Underwood Sponsors Academy Midshipmen

These Midshipmen have been afforded the opportunity to live onboard the Guided Missile Frigate and experience the daily routine of the ship's crew as it goes through their 2009 training cycle.

The three Midshipmen participated in damage control and anti-terrorism force protection drills, drove the ship simulator onboard Underwood, and toured several ships in the Mayport basin. They also had the opportunity to fly in the latest helicopter simulator at Helicopter Squadron Medium Seventy at Naval Air Station, Jacksonville. The Midshipmen were also able to get a back seat flight with HSL-48.

The ship tours coupled with the flight and simulator time gave the Midshipmen the ability to experience all aspects of operations pertaining to life on board a U.S. frigate.

The midshipmen also participated in wardroom functions that included two Hail and Farewells as well as a Jacksonville Sun's Game which allowed them the opportunity to see the camaraderie associated with the wardroom and Navy life outside the Navy's operational commitments.

Thanks to the support of USS Underwood and the helicopter squadrons the midshipmen received thorough training and experienced all aspects associated with the lifestyle and operational commitments aboard a U.S. Navy warship.