Marines from Marine Corps Base Camp Blaz spent the morning volunteering at Finegayan Elementary School, helping clean up the campus and connect with students.

The marines collected trash and cleared debris along the school’s fence line and playground area, working with school officials to improve the appearance and safety of the campus. After the cleanup, the service members joined students for lunch and recess, answering questions about life in the Marine Corps and participating in playground activities.

“As Marines stationed in Guam, we’re not just here to train, we’re here to be part of the community,” said Pfc. Gabriel Cajas, military police, Provost Marshal’s Office, MCBCB. “Opportunities like this show that we stand ready to help and support the people who call this island home.”

For the Marines involved, the day served as a reminder that even small acts such as picking up trash, sharing a meal or pushing a swing, can strengthen relationships and reinforce a simple message: Camp Blaz is here to help.

“The students enjoyed having the Marines here,” said Rose Salas, a Finegayan Elementary School faculty member. “They had so much fun interacting with them, sharing lunch and spending time together during recess, and it meant a great deal to our faculty and staff to see that connection; it reminds the students that Marines at Camp Blaz are not just service members but role models. We look forward to welcoming them back again.”

School staff say the visit was meaningful for students, who enjoyed spending time with the marines and seeing them as role models in the community.