US Sailors deployed to Korea helped support the Aikwangwon orphanage on Koje Island in the Republic of Korea earlier this month.  The orphanage has been ongoing for approximately 60 years, started by Kim Im-soon, a Christian convert from her family’s tradition of Confucianism.

“The Navy volunteers did in one day what would have taken over two months to accomplish,” said Kim.

The US servicemen then did what they famously do so well:  They played with the kids.

Sailors split up to interact with the residents and children after completing the work. Some went for a hike while others went inside to play games.

The commander of US Naval Forces in Korea, Rear Adm. Bill McQuilkin, had strong words of praise for Kim:

“This is the seventh decade of a life of service she’s starting. She’s an example for all of us. We have come away much better.”

Along with donations of diapers and DVDs, US Navy Chaplain (LtCmdr) David Yang presented the orphanage with a check of $1,000 from the tithes and offerings of US military congregations.

When US forces deploy around the world, they are often extremely busy.  In this case, the sailors were tasked to support Foal Eagle 2012.  It is often no small sacrifice to volunteer precious time and resources to support local community projects, but service projects, including supporting this Christian orphanage, remain one of the many ways in which members of the US military demonstrates the American ideals of respect, service, and religious liberty.