Sailors assigned to the aircraft carrier USS George H.W. Bush (CVN 77) (GHWB) participated in two community relations (COMREL) events during a scheduled port visit to Dubai, U.A.E., May 14 and 16.

On the first day, volunteers visited K9 Friends, a local dog shelter, where they walked, groomed, fed, bathed and socialized with the animals.

"We don't get to do these things every day," said Personnel Specialist Seaman Haley King. "I love all animals, so being in a foreign country and being here for the dogs is great."

According to King, COMREL events are not only beneficial to the Sailors who participate in them. They also support the Navy's effort to expand and strengthen our network of partners.

"It was nice to be able to give back to the community of a host nation," said King. "It helps show the locals that we are here to help."

GHWB's second COMREL event visited the Al Noor Training Centre for Children with Special Needs.

At the center, Sailors were able to participate in various classroom activities with special needs students.

"Spending time with these children made all the difference," said Aviation Maintenance Administration 1st Class Sarah Sullivan. "Giving them that one-on-one attention that they are not always able to get was worth it, especially when you see their smiles."

Sullivan took the opportunity to sign up for the COMREL so that she could work with children.

"I have kids of my own," said Sullivan. "I miss them a lot, so it was nice to have a day spent with children."

GHWB provides Sailors an opportunity to participate in a COMREL event in every port. Through the effort of these volunteers, the Navy leaves a positive mark everywhere we go.

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