More Temples and the Mine Museum
Trip Start
Aug 21, 2006
1
45
70
Trip End
Dec 18, 2006
Siem Reap,
Cambodia
Tuesday, November 7, 2006
As a result of these experiences, he has worked with the government clearing mines and now works for the people of Cambodia to remove mines and increase safety in these formerly war torn areas. He built the current museum to house the thousands of landmines and UXO that he has cleared over the years and to make people aware of their danger and destruction.
He also provides a home to several children who have been adversely affected by landmines in some way. The children are educated at school and also at the museum by a small group of volunteers. Many of the children were there working in the souvenier store, playing ball, or just hanging about. Some missing limbs, but almost all with large smiles on their faces and hellos to greet you. "Where are you from?", "What is your name", are among the many question the children will ask.
The museum relies completely on donations. I was so moved by my visit that I wanted to write about the place and give donation information for anyone who is interested:
www.cambodialandminemuseum.org or www.landmine-relief-fund.com
Cambodian Landmine Museum, Siem Reap Angkor, Cambodia 855-12-598-951
The United States is one of many countries including China and Russia that has not signed the treaty banning the use and production of land mines. Princess Diana before her death was very involved in increasing awareness of this issue.
We also visited some additional temples this morning including an early start of 4:45am to arrive at one temple to see the sunrise! We were greated before it was even light by a group of guys taking orders for coffee and baguettes! Impressive.
The sky slowly became lighter with shades of pink and blue. The outline of the temples contrasting against the sky. The sun itself, a brilliant orange, slowly came up behind the temple creating a reflection in the lily pond. A breeze rustled the trees, horses grazed, and cameras were snapping.
