COMALAPA, El Salvador (NNS) –
COMALAPA, El Salvador (NNS) -- Sailors assigned to Cooperative Security Location (CSL) Comalapa spread the holiday spirit by hosting children from the Love and Hope Orphanage on base, Dec. 13.
During their visit, 21 children received a tour by CSL Sailors and holiday gifts via a Secret Santa gift exchange, and were treated to a pizza lunch.
The children also enjoyed the opportunity to tour a U.S. Navy P-3C Orion aircraft. After opening gifts and eating lunch, the children and Sailors played different outdoor events which included a sack race, egg toss, and a game of soccer.
"It felt great to be able to give gifts to these children and see their smiles; it was priceless," said Master-at-Arms 3rd Class Jonathan Keaton. "Judging by the looks on their faces, they enjoyed the visit."
Since 2013, CSL Sailors have volunteered over 700 off-duty hours to spend time with children at this particular orphanage, making frequent visits to provide mentorship and make a positive impact in the children's lives. CSL Sailors and deployed squadron personnel have assisted the orphanage through numerous projects, and have also contributed to purchasing several appliances including a washer, dryer, and playground equipment for the home.
"I love to help because it gives me great pleasure to give back to the community," said Master-at-Arms 2nd Class Manuel Trianadiaz. "I joined the Navy to serve, and this is just one way I can give back."
CSL Comalapa provides critical logistics, infrastructure, and operational support to forward-deployed U.S. and partner nation aviation assets participating in Joint Interagency Task Force South-assigned counter-narcotic/illicit trafficking operations, U.S. Naval Forces Southern Command-directed humanitarian missions, and search and rescue efforts.
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