Few experience life with a complete sense of wonderment. Childhood is a fleeting part of a person's life, but that short span is when some moments are enjoyed to the fullest. Often, moments get taken for granted as we get older.

For the boys of Cub Scout Pack 1967 and Boy Scout Troops 697 and 516, spending a day touring aircraft carrier USS George H.W. Bush (CVN 77) and other points of interest around Naval Station Norfolk, gave them an up-close and personal experience on how Sailors in the Navy live and work.

"I really learned a lot about the Navy today," said 8-year-old Cub Scout Q.B. Lee. "From learning how big a carrier can be, to learning that the fuel tanks hanging up in the hangar bay aren't bombs, I learned a lot of things I never knew!"

Even though the breeze that blew across the deck was chilly, nothing could freeze the spirits of the children who were amazed when walking around the flight deck and riding an aircraft elevator.

"My favorite part was riding the elevator," said Lee with a grin on his face. "It scared me a little when we moved up, but I thought it was fun after."

For many of the scouts, this was their first time on a Navy ship. GHWB was not the only place the tour group visited, as they also toured the hangars of Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 26, and guided-missile destroyer USS Cole (DDG 67). Each tour stop offered a glimpse of Navy life through multiple perspectives.

"It was really cool to see the helicopters and how they work," said Lee. "I loved when we were on the Cole. It had a lot weapons for a small ship."

Once the tours ended and the meals were served, the kids were treated to popcorn and a movie. Other activities included trying on flight gear and firefighting gear, learning how to tie knots, and playing games.

The kids learned so much from this once-in-a-lifetime experience, but for the parents, scout leaders, and chaperones, they also walked away with knowledge and memories few get to see.

"I really enjoyed the experience, and so did the kids," said Thieu Nguyen. "I feel the experience was good for everyone, because even though you could learn about the Navy from a TV show or video, there's no better way than see how it all works in person. We all learned so much today."

It wasn't just facts, or trying on gear that were the only things the kids gained from this experience, but a sense of honor and values Sailors hold to. They are values similar to what Boy Scouts are taught to live by.

"I saw the good in the Sailors that we met, and that spoke to us today," said Nguyen. "I hope that these are the kind of people that my son grows up to be."

The boy scouts came to look for an experience few get to see. They found it, and it was seen through the wide-eyed stares, gasps, and excitement shown. This, in turn, made the adults in the room smile. Nothing warms the heart more than a child's sense of wonder.

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For more news from USS George H.W. Bush (CVN 77), visit http://www.navy.mil/.