VAZIANI TRAINING AREA, Georgia -- In a continuation of their humanitarian efforts, Marines with 3rd Battalion, 25th Marine Regiment, 4th Marine Division, along with soldiers from the Georgian Army’s 4th Infantry Brigade, spent the day with local children at the Tsavkisi Hospice for Homeless Children near Tbilisi, July 25, as a part of Exercise Immediate Response 2008.
Ten Marines and two Georgian army soldiers tackled the opportunity to take a day off from training to play with the underprivileged children.
The day began with a meet and greet between the Marines, Georgian Soldiers and the children. Though shy at first, the children quickly warmed up to the warriors, and it wasn’t long before they were all playing soccer in the back yard.
“We could judge by their smiling faces that the children are happy to see the Marines and soldiers,” said David Janashvili, the director of the home. “They really enjoyed their company.”
The children laughed with joy as the Marines played with them on the playground which was donated by the city. From kicking the ball around to swinging on the swing set, both the Marines and youngsters had a good time.
“I teach outdoor education to children at the YMCA in Oregonia, Ohio,” said Lance Cpl. Dustin Eubank, a rifleman with Co. L, 3/25. “Working with kids and teaching them different things is a life-changing experience. By us being here, it gives these kids a chance to see some of what Americans are all about.”
Prior to the visit, Marines and soldiers took up a collection of money from their fellow warriors. With this generous donation they were able to purchase furniture, toys, books and educational materials for the home.
“The table and furniture was necessary,” said Janashvili. “The children can see how much the soldiers and Marines care for them, not just by the furniture and toys but by them just being here and spending time with them.”
A second trip to the orphanage is scheduled sometime in the near future, and the children say they look forward to the visit.
“I really enjoyed playing with the Marines,” said Anna, an 8 year-old girl living here. “We had a lot of fun. God bless all of the Marines and soldiers. I hope they can come back soon.”