The city of Bremerton and Puget Sound Naval Shipyard (PSNS) hosted the 1st West Sound Safety and Health Expo at the Kitsap
Conference Center, Sept. 17. More than 100 civilian employees, military personnel, and their families got the opportunity to
learn more about safety and visit approximately 83 booths.
“The purpose of this event is to educate the community on various aspects of health and safety for work, home and recreation,”
said Looney Schmitt, event coordinator. “Volunteers did a phenomenal job helping us set up tents and tables for numerous vendors.”
Rear Adm. James Symonds, commander, Navy Region Northwest, visited each booth and spoke with representatives hosting their
booth.
“It was nice of Adm. Symonds to come out here today,” said Schmitt. “He expressed his interest for health and safety and it’s great
to see him out here reaching out to the community.”
“I am not too familiar with everything around here, and volunteering gave me a chance to meet new people in the area since my
ship moved here from Japan,” said Electronics Technician 1st Class (SW) Daniel Jones, USS Kitty Hawk (CV 63). “This gives me a chance
to show a positive image of the Navy and demonstrate we are here to help out whenever the community needs us.”
Exhibitors displayed and distributed pamphlets on various topics for work and home safety practices.
“I like to volunteer whenever the opportunity arises,” said Operations Specialist 3rd Class (SW) Joshua Sherman, from Kitty Hawk. “We
are here to do our part and show we care about the community.”
The event was free to the public and provided education to children and adults on the importance of safety and security. Children had
an opportunity to learn with a “Kids Zone” section that featured Safe Kids Kitsap. Safe Kids Kitsap performed bicycle helmet and life
vest fitting for children.
For one Sailor the event was an opportunity to learn.
“It’s important to be informed and educated about health and safety because it benefits my own health,” said Seaman Silverio Rodriguez.
“I get a chance to learn more about these topics and I get to volunteer.”