Sailors from the U.S. 7th Fleet flagship USS Blue Ridge and embarked 7th Fleet staff participated in a community service (COMSERV) project at an orphanage ran by Community Concern Society, in Ratmalana, Sri Lanka, March 28-30.

During the event, Sailors helped clean up the facility and repurpose desks and benches for the children to use. They also painted several areas of the orphanage, including a nursery and playground.

"This COMSERV was a different experience for me," said Logistics Specialist 3rd Class William Spooney. "It was more than just talking and playing with children. We were getting dirty and sweaty just to make an impact, not only on the facility, but the local community."

The last time the Blue Ridge made a port visit to Sri Lanka was in 2005.

"I loved being in Sri Lanka and experiencing the way of life, so helping out in such a rich culture was great," said Personnel Specialist 1st Class Alfred Dateng. "I felt very fortunate to be a part of the return to Sri Lanka. It's been over 10 years and it's exciting to be a part of that history while doing something positive for the community as well."

Several staff members from the U.S. Embassy in Sri Lanka were also present; some, having been volunteers with Community Concern Society since the 2004 Indian Ocean earthquake and tsunami.

"When the tsunami first hit, the area was in shambles," said Lisa Hekle, regional security coordinator for the U.S. Embassy in Sri Lanka. "I was here when Community Concern Society was just starting and I recently came back three years ago and was glad to see the growth that's come from this organization."

Community Concern Society is a nonprofit organization with goals to express compassion for the poor by helping the oppressed and needy.

"Community Concern is the only organization in Sri Lanka of its kind, which gives you the opportunity to help in any way possible," said Rosa Gunawardena, operations manager at Community Concern Society. "We strive to meet every need in this community and understand the importance of family, education, rehabilitation, independence, support and love."

The Sailors repurposed 15 desks and 14 benches, and painted five multipurpose rooms and a playground.

"I am so grateful for the presence of the U.S. Navy here in Sri Lanka," said Lisa Hess, executive assistance to the deputy ambassador at the U.S. Embassy in Sri Lanka. "This shows that the United States is willing to help out and make a difference across the world. It means a lot to me, but I'm positive that the staff and children at this facility are more than grateful for the contribution and efforts put in here."

Blue Ridge has been forward deployed to Yokosuka, Japan for 36 years. As the flagship for 7th Fleet, Blue Ridge is vital in maintaining partnerships in the 7th Fleet area of operations.

For more news from around the fleet, visit www.navy.mil