CAMP HUMPHREYS, South Korea – On May 15, the U.S. Army Garrison Humphreys organized the Weighted Words Walk to promote mental health awareness as part of Mental Health Awareness Month. The event aimed to help participants confront personal burdens by physically carrying written words or phrases that represented their challenges, anxieties, or emotional weight.
The walk took place from 6:30 to 8 a.m., allowing community members to choose their own starting points. They walked individually or in small groups towards Building 501, known as the Humphreys Hub. Upon arrival, they were greeted by Command Sgt. Maj. Salvador G. Garcia and representatives from various community services.
Garcia addressed the participants, urging them to speak up when they are struggling. “No one should suffer in silence. If you’re struggling, say something. That’s not quitting – it’s fighting,” he stated. He encouraged attendees to reach out to teammates, take breaks, and seek help when needed. He also emphasized the importance of supporting one another by checking in on fellow service members.
At the conclusion of the walk, participants symbolically released their