| United States Submarine USS New Hampshire Sailors Befriend Friends of Forgotten Children |
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Concord, New Hampshire, November 8, 2007 - Ten sailors assigned to the Navy's fast attack submarine USS New Hampshire delivered over 250 food items collected from a food drive on their base in Groton, CT to the Friends of Forgotten Children (FOFC) this past weekend. Two representatives of the Family Readiness Group accompanied their husbands on their five hour round trip to assist in the delivery. Upon their arrival, in true US Navy tradition, the sailors were "piped aboard" to the US Navy song "Anchor's Aweigh" by newly assigned Executive Director William Dearborn of Epsom on the bagpipes. Because their ship is our state's namesake, the wives and crew had been looking for a way to help our state. Dee Olsson, wife of Machinist Mate Dan Olsson discovered the need for food donations to the Friends of Forgotten Children's food pantry. After initial inquiries were made to the Friends of Forgotten Children, Dee presented her idea to the other Family Readiness Group members and the crew of the USS New Hampshire for their approval. Canned goods and monetary contributions were collected for donation and further distribution to those in need. "We're going to continue to forge ties with our namesake state and build relationships that will last beyond the life of the ship," said Master Chief Glen Kline while preparing for their return to Groton. "We're ambassadors to the communities." Sonar Technician Aaron Skellenger from Lake Mills, Iowa quipped that "On my last ship, we had a close relationship with our state sponsor. I'd very much like to see us have the same mutually beneficial relationship with the State of New Hampshire." Machinist Mate Guild of Portsmouth and Sonar Technician Seaman Apprentice Shawn Black of Londonderry were present among the crewmembers who volunteered to assist in the delivery. The USS New Hampshire is currently under construction, and is scheduled to be launched in February 2008. Friends of Forgotten Children is a 501 (c) (3) public charity located at 224 Bog Road. They happily accept small and large donations of food and non-food items, clean and serviceable clothing for all ages and new toys as well as monetary contributions. Contributions are tax deductible. Friends of Forgotten Children can be reached at 603-753-4801. Media Contact:
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