Italian students lead Marines on city tour

Photo By Sgt. Alexander Mitchell | U.S. Marines and Sailors with Special Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis Response-Africa, stand with students and faculty for a group photo in front of an American and Italian cake during a community project in Nicosia, Italy, May 25, 2016. Students from Instituto di Istruzione Superiore “Alessandro Volta” were able to practice their English and share their culture while leading Marines and Sailors on a tour around Nicosia. U.S. Marines and Sailors assigned to Special Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force-Crisis Response-Africa Command support operations, contingencies and security cooperation in the U.S. Africa Command area of responsibility. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Alexander Mitchell)  

NAVAL AIR STATION SIGONELLA, ITALY

05.25.2016

Story by Cpl. Alexander Mitchell 

U.S. Marine Corps Forces, Europe and Africa     

Marines and sailors with Special Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis Response-Africa were given a tour of the city by local students in Nicosia, Italy, May 25, 2016.

Led by the students of Instituto di Istruzione Superiore “Alessandro Volta”, the tour highlighted historic local sites, giving the students a chance to practice their English while describing each one.

“The students did a wonderful job guiding us around and speaking English,” said Lt. Arthur Briggs, the chaplain with SPMAGTF-CR-AF. “The Marines were immersed in the Sicilian’s rich culture and history during the tour.”

The Marines started at the school and walked throughout the city center seeing historic buildings, the plaza center’s town hall, a baron’s house and stables and many beautiful landscapes and architecture.

“The tour was great and I learned a lot of their history and culture,” said Cpl. Marcoantonio Gonzalez, a personnel administrative specialist. “I enjoyed looking at the old buildings, hearing the locals speak Italian about each historic site, and having English conversations with the students.”

The greatest impact of the event, however, was in the positive impressions Marines were able to leave with the students of Nicosia.

“I’m so thankful for the time we get to spend with students around Sicily,” said Briggs. “Having the Marines and sailors take part in the culture and learn its history is amazing, but even better is the delight I see in the students when they meet and share a conversation with American service members.”

• Date Taken: 05.25.2016
• Date Posted: 06.01.2016 03:02
• Story ID: 199628
• Location: NAVAL AIR STATION SIGONELLA, IT