CAMP HUMPHREYS, Republic of Korea – With the warm weather arriving quickly, Soldiers are finding themselves outside more and more. There are many places to explore throughout the Korean Peninsula, but for Soldiers who want to save money or enjoy their free time without leaving post, the Pfc. Ross A. Ginnis Warrior Zone and Recreation Center are proving to be great sources of entertainment and fun.
“I spend almost every weekend at the Warrior Zone playing pool or enjoying the Karaoke and live music nights on Fridays and Saturdays,” said Pvt. Shawn M. Grace, Youngstown, Ohio native, geospatial engineer, 2nd Infantry Division/ROK-U.S. Combined Division. "The staff is very friendly and helpful.”
The Recreation Center offers rentable music rooms equipped with instruments, allowing Soldiers a space to perfect their craft of music that cannot so easily be done in the barracks. Think pianos, electric guitars, and acoustic drums.
"I frequently visit the recreational center near the new PX (Post Exchange) to take advantage of the piano and drum set they have available for use,” said Pfc. Dominque A. Rosales, Albuquerque, New Mexico native, wheeled mechanic, Headquarters and Headquarters Battalion, 2ID/RUCD. “I've never tried playing music before, but it is something that has become a passion, a great outlet and way to let loose after a busy work week."
It’s commonplace to find Soldiers enjoying amenities offered at both establishments, including tools for career progression.
"I try to make it to the Warrior Zone at least twice a week so I can use the computers to research information on universities to further my education, as well as handle career tasks on government websites that I cannot access without a common access card reader," said Rosales.
The various video game systems and pool tables at both locations offer the perfect getaway from a long work week, at no expense to Soldiers. The money saved can be used for other purposes, such as a down payment on a car or personal expenses during leave.
The Warrior Zone conveniently serves affordable, freshly-made food, offering a local spot on post to meet up with fellow Soldiers.
“The bar area has great food that may be ordered to-go or sit down to eat,” said Grace. “My favorite items on the menu are the tight-end buffalo boneless nuggets with a side of fries."
No matter what your interest or hobbies may be, the Pfc. Ross A. Ginnis Warrior Zone and Recreation Center have many ways for you to enjoy your free time. Both locations have suggestion boxes for ideas or events. Hours for these locations are 11 a.m. to 10 p.m., Monday through Friday and 11 a.m. to midnight on weekends. Make sure to check out both location this summer and GET IN YOUR ZONE.
U.S. Army story by Pfc. Tom R. Johansen, 2ID/RUCD UPAR