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Midshipmen Train in Wet Trainer at NB Point Loma

Navy NewsStand

Story Number: NNS060720-15
Release Date: 7/20/2006 5:32:00 PM

By Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Damien E. Horvath, Fleet Public Affairs Center, Pacific

POINT LOMA, Calif. (NNS) -- Midshipmen from various Navy Reserve Officer Training Corps (ROTC) programs around the country experienced the submarine wet trainer at Naval Base Point Loma July 17 as part of their Midshipman summer training program.

The program is designed to enhance the professional development of the Midshipmen.

The wet trainer was constructed in 1991 and simulates a flooding scenario in a submerged submarine. Modeled after a Sturgeon-class submarine’s engine room, the wet trainer uses re-circulation technology to pump up to 1,200 gallons of water per minute into the compartment.

“We start out with several hours of classroom instruction, followed by basic damage control and techniques to combat flooding,” said Machinist’s Mate 1st Class (SS) Robert Duncan, lead instructor assigned to Submarine Training Center Pacific. “These kids don’t have to meet any qualifications or standards when it comes to the trainer. So it’s a lot of fun for them, and it is a great team building exercise.”

The Midshipmen entered the trainer in groups of eight, equipped with basic damage control supplies.

“We give them the necessities - marlin, rubber sheets and adam’s clamps. Since the majority of the Midshipmen who come through the trainer aren’t going to enter the submarine community, we like to keep it as fun and basic as possible,” said Electronics Technician 1st Class (SS) Joseph Mutschler. “It’s great to see the 'middies' getting a little more experience with everything, but more importantly that they have a good time in there.”

Midshipman 3rd Class Jill Weston of the University of Michigan Navy ROTC program said she was ecstatic when she exited the wet trainer.

“It was awesome!” Weston said. “It was really cool to get in there and patch up some pipes amidst the spraying water.”

Not all of the Midshipmen in attendance were there solely for the fun. Midshipman 3rd Class Wayne Jubane of the University of Washington, Seattle, said he anticipates spending his naval career aboard submarines.

“I see some additional practicality for me taking part in this exercise,” Jubane said. "I really like the submarine community, and I hope to be back here upon graduation.”