AFTER news came in of a huge crude oil spill near the Taean Peninsula, South Korea, The Salvation Army was the first non-governmental organisation (NGO) to assist with the clean-up operation. The divisional emergency relief team set up its mobile canteen on the shores of Mallipo Beach on the first day of the operation to provide meals and hot drinks to the many workers who included military soldiers, policemen, firemen and local volunteers.
Some 10,500 tons of oil was spilled into the Yellow Sea off Taean in the country's largest spill after a barge carrying a crane was in collision with a 146,000-ton Hong Kong tanker. Foul oil damaged fisheries, beaches and aquatic farms.
On the second day of the clean-up operation, The Salvation Army's Emergency Services vehicle was mobilised to provide meals for the 2,000 workers who had become involved by this stage. Instant noodles, fish broth, cans of coffee and other meals and refreshments were gratefully appreciated by the many workers.
The Salvation Army's Territorial Commander in Korea, Commissioner Chun, Kwang-pyo, and other Salvation Army leaders visited the affected area and brought words of encouragement to the various teams at the canteens and also to those involved in the physical work of clearing away the oil. They also offered prayer with those who have become victims of the spill including local fish, oyster and abalone (a shellfish) farmers in particular.
The next day the Divisional Commander and officers of the Suh Hae Division joined forces to help with the physical labour of cleaning up the oil which had affected various areas of the region.
 |
 |
| Officers of the Suh Hae Division, Korea, help clean up Mallipo Beach | Officers of the Suh Hae Division, Korea, who helped clean up Mallipo Beach |
 |
 |
| A Salvation Army Emergency Services vehicle in action, providing meals for the workers | The Salvation Army's Social Secretary looks on as Provincial Governor shakes hands with the Public Relations Secretary to show appreciation of The Salvation Army's |
Major Cedric Hills, The Salvation Army's International Emergency Services Coordinator, says: 'Despite bad weather hindering relief efforts, The Salvation Army's response teams have to be commended for the speed of their engagement and continued efforts during critical periods and under difficult circumstances.'
In total, some 4,000 people have been assisted by The Salvation Army. There is a long way to go until the crude oil can be totally cleared and The Salvation Army will continue to work with and support those involved and affected by this disaster.
