Courtesy Photo | MOTTA SANT'ANASTASIA, Sicily (April 13, 2024) - Logistic Specialist 1st Class Ceasar...... read more read more
NAVAL AIR STATION SIGONELLA, Sicily (May 23, 2024) – An Aircraft Intermediate Maintenance Department (AIMD) Sigonella Sailor was recently recognized for his volunteerism during the Gran Galà dello Sport Premio FairPlay, in Motta Sant'Anastasia, Sicily, April 13.
Logistics Specialist 1st Class Ceasar Belton IV received a medal of appreciation for organizing more than 16 community relations (COMRELS) events with more than 150 Sigonella Sailors, totaling more than 1,000 cumulative hours of volunteer work.
“LS1 Belton's work ethic is a beacon of dedication, illuminating the path towards service and community engagement,” said Chief Warrant Officer 3 David Thurn Valsassina, assistant officer-in-charge, Fleet Air Sigonella Detachment AIMD. “His tireless efforts in building strong bonds between Sigonella and the local community reflect not only his commitment, but also his genuine passion for making a difference. LS1 Belton's volunteerism sets a remarkable standard, inspiring others to join in the journey of giving back and fostering unity.”
The Fair Play Sports Gala annually recognizes individuals who exemplify how sports, community service, and physical activity can positively impact youth, steer them away from negative influences and promote a healthy lifestyle.
“I have always enjoyed giving back to the community and improving the world,” said Belton. “Volunteering has allowed me to do just that while also experiencing all the locales and events Sicily has to offer.”
Belton is a native of Charleston, South Carolina, and joined the Navy in 2007. He has been working at AIMD Sigonella since 2022. Belton has been stationed in Norfolk, Virginia; Okinawa and Yokosuka in Japan; and Bahrain; but his recent assignment in Sicily has been unlike any other.
“I am absolutely in love with Sicily,” said Belton. “The beauty of this place is breathtaking, and traveling around Europe is a dream come true.”
Inspired by his love for his new command and a desire to give back to the community, Belton began to volunteer with the Sigonella COMREL Program shortly after arriving to Sigonella. The program, coordinated by Dr. Alberto Lunetta, seeks to support the base’s relationship with the local Sicilian community through volunteer events manned by service members.
“LS1 Belton has shown an unwavering dedication to building strong community bonds between Sigonella and the host nation of Italy,” said Dr. Lunetta. “His tireless work motivating his peers to participate in volunteer activities that aid Sicilian communities showcases his deep dedication and genuine interest in the local culture, and giving back.”
COMRELS have afforded Belton not only the chance to positively impact the local community, but also to explore Sicily. He has participated in ceremonial events, student language swaps, beautification clean-ups and more.
“One of the most amazing experiences I have had in Sicily was organizing a holiday party for a local orphanage in Catania,” said Belton. “It was an incredible feeling to bring holiday cheer to those kids, and we have been back every year since.”
He accredited Logistics Specialist 2nd Mawuena Kpakpa and Aviation Machinist's Mate 1st Class Ernest Odeh for managing the administrative side of COMRELS, as well as his wife, Ciji, for encouraging him. Belton believes every Sailor should try and give back to the community when given the opportunity.
“If you see an opportunity to volunteer and support something that interests you, go for it,” said Belton. “Volunteering in Sicily is truly unique and offers a lot of personal interaction and satisfaction.”
Naval Air Station Sigonella provides consolidated operational, command and control, administrative, logistical, and advanced logistical support to U.S. and other NATO forces. The installation’s strategic location enables U.S., allied, and partner nation forces to deploy and respond as required, ensuring security and stability in Europe, Africa and Central Command.
For more news and information from NAS Sigonella, visit https://cnreurafcent.cnic.navy.mil/Installations/NAS-Sigonella/ or https://www.facebook.com/nassigonella/.
| Date Taken: | 05.23.2024 |
| Date Posted: | 05.23.2024 06:13 |
| Story ID: | 471954 |
| Location: | IT |
| Hometown: | CHARLESTON, SOUTH CAROLINA, US |
| Web Views: | 182 |
| Downloads: | 0 |
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