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Boxer Promotes Peace and Goodwill with Project Handclasp

Navy NewsStand

Story Number: NNS080422-06
Release Date: 4/22/2008 1:58:00 PM

By Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class T.S. Hall, USS Boxer Public Affairs

ABOARD USS BOXER (NNS) -- Sailors and Marines aboard USS Boxer (LHD 4) began loading more than $139,000 of "Project Handclasp" supplies April 15 in preparation for their humanitarian and civic assistance mission to Central and South America this summer.

Established by the U.S. Navy in 1962, Project Handclasp's primary mission is collecting and coordinating the distribution of humanitarian, educational and goodwill materials to those in need. The program uses empty cargo space on U.S. Navy ships to transport the materials to Navy ports of call.

Materials to supplement basic necessities like food, clothing and hygienic items are donated by America´s private sector at no-cost to the government and personally distributed by Sailors and Marines to those in need overseas.

Lt. Cmdr. Matt Brown, U.S. Southern Command's (USSOUTHCOM) Project Handclasp desk officer, said the upcoming deployment will continue the United States' successful policy of providing humanitarian assistance to our neighbors in Central and South America.

"Project Handclasp exemplifies our teamwork with the Navy, public-private partnerships, and between the U.S. and the people we strive to support," Brown said. "We are very enthusiastic with Project Handclasp to continue our partnership with USSOUTHCOM and the Boxer as they prepare to deploy."

Brown added that it's not just basic necessities that are provided but also educational material such as textbooks, library books, magazines, school supplies, learning aids, and audiovisual items. There are also recreational material for children including toys, athletic equipment, and playground equipment.

Master-At-Arms 2nd Class (SW) Michelle Bailey, from Boxer's security force, says she can't wait to participate. "It's a great feeling when you can make a kid smile," she said.

She has participated in similar projects in Mexico. Bailey said the little things Americans sometimes take for granted others are so grateful for. "We could all learn a lesson from that."

For more news from USS Boxer, visit www.navy.mil/local/lhd4/.