The U.S. Marine Corps gave Map Ta Phut Industrial Port in Rayong a guided visit to sixty members of the HHN Foundation for Thai Children and their staff. The group received entrance aboard the USS John L. Canley (ESB 6) Courage under Fire which exists to honor retired U.S. Marine Corps Sergeant Major John L. Canley and his service during the Vietnam War and Medal of Honor achievements.
The John L. Canley serves as an expeditionary staging base with state-of-the-art capabilities that provides accommodation for almost all rotary-wing aircraft present in the U.S. Department of Defense fleet and allied aircraft. The ship features a fleet-leading spacious flight deck which enables it to support manned and unmanned flying missions in combination with combat tasks for surface ships as well as air vehicles and underwater crafts. As a military operations platform it provides great versatility and displays advanced modern technology and warfare equipment.
While touring the ship the children visited operational spaces which had modern features that duplicated luxury facilities in five-star accommodations. The children spent time with U.S. military personnel who gave an overview of Navy career options between aviation and engineering and logistics fields.
The dedicated sports area of the ship along with its advanced military equipment operated by members of the crew proved to be the most remarkable aspect of the tour experience. The Navy's tour inspired all participating children to understand better the sophisticated and significant work of military operations.
The day concluded with a dinner that the Marines provided for the children to sustain their continuous efforts in supporting disadvantaged Thai youth. The occasion allowed people to receive special educational insights while creating stronger ties between American military forces and residents of the local Thai community. This experience illustrated the needs for cultural exchange along with nation-building relationships between international communities.
