Sailors, assigned to amphibious assault ship USS Bonhomme Richard (LHD 6), delivered presents to the children living at the Omura Children's Home during an Angel Tree community relation (COMREL) event.

The Angel Tree program's purpose is to give gifts to less fortunate children in the community who might not have the same opportunities during the holiday season as others.

More than 30 Sailors volunteered to deliver 50 gifts donated by their fellow shipmates.

While welcoming Sailors to Omura Children's Home, Koji Matsumoto, the assistant manager, said the home has been in operation for approximately 70 years. During that time, service men and women from Sasebo have consistently visited the children. He also shared photographs of Sailors from previous years visiting the orphanage.

The Sailors interacted with children, ranging in age from 5 to 18 years old. They shared stories, pictures and snacks as everyone became acquainted with one another prior to handing out presents to the children.

"The children were very grateful for the presents they received and we had some time to spend together," said Lt. David Hammond, assistant command Chaplain. "They sang some Christmas songs and we sang a few songs ourselves. We also went outside for some time on the playground and then, all too soon, had to say 'Sayonara'."

Matsumoto was grateful to have the support of Sailors in sharing the holiday spirit and cheering up the children.

"Thanks to your continuous support, the kids are encouraged by your visit," said Matsumoto. "Some kids are interested in U.S. culture and foreign countries and it creates a good impact on our kids. Thank you very much and I hope this friendship will continue as long as we can."

For more news from USS Bonhomme Richard (LHD 6), visit http://www.navy.mil/.