Sailors Volunteer at Little Rock Navy Week

By Chief Mass Communication Specialist Steve Johnson, Navy Office of Community Outreach Public Affairs

LITTLE ROCK, Ark. (NNS) -- Sailors volunteered for a variety of community service projects during Little Rock Navy Week May 23-30 in Little Rock, Ark.

More than 12 Sailors and recruits gave the Watershed Human and Community Development Agency, Inc. a fresh coat of white paint, covering the facility's exterior walls and walkway support columns.

"The Navy has such a small presence in Arkansas, it's nice that we get out and do these things so people know we're here," said Information Systems Technician 1st Class Kimberly Bradley, assigned to Navy Operational Support Center Little Rock. "They don't know how diverse we are. The Navy's mission isn't just about being on a ship. We do everything from security to deployments in the desert and Afghanistan. We need to make people aware of us by getting out in the community."

The agency representatives were very appreciative of all the work the Sailors completed for them.

"It's one thing for the Navy to fight the war overseas for freedom, but another thing to fight the war on poverty here at home," said Rev. Hezekiah D. Stewart Jr., who helped found the organization. "It's a big deal that the Navy is coming here to help spruce up the place because we just don't have the manpower."

Painting wasn't the only thing Sailors did during Navy Week Little Rock. Earlier in the week, six Sailors delivered Navy ball caps to patients at the Arkansas Children's Hospital, Arkansas' only pediatric medical center, as part of the Caps for Kids program.

"This has been a neat special event where they get to interact with the Sailors," said Amanda Auttonberry, a child life specialist at the hospital. "The children have a chance to forget about their illness, plus it inspires them to think about the future. It's fun, but it also gives them hope."

Habitat for Humanity received assistance from 15 Sailors and recruits hailing from various area commands to help deconstruct a house slated to be demolished.

"The Sailors here today are working really hard and doing a wonderful job removing everything from plumbing and light fixtures to countertops and trim," said Misty Stewart, volunteer coordinator working on site. "Everything recyclable will be taken back to our store and sold. The proceeds in turn will allow us to build and remodel more homes for people in need."

Sailors worked most of the day to remove all salvageable items from the house, including the kitchen sink.

"I'm excited to do this," said Lt. j.g. Marla Goshien from Navy Recruiting District Nashville, Tenn., while removing a door. "It feels good to give back to the community and work for a great cause."

Little Rock Navy Week 2010 is just one of 20 Navy Weeks planned across America in 2010. Navy Weeks are designed to show Americans the investment they have made in their Navy and increase awareness in cities that do not have a significant Navy presence.