Exchange Food Court Manager Recognized as Hero for Putting Out Fire
Food Court Manager Yi, Yong-pom sprang into action when a fire broke out in the basement laundry facility of Dragon Hill Lodge, a resort for service members, the afternoon of June 7.
Through an agreement with Morale, Welfare, and Recreation, the Exchange operates an Express at Dragon Hill Lodge. The Exchange also operates a Pizza Hut and Subway, both of which are managed by Yi, who has worked with the Exchange for 42 years.
On his way back to his office, Yi smelled smoke and immediately rushed to grab a fire extinguisher and joined hotel maintenance staff in containing the blaze until fire response teams arrived.
His actions were commended by first responders. Speaking through an interpreter, he said fire crews told him thank you and that his heroics helped minimize damage. His actions resulted in no loss of equipment and more importantly, no loss of life or injuries at the Dragon Hill Lodge.
Yi, Yong-pom, who manages the Exchange food court at Dragon Hill Lodge, a Seoul hotel for service members and their families, was recognized for his actions in helping put out a fire at the hotel. Yi has worked for the Exchange for 42 years.
His heroics were recognized in person by Exchange Pacific Region Vice President Jennifer Jordan. He also received a Thanks Award.
“His prompt response in the face of danger demonstrates the highest standards of safety and responsibility and exemplifies the Exchange’s core value of having the courage to use good judgment,” Jordan said. “We sincerely appreciate Yong-pom’s courageousness in preventing a potentially devastating fire at Dragon Hill Lodge.”
The hotel, in downtown Seoul, has been open for service members since 1990. It is one of four resorts – also including Edelweiss (Germany), Hale Koa Hotel (Hawaii) and Shades of Green (Florida) – providing vacation opportunities for service members and their families.
Yi, Yong-pom, center, with Exchange Pacific Region Vice President Jennifer Jordan and Korea Northern Exchange General Manager Kisol Han. Jordan praised Yi’s actions in helping contain a fire at Dragon Hill Lodge.
