SINGAPORE — Sailors assigned to the Arleigh Burke-class guided missile-destroyer USS McCampbell (DDG 85) interacted with children during a community service(COMSERV) project at the Children at 11 Street After School Program in Singapore, May 19.

Children at 11 Street is a multi-racial, secular, independent, non-profit organization dedicated to help low-income and dysfunctional families to provide quality early education for their children.

“We came here to show people what we stand for, and it has been my best comserv in seventeen years,” said Chief Fire Controlman (SW) David A. Jones from Rolla, Mich. “I really think the kids loved it.”

Sailors spent their time cleaning the facility, playing with the kids and helping the kids develop their art skills. They had the chance to interact either one on one or in groups with the children throughout the day.

“I think it’s a great opportunity for these kids to interact with Sailors since it shows them a side of us that they wouldn’t probably see otherwise,” said Gunner’s Mate 2nd Class (SW/AW) Dejion Rivers, from Riverdale, Ill. “Times like these also help us get out of the routine and give us a chance to help these kids have a good time.”

Naina Shah, administrator of Children at 11 Street, expressed how grateful she feels every time U.S. Navy Sailors come to visit.

“We receive visitors constantly, but usually they stay inside reading and studying with the kids, so whenever U.S. Sailors come to play and they get to stay outdoors, they get really excited, which makes me feel really good.”

The interaction between the kids and the Sailors help the children become more comfortable when meeting different types people, according to Shah.

“They are happy, and they have fun every time they have visitors,” added Shah.

USS McCampbell is assigned to Destroyer Squadron 15 and is currently in Singapore to participate in the International Maritime Defense Exhibition Asia 2011.