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    Bahraini students explore and learn during US Navy Day

    NAVAL SUPPORT ACTIVITY, BAHRAIN

    04.16.2014

    Story by Petty Officer 1st Class Steven Smith 

    U.S. Naval Support Activity Bahrain

    NAVAL SUPPORT ACTIVITY, Bahrain — Components of the U.S. Naval Forces Central Command (NAVCENT) and Naval Support Activity (NSA) Bahrain provided more than 200 Bahraini middle school students with tours, equipment displays, and demonstrations during U.S. Navy Day at Mina Salman Port, April 16.

    The event provided kids from the local community an opportunity to learn about the U.S. Navy, Marine Corps and Coast Guard as part of the U.S. Embassy Manama, Bahrain’s annual American-Bahraini Friendship Week Program.

    “The U.S. Embassy is proud to be working with the U.S. Navy on a whole host of events for the American-Bahraini Friendship Week Program,” said Timothy Pounds, Deputy Chief of Mission, U.S. Embassy Manama, Bahrain. “I believe that today’s ‘Navy Day’ event is one of the best ways we can show that the U.S.-Bahrain relationship is not just about formal diplomatic or military ties, but about our strong people-to-people ties. The over two hundred students that attended today’s event not only have a better understanding of how the U.S. Navy works with their Bahraini partners to maintain security and stability in the region, they also had a chance to meet face-to-face with a number of Sailors and U.S. Navy personnel. These personal interactions provide the solid foundation that allows our two nations to better work together at all levels of the bi-lateral relationship.”

    As the students arrived, they were greeted by Sailors and issued a personnel qualification standard (PQS) worksheet. This PQS listed items the students would learn about and experience as they made their way around the pier to each unit’s exhibit. Each stop would earn them a signature. Once all the signatures were collected, they would be given a special completion certificate.

    The first stop was aboard the mine countermeasure ship USS Gladiator (MCM 11) where students interacted with Sailors as they climbed ladders and explored passageways. Their tour guide led them up to the pilothouse and then through the ship, arriving all the way back aft, to see the equipment used in counter-mine operations.

    “This was a great opportunity to show our hosts what the Navy in Bahrain is all about,” said Lt. j.g. Joseph Giuda, navigator of Gladiator. “By showing them what life is like aboard the ship and teaching them about our mission, it creates an understanding between us and helps continue our strong relationship.”

    Back on the pier, the Marines of Fleet Anti-Terrorism Security Team (FAST) Company Central Command displayed several weapons systems and explained their use. The Marines also held a Marine Corps Martial Arts Program (MCMAP) demonstration and provided instruction on basic techniques.

    “It’s amazing to be out here and talk to the kids,” said Lance Cpl. Brandan Wilkerson, assigned to FAST Company, Charlie Company, 4th Platoon. “Myself and the other Marines are happy to show the kids what we do and the kids are genuinely interested and excited to learn about us.”

    Explosive Ordnance Disposal Mobile Unit (EODMU) Sailors displayed diving equipment and an underwater bomb detection robot. The students were also able to have a hands-on experience by controlling a bomb-retrieval robot.

    “I didn’t know anything about the Navy before and this was definitely a new experience for me,” said Rakan Abu Shultiats, 8th grade student. “I think it’s important to see how the Navy works and how they are protecting everywhere.”

    Other displays earned students signatures toward their completed PQS, such as equipment demonstrations by NSA Bahrain’s Fire and Emergency Services first responders. Naval Security Force (NSF) Bahrain master-at-arms also engaged the students with a personal defense class where the kids could practice some of the techniques.

    “We are very pleased to be able to participate and the kids are enjoying an experience they have never had before,” said Juan Lewis, principal of Modern Knowledge Schools. “Events like this teach the students there are good relationships that bring us together for a common cause.”

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    NEWS INFO

    Date Taken: 04.16.2014
    Date Posted: 04.16.2014 17:55
    Story ID: 126322
    Location: NAVAL SUPPORT ACTIVITY, BH

    Web Views: 62
    Downloads: 0

    PUBLIC DOMAIN