WASHINGTON (NNS) – Naval Support Activity Washington (NSAW) and Naval Sea Systems Command co-hosted a “Bring Your Child to Work Day” at the Washington Navy Yard, April 27.
The event, collectively coordinated by NSAW and NAVSEA personnel, gave Washington Navy Yard employees the opportunity to bring their children to see firsthand, and understand the significance of what their parents do.
“This event is emblematic of the cooperation, teamwork, and diversity of missions here on the Navy Yard,” said NSAW Command Master Chief Keith Hayden. “My daughter built and launched a hand-made straw missile, exhausted herself on the obstacle course, and got to see a live demonstration of how police dogs find explosives—all before lunch today. What other workplace has that much to offer?”
With registration open to all credentialed employees at the Washington Navy Yard, more than 500 children, ages 6-17, participated. Attendees explored numerous presentations and enjoyed a fun-filled day full of activities spanning from tours of the firehouse; a rare opportunity to watch a live rehearsal of the Navy Band; guided tours and hands-on exhibits in the National Museum of the United States Navy including special presentations by the underwater archeology branch; and an interactive experience with NAVSEA’s Explosive Ordnance Divers (EOD) and Salvage Divers.
“This was a tremendous opportunity for both parents and children,” said NSAW Executive Officer LCDR John Liddle. “We look forward to building off this year’s successful event in the future.”
Children and parents also had an opportunity to observe a time honored naval tradition: a re-enlistment ceremony, which was held during the opening welcome session. Participants also talked with representatives from the United States Naval Academy admissions office and the Washington Navy Yard Branch Health Clinic at displays across the Navy Yard.
As part of its community outreach initiatives, NSAW also invited the first grade classes of Van Ness Elementary School to join in the day’s events. Thirty students, their teachers, and several parent chaperones participated in multiple activities offered such as the EOD dive tank and inflated obstacle course. The opportunity allowed the burgeoning school to expose these children to the rich history and unique culture of the Navy Yard and the Navy in general, as well as lay a foundation for future partnership with the base.
“It’s our goal as the installation to foster a positive work environment for all our tenants and their employees, enabling the Navy to recruit and retain the very best talent at all levels,” explained Lt. Matthew Sanders, a member of NSAW’s group that planned the event. “We worked with NAVSEA to host an event that was fun for the kids, but also rewarding for the parents.”
For more information on events happening in NSA Washington, visit www.facebook.com/navalsupportactivitywashington.
Date Taken: | 04.27.2017 |
Date Posted: | 05.08.2017 12:55 |
Story ID: | 233023 |
Location: | WASHINGTON NAVY YARD, DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA, US |
Web Views: | 41 |
Downloads: | 1 |
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