Active duty and reserve Sailors stationed in Korea continued a longstanding community partnership by volunteering at the Aikwangwon Home and School for the Physically and Mentally Disabled, Aug. 22.

Aikwangwon, which means "the garden of love and light," was founded during the Korean War in 1952 and began with seven orphans. It has transformed during the past six decades into a complex that houses 240 resident children and adults of all ages with disabilities, while providing academic courses and learning opportunities.

"Our residents will remember all the joy, happiness and laughter from today," said Woojung Lee, executive director for Aikwangwon. "Even though you may speak a different language, today is special to the children because their Navy friends came to visit."

The visit began with Aikwangwon residents conducting several traditional performances including a drum concert and vocal choir recital. After the introductory event, the volunteers were divided into four groups and paired up with resident partners to play games, perform arts and crafts, dance, and play music.

Operations Specialist 1st Class Gregory Ellzey, a reserve Sailor temporarily in Korea in support of the joint exercise Ulchi Freedom Guardian, said he was honored to be a guest at Aikwangwon and hopes this visit will have a lasting positive impact for the children and their relationship with the Navy.

"I will remember this place and I hope the kids remember our group, the Navy and know that we are a good people," he added.

Commander, U.S. Naval Forces Korea is 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 commanders for the United Nations Command, the Combined Forces Command, and Commander, U.S. Forces Korea.

For more news about Commander, U.S. Naval Forces Korea, visit www.navy.mil/local/cnfk .