OSAN AIR BASE, South Korea -- Soldiers assigned to 35th Air Defense Artillery Brigade brought some excitement and their game faces to the Pyeongtaek Local Children's Center May 30 as part of a community outreach program.

The brigade's unit ministry team planned the event after meeting with numerous children organizations over the last few months in the Pyeongtaek area.

"Since arriving to the brigade, we've been searching for the right organization to partner with," said Maj. Ben Clark, 35th ADA chaplain. "The event was a success, and it was clear that both the children and Soldiers really connected. We're excited to make this a recurring event."

Once the Soldiers arrived, they quickly immersed themselves in board games and an ultra-competitive game of cards. The children bounced around from table to table with smiles on their faces as cheers and jeers filled the room.

Despite the language barrier between the U.S. Soldiers and children, hand gestures and the occasional translation assists from the Korean Augmentees to the United States Army on hand bridged the communication gap.

"As a KATUSA, it felt good to volunteer and give back to the local community," said Cpl. Mincheol Chang, KATUSA assigned to 35th ADA BDE. "It was nice to get away from my daily routine, and I really enjoyed playing games with the kids."

According to Young Hee Kim, an employee of the Pyeongtaek Local Children's Center, the after school program supports families that financially qualify.

Pvt. Carlos Sanchez, a chaplain's assistant assigned to 35th ADA BDE, who arrived to the unit just one week ago said, "I really enjoy volunteering, it is a good way to get involved in the community. Plus, it's a good way to learn about the customs and the culture."

The visit ended with a quick group photo of the Soldiers, staff and children.