The Bomber Battalion on the USS Alabama
Story submitted by Cadet Lieutenant Grace Hale, PAO, Mountain Home NJROTC
The Mountain Home NJROTC embarked on an amazing experience a few weeks ago, as they were invited to the commissioning of the USS Richard M. McCool (LPD 29). This special event celebrated the official entry of the USS Richard M. McCool into the U.S. Navy Fleet, and cadets from Mountain Home NJROTC, along with NJROTC and Sea Cadets from Alabama and Pensacola, joined the Marine Aviation Training Support Groups Two-One and Two-Three, Navy Training Wing Ten (VT-10) Wildcats, Navy Band Southeast, and McGuire’s Pipe and Drum Band as part of the action. USS McCool is the 13th and final Flight 1 San Antonio class Amphibious Transport Dock ships, designed to transport and deliver United States Marines and their equipment for a variety of expeditionary warfare missions.
The cadets started the orientation trip by traveling to Mobile, Alabama, where they visited the USS Alabama Battleship Memorial Park. They learned all about the USS Alabama and its impressive history, discovering the bravery and achievements of the crew. They also visited the USS Drum, a WWII diesel submarine at the same veterans memorial park, along with the Korean War memorial exhibits. The cadets gain vital knowledge of our nation’s Naval history atop and below the waves, as well as in the air.
Commissioning day, September 7th, was a day packed with excitement as the Bomber Battalion, along with other JROTC units, lined up to welcome the official guests to the ceremony, including the Secretary of the Navy, Carlos Del Toro and Chief of Naval Operations, Admiral Lisa Franchetti. It was a memorable moment for everyone involved. During her address, Admiral Franchetti acknowledged the cadets’ attendance and USS McCool’s Executive Officer referred to the cadets as “the future leaders of our great nation” Secretary Del Toro spoke with the cadets following the ceremony, saying, “if you stick with this, you too could one day be the secretary of the Navy.”
The Bombers concluded their orientation with a visit to the Naval Aviation Museum in Pensacola, Florida. Here, the cadets explored different types of military aircraft and learned about the development of naval aviation over the years. They enjoyed the rich history of Naval Aviation, participated in flight simulations, and learned about the current and future aircraft carriers utilized to launch and recover the Navy’s protectors of the skies.
This trip was more than just a series of visits. It was an exciting way for the Mountain Home NJROTC to connect with Naval history and gain inspiration for their own future in the service. The Bomber Battalion is coming off the most exciting year in school history, and this school year is starting off at the same pace, promising to be the best year on record. Follow their adventures throughout the year on Facebook @MHBombersNjrotc and on Instagram @mountain_home_njrotc.
WebReadyTM Powered by WireReady® NSI