The crew of the guided missile destroyer USS Wayne E. Meyer (DDG 108) hosted a group of midshipmen from the United States Naval Academy for an underway evolution off the coast of San Diego, July 28.

The ship departed from Naval Base San Diego with the midshipmen on board as part of the Professional Training of Midshipmen (PROTRAMID) summer training evolution.

PROTRAMID is an event that allows the officer candidates to experience a variety of communities into which they can eventually earn a commission. Their visit to the Wayne E. Meyer was scheduled as a part of their introduction to the surface warfare community.

Cmdr. Adam Fleming, commanding officer of Wayne E. Meyer, said he encouraged the midshipmen to make the most of their time on board.

"This is a great ship with a crew of great Sailors," said Fleming. "They are ready and eager to answer any questions you may have and teach you as much as possible today."

The midshipmen participated in a series of shipboard familiarization evolutions including damage control exercises, a tour of the ship, observation of shipboard maneuvering, and small-arms firing.

"The full-power demonstrations were really impressive," said Midshipman Second Class Chanin Cooley. "We had a really great time with the officers and crew of Wayne E. Meyer!"

Meyer was named after the late Rear Adm. Wayne E. Meyer, who is regarded as the "Father of Aegis" for his service as the AEGIS Weapons System Manager and later his development of the AEGIS Shipbuilding Project Office.

The crew of Wayne E. Meyer is currently taking part in certification evolutions as part of the ship's basic phase of training in preparation for future deployments.

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