Peleliu ARG, 15th MEU Visit Orphanage in Timor-Leste

By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Edwardo Proaño, USS Peleliu Public Affairs

June 22, 2010 - DILI, Timor Leste (NNS) -- Sailors and Marines from the Peleliu Amphibious Ready Group (PEL ARG) participated in a community service project at the Santa Bakhita Orphanage outside Dili June 21.

Cmdr. Gary Clore, USS Peleliu (LHA 5) chaplain, led the mission, which provided school supplies, candy, music and games to the children.

The ship's mascot, the Peleliu Gator, came along with the team and pantomimed a local fairy tale for the kids, as the chaplain read the story. The tale was about a crocodile that became the mountains and hills of Timor-Leste.

Throughout the day, Sailors and Marines interacted with the children, playing, singing, dancing and giving out candy.

"It's important to contribute to … the orphanage because we can make a positive impact in the lives of these kids," said Clore.

Clore said community service projects such as this contribute to strengthening the relationship between the U.S. and Timor-Leste on a grass-roots level.

"The goal of this project is to … let them know that we represent the U.S. Navy and we think they are special," said Clore.

The experience was great for the kids, but also rewarding for the participants.

"It feels good to reach out to these kids," said Ensign Timothy Tacl, Peleliu's first division officer. "I played soccer with them, and it means a lot to see how happy they were. It was awesome."

PEL ARG and embarked Marines from the 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit are participating in Exercise Crocodilo, a multilateral exercise that promotes partnership through civil programs and training with the Timor Leste and Australian militaries.

Other elements of the PEL ARG include Commander, Amphibious Squadron 3, the command element; Fleet Surgical Team 1; Tactical Air Control Squadron 11; Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron 23, Detachment 5; Assault Craft Unit 1, Detachment F; Assault Craft Unit 5, Detachment B and Beachmaster Unit 1, Detachment D.

The PEL ARG is transiting the 7th Fleet Area of Operation and reports to the Commander, Amphibious Force 7th Fleet, Rear Adm. Richard Landolt, who is headquartered in Okinawa, Japan.