Naval Base Guam Sailors Share Navy Experiences with Students

By Oyaol Ngirairikl, U.S. Naval Forces, Marianas, Public Affairs, Joint Region Marianas Public Affairs

April 15, 2010 - MANGILAO, Guam (NNS) -- U.S. Naval Base Guam (NBG) Sailors spoke about their careers to students at Adacao Elementary School on Guam April 15.

Sailors from NBG Security Special Response Team (SSRT) discussed their mission requirements during the school's career day event.

SSRT performs law enforcement and anti-terrorism force protection for NBG, while also responding to high risk threats on naval assets and personnel.

Master-at-Arms 3rd Class David Enriquez said participating in the career day is a great opportunity to represent the Navy.

"Doing things like this, getting involved in the community, it builds a strong bond between the military and the island," said Enriquez.

The team brought bullet-proof vests, shields and other equipment they use in their jobs. They also gave students an opportunity to ram open a training door and turn on the sirens on an unmarked police vehicle.

Enriquez said he volunteered as a presenter to support the education of Guam's students and help them understand that there are many career opportunities available to them.

"I think it's very important for kids, even at a young age like these kids at elementary school, to get an idea of what they would like to be when they grow up," said Enriquez.

While many families on Guam have military ties, not all students have that connection, so partnering with schools helps youth learn more about the Navy, said Master-at-Arms 3rd Class Thomas Woodlee.

"I really enjoy my job, and I like being able to talk to the kids about it," said Woodlee.

Carla Aguon, a fifth-grade teacher and co-coordinator of the career day, said the event is one way to apply classroom lessons to real-world experiences.

"Bringing the events to the kids today is bringing it to life," said Aguon, adding that the day means a great deal to the students. "It's a memory that will last a lifetime."

Evangeline Chang, the school principal, said it's important that people take an interest in children's education and is grateful Sailors were able to participate in the school's career day.

"I just want to thank the military people for taking time to be with us, especially to share their expertise with our children," said Chang.

NBG's mission is to support the U.S. Pacific Fleet and other operating forces operating from, serviced by or supplied through Guam; to support the fighters based on NBG or attached to tenant commands; and to support the families of Sailors stationed in Guam.