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Sailors aboard the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN 71) took to the streets of Guam and participated in community relations (COMREL) projects with the intention to beautify, assist and connect with the community.
During the ship’s stay, teams of 10 or more Sailors went to Juan M. Guerrero Elementary School (JMGES), Island Girl Power non-profit organization, Tamuning Senior Center, and Umatac village to support local communities while also learning about Chamorran culture.
Peter John Benavente, vice mayor of Dededo, Guam, expressed his gratitude towards Theodore Roosevelt Sailors for power washing and cleaning various areas in the Umatac village.
“We really appreciate the Sailors coming out to help us,” said Benavente. “Over here, we need as much help as we can get. In talking to them, despite them working hard, they looked like they were having a great time.”
When in foreign ports or at home, COMRELs are a wonderful way to give back to the community. These opportunities give Sailors the chance to be ambassadors of the Navy and to cast a positive light on the Navy.
“Stay in school, study hard and get good grades,” said Rose Marie C. Castro, principal of JMGES. “This is all the good advice the Sailors shared with our boys and girls. We emphasize that and we want to see all of the students thrive.”
While at JMGES, Sailors presented occupational items to more than 110 students during their school-wide career day, sharing tools of their respective professions such as helmets, gun belts and whistles to help the children understand life aboard an aircraft carrier.
“It seemed like the students had a good time with us,” said Religious Programs Specialist 2nd Class Dennis Villanueva, from New Britain, Connecticut. “The kids asked lots of questions about our careers, they greeted us with hugs and high-fives, and the staff created an atmosphere where we ate and shared more about everyone’s culture in the room. The entire experience was heart-warming.”
Active-duty members all over the world, ashore and at sea, have the ability to be part of COMRELs if they choose, since the events are typically supported and curated by the command. The experiences Sailors have at these events are new for them, and it leaves a lasting impression on the individuals they have the opportunity to interact with.
Through COMRELs, Sailors collectively bridge the gap between the military and local civilians and get a chance to have a meaningful cultural exchange.
| Date Taken: | 02.16.2024 |
| Date Posted: | 03.21.2024 03:02 |
| Story ID: | 466716 |
| Location: | APRA HARBOR, GU |
| Web Views: | 30 |
| Downloads: | 0 |
This work, TR Deepens Community Relations with Guam, by PO2 Rashan Jefferson, identified by DVIDS, must comply with the restrictions shown on https://www.dvidshub.net/about/copyright.
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