ADA Soldiers Learn How Not to Date a 'Jerk(ette)'
Spiritual Fitness Seminar Mixes Spiritual Guidance and Culture 

Soldiers from the 1st Battalion, 44th Air Defense Artillery, attended a spiritual fitness seminar at the Yongsan Religious Retreat Center from 17 to 19 January 2008.  It was a wonderful start to the New Year for many of the Soldiers, who not only received spiritual guidance but advice on “how not to date a jerk(ette).”  Coupled with lectures, the 40 Soldiers learned about Korean culture while on a tour of Seoul.

The intent of Spiritual Fitness Training, given by Chaplain (Captain) Nam, Kyeong, the 1-44 ADA battalion chaplain, was to learn not only from lectures but grow from each others self experiences involving past relationships.  One of the most effective lectures was the use of Relationship Attachment Model, which evoked the most emotion and dialogue from participants.  This model helped shed light on previous relationship choices, assisting some Soldiers in recalling past mistakes during dating and marriage.  Through the use of this model and many other dating techniques, the Soldiers learned how to assess their dating and partner choices.

Chaplain (Captain) Nam Kyeong conducts a seminar session at the Yongsan Religious Retreat Center,

Another highlight of the retreat was a tour of Seoul.  This was a great opportunity for new Soldiers to experience Korean culture.  The majority of Soldiers participating in the retreat were “first timers” to Korea and the retreat gave them a unique opportunity to see Korean culture first hand.  Soldiers paid a visit to one of the largest shopping districts in Seoul, the Myung Dong area, where they experienced the sights and sounds of Korea, while having a chance to experience authentic Korean cuisine.  Lastly, Soldiers discovered the beauty of the NamSam Tower.  This tower gave them a spectacular view of the entire city of Seoul.

1-44 ADA Soldiers took in the sights and sounds of South Korea.

The spiritual fitness seminar and cultural tour was a productive and self reflecting weekend for 1-44 ADA Soldiers.  Thanks to Chaplain Nam’s leadership and spiritual guidance, Soldiers of the “Strike First” Battalion enjoyed a great experience that will last a lifetime.  In the future, these Soldiers will possess the tools necessary to challenge the dating world, as well as the dynamics of being stationed in Korea.