403rd AFSB completes 2026 Summer English Book Reading Program in Daegu
By Hyungbin Ju, 403rd AFSB Public Affairs
DAEGU, South Korea – The 403rd Army Field Support Brigade successfully concluded its fourth English Book Reading Program further strengthening its role as a “good neighbor” within the local community at the Ddeul-ahn Art Village, here, Aug. 13.
The program, developed in cooperation with the Suseong Cultural Foundation, began in January 2025 and has been conducted in alignment with school vacation periods in Korea to maximize participation from local students. Designed for elementary school-aged children, the initiative aims to provide opportunities to practice English in a relaxed, story-focused environment while also fostering positive connections between U.S. Army personnel and Korean families.
“Working together with the U.S. 403rd Brigade on this program, I was truly grateful to see them reading English storybooks to the children and joining in craft activities and various games with such joyful energy - and I personally had a wonderful time as well,” said Chu, Seung-hee, manager, Suseong Cultural Foundation. “Although we speak different languages, the moments we shared with the children seemed to transcend that barrier, as everyone came together, laughed, and communicated as one. It was a deeply meaningful experience. This program provided a precious opportunity to create special memories and experiences for everyone involved. I was happy to be part of it, and I hope there will be even more opportunities for cooperation in the future.”
During this summer session, a total of four sessions were held, with 41 children participating in interactive reading activities led by volunteers from the 403rd AFSB. Children listened to English storybooks, engaged in simple conversation, and took part in games and comprehension activities tailored to their language level. Parents and staff observed that many participants gained confidence in using English and became more comfortable interacting with native speakers.
Beyond language learning, the program highlights the brigade’s commitment to community engagement. By regularly offering educational and cultural programs, the 403rd AFSB and Suseong Cultural Foundation are working together to build enduring relationships and a deeper mutual understanding between the U.S. military and local residents in Daegu.
"Since I have been in Korea, it has been my intention to immerse myself in Korean culture wherever possible, which is why I jumped at the opportunity for this storytelling event. I was incredibly impressed with the professionalism of the staff and the engagement from the children who attended,” said Michael Twiss, intelligence officer, 403rd Army Field Support Brigade. “I hope my staff and I were able to provide a glimpse into American culture and the English language, as Ddeul-ahn Art Village was able to provide a glimpse into Korean culture for me!"
Organizers plan to continue the English Book Reading Program during future school breaks, with the goal of reaching even more children and expanding the range of stories and activities offered.
CUTLINES:
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Col. Jason P. Book, commander, 403rd Army Field Support Brigade, and his wife, Suzanne Book, hold up their paintings with children who participated in fourth “English Book Reading Program” session held at the Dduel-ahn Art Vilage in Daegu, South Korea, Jul. 30. The book reading sessions consist of an ice-breaking activity, the main book reading session, and a follow-on activity.
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Gordon B. Hackett, deputy to the commander, 403rd Army Field Support Brigade, asks the children questions related to the book he read during the fourth “English Book Reading Program” session held at the Dduel-ahn Art Vilage in Daegu, South Korea, Aug. 6.
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Chief Warrant Officer 4 Raul J. Lewis, senior food advisor, 403rd Army Field Support Brigade, hands a bag of snacks to a participant of the fourth “English Book Reading Program” session held at the Dduel-ahn Art Vilage in Daegu, South Korea, Jul. 23.
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Cpt. Michael D. Twiss, intelligence officer, 403rd Army Field Support Brigade, assists a child during an activity during the fourth “English Book Reading Program” session held at the Dduel-ahn Art Vilage in Daegu, South Korea, Aug. 13.