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TR Sailors Act as Ambassadors in the Med

Navy NewsStand

Story Number: NNS050927-10
Release Date: 9/27/2005 7:02:00 PM

By Journalist 2nd Class Kimberly R. Stephens, USS Theodore Roosevelt Public Affairs

ABOARD USS THEODORE ROOSEVELT, At Sea (NNS) -- USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN 71), on a whirlwind tour of the Mediterranean Sea, visited Palma de Mallorca, Spain, Sept. 13-17 and then made a two-day transit to Naples, Italy, for a port visit Sept. 19-23.

TR, currently on a routine, scheduled deployment, departed her homeport of Norfolk, Va., Sept. 1 and arrived in the Mediterranean Sea a week later.

The ship’s crew hosted more than 300 distinguished visitors and media members who were able to tour the ship. Evening receptions were held for each country’s dignitaries and military officials.

Community relations (COMREL) projects conducted in host countries also gave Sailors a chance to help local communities and serve as positive ambassadors for the United States and the Navy.

“By lending a helping hand and putting smiles on the faces of people, other countries will see that we are a nation that helps others,” said volunteer Culinary Specialist 1st Class (SW) Michael Johnson. “Helping others is good for our foreign relations.”

In Palma de Mallorca, TR Sailors volunteered to repair shutters, paint and do yard work at the Project Home Drug Rehabilitation Center, Ses Sitjoles Campos, La Vileta Center and Categena Elderly Home.

“COMREL projects have been around for many years,” said Lt. Cmdr. Donald R. Moss, a chaplain aboard TR. “Our goal is to do good things in overseas communities.”

Sailors also volunteered their off-time in Naples, Italy, serving food at a downtown soup kitchen morning and evening, as well as having some play time at Centro Laila Children's Home.

Boatswain’s Mate 1st Class (SW/AW) Roosel Chalwell believes that volunteer service helps both the local community and the U.S.

“It is an asset to our nation for us to do these projects,” said Chalwell. “It demonstrates that we are a kind and generous people. It is the best example of our core values.”

"We were delighted to have had the opportunity to operate in the Mediterranean and contribute to the theater commander's various objectives," said Rear Adm. James A. Winnefeld Jr., commander, Carrier Strike Group 2. "Inviting visitors aboard our ships, participating in community relations projects and acting as good ambassadors of the United States while on liberty are all very enjoyable ways we contribute to those objectives.”