YONGSAN GARRISON, Republic of Korea - Speaking to his Soldiers about the importance of safety at all times, U.S. Army Garrison-Yongsan Headquarters and Headquarters Company Commander Capt. Kevin Jensen conducts a safety brief before releasing his Soldiers for the extended weekend.

"Always think safety in everything you do and maintain situational awareness," he said.

Garrison Commander Col. Dave Hall has directed all leaders to pay close attention to mentoring those at risk.

"To guard against accidents, garrison leaders must ensure that their personnel are briefed on accident avoidance prior to each of these holidays. The briefings, at a minimum, should include vehicle safety and personal responsibility."

Many American Soldiers and their Korean Augmentation to the U.S. Army comrades will enjoy a four-day weekend - marking the first Thanksgiving away from home or overseas for some Americans and the first Thanksgiving meal ever for many new KATUSA Soldiers eating at Garrison dining facilities.

Garrison Command Sgt. Maj. Ralph Rusch will be visiting area DFACs tomorrow, including a stop at the Three Kingdoms Dining Facility where he and other sergeants major will serve their Soldiers steaming Thanksgiving meals.

"Even though we are thousands of miles from home, we are fortunate that we live in a community that works hard to ensure we can continue to enjoy our traditions, and pay respect to those who have forged this path. From the Hall Household, we thank you for all you do to make this a genuine Community of Excellence," Hall said.

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