explore the world of meteorology and understand its significance in military operations. Through hands-on activities and interactions with weather experts, the students gained valuable insights into weather technology and its impact on day-to-day life on the installation. The visit not only promoted STEM education but also fostered a deeper appreciation for the partnership between the U.S. and Republic of Korea in maintaining peace and security. As the students left Humphreys, they carried with them a newfound understanding of the critical role weather plays in military operations and the importance of accurate weather forecasting.
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