Orphanage visit tugs at the heartstrings
Members of HMAS Arunta, along with a detachment from USS Higgins, visited the Father Ray Foundation, sharing joy with orphaned children while visiting Sattahip, Thailand, for Indo-Pacific Endeavour 2022 (IPE22).
CAPTION: HMAS Arunta sailors take on the children from the Father Ray Foundation in Sattahip, Thailand, in a tug of war. Story by Lieutenant Chayce Pullen. Photo by Leading Seaman Susan Mossop.
Higgins Command Chaplain Lieutenant Matthew R. Moyinihan said the event was a great opportunity for strengthening cross-cultural understanding.
“Both navies engaged the children in activities explaining life on board a warship using games like tug of war and Marco Polo to demonstrate line handling and submarine hunting,” Lieutenant Moyinihan said.
“The children were overjoyed to be presented with gift bags and receive certificates, signed by the commanding officers of HMAS Arunta, USS Higgins and HMCS Winnipeg, making them honorary junior sailors.”
Commanding Officer Arunta Commander Jason McBain said taking part in IPE22 was an opportunity for the ship’s company to enhance their appreciation and understanding of the Thai way of life.
“Activities like this help our members learn more about our Thai partners, and grow the friendships between our two countries,” Commander McBain said.
“I’m proud of the way members gave of themselves on this visit, collecting $500 in donations from ship’s company for the foundation.”
CAPTION: Leading Seaman Andrew Rae presents a child from the Father Ray Foundation with his junior sailor certificate. Photo by Leading Seaman Susan Mossop
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