PUERTO VALLARTA, Mexico — Members from the Coast Guard Cutter Steadfast participated in a community relations project, painting a local shelter during a mid-patrol break. 

Working with members of the local Navy League and the American Legion, the crew of the Steadfast volunteered to paint the local shelter and clean up an adjoining playground on one of the few days of liberty that the crew has while underway.

“One would expect to have a hard time getting volunteers to give up their day of rest and relaxation to lend a helping hand for such a worthy cause,” said Cmdr. Jose Jimenez, commanding officer of the Coast Guard Cutter Steadfast, “This is never the case.  Every time I have sought volunteers for a project like this one, I'm reminded of my crew's commitment and dedication to help others as I always end-up getting more volunteers than needed.”

The opportunity to take part in a project like this allows the crew to experience the culture, make a positive contribution to the local community and help maintain positive foreign relations between the United States and Mexico.

“Visiting foreign ports is one of the few perks the crew gets to enjoy during a deployment,” said Jimenez.  “In addition to having an enjoyable time, we get to learn a little about another country's customs and traditions as well as some of the challenges their people face.”

Petty Officer Second Class Tim Glasure, a boatswain’s mate, was one of the many crew members who volunteered his time during one of his days off to participate in the project.

"I think it was a fun and great experience to get out in another country’s community to make a difference," said Glasure.

Since its commissioning in 1968, Steadfast has completed over 330 search and rescue cases, interdicted more than 1.6 million pounds of marijuana, 27,700 pounds of cocaine, seized more than 65 vessels and stopped more than 3,500 undocumented migrants on the high seas from entering the United States.

Steadfast is currently berthed at the 17th Street Pier adjacent to the Astoria Maritime Museum and is open for tours every Sunday and on holidays.

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