Tucson Boys Chorus visits Osan

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. Christopher A. Marasky
  • 51st Fighter Wing Public Affairs
OSAN AIR BASE, Republic of Korea --  The Tucson Arizona Boys Chorus performed on July 18, for Team Osan at the Challenger Club as part of a tour through the Republic of Korea and other parts of Asia.

The chorus was invited to Korea by World Vision International to participate in the 3rd World Vision 2007 International Children's Choir Festival in Seoul.

The Tucson Arizona Boys Chorus joined with children from seven countries, representing the United States at the event. The theme for the 2007 festival is "Voice for the Voiceless," extending hope, vision, and love for children who suffer from disease, famine and war, according to a flyer for the festival.

After their performance in Seoul, the chorus toured Osan and performed for the members of Team Osan. The tour and performance were coordinated by the 51st Services Squadron and Maj. Kimberly Youngquist, whose son is a member of the chorus.

"The base has been great, 51st Services has been amazing," said Major Youngquist. "We were able to go and get a tour of the aircraft and a tour of the base."

While in the Republic of Korea, the boys from the chorus have been staying with Korean families who have sons in the chorus, offering the kids a chance to immerse themselves in Korean culture.

"The boys are just a wonder to be around; they are well mannered, strong young men who truly are ambassadors for the U.S.," said Major Youngquist. "They took every new experience with open eyes and tried to learn as much as they could. They stayed in host families houses, so really got to learn about the culture and were very grateful for the hospitality."

Following their tour of the Republic of Korea this week, the chorus will be heading to Hong Kong, where they will finish their tour of Asia. The Tucson Arizona Boys Chorus has a 68-year history that includes being invited to world-wide events