Michael J. Pantelides, the mayor of Annapolis, received a crash course in seamanship and navigation during a visit to the U.S. Naval Academy (USNA), Sept. 22.

During the visit, Pantelides built upon previous interactions with USNA midshipmen and had the opportunity to learn about and participate in the activities of the Yard Patrol (YP) Squadron.

The event, hosted by Marine Corps Col. Steven Liszewski, commandant of midshipmen, provided a platform from which to broaden exposure of the activities of the YP Squadron and the standard of instruction provided by the Seamanship and Navigation Department (SEANAV).

"It's a great honor to have the mayor come down to see what we do here on the academy side of town," said Lt. Cmdr. Peter Ware, British Royal Naval officer and SeaNav operations officer. "He is getting exposure to what the Yard Patrol squadron helps us to do in terms of developing the midshipmen's ship handling, seafaring, and leadership skills."

During the visit, the mayor was able to experience firsthand how ship navigation training is conducted at the academy from the classroom, to the simulators, and then in the open water aboard YP-708.

"I'm loving the Naval Academy experience and I'm thoroughly impressed with both the staff and midshipmen," said Pantelides. "I've lived here my whole life but I've never had the opportunity to drive a destroyer in the simulators or go out on the YPs and see the training firsthand."

While underway, Pantelides spoke with members of the YP crew, learned about the many different leadership and operational roles aboard the ship, and even had the opportunity to participate in practical training drills.

"I think it's a great opportunity to show what we do and what we represent to the people of Annapolis," said Midshipman First Class David Van Vleet. "The mayor is a great resource and a great friend to us here at the Naval Academy."

Pantelides was elected Mayor of Annapolis in November 2013 becoming the city's first Republican mayor since 1997. He credits his campaign's success to the volunteer work done by the city's diverse community that Annapolis prides itself on. During his time in office he has worked with the Naval Academy in multiple community service and volunteer capacities.


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