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Sailors Participate in Jagalchi Festival

Navy NewsStand

Story Number: NNS081017-10
Release Date: 10/17/2008 7:16:00 AM

By Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Christopher S. Harte, USS George Washington Public Affairs

BUSAN, Republic of Korea (NNS) -- Sailors from USS George Washington (CVN 73), USS Cowpens (CG 63) and USS John S. McCain (DDG 56) participated in the annual Jagalchi Festival parade in Busan Oct. 9.

The three ships were in port Busan participating in the International Fleet Review celebrating the 60th anniversary of the establishment of the armed forces of the Republic of Korea (ROK).

The Jagalchi Festival is held annually in the Jagalchi Seafood Market area during October. The festival consists of a parade, dance exhibition's, fireworks, an eel relay race and much more.

Various other countries' sailors participated in the parade including Russian, Japanese, British, Australian, Chinese, Singapore, Indian and Royal Thai sailors along with the Republic of Korea's marines and navy.

Before the Sailors formed up for the march, they were given small American flags to wave, and the Sailor at the head of the formation was given a U.S.A. sign.

Gas Turbine System Technician Mechanic 1st Class Andrew Avelino from John S. McCain participated in the parade.

"The Korean people were gratified that we participated and fully supported the fleet review," Avelino said. "A lot of folks even went out of their way to come close to our ranks and shake our hands and personally thank each one of us for our service and support."

During the march Sailors carried U.S. flags and a few carried ROK. flags they had traded with sailors marching behind them.

"This was my first parade, and it was really exciting and an honor to be a part of it," said Yeoman Seaman Christopher Lima from George Washington. "I got to meet other nations' navies, and I got to meet the Thai Navy which was special to me because I am part Thai."

This year's event coincided with the International Fleet Review commemorating the Republic of Korea's armed forces' 60th anniversary along with the Western Pacific Naval Symposium '08 which consisted of chiefs of navies and action officers from 24 countries.

For more news from USS George Washington (CVN 73), visit www.navy.mil/local/cvn73/.