By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Mike Wright

MANAMA, Bahrain- Three Naval Reserve Officers Training Corps Midshipmen participated in Explosive Ordnance Disposal and security training on board Naval Support Activity Bahrain and Mina Salman Pier, July 9-10.

The students, representing NROTC programs from the Miami University (Ohio), University of Virginia, and Jacksonville University, are participating in the Midshipmen Summer Training Program designed to give future naval officers the opportunity to increase their knowledge and operational experiences in the fleet before commissioning.

Midshipmen began their visit with Embarked Security Teams (EST) based aboard Naval Support Activity (NSA) Bahrain at a Littoral Combat Laser Shot Weapons Simulator. The simulator is used to train and qualify sailors in land and waterborne gunnery in support of security operations in the U.S. 5th Fleet Area of Responsibility. Retired Chief Master-at-Arms Steven Demesa, EST Lead Trainer and Laser Shot Operator, said the training is exactly what the Navy needs to prepare its Sailors.

“The goal of this EST training is to teach the Midshipmen that security teams are based upon three values; which are to detect, deter, and defend,” said Demesa. “When they go out on missions I am never worried. I sleep well at night, because I know that I gave them all the knowledge that I have to give from my 25 years of service. If they retain all of the training that they are learning here today, I am sure they will do great things for the Navy.”

Embarked Security Teams provide force protection for Military Sealift Command vessels and sailors. Midshipmen were given the opportunity to develop their skills and learn directly from EST sailors on the proper use of the weapons simulator.

“The weapons simulator was really helpful and gave me a good idea of how difficult things can be on the water,” said Midshipman 1st Class Rachel Gillooly, a student at Miami University. “Especially when you are expected to navigate your ship, fire weapons and keep a calm head at the same time.”

During their second day of training, Midshipmen spent time with EOD teams and were familiarized with equipment the teams use on a regular basis, including a bomb suit.

“It was interesting,” said Midshipman 1st Class VonHayes Switzer, a student at Jacksonville University. “Looking at the suit, it didn’t look like it would be that heavy. When I put on the suit, I realized that it really restricts your maneuverability quite a bit. EOD guys have to train a lot to make sure that they stay in shape. They should be commended for how much that they have to go through.”

The Midshipmen completed their training at Mina Salman Pier with Riverine Teams training on Riverine Command Boats (RCB). The Midshipmen were given familiarization training on the RCB and its weaponry. RCBs have the ability to travel not only in rivers, but also out to bays and coastal regions, expanding the capabilities of command and control, and maritime security.

There are 59 NROTC units/consortiums hosted at 71 schools throughout the United States. Applicants selected for the program are awarded scholarships through a national selection process, and receive full tuition and other financial benefits at many of the country’s leading colleges and universities.

NAVCENT is responsible for approximately 2.5 million square miles of area including the Arabian Gulf, Red Sea, Gulf of Oman, parts of the Indian Ocean and 20 countries.

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