LAEM CHABANG, Thailand - The amphibious assault ship USS Bonhomme Richard (LHD 6) departed Laem Chabang, Thailand, Feb. 26, following a scheduled port visit.

“The Sailors and Marines of Bonhomme Richard worked diligently throughout exercise Cobra Gold and had the opportunity to enjoy some well-deserved rest and relaxation in Thailand,” said Capt. Larry McCullen, commanding officer of Bonhomme Richard. “Now that the team has recharged, Bonhomme Richard is more than ready to get back out to sea and continue this patrol.”

Throughout the port visit, Bonhomme Richard onloaded Marines, assigned to the 3d Marine Division (MARDIV), who participated in exercises off ship during Cobra Gold.

During the port visit, a group of Sailors dedicated time to interact with children of the Child Protection and Development Center in Pattaya, Thailand, as part of a community relations project. The center provides education, protection and a permanent residence to underprivileged children.

"Taking a couple hours out of my time here in Thailand to visit the children at the Child Protection and Development Center was incredibly fun,” said Air Traffic Controller 1st Class Edwin Afante, from Chicago. “I enjoyed learning their games, dancing, and sharing snacks. Seeing the smiles upon their faces warmed my heart to no end. It was hard to say goodbye."

Bonhomme Richard Sailors and Marines, assigned to the 3d MARDIV, also had the opportunity to experience what Thailand had to offer though tours sponsored by the ship’s Morale, Welfare and Recreation (MWR).

Bonhomme Richard continues a regularly scheduled patrol in the Indo-Pacific region supporting security and stability in the region.