By Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Josh Cote, USS Frank Cable Public Affairs
COLOMBO, Sri Lanka (NNS) — Sailors aboard the submarine tender USS Frank Cable (AS 40), volunteered some of their off-duty hours participating in community relations projects during a port visit in Sri Lanka, Sept. 1.
The Frank Cable team, consisting of more than 500 Sailors and civilian mariners, is currently deployed to provide vital flexibility to fleet commanders, extending the range and impact of U.S. naval forces.
Sailors spent their time entertaining children at Bethlehem Creche Children’s Center, as well as caring for animals at Animal Welfare and Protection Center, a no-kill shelter housing rescued street dogs on the outskirts of Colombo.
“It’s not only a good way for our Sailors to see a different part of the countries we visit but also a good way for sailors to give to communities that aren’t as well off as where they come from,” said Religious Program Specialist 3rd Class Lester Williams, a native of Columbia, South Carolina. “It helps put things in perspective and makes them more thankful for what they have, so that they don’t take the small things for granted.”
Sailors take away many different things from these COMRELS events during ships visits that are aimed at building friendship and goodwill between the U.S. and the people of Sri Lanka.
“Working with the kids in Sri Lanka was heartwarming and an overall great experience,” said Gunner’s Mate 3rd Class Ciara Dixson, a native of Cottondale, Florida. “To see them having a good time and smiling really made the whole day worth it.”