 Here at the United States Naval Academy Mid Shipman received three forms of specialized training preparing them to become future surface warfare officers. Training includes classroom sessions, virtual simulators and real-life underway experiences on yard patrol vessels. The yard patrol boats manned by a four-man enlisted crew are highly maneuverable watercraft that provide navigation and basic seamanship training for the Mid Shipman. I think it can form great fundamentals for those going surface warfare. It allows them to actually see what's happening on the water. It's one thing to do in the classroom, it's one thing to do in the simulator, it's one thing to do it out on the seas for small portions during the summer. These are all skill sets that I had to learn and develop when I got to my first ship. I think our training relates very directly to the fleet, particularly the surface warfare community. Gaining a working knowledge of afloat operations is an integral part of the academy's mission to develop quality naval officers. For more on this story, stay tuned to All Hands Magazine.