Thirteen Sailors assigned to the USS Nimitz (CVN 68) participated in a community relations (COMREL) event at Emerald Heights Academy in Bellevue, Washington, Nov. 19.

The Sailors spent the school day interacting with the children and even ate a Thanksgiving-style meal with them.

The students asked the Sailors what it was like being in the Navy and on an aircraft carrier.

"They inquired much about what it's like to be a Sailor, and how life on a ship might be different than theirs," said Aviation Ordanceman 3rd Class Rodney Arias. "Being able to relate our experiences to another generation was amazing. One day they might want to be Sailors."

For many Sailors, interacting with and giving back to their local communities is a top priority.

"Their faces lit up immediately once we walked into the room," said Personnel Specialist Julia Barrios. "The time we had with them gave us an insight into how important it is for us to interact with our surrounding communities. I think a lot of us will be returning soon."

The connection between the school and Nimitz has been on-going for the past five years and is expected to last.

"We hope to maintain this relationship well into the future," said Kim Bittner, the principal of Emerald Heights. "Every time the Sailors come, our students can develop a better understanding of what it means to serve for our country and how they should appreciate the freedom and rights fought for us."

For more news from USS Nimitz (CVN 68), visit www.navy.mil/.