USS Bataan Completes Five COMRELS During Three-Day Port Visit

MANAMA, BAHRAIN

08.02.2009

Story by Petty Officer 1st Class Carolyn Cerminara 

U.S. Naval Forces Central Command / U.S. 5th Fleet           

MANAMA, Bahrain - More than 65 Sailors and Marines assigned to USS Bataan and the 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit conducted five community relations projects during the ship's recent three-day port visit to Bahrain.

Bataan's Sailors and embarked Marines helped landscape the Al-Rashad Center in Budayia, as well as teach classes and spend time with children at the Regional Institute for Active Learning School in Adliya.

"I've been in the Navy almost 18 years and I have always enjoyed giving something back to the community," said Chief Warrant Officer Wilfrid Bossous, assigned to Bataan. "Even though we are away from home, wherever we are, that is our community at that particular time."

Both the RIA School and the Al-Rachad Center provide educational opportunities for children living with autism and mental retardation in Bahrain.

Lt. Ron Nordan, who manages COMREL projects for Commander, U.S. Naval Forces Central Command said the Bataan requested to conduct five COMRELS during the ship's three-day visit.

"It's not hard at all to get people enthused about this," said Lt. Cmdr. William Dermott who helps manage COMREL projects for the Bataan. "The volunteers get a lot of satisfaction from it."

Within the last seven days, Sailors and Marines have completed 14 COMREL projects in the Kingdom of Bahrain.

"A couple of hours out of the day is easy," said Petty Officer 2nd Class Dexter Devonish, Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron 22 Search and Rescue Detachment. "I know the kids and the organizations will appreciate it. That's what it's all about, giving back."

• Date Taken: 08.02.2009
• Date Posted: 08.02.2009 12:10
• Story ID: 37072
• Location: MANAMA, BH