NAVCENT Commander and Staff Honor Ramadan Events

MANAMA, BAHRAIN

09.12.2010

Courtesy Story

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

MANAMA, Bahrain - Commander, U.S. Naval Forces Central Command, Vice Adm. Mark Fox attend several cultural events during this year's Islamic holy month of Ramadan.

During the month of Ramadan, observed this year from Aug. 11 - Sept. 10., Muslims all over the world abstain from food, drink and other physical needs during daylight hours. It is meant as a time to refocus attention on God, and practice self-sacrifice. At sunset, families come together to eat and pray.

Fox and members of his staff attended If tar, Ghabgas and Majlis, dinners that honor the spirit of Ramadan.

"It was an honor to participate in local events surrounding Ramadan," said Fox. "The hospitality shown to me, at all of these events, was representative of how well the citizens of Bahrain treat our sailors in this region."

Fox said it is important to share in the host nation's customs and traditions to show our appreciation and respect.

"I was very happy to attend these events as a representative of the U.S. Navy," said Fox. "This was a wonderful opportunity that allowed me to experience the local culture during this annual period of significance."

If tars, literally translated as "breaking the fast," are private dinners held after sunset and are by invitation only. Friends and family typically are the only ones to attend an If tar.

Ghabga, meaning "meal at late night," is another family type dinner that occurs after the evening prayer and typically begins at 10 p.m. Fox hosted a Ghabga in honor of Bahraini senior military officials.

Female family members and staff also attended a ladies-only Ghabga hosted by American embassy Deputy Chief of Mission Stephanie Williams, to celebrate Ramadan and the friendship between the United States and Bahrain.

"The event was a great way for me to see, first hand, part of Bahrain's rich culture," said Karen Gaouette. "This was truly a unique opportunity, I won't forget this very special experience."
Gaouette is the wife of Rear Adm. Charles Gaouette, deputy commander, NAVCENT.

Majlis, meaning "a place of sitting" in Arabic, is used to describe various types of gatherings among common interest groups, which may be administrative, social or religious.

Ramadan ended Sept. 10 with the rise of the crescent moon, at which point Eid Ul Fitr, "Festival of the Purification After Completing the Fasting Month," began and was observed for one day.

• Date Taken: 09.12.2010
• Date Posted: 09.12.2010 11:08
• Story ID: 56138
• Location: MANAMA, BH