#15,058
In 1918 the Spanish Flu swept through military forces around the world, killing more soldiers than died from combat during all of World War I. The incapacitation of troops on both sides of the conflict was so great that it eventually led to the Armistice of November 11th, 1918.
Nearly 25 years later, during WWII, concerns arose that putting hundreds of thousands of troops in close quarters might spark another global pandemic (it didn’t). This time, however, scientists had a new, experimental vaccine that – starting in 1943 -was widely used on servicemen.With no vaccine for COVID-19, there are legitimate concerns that it could spread quickly through the military. So far, only 3 military personnel (1 in Korea, 1 in Italy, and 1 in Washington D.C.) have been confirmed with COVID-19, but many of our service men and women (and their dependents) are stationed in two epidemic hotspots; Italy and South Korea.
Today, via USFK (United States Forces Korea) we get word that a stop movement order has been issued for soldiers and their families stationed in South Korea.
USFK COVID-19 Information
By USFK Public Affairs | March 8, 2020
March 8, 2020
USFK is aware of the Department of the Army's order to stop movement for all Army Soldiers and family members moving to or from South Korea or Soldiers scheduled to attend professional military education in the United States due to COVID-19 concerns.
USFK is analyzing the impacts this decision will have on those affected but currently only applies only to 8th Army Soldiers currently on permanent change of station orders or attending PME. The Army's order is in effect immediately through May 6, 2020 or until further notice.
If this applies to you, immediately contact your chain of command for further instructions.
USFK and 8th Army will identify and work with all Soldiers and families affected, especially those who have already had their furniture and vehicles packed and shipped, to minimize and lessen the impacts on their well-being. The health and welfare of our service members and their families continues to be our top priority.
