By Army Staff Sgt. Christina Turnipseed U.S. Army Africa
GAROUA, Cameroon, Jan. 8, 2018 — In Task Force Darby’s
efforts to support the Cameroon military’s fight against the violent extremist
organization Boko Haram, other humanitarian opportunities often present
themselves.
One such opportunity was a civil affairs-led team made up of
soldiers from the 1st Battalion, 87th Infantry Regiment; the 806th Adjutant
General Detachment; Civil Affairs Team 4032 and other service members. This
team provided food, soccer balls and moral support to the boys of Saare
Jabbama, a youth rehabilitation center for boys ages 8 to 18.
According to Army Capt. Scott Wyly, commander of Civil
Affairs Team 4032, many of the boys living at the center either can't find
jobs, can't find their parents or are homeless.
The reasons why several soldiers and service members
volunteered to deliver food, soccer balls and nets also vary.
“The civil affairs team has had a strong relationship with
the center for the last couple years and visits the center on a monthly basis.
Private donors from the United States frequently send donations for the [civil
affairs] team to give to the children at Saare Jabbama,” Wyly said.
Love for Giving
The motive for some of the participating troops to volunteer
for the humanitarian mission was a love for giving.
“Giving to the boys’ home was the best feeling for me,” said
Army Sgt. Adrian Cordova, a mail clerk with the 806th Adjutant General
Detachment.
“It was great to be able to see the excitement and smiles on
their faces when we arrived. Playing soccer with the boys was an even greater
feeling,” he said.
Army Sgt. John Marshall, also a mail clerk with the 806th
Adjutant General Detachment, said he also enjoyed giving.
“I wanted to give back to other families and children that
are less fortunate than I am. I feel really blessed to be able to help others
in their time of need,” Marshall said. “I know what it's like to hit rock
bottom. So for me, it is a blessing to give back.”
Army Spc. Ryan Worwood, with the 1st Battalion, 87th
Infantry Regiment, said he took part out of a general love for children.
“I’ve always wanted to do this since I got here,” he said.
“I love little kids a lot. So, it was no surprise to my family that I
volunteered.”
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