Photo By Capt. David David | Lance Cpl. David Grant, rifleman, and Staff Sgt. Nicole Kerzman, supply chief,...... read more read more
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MORON, Spain - Both at home and abroad, the Marines have built a reputation for being there for those who need them. For those troops deployed to Moron, Spain, that adage remains true.
Special-Purpose Marine Air Ground Task-Force Crisis Response Marines and sailors are tasked with providing a rapid response capability to U.S. Africa Command for the protection of U.S. personnel, property and interests in Africa.
In addition to their mission, the Marines and sailors were engaged in a three-month long community service project with the convent Santa Clara in Moron, Spain.
The convent restorations were completed on July 8 and, in joint celebration, the nuns hosted a special mass and a lunch for the Marines. This event was attended by Col. Kenneth DeTreux, the commanding officer, and Lt. Cmdr. Thomas Ianucci, the chaplain for SP-MAGTF Crisis Response who presented the nuns with a plaque in commemoration of their new friendship.
“I'm proud of the efforts of Father Tom (Ianucci) and all of the Marines and sailors who have taken part in this worthwhile and rewarding community relations project,” said DeTreux. “The town of Moron and the people have been very good to us; it's a good thing when you can give a little bit back.”
The convent, which will be 500 years old on August 11, was in need of significant restoration, so the Marines and sailors came together in April to provide assistance to the nuns who live and work there. Some of the different projects they completed included restoring the walls, cleaning, painting, and gardening.
“In one year we have to repair (the convent) at least two or three times,” said Sister Clara, a nun who has worked at the convent for thirteen years.
Led by Ianucci, small teams of volunteers visited twice a week, helping the convent prepare for its upcoming anniversary. They were glad to help; having the chance to participate in the community of Moron de la Frontera brought an overwhelming sense of accomplishment to the Marines.
“This project is for the nuns who depend on others in this town to make their living. It’s a great opportunity for our Marines to give back to the community,” said Ianucci.
“Efforts like this are what separate good units from great units. The Marines and sailors, led by Father Tom, should be very proud of themselves for the effort they put in for the restoration of this historical convent,” said DeTreux.
| Date Taken: | 07.16.2014 |
| Date Posted: | 07.17.2014 10:29 |
| Story ID: | 136361 |
| Location: | MORON DE LA FRONTERA, ES |
| Web Views: | 276 |
| Downloads: | 0 |
This work, American Marines complete convent restoration in Moron, by CPT David David, identified by DVIDS, must comply with the restrictions shown on https://www.dvidshub.net/about/copyright.
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