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Stennis Volunteers Clean Beach in Thailand
Story Number: NNS090414-02
Release Date: 4/14/2009 5:46:00 AM
By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class David Charleston
LAEM CHABANG, Thailand (NNS) -- Sailors and Marines from John C. Stennis Carrier Strike Group (JCSCSG) volunteered for a beach cleanup in Laem Chabang, Thailand, April 10 during a port visit.
The group followed the cleanup with a visit to the Banglamung Elderly Age Home located alongside the beach.
"It's the simple things that really stand out," said Lt. j.g. Stephen Velthuis, Carrier Air Wing 9 chaplain. "Whether it's just cleaning up a beach or meeting with the elderly, it gives us the chance to see and participate in things that most visitors to Thailand never get to experience."
The beach cleanup was one of five community service projects Sailors and Marines could participate in during the port visit.
"It just gives us a chance to enhance the relationship of the Thai people and the United States," said Stennis Hospital Corpsman 2nd Class Elyver Pandile. "Coming to a place like this is a rare opportunity, and doing something like this is just my way of showing gratitude to the people of Thailand for allowing us to be here."
Residents of the Banglamung Elderly Age Home met with Sailors and Marines after the cleanup and performed a song and dance.
"These elderly residents probably don't get visitors regularly," said Velthuis, "So this was a really special time for them to take a break out of their day to showcase their culture and interact with us."
For more news from USS John C. Stennis (CVN 74), visit www.navy.mil/local/cvn74/.
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