Bush Strike Group Sailors Volunteer at Children's Home During Port Visit

By Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Tyrell Morris, USS George H.W. Bush Public Affairs

MAYPORT, Fla. (NNS) -- More than 20 Sailors assigned to USS George H.W. Bush (CVN 77) and its embarked air wing, participated in a community relations (COMREL) event at the Florida Baptist Children's Home in Jacksonville, Fla., Feb. 12.

The Florida Baptist Children's Home has been in existence since the early 1940s and provides shelter for up to 40 children in need of a safe haven due to unfortunate life circumstances.

"I'm thankful God gives me the opportunity to see different places and me giving back to the community, especially the community where I'm from," said Aviation Machinist's Mate 3rd Class William Bethea, Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 213, from Jacksonville, Fla. "It's a way for me to show my appreciation."

The Sailors spent four hours digging up dead grass and smoothing out soil to beautify the property grounds of the children's home.

Luther Scarboro, Florida Baptist Children's Home director of maintenance, has worked at the children's home for 12 years.

"Since I've been working here I've learned how to become a better Christian by serving others," said Scarboro.

There are several high schools and civic organizations that volunteer at Florida Baptist Children's Home throughout the year. They help with landscaping and any special programs to make the children feel at home.

The 23 Sailors who participated in the COMREL left an impact on the Florida Baptist Children's Home, their staff, and particularly the children who receive shelter there.

"Having volunteers is absolutely critical, and we wouldn't be able to keep up the property grounds or the children's home itself without volunteers," said Scarboro.

For more news from USS George H.W. Bush (CVN 77), visit www.navy.mil/local/cvn77/.

This article was sponsored by Military Books.