The ship's appearance, the crew's behavior ashore, and the tours hosted are all factors that determine a successful port visit and a good image left with the host country. But very rarely does the impact of a community relations project (COMREL) fall behind any of the above mentioned factors.

This was especially evident during Indy's visit to Pusan a few days ago, when 60 Sailors participated in two orphanage COMRELs on Saturday, 18 October.

Both projects, as do most COMRELs, left the Sailors who participated and the citizens who benefited, a better understanding of each others culture and personalities.

The "Island" COMREL as one was called, allowed Sailors the opportunity to paint some of the playground equipment and home furniture. This particular project was also unique in the fact that this was the first time in many years that U.S. Military personnel have visited the home.

"Both projects were a success, even with some last minute improvisation, said Lt. David Schilling, Chaplain and project coordinator. "When we arrived at the site, we were supposed to have several different colors for the equipment, but our Sailors, as creative as they are, decided to mix the only yellow and red paint to make a third color of orange."

Schilling also added that it is the crew of Independence who comes through time and time again when the word is put out about a COMREL.