On a sweltering day in the Horn of Africa, a small school in the nation of Djibouti received a day of pampering courtesy
of 16 members of Patrol Squadron (VP) 46 and Consolidated Maintenance Organization 10’s detachment there. The effort
is part of a renovation project hosted by the Community Assistance Volunteer program and supported by the Navy
Seabees of Camp Lemonier.
“This was a very rewarding experience for the Sailors who were able to participate,” said Cmdr. Mark Hamilton, executive
officer. “For most of us, this was our first day off in two months. I am proud this detachment chose to donate their collective
time and effort to help rebuild and beautify a Djiboutian village school.”
The VP-46/CMO-10 team arrived in the rural town of Damerjog to what could almost be described as a rock star welcome.
“From the time the bus drove into town until we drove away late that afternoon, the children of the town were excited to
see Americans,” explained volunteer Lt.j.g. Jason Locke. “They ran after the bus and followed us through town to the school,
overjoyed to get the water and snacks service members handed out.”
When they arrived at the school, a group of local students began working alongside the Sailors removing papers and posters
on the walls. Observing the students working beside him and others, Aviation Maintenance Administrationman 2nd Class
Brandon Heppler said, “Educating youth is one of our most important responsibilities and if I can spend a few hours of off-duty
time helping to improve the learning atmosphere for these kids by painting walls, then I’m all for it.”
By the end of the day, two additional rooms that were not part of the original project were ready to host students, all thanks
to the teamwork and initiative of the Navy volunteers and the local community working alongside the Grey Knights and Sea Wolves.
Taking stock of the day’s efforts, Hamilton noted, “It certainly makes one thankful for what we inherently have as an American,
and appreciate the difficulties others around the world face.”
The school is planning to capitalize on the momentum begun by VP-46/CMO-10. It intends to use the refurbished rooms as
a secondary school to keep students in the classroom beyond the standard primary education.