NSWG-1 Sailors Celebrate Read Across America

SAN DIEGO (NNS) -- Naval Special Warfare Group (NSWG) 1 Sailors visited with students from Bonsal West Elementary School in support of National Read Across America Day, March 6.

The Sailors volunteered to spend the day reading aloud from various Dr. Seuss books as a way to inspire students to develop a passion for reading.

"I really enjoyed the opportunity to spend time with the students and read for them," said Construction Mechanic 2nd Class (SCW) John Soto. "I'm glad I had this chance to give back to the community and be a positive influence in a child's life."

Read Across America is an initiative of the National Education Association as a way to get children excited about reading. The event is celebrated every year on or near Dr. Seuss's birthday.

"I really appreciate the Sailors reading today", said Jennifer Wise McKnight, a Bonsal West Elementary School third grade teacher. "It not only gives the kids the experience of someone else reading to them, it also gives them someone else to look up to and admire."

Bonsal West Elementary School is home to more than 565 students in grades Kindergarten through Sixth. Jaxson Moi, a third grade student at the school was especially excited by the military presence.

"I am very grateful [the Navy] came to our school to read to us," said Moi. "I am really thankful for their service to our country."

For more news from Naval Special Warfare Group 1, visit www.navy.mil/local/nswg1/.