Sigonella Resumes COMRELs

Photos and Story By Dr. Alberto Lunetta, NAS Sigonella Public Affairs

Volunteers from Sigonella recently resumed off-base Community Relations activities (COMREL) for the first time since COVID-19 restrictions. These ongoing initiatives, which support Sicilian communities, are held in partnership with Sicilians at local schools, beaches, parks, historic sites and charities. They are among the best ways for Sailors and civilians to give back to the Sicilian people and discover the island’s culture and traditions during their time onboard NAS Sigonella.

Navy Medical Readiness and Training Command Sigonella volunteers jumpstarted the post-lockdown which is part of the territory of the COMREL on June 17th when they joined forces with the Santa Caterina parish volunteers in Trecastagni in the ancient Gaglianesi district. This successful community relations event was aimed at renovating, making safe for families and clean-up the city’s Gaglianese Park, which is also used for church community activities.

Volunteers, coordinated by HM2 Louis Fernandez, dedicated five hours to sanding and painting the railings, fences and benches of the park.

Father Antonio, the Priest of the Chiesa di Santa Caterina church, praised the volunteers and expressed tremendous gratitude. “Dear volunteers, our parish community welcomes you with gratitude and affection,” said Fr. Sapuppo.

“The municipal park, which is part of the territory of the St. Catherine’s parish in the ancient Gaglianesi district, is a special and precious place for us, especially in the summer. Today, by painting the railings and benches, you have beautified this place and colored it with joy; you made it safer, more welcoming and elegant; and you’ve been a blessing to my community,”

Local volunteers also welcomed the opportunity to participate in local community service events.

“It was wonderful to engage so closely with the community around us, not just in a social setting, but one where we can positively contribute to the incredible people of Sicily,” said Cheti Moran, a volunteer who recently supported the project.

All NAS Sigonella personal, including spouses, are welcome to attend. To sign up for a COMREL event with your command, organization or association, contact Dr. Alberto Lunetta at: alberto.lunetta.IT@eu.navy.mil.