The guided-missile destroyer USS Cole (DDG 67) hosted 50 midshipmen from the U.S. Naval Academy, May 29 for at-sea familiarization training.

The midshipmen's visit to Cole is a part of their summer training program in between academic years. It is an opportunity to learn about the Navy outside of an academic setting.

"There is so much activity going on throughout the ship, and it has taken a lot of coordination on the part of the crew" said Lt. Emily Shrum, coordinator for the visit. "We have a small, but mighty crew. There is so much knowledge that the midshipmen can gain from the Cole Sailors."

"Myself and the crew have prepared a variety of evolutions for the Midshipmen to observe while onboard" said Shrum.

The midshipmen observed a variety of evolutions, demonstrations and tours of the spaces vital to training. They began the day touring Main Engine Room 2 and the Combat Information Center. As the day went on they participated in various mentor sessions, and ended the day observing several damage control demonstrations.

"I didn't realize how quickly you have to move and respond during a Damage Control situation," said Midshipmen 2nd Class Samantha Geere, a visiting Midshipman.
During lunch the Midshipmen visited with the ship's top enlisted Sailor. "Even if it is just for one day, we want them to be part of the Cole team," said Command Master Chief Michael A. Leggett. "It is imperative that we prepare these young men and women to be future leaders. I hope to impress on them the importance of their Sailors when it comes to accomplishing whatever mission they are tasked with."
The crew shared the Cole's rich, yet tragic history. In doing so, they joined the crew during the sea and anchor detail in rendering honors to the Cole Memorial.

Amidst the hustle and bustle of the day, the midshipmen had a few moments to sit down and talk with the commanding officer, Cmdr. James Von St. Paul. His discussion stemmed from the perspective of a commanding officer's expectations of a new division officer.
"I challenge you to put forth the effort and enter the Navy with a willingness to learn, said Von St. Paul as he addressed the midshipmen.

"This is a great way for them to learn about the fleet and mold their leadership skills," said Ensign James Segrave, Cole's Gunnery Officer "We incorporated moboard [maneuvering board] training and supervised ship handling practice for them to take back with them when they return for fall semester."

At the end of the day, it became apparent that the mentorship sessions with the crew held throughout the day would hold the most value for these midshipmen.
"Everything I learned today was useful, but I really appreciate all the insight I gained from the CO, CMC, officers, and enlisted personnel," said Midshipmen 2nd Class Shannon Hart, a member of the 2020 graduating class.

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For more information, visit www.navy.mil, www.facebook.com/usnavy, or www.twitter.com/usnavy.

For more news from Commander, Naval Surface Force, U.S. Atlantic Fleet, visit www.navy.mil/.