NAS Whidbey Island Sailors teamed up to make improvements to the Oak Harbor Elementary School March 5, 2011.  Although VP-46 is the school’s Navy Partner in Education (PIE), volunteers came from throughout nine different commands to pitch in.

Thirty-six members from VP-46, Naval Hospital Oak Harbor (NHOH), the Center for Naval Aviation Technical Training Unit (CNATTU) Whidbey, Security, VQ-2, NAS Operations, Center for Personal & Professional Development detachment, VP-1 and the Navy Operational Support Center Whidbey partnered to repair the track and make improvements to the garden area of the school. 

“I seek out ways to give back to the community and when I heard about this project, I felt it was important to support,” said Air Traffic Controller First Class Kevin Mullins of CNATTU.

At the beginning of the project, the school track was sparse and was in need of many improvements.  After two hours of teamwork, the end result was fresh dirt and gravel spread along the entire track.

“I am proud to have the opportunity to help the elementary school,” said Master-At-Arms First Class Patrick Evan from NHOH. “With the improvements made to the landscaping, the overall morale and education is improved for the elementary children.”

In addition to the PIE program, many commands seek volunteer opportunities through word of mouth and personal networks.  Some of these military members have spouses who work with various schools around the community. 

With track and field season approaching and the local schools looking for volunteers to assist, Culinary Specialist 2nd Class Sergio Guerrero of NHOH said, It’s is a good way to give back to education, recreation and safety of the children.”