San Diego Chargers Practice Aboard USS Ronald Reagan

CORONADO, Calif. (NNS) -- Local Sailors were able to get up close and personal with some of the biggest names in the National Football League (NFL) as the San Diego Chargers conducted a pre-game walk-through practice aboard USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76) Aug. 11.

Sailors were given the opportunity to watch the team practice, meet the players and get autographs from both players and the “Charger Girls” cheerleaders.

“It is our privilege to host the San Diego Chargers,” said Capt. Terry B. Kraft, Ronald Reagan’s commanding officer. “The Navy is always looking for successful organizations to model after, and we need not look any further than the Chargers. They will always have 3,000 fans aboard Ronald Reagan.”

While aboard, the Chargers team toured the aircraft carrier and also joined the crew for lunch aboard the ship.

“The ship was a little different than I thought it would be,” said LaDainian Tomlinson, the team’s premier running back. “I am very impressed with the ship and the people on it. I can’t believe that a ship this big with this many people aboard it can do all the things it does."

During the event, the Chargers' coaches and management presented the crew with a special “Number 76” jersey signed by the team in honor of the Navy’s newest nuclear-powered aircraft carrier.

“It is our pleasure to come aboard and help raise the morale of the crew,” said Constance Narcisco, a Charger Girl, whose father is currently a master chief petty officer in the Navy serving at Catalina Island. “Every time I get the opportunity to be at a military event, it makes me feel special to have the opportunity to support the men and women who fight every day to keep our country safe.”

Ronald Reagan Sailors said they really enjoyed the opportunity to meet the players, coaches and cheerleaders of the local NFL team.

“It was a lot of fun to watch the Chargers practice on the flight deck,” said Ship’s Serviceman 3rd Class Jacob Allison. “It really helped raise the morale of the crew.”

For related news, visit the USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76) Navy NewsStand page at www.news.navy.mil/local/cvn76/.