On Saturday morning, 21 crew members of the USS Cowpens led by their navy chaplain visited the Ban Chark Ngaew primary school in Huay Yai to chat with 150 students, do a little painting, and participate in a fun sports-and-English day together. The sailors were welcomed by Khun Bamnet Jeenkaokam, the principal of the school.

It was a chance for the American crew members to experience the warmth and hospitality of Thailand, the land of smiles, and the children were full of them on this day. The kids had a great time learning about communicating in English with foreigners, and the servicemen and women shared a lot of laughs during the low-key sporting events and games.  The day ended with a group lunch courtesy of the USS Cowpens’ ship staff and the donation of educational tools and accessories, including the paint for the school to complete the much-needed refurbishing. The US Navy crews will be participating in community service projects through the 6th of October. 

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