Oh, and while we’re on the topic of USFK, it appears Taean County and local environmental groups are upset that USFK trucks and personnel apparently damaged during recent exercises the sand dunes of Taean’s Shindu-ri beach, which have been designated natural treasures.
Even granting that Taean County hasn’t always been that enthusiastic about protecting its natural resources, something seems really out of place here. The damage occured on August 22, when about 250 men and 40 trucks entered the sand dune area that morning for an exercise that was supposed to last until August 26. Taean County and local environmental groups naturally protested, demanding that the troops leave the area, but USFK said it would continue with its exercise. Finally, at 3:00 p.m., the troops left the area after talks with the Korean Ministry of Defense. On the face of it, it seems someone somewhere screwed up.
Vehicles and tourists have been banned from the dunes since July 25, 2003.
