_________

Hellenic Mutual War Risks Association Donates $10,000 Honoring U.S. Naval Anti-Piracy efforts Athens (June 8,2010) – At a ceremony at the U. S. Embassy in Athens, Greece, Michael Chandris and George Pateras of the Hellenic Mutual War Risks Association presented a $10,000 charitable gift to the Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society in recognition of U.S. naval support after a Greek ship was seized by pirates off the coast of Somalia in May, 2009.  After the Greek-owned M/V ARIANA was seized by pirates, two U.S. Navy ships, USS PINCKNEY (DDG 91) and USS DEWERT (FFG 45) provided over watch and material assistance to the ship.  During the ceremony, Chairman of the Hellenic War Risks Board Michael Chandris said the crew of the M/V ARIANA would never forget the kindness or the services provided by the Sailors aboard the two naval vessels. In accepting this charitable gift, Mrs Esyesmeri De La Rosa Scott, Director of the Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society’s Office in Sigonella, Sicily, said, “We are proud to serve the Sailors and Marines who sacrifice so much to keep our country and the global community safe.  This contribution will be used to help service members and their families through the Society’s aid programs.” Seas were too rough for the ship’s rigid-hull inflatable boat (RHIB) so this Christmas delivery (food and comfort items donated by the crew) was delivered via helicopter. Santa can be seen being lowered to the deck of M/V ARIANA in this photo.  Picture provided by Cmdr. Sean G. McLaren, USN, Commanding Officer, USS DEWERT (FFG 45).  The ship’s motto is: "Daring, Dauntless, Defiant" Updated: June 19, 2010 Return to the Society's "News" page