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Sailors Determined to Wipe Out Graffiti
Story Number: NNS130429-07
4/29/2013

By Master-At-Arms 1st Class Angela VanDenBrande, Center for Security Forces Public Affairs

SAN ANTONIO (NNS) -- Naval Technical Training Center (NTTC) on board Lackland Air Force Base took part in San Antonio's Graffiti Wipeout April 19.

NTTC Sailors volunteer their time and talents each week to paint over graffiti on walls and buildings throughout the San Antonio area and on this day, volunteered to paint over a drainage area, a fence and a garage.

"It was awesome," said Chief Master at Arms Jean-Paul Odasz, coordinator for the Friday Graffiti Wipeout. "Everyone was motivated to work and the job went smooth."

The Navy team, comprised of 10 volunteers, covered approximately 1.38 acres of what is now a revitalized and welcoming landscape for all to enjoy.

One of the volunteers, Logistics Specialist 1st Class Traylyn Bush, commented that Graffiti Wipeout is a great way to volunteer and give back to the community.

The City of San Antonio reports that Graffiti clean-up costs Americans more than $8 billion per year.
NTTC Lackland Executive Officer, Lt. Cmdr. Chris Cowart, said, "Graffiti is everybody's problem. It hurts property values, drives away business, and sends the message that nobody cares about the community."

Cowart went on to add that San Antonio is also known as Military City USA because of the support the community provides to military personnel.

"The city and community provide support, exceptional public schools, and restaurants and entertainment that make us feel welcome during our tours of duty. As members of our great San Antonio community, Sailors have a responsibility to give back and show our support."

Graffiti wipeout is one way Sailors at NTTC Lackland give back to the people of San Antonio by working to restore the beauty of the city's lush landscape and iconic scenery.

"Our mission is to make a difference and have a positive impact no matter where we serve. It was a true pleasure to work alongside our command staff members who took the time to volunteer in changing the face of a nearby neighborhood impacted by the negative effects of graffiti," concluded Cowart.

NTTC Lackland is a component within the Center for Security Forces who provides specialized training to more than 28-thousand students each year and has 14 training locations across the U.S. and around the world.

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