The connections that the U.S. Marines with Black Sea Rotational Force 17.1 have made in Romania go far beyond training together as allies. Through community events and solidifying local bonds, these connections stand strong.
The Marines celebrated with Romanian school children and locals during a United Hands Romania event in Constanta, Romania, April 8, 2017. The event gave them the chance to interact with the community by engaging in the customs and traditions of Romanian culture.
“We organized an event for Easter for 120 children in centers from Constanta,” said Mihalea Buzila, administrator for United Hands Romania, an organization that provides spiritual and material support to the children in Romania. “It was really nice to have the Marines involved in an event like this because the kids really like them; this was something new for them.”
This is one of the many events in the community that the Marine volunteers have participated in since the beginning of the deployment.
“It’s a good volunteer opportunity for Marines,” said Staff Sgt. Christopher Crabb, civil affairs team chief with BSRF. “It’s also a great opportunity to give back to the communities of Romania for the hospitality they’ve shown while we’ve been on deployment.”
The Marines participated in multiple activities during the event, including three-legged races, soccer and dancing alongside the Romanians.
“When [the children] play with someone and talk with someone, it’s important,” said Buzila. “It’s still people out there and children out there who need this kind of help and support.”
The event concluded with the exchange of gifts between the Marines and locals, leaving a lasting impression that the visitors will never forget.
“We try to do our best in order to make it known that we exist not just to fight wars,” said Crabb. “We’re also here to help those in need through our volunteer opportunities.”