Servicemembers volunteer in stables, rodeo

Photo By Vanessa Jimenez | Alexander J. Cho, Katherine Show volunteer, helps take down an equestrian showjumping course during a community relations event in Katherine, Northern Territory, Australia, July 21, 2012, as part of the 46th Annual Katherine Show.  

KATHERINE, NT, AUSTRALIA

07.21.2012

Story by Cpl. Vanessa Jimenez 

Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni

KATHERINE, Australia - Approximately 16 U.S. servicemembers volunteered during the 47th Annual Katherine Show, in the town of Katherine, Northern Territory, Australia, July 21, 2012.

Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 232 and Marine Wing Support Squadron 171 severicemembers gave a helping hand to assist in a show, which has been a hallmark of the Katherine region since 1965.

The show was created to promote and encourage the development of agricultural, cultural, industrial and commercial activities in the region.

“We are volunteering for the Katherine Show, which is a big annual event,” said Lt. j.g. Alexander J. Cho, Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 232 Chaplain and volunteer. “Community outreach is important because the town is able to see we care about the community.”

Volunteers had the responsibility of helping set up the equestrian show-jumping courses along with picking up rails if a horse knocked it down. Volunteers also provided a Marine Corps martial arts demonstration for spectators to enjoy and see some Marine Corps training.

Sweat dripped from the faces of the servicemembers as they diligently worked under the leadership of the show-jumping course designer.

“The Marines are fantastic,” said Susan Betington, equestrian show-jumping course designer. “They’re doing a really good job. They’re doing exactly what I want them to do ... The show is a very big event that brings the community together, everyone is involved.”

Working together to achieve a common goal not only proved rewarding to all who gave a helping hand, but was educational as well.

“My favorite part about community-relation events is showing the people involved that the military wants to help people and learn more about their culture,” said Cho.

Spectators enjoyed sales and food vendors and were provided entertainment from dog jumping to equestrian events, fireworks and V8 Utes, an Australian motor-racing series.

• Date Taken: 07.21.2012
• Date Posted: 08.02.2012 06:41
• Story ID: 92556
• Location: KATHERINE, NT, AU