Marines assist school in cleanup efforts

Photo By Tech. Sgt. Kentavist Brackin | Cpl. Jeff Moon, a translator for 3rd Battalion, 12th Marine Regiment (Reinforced), 3rd Marine Division, III Marine Expeditionary Force, helps Kim Byung Hao, 13, off the back of a 7-ton truck during a visit to Bo Jang Elementary School to assist in a beautification project here, April 29.  

OKINAWA, JAPAN

04.29.2011

Story by Cpl. Kentavist Brackin 

III Marine Expeditionary Force   

OKINAWA, Japan - Approximately 19 Marines and sailors from 3rd Battalion, 12th Marine Regiment (Reinforced), 3rd Marine Division, III Marine Expeditionary Force, visited the Republic of Korea’s Bo Jang Elementary School to assist in a beautification project during Korean Incremental Training Program 2011 here, April 29.

“I thought U.S. Marines only served for military purposes, so I was very surprised to witness them wanting to help locally – we really appreciate it,” said Jo Kun Gook, the principal at the elementary school.

Beautification projects performed by the Marines and sailors at the elementary school included emptying plant vases, cleaning windows and clearing gutters of leaves and dirt outside the school during the visit.

“These projects provide opportunities for our Marines to be gracious guests and learn about the traditions and culture of the ROK, while at the same time allowing our hosts to learn about the United States and her Marines,” said Lt. Col. Ricardo Miagany, the commander of 3rd Bn., 12th Marines. “In the end, we hope to build a stronger friendship with the people of Korea.”

The Marines showed the students a slideshow about the history of the U.S. Marine Corps and later gave students an opportunity to climb inside a 7-ton truck and try on their Kevlar helmets and other gear.

“A lot of young warriors join the military for a chance to give back to the community,” said Gunnery Sgt. Anthony E. Rollins, a survey chief for 3rd Bn., 12th Marines and one of the organizers of the event, “but a lot of them don’t get a chance to see the fruits of their work.” This was a good opportunity for them to see it, he added.

“My first impression was that the kids were going to be scared when they saw the Marines, but they seemed to enjoy their company very much,” said Gook.

The students observed as the Marines moved around the school to clean. When the Marines finally finished and prepared to leave, some of kids came up and asked if they would stay to play soccer.

“Playing soccer with kids was my favorite part of the [community relations event],” said Cpl. Kyle Owens, a motor transportation mechanic with 3rd Bn., 12th Marines. “Interactions like this with the community are very important for Marines and show the world that we are nice, friendly and that there is more to us than just fighting.”

“I think the Marines did a great job here,” said Gook. “I really appreciate their hard work and look forward to their next visit in the future.”

• Date Taken: 04.29.2011
• Date Posted: 05.11.2011 03:42
• Story ID: 70202
• Location: OKINAWA, JP