ROYAL THAI AIR FORCE BASE, Korat -- Something exceptional is sweeping through the schools here.
Sailors from Navy Strike Fighter Squadron 97 are visiting primary and secondary education centers, teaching basic geography and familiarizing students with English.
“We want to show the community here not only military support, but also humanitarian support,” said Lt. Joseph D. Reardon, Marine Aircraft Group 12 chaplain. “It’s important to have both, and we have our English speaking capability to share with the children.”
During VFA-97’s deployment in support of the Thailand Incremental Training Program exercise, Reardon has arranged a total of 12 school visits.
“The teachers have responded with incredible gratitude and respect for our efforts,” he said. “They have also benefited from our English conversation.”
Some were able to eloquently express the appreciation they felt.
“We are thankful for their visit,” said SeSnior Master Sgt. Kamol Muadadchai, RTAF foreign personnel chief. “It is important because the students learn how to pronounce the English words from native speakers.”
Sailors pointed to objects like chairs or feet, pronounced the word, and had the students repeat it after them. Other activities included singing songs, teaching the alphabet and learning basic United States geography.
Warm smiles and laughter greeted the new teachers during a visit to the RTAF primary school, October 26.
“They were shy at first until they saw how friendly we were,” said Petty Officer 2nd Class Suchan Yi, religious program assistant, Marine Aircraft Group 12. “I think it’s the fact that we’re here that makes a difference. Our presence lets them know we are here to have friendship between two countries.”
In a land where most are familiar with the U.S. military only through the news, it’s unique opportunities like these that show the service member as a caring individual, according to Yi.
“Overall, we’re making a major impact,” he said. “We are giving a different view of America.”
Reardon said it’s an impact that benefits the Sailors as well.
“The Sailors are experiencing the spirit of giving,” he said. “They are giving their time, giving their knowledge and giving their love to those that need to see that Americans care. What we have given them, they have returned through their smiles, gratefulness and goodwill.”