SAN FRANCISCO — Sailors from the amphibious assault ship USS Bonhomme Richard (LHD 6) took part in a community relations (COMREL) project at the San Francisco Ronald McDonald House Oct. 13, during San Francisco Fleet Week 2008.
During their time at the Ronald McDonald House, Bonhomme Richard’s volunteers prepared spaghetti and served the children and their families’ dinner.
“Taking the time to give back promotes a positive relationship between the community and the Navy,” said Yeoman 1st Class (AW) Jennifer Perry. “COMRELs also help maintain a positive image of Sailors. San Francisco has been great to Sailors and this is our way of saying thank you.”
The Ronald McDonald House is a non-profit organization that provides a home away from home for families of seriously ill children receiving treatment at nearby hospitals.
“We are so grateful that the Sailors are able to do this for the families. We have been waiting and talking about it for awhile,” said Jackie Okamura, Ronald McDonald House business manager. “We have different organizations prepare home-cooked meals for about three quarters of the month and we are really appreciative.
“Some of the families are at the hospital all day long and may come back with not-so-great news,” said Okamura. “They are completely drained and coming back to a home-cooked meal after a rough day brightens up their day even if for a moment.”
After dinner the Sailors served ice cream, cleaned-up and enjoyed a movie with the residents of the house.
“Getting involved in the community gives me a good feeling inside,” said Intelligence Specialist 1st Class (SW/AW) Franklin Cheromiah. “Being able to make a difference in the lives of families is all the worth while.”
The Ronald McDonald House showed their appreciation to the Sailors by presenting them with a banner signed by the residents.
“We are totally indebted for you all to taking your time to do this for us and sharing your stories,” said Angela West, resident manager. “We are thankful and appreciative for what you do every day.”
For more news from USS Bonhomme Richard, visit www.navy.mil/local/lhd6/.
