U.S. Navy Buddhist Chaplain gives back to his native country during Cobra Gold 17 (in Thai)

NAKHON RATCHASIMA, THAILAND

02.15.2017

Video by Sgt. Ally Beiswanger 

III Marine Expeditionary Force   

U.S. Navy Chaplain Lt. Aroon Seeda and Marines with Marine Aircraft Group 12, 1st Marine Aircraft Wing, III Marine Expeditionary Unit, hand out school supplies and teach English to students at the Ban Phan Sa Nguan School in Korat Province Feb. 15, 2017 as part of Cobra Gold 2017. Seeda, a Thailand native, is the only Buddhist Chaplain in the Navy and is part of the Navy Operational Support Unit. CG17 maintains a consistent focus on Humanitarian Civic Action (HCA), community engagement, and medical activities conducted during the exercise to support the needs and humanitarian interests of civilian populations around the region. (U.S. Marine Corps video by Sgt. Ally Beiswanger)

English translation:
I personally had a great experience about 30 years ago. At that time, I was a Buddhist novice. When I was walking for food, the U.S. Marines gave me an MRE. They followed me to a temple and helped me do my homework. As a part of this [community relations] event, I hope I can make these children have the same memorable experience that I had. When I come back to Thailand, it’s an opportunity to fulfill my dream to serve my country. I’m glad that I’m a part of Cobra Gold and that I can help this school. The work I do as a chaplain is rewarding because I can serve the U.S., Thailand and Buddhism at the same time.

• Date Taken: 02.15.2017
• Date Posted: 02.21.2017 01:12
• Category: Package
• Video ID: 510510
• VIRIN: 170215-M-WW697-022
• Filename: DOD_104093619
• Length: 00:01:42
• Location: NAKHON RATCHASIMA, TH