Miss Louisiana Visits Sub Crew

By Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Steven Myers, Submarine Group 2 Public Affairs

May 24, 2010 - GROTON. Conn. (NNS) -- The reigning Miss Louisiana 2010 USA visited USS Alexandria (SSN 757) which departed for a full deployment May 21.

Sara Brooks spent time with the crew at Naval Submarine Base New London May 19 – 20, just days after competing in the Miss USA 2010 pageant in Las Vegas. During her visit, Brooks signed autographs for the crew and toured the Los Angeles-class attack submarine, which is the third vessel to bear a name that is shared by cities in both Louisiana and Virginia.

"I think it was awesome," said Hospital Corpsman 1st Class David Farque, a native of Lafayette, La. "It's great that she took the time to find out what we do to serve our country."

"I was looking forward to meeting her. She has the Louisiana spirit," said Logistics Specialist 2nd Class Archie Gray, a native of New Orleans.

Brooks presented a photo to Alexandria's commanding officer, Cmdr. Gene Doyle, and spoke to the crew via the ships public address system.

"Thank you so much for allowing me aboard." she told the crew. "I'll be counting the days until your return. You will be in my thoughts and prayers."

Alexandria was commissioned in June 1991.