BALTIMORE -The crew of the Coast Guard Cutter James Rankin is now sponsoring students from Park Elementary School in Brooklyn, Md., in the Partnership in Education (PIE) program.
The crew of the Rankin began working with the school Oct. 2, when several crew members read the book Corduroy to students on National Read Aloud Day.
The Coast Guard implemented the PIE program May 12, 1994 under the National and Community Service Act of 1990. This commitment includes enhancing educational opportunities and career awareness for the nation’s youth through direct participation in education related programs.
The Rankin’s crew aims to heighten students’ awareness of traditional Coast Guard values, drug free life styles, emphasis on scholarships, personal initiatives, responsibility and individual self-worth.
“It’s the right thing to do,” said Lt. Wayne B. Wallace, the commanding officer of the Rankin. “PIE gives the kids exposure to someone from a different organization and gives the crew a sense of belonging in the local community.”
The PIE program encourages Coast Guard active duty members, reservists, auxiliarists, civilians and retirees to participate in their local communities.
The Rankin is a 175-foot buoy tender homeported in Curtis Bay, Md.
