thedrifter
12-14-05, 02:07 PM
Camp Pendleton Marines read to local school children
MCB Camp Pendleton
Story by Cpl. Antonio Rosas
MARINE CORPS BASE CAMP PENDLETON, Ca. (Dec. 14, 2005) -- Six Marines, including Maj. Gen. Michael R. Lehnert, Marine Corps Installation West commanding general, volunteered several hours of their time to make a lasting impression on local children.
These Marines didn’t perform duties related to their jobs in the Corps, however, they read storybooks to elementary students at Bonsall West Elementary School for the Adopt A School Program Nov. 15.
The Marines from Headquarters and Support Battalion, Marine Corps Base, made a pact to work closely with the students and participate in everything from tutoring in subjects like math and reading to performing physical fitness programs.
“The Marines involved in this program provide a positive example for the kids,” said Capt. Stan E. Bednar, MCI-West Regional Plans officer. “It also serves the younger Marines in making them better-rounded citizens.”
Interacting with the children could have a big influence on the children, explained 26-year-old Bednar from Anchorage, Alaska. It could also foster positive relations between the children and Marines, he said.
After answering a volley of questions from the students, the Marines flexed their leadership skills on the young minds.
The students were fascinated with the fact that some Marines work desk jobs and don’t necessarily perform training exercises every day, explained Bednar.
They learned that Marines like Cpl. Simon J. Longoria, an administrative personnel clerk with H&S Bn., MCB, help Marines with items like pay and allowances.
“It was weird because I’m not used to being around kids,” said the 24-year-old from La Puente, Calif. “They were intimidating at first, but after answering some questions and seeing a lot of smiles I felt a lot closer to the kids.”
Longoria, who was hesitant to volunteer for the program at first, is now looking into volunteering for other similar programs like Big Brothers and Big Sisters. Volunteering provides personal satisfaction and an opportunity to do something different for the children, said Longoria.
Bednar, who spearheaded the program with the elementary school, pointed out that the school’s principal promotes a system similar to the Marine Corps' 14 leadership traits.
Anyone interested in donating even one hour of his or her time is urged to contact Capt. Bednar at BednarSE@pendleton.usmc.mil
Email Lance Cpl. Rosas at antonio.rosas@usmc.mil
Ellie
MCB Camp Pendleton
Story by Cpl. Antonio Rosas
MARINE CORPS BASE CAMP PENDLETON, Ca. (Dec. 14, 2005) -- Six Marines, including Maj. Gen. Michael R. Lehnert, Marine Corps Installation West commanding general, volunteered several hours of their time to make a lasting impression on local children.
These Marines didn’t perform duties related to their jobs in the Corps, however, they read storybooks to elementary students at Bonsall West Elementary School for the Adopt A School Program Nov. 15.
The Marines from Headquarters and Support Battalion, Marine Corps Base, made a pact to work closely with the students and participate in everything from tutoring in subjects like math and reading to performing physical fitness programs.
“The Marines involved in this program provide a positive example for the kids,” said Capt. Stan E. Bednar, MCI-West Regional Plans officer. “It also serves the younger Marines in making them better-rounded citizens.”
Interacting with the children could have a big influence on the children, explained 26-year-old Bednar from Anchorage, Alaska. It could also foster positive relations between the children and Marines, he said.
After answering a volley of questions from the students, the Marines flexed their leadership skills on the young minds.
The students were fascinated with the fact that some Marines work desk jobs and don’t necessarily perform training exercises every day, explained Bednar.
They learned that Marines like Cpl. Simon J. Longoria, an administrative personnel clerk with H&S Bn., MCB, help Marines with items like pay and allowances.
“It was weird because I’m not used to being around kids,” said the 24-year-old from La Puente, Calif. “They were intimidating at first, but after answering some questions and seeing a lot of smiles I felt a lot closer to the kids.”
Longoria, who was hesitant to volunteer for the program at first, is now looking into volunteering for other similar programs like Big Brothers and Big Sisters. Volunteering provides personal satisfaction and an opportunity to do something different for the children, said Longoria.
Bednar, who spearheaded the program with the elementary school, pointed out that the school’s principal promotes a system similar to the Marine Corps' 14 leadership traits.
Anyone interested in donating even one hour of his or her time is urged to contact Capt. Bednar at BednarSE@pendleton.usmc.mil
Email Lance Cpl. Rosas at antonio.rosas@usmc.mil
Ellie