Zhemchuzhinka Orphanage visits USS Jason Dunham

Photo By Lt.Cmdr. Mack Jamieson | Cryptologic Technician (Collection) Seaman Nicholas Lazarides heaves around line as the guided-missile destroyer USS Jason Dunham (DDG 109) prepares to depart Odessa. Jason Dunham is on a scheduled deployment in support of maritime security operations and theater security cooperation efforts in the U.S. 6th Fleet area of responsibility. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class William Jamieson/Released)  

ODESSA, UKRAINE

07.21.2012

Courtesy Story

U.S. Naval Forces Europe-Africa/U.S. Sixth Fleet

By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class William Jamieson, USS Jason Dunham Public Affairs

ODESSA, Ukraine – Children from the Zhemchuzhinka orphanage in Odessa, Ukraine, visited the guided-missile destroyer USS Jason Dunham (DDG 109), July 21.

During the visit, the children were able to get a first-hand look at the bridge and different spaces aboard the ship. Ensign Julia Kranz led the tour and said it was a pleasure to have them aboard.

“We love showing off our ship,” said Kranz. “We work hard to keep it looking good and it’s always fun to have kids around.”

As they toured the ship, the children were treated to presentations from each department to teach the children a little about what the Sailors do aboard and how their jobs contribute to the ship’s mission. Gas Turbine Systems Technician (Mechanical) 3rd Class Joseph Strauss said he was honored to be asked to speak to the children.

“I sometimes forget how cool the stuff we do on the ship is, and it was nice to be able to share it with children,” said Strauss.

At the end of the tour, the children were brought to the mess decks where they were treated with snacks and juice and given the opportunity to ask questions of the crew.

“My job in the Navy is to feed people, so that is what I love, but being able to feed these children was the best,” said Hauser. “You could see their little eyes light up when we brought out the snacks and that really made me feel good about what we are doing out here.”

Jason Dunham is on a scheduled deployment in support of maritime security operations and theater security cooperation efforts in the U.S. 6th Fleet area of responsibility.

• Date Taken: 07.21.2012
• Date Posted: 07.24.2012 02:05
• Story ID: 92039
• Location: ODESSA, UA