CAMP HUMPHREYS, Republic of Korea – Soldiers assigned to U.S. Army Garrison (USAG) Humphreys' Headquarters and Headquarters Company (HHC) participated in the new "Operation Outdoor 007" pilot program here, May 14.

The program, initiated by USAG Humphreys Commander Col. Michael F. Tremblay, was created to promote and encourage personnel to train outdoors at least once a week, for a minimum of seven hours.

“Thanks everyone for being here today,” Tremblay said, as he kicked off the event. “What we are trying to do is bring a new concept to the Army. This period has been tough for many of us…and being outdoors has proven to be healthy. So, we are trying to start a new initiative where we can begin to transition to doing most things outside, and this is our first step in doing that. I appreciate you being the first to kick this off.”

More than 50 Soldiers, including Korean Augmentation to the United States Army (KATUSA) soldiers, actively participated in an urban land navigation challenge, an Army Combat Fitness Test (ACFT) exercise session, and several stress management briefs.

“The biggest change I saw today was the change in soldier’s morale,” said Capt. Akhtar Barcliff, HHC commander. “I really appreciate being outdoors and interacting with soldiers that I don’t typically see on a daily basis…if you look around, everyone is happy and in a good mood. So definitely, bringing them together, away from the workplace and outside, changed the morale of the company.

“I hope to continue the program, especially for soldiers who were not able to be here today, so they can have an opportunity to participate as well,” she said.

Pfc. Aijah Jenkins, assigned to the Humphreys Religious Services Office, appreciated the day to interact with other soldiers in the company and to practice physical fitness.

“Urban land navigation was a good refresher for me and for those who haven’t done it in a long time,” she said. “I met and worked with people, who I don’t typically work with. I also appreciated the ACFT workout, which will help us to prepare in the future. This was a good day.”

KATUSA soldiers also appreciated the outdoor activities and the camaraderie with their fellow soldiers. Their weekly meetings have been cancelled due to COVID-19 restrictions.

“Until this time, I was not able to continue my military training with my fellow soldiers,” Pvt. Choi Hyun-min said. “However, it’s great to see everyone and train together again, because of this program. I hope it will continue in the future.”

The day concluded with briefs on stress management techniques and the benefits of reducing stress levels.