People to People International (PTPI) recognized two Sailors assigned to Commander, U.S. Naval Forces Korea (CNFK) for their community service efforts during 44th Annual International Friendship Night and award banquet in Seoul, Dec. 9.

Petty Officer First Classes Carolyn Lucena and Branden Simmons joined 23 fellow service members and civilians in the event honoring volunteerism throughout the peninsula.

In her opening remarks, Dr. Kim, Gil-Youn, PTPI's Chairperson, thanked the awardees for the service to Korea, and introduced the 63 active South Korean PTPI chapters.

"Tonight we are gathered here to honor the distinguished service members from the United Nations Command who have contributed to the Korean community, said Kim. "It is a meaningful time for us to renew our friendship with American service members."

After receiving their award Lucena and Simmons remarked on how important volunteering is to them, and the community.

"I think it is important to support our host nation any reasonable way," said Lucena, recognized for her efforts on behalf of local charities including animal shelters. "Not only does it [community service] create strong and lasting relationships, but it also gives us a sense of pride to know that we can make a difference in the community."

Simmons, who was recognized for his work at local food banks and rescue shelters echoed Lucena's sentiment and said his favorite thing is meeting new people.

"Volunteerism can change people's lives," said Simmons. "My favorite part of these interactions is getting to know other people with similar volunteer interest outside the military."

President Dwight D. Eisenhower established PTPI on Sept. 11, 1956, with the purpose of realizing a more peaceful world through mutual understanding and friendship, and by promoting people-to-people dialogue, contact, and intercultural exchanges among people of the world.

Commander, U.S. Naval Forces Korea are the regional commander for the U.S. Navy in the Republic of Korea and provides expertise on naval matters to area military commanders, including the Commander of the United Nations Command, the Combined Forces Command, and Commander, U.S. Forces Korea.

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For more news from Commander, U.S. Naval Forces Korea, visit http://www.navy.mil/.