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USS Shiloh Strengthens Relations During Visit to Cebu

Navy NewsStand

Story Number: NNS081025-02
Release Date: 10/25/2008 6:59:00 AM

From USS Shiloh Public Affairs

CEBU, Republic of the Philippines (NNS) -- Sailors from USS Shiloh (CG 67) departed Cebu, Republic of the Philippines Oct. 23 following a scheduled four-day port visit.

While in port, the ship's approximately 360 crew members participated in friendship-building and goodwill-generating activities such as community relations (COMREL) projects, ship tours, sports competitions and other cultural exchanges.

During the ship's visit to Cebu, Commanding Officer, Capt. Alan J. Abramson paid courtesy visits to Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Brig. Gen. Jessie Dellosa and Cebu City Vice Mayor Michael Rama.

Crew members from Shiloh visited both Camp Lapu Lapu National High School and Elementary School. The ship's volunteers were warmly welcomed at the high school where they presented donations of school books for the students. A select group of students performed a traditional Filipino dance for the crew after the school conducted a patriotic flag-raising ceremony at the start of the school day. After presenting the school books to the children, the Shiloh volunteers headed across the street to the elementary school to join AFP soldiers in painting the school's performance stage, as well as several of the school's other buildings.

"I am proud of our Sailors' volunteer spirit and admire their sincere desire to help others," said Senior Chief Electronics Technician (SW/AW) Mark Sadowski, Shiloh COMREL organizer. "Through their efforts, the Filipinos who attend Camp Lapu Lapu School gained a favorable impression of America and its positive role in the region."

After the painting was complete, the Shiloh volunteers headed to the 8th Annual AFP Central Command (CENTCOM) Sports Festival to attend the opening ceremony conducted by the Commanding General, Lt. Gen. Pedro I. Inserto, Philippine Air Force. Following the ceremony, the Shiloh basketball team played a friendly game against their Filipino partners from the AFP. The Shiloh team emerged victorious and after the basketball game, CENTCOM hosted a picnic for all participants and spectators.

Shiloh is underway on a scheduled deployment in the 7th Fleet area or responsibility.

For more information on the U.S. 7th Fleet, visit www.c7f.navy.mil.