OSAN AIR FORCE BASE, Republic of Korea -- OSAN AIR BASE. Republic of Korea– U.S. Airmen assigned to the 51st Security Forces Squadron played soccer with Republic of Korea military police and army members as part of a team-building sports event Oct. 21, 2022.
Eight teams composed of both ROK and U.S. members competed in a double elimination soccer tournament. Event organizer 1st Lt Jeffrey Halili, 51st Security Forces flight commander, says the event will help build comradery for future bilateral partnership.
“We wanted to do a social event with the Republic of Korea Military Police and Republic of Korea Army partners in terms of building connections and fellowship leading up to our next base-wide training event.”
Halili explained how sports can act as a medium for communication between cultures.
“Even though there is a language barrier, through something as universal as sports, they are figuring it out through non-verbal communication,” said Halili, “That’s exactly how it’s going to be in real world situations.”
After the winning team was awarded a trophy, all participants gathered for a barbeque to finish the festivities.