Seabees assigned to Naval Mobile Construction Battalion (NMCB) 5 volunteered to lead students from Hollywood Beach Elementary during a field day event as part of a community outreach program June 14.

Thirty-eight Seabees volunteered to fill many roles during the event, including coordinating and running games for the children to participate in, and ensuring the children drank plenty of water while playing.

"This is an invaluable asset to have you guys come and help us put these events together; [it's] usually one of our better days," said Javier Torres, Hollywood Beach Elementary vice principal. "Days like today, every kid shows up to participate because they remember it from the previous year and that's very important."

NMCB 5 Seabees led 375 children in age groups from kindergarten to 6th grade in 13 different stations throughout the playground. The events ranged from been bag toss and basketball, all the way to jump rope.

"The men and women of NMCB 5 not only serve their country proudly; they also give back to the people of Oxnard and all of Ventura County whenever possible," said Commanding Officer Cmdr. Matthew Riethmiller, NMCB 5. "I am always pleasantly surprised with how many Seabees willingly give their precious free time for numerous community volunteer events."

Each year many schools in the Oxnard area have field days, and in times like these with local schools tightening their budgetary belts, the addition of so many volunteers significantly helps the school put on the event.

"I feel so privileged to have had the opportunity to work with these students and share my love for children," said Intelligence Specialist 3rd Class Brie Rector. "It's a great feeling to be out of the office and finally have time to volunteer again for the people that support us."

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