Students Participate in Battle of Midway Observance

SAN DIEGO (NNS) -- Students from two San Diego area high-schools participated in an inaugural outreach program for the 71st anniversary of the Battle of Midway commemoration at the USS Midway Museum, June 1.

Students from Patrick Henry and Bonita Vista High Schools had the opportunity to learn about the Navy, as well as one of the most significant battles in naval history, and interact with Sailors who participated in the commemoration ceremony.

"The purpose of the program is to offer the students a glimpse of naval history, the accomplishments of these veterans, and the benefits all of us have experienced because of their sacrifices, such as freedom," said Denise Haines, deputy protocol officer, Naval Air Force, U.S. Pacific Fleet.

Sailors escorted the students and several of their parents onto the USS Midway Museum, gave them a tour prior to the commemoration, and shared significant Navy experiences with the students.

"I take care of Sailors and Marines who are hurt, that is my job and my passion," said Hospital Corpsman 1st Class Shaina Simien. "In our Navy, the opportunities are endless and, by honoring the Battle of Midway veterans today, we are keeping their legacy alive."

The students represented all grade levels from freshman to seniors.

"Eventually, I would like to serve my country as a diplomat," said Alan Luna, Bonita Vista High School 12th grader. "I believe being part of the Navy could give me an edge in achieving my goal. Service is one of my highest values."

"I want to be a welder, and I see the Navy as an opportunity and one of the places I can belong," said Adrian Tamayo, Bonita Vista High School 11th grader.

Parents also helped commemorate the day with the students.

"I believe events like today's are wonderful and a great way for my daughter and young people to think about the future and more importantly to think beyond themselves," said Ileen Mylrea, parent of a 12th grader.

Prior to the commemoration, the Sailors who served as escorts for the outreach program took questions from the students ranging from why they joined the Navy to explaining the most significant milestones in their careers.

"It was an honor to attend today's event," said Aviation Warfare Operator 1st Class Angel M. Gracia. "It reinforced the pride I have in our Navy as well as the gratitude I have for our veterans. My hope is that the students takeaway a sense of pride in their country and perhaps an interest in serving our country."

Students and their parents were able to observe 13 veterans from the Battle of Midway receive recognition. Each living veteran and their warfighting duties during the battle were announced by the USS Midway Museum's President and CEO, John McLaughlin.

As the commemoration's events came to a conclusion, the students expressed gratitude and appreciation to the Navy and their escorts.

"I want to thank our escorts for sharing their stories and the command coins they gave us," said Emmanuel Crawford, Bonita Vista High School 11th grader.

The Battle of Midway, which took place June 4-7, 1942, changed the course of the war in the Pacific and highlighted naval aviation's vast capabilities. Just six months after suffering a stunning loss at Pearl Harbor, the U.S. struck a debilitating blow against the main aircraft carrier striking force of the enemy. When the smoke of battle cleared, four of the aircraft carriers that had taken part in the attack on Pearl Harbor lay on the floor of the Pacific Ocean.

For more information about the Battle of Midway visit http://www.history.navy.mil/Midway/midwaybattle-index.htm or use #Midway <https://twitter.com/search?q=%23Midway&src=hash> to join the conversation on social media about Navy's most historic victory.

For more news from Commander, Naval Air Forces, visit www.navy.mil/local/airpac/ .