Early on Friday Morning, 20 February 2004, the Sea Cadets from NCBC Battalion joined with their Ocean State shipmates from FALCON Division (Providence) and NETC Division (Newport) for an excursion to the U.S. Naval Submarine Force Museum in Groton, CT. With over 40 Sea Cadets attending, we were met by the Commanding Officer of the resident Sea Cadet unit at the submarine base, LT Rob Smith of Nautilus 571 Division, along with several members of his staff and senior Cadets. The Rhode Island Cadets toured the Sub Force museum and its centerpiece, the USS NAUTILUS, tried their hands at the helm of a submarine, and had lunch at the SUBASE Galley. We ended our activities at the Submarine memorial and paid respect to those who remain on eternal patrol. For the images below, click on any photo to see a larger view. It will open in a new window - no need to reload this page.

LT Smith greets Cadets upon arrival.	Cadets get their plan for the day.
Cadets enter the Sub Force Museum.	Cadet ponders the switch panel at the helm.
Cadets take the helm.	A driver's license is not required.
A returning 688-Class submarine steams past.	Cadets take in the Sub Force Museum.
Checking out the river traffic.	Cadets head off to the galley for noon chow.
Cadets assemble at Submarine Memorial.	Forming up at the sail of FLASHER (SS-249).
RI Sea Cadets at the National Submarine Memorial.	George Wardwell, U.S. Navy League, gives remarks.
Mr. Wardwell, Newport County Council, Navy League.	Take a virtual tour aboard NAUTILUS.