Osan to participate in Korean/American Friendship Festival

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. Candy Knight
  • 51st Fighter Wing Public Affairs
OSAN AIR BASE, Republic of Korea --  In a show of friendship and mutual cultural respect, members of Team Osan are preparing to participate in the Songtan Chamber of Commerce's 6th Annual Korean/American Friendship Cultural Festival, Sept. 27 and 28.

The two-day event will be held in the Shinjang Shopping Mall, just out-side the main gate from 1 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. Sept. 27 and 3 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. Sept. 28.

The themes for this year's festival are "We Go Together," and "Be a Good Neighbor."

This is the fourth year Osan has participated in the festival, which includes American and Korean stage performers, a parade and cultural booths designed to enhance attendees' knowledge and understanding of both countries.

"What a great way to experience Korean culture and it's right outside the main gate," said Master Sgt. Matt Summers, 51st Fighter Wing Public Affairs Office. "There's no excuse for members of Team Osan to not take part in this celebration and get to know their Korean neighbors a little bit better."

The parade begins at 3 p.m. Sept. 27, followed by the opening ceremony at 5:30 p.m.
The parade will feature civic groups from Songtan and Pyeong-taek City, as well personnel and equipment from Team Osan.

More than 50, 000 people attended 2007 festival. Organizers for the 2008 festival are expecting more than 70,000.

"It's amazing how much time, effort and money the Songtan Chamber of Commerce has put into this festival," Sergeant Summers said. "It's the chamber's chance to say thank you for the relationship that's been built and the support they receive from the base."