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USS Pearl Harbor Sailors, Marines Contribute in Singapore

Navy NewsStand

Story Number: NNS101125-10
11/25/2010

By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Michael Russell, Peleliu Amphibious Ready Group Public Affairs

SINGAPORE (NNS) -- The amphibious dock landing ship USS Pearl Harbor (LSD 52) arrived in Singapore for a port visit Nov. 17, after spending 78 consecutive days at sea.

While in Singapore, Pearl Harbor Sailors and Marines experienced a wide variety of cultural tours and participated in community relations projects.

A hand full of Sailors and Marines volunteered their time by helping out the Singapore Association of the Visually Handicapped (SAVH) and the Catholic AIDS Response Effort (CARE) organizations.

While at SAVH, Sailors and Marines cleaned up and landscaped the grounds to beautify the surrounding areas of the facility. Some of the activities included power washing sidewalks, walkways and entrances, trimming bamboo trees and clearing debris.

"We worked extra hard while here, and I really enjoyed getting to know these people," said Religious Programs Specialist 3rd Class Niki Louviere. "I will never forget the smiles of gratitude on their faces and the time we spent with them."

At CARE, Sailors and Marines were introduced to people living with HIV/AIDS and were taught about the various aspects of living with HIV/AIDS by CARE coordinators.

Afterward, the volunteers helped the establishment by cleaning and improving the condition of the dormitories, bathrooms and living quarters.

Lt. Andrew Hayler, a Navy chaplain assigned to the 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit, organized the events and participated with the volunteers during the projects.

"The Marines and Sailors took away much more than they gave, and I believe the people appreciated our efforts as well," said Hayler.

Sailors and Marines also took trips to Universal Studios and China Town during their liberty.

"I went to Universal Studios and had a blast," said Yeoman Seaman Marlon Clay. "I would definitely come back to Singapore."

USS Pearl Harbor recently completed operations in the 5th Fleet area of responsibility (AOR), conducting maritime security operations and participating in theater security cooperation exercises with partner nations.

USS Pearl Harbor is part of the Peleliu Amphibious Ready Group and is transiting through the Pacific back to its homeport in San Diego. Pearl Harbor is currently in the U.S. 7th Fleet AOR, as part of a deployment to promote peace, partnership and cooperation throughout the region.