The U.S. Navy encourages Sailors to be active volunteers in their local communities and also during deployment.

These opportunities positively reflect the Navy's presence in foreign countries and give Sailors a chance to do something amazing for themselves and for the community.

Sailors aboard the aircraft carrier USS George H.W. Bush (CVN 77) participated in a community relations (COMREL) project at the Bahrain Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (BSPCA) during a recent port visit, April 13 and 14.

During the COMREL, Sailors groomed and interacted with a variety of animals, including cats, dogs and donkeys in order to help socialize them.

"It's great that the Navy sponsors community service events like this," said Airman Lakella Silva. "This event is especially rewarding for me because I was a veterinarian technician in the civilian world. I love animals. The work we are doing today is important because animals can't always fend for themselves. We are providing them with the care and attention they need."

Electrician's Mate 3rd Class Franzia Perez, the event's group leader, is also passionate about helping animals.

"Many of these Sailors have pets back home that they miss," said Perez. Since we are out to sea for such long periods of time, it was nice to watch them engage with these animals and experience that companionship."

Perez believes that the Navy's global community service efforts promote a positive image and help tie international bonds.

"COMREL definitely has a positive impact in these foreign ports," said Perez. "It helps strengthen the relationships with the countries we visit and lets the locals know that the Navy isn't there just to have fun; we are here to give assistance and absorb the culture."

Perez also feels that even a small amount of service has a large positive effect on communities.

"Something as simple as walking a dog outside could make the biggest difference," explained Perez. "This is why it is so important for Sailors to participate in these community service events."


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