Wolf Pack lends helping hands

  • Published
  • By Capt. Sheryll Klinkel
  • 8th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
KUNSAN AIR BASE, Republic of Korea --  Col. Robin Olds dubbed the 8th Fighter Wing as the Wolf Pack during the Vietnam War because of the wing's aggressive tactics and teamwork. The base is still known as the Wolf Pack and prides itself on the aggressive mission of the F-16 Falcon; however, the wing has a softer side that may surprise some. 

Despite the wing's high operation tempo and rigorous exercise schedule, many Wolf Pack members still make time to volunteer to help the surrounding community.

A pack of 21 Airmen volunteered through the base chapel Oct. 16 to clean the Little Sister's of the Poor senior citizens' home and visit with Korean residents of the home.

"I volunteered to do something different and to try something new," said Airman 1st Class Richard Davenport, 8th Security Forces Squadron, "It's an opportunity to give back (to the community) and help others."

After an hour and a half bus ride to the home in Daemyung, the volunteers eagerly unloaded the bus and rolled up their sleeves to get their "paws" dirty.

Dividing into teams, the volunteers cleaned gardens and walking areas around the home so residents can enjoy the peaceful, beautiful scenery.

Some pressure washed muddy, moss-covered sidewalks. Others raked leaves and twigs into massive piles, swept walkways to clear debris, pulled weeds and scrubbed tile entrances. The teamwork and sweat of volunteers resulted in a well-manicured, pristine garden that overlooked green, rolling hills.

"They (volunteers) are a huge help because they do all the difficult work we cannot do," said Sister Bernadette, home coordinator.

After the volunteers finished cleaning the exterior, they were treated to a Korean lunch and their services continued inside the home, as they visited with residents. Young Airmen lined up to respectfully bow and shake hands with residents, and the residents lit up with excited smiles when they met the Wolf Pack members.

"The residents wait for the volunteers," said Sister Bernadette. "Although they cannot communicate because of the language barrier, they are very happy to have them here."

"I really like helping out," said Airman 1st Class Robert Goodno, 8th Logistics Readiness Squadron. "I usually volunteer at an orphanage, but it was neat seeing how happy the residents were, to see their faces and how grateful they were to have us there to help clean up."

The Wolf Pack may be known for aggressive tactics and teamwork, but service to others is another characteristic that can be associated with the Wolf Pack.  The volunteer project is one of many the base organizes in the local community that develop Airmen into contributing guests of their host nation.