Navy Capabilities Showcased in Twin Cities

By Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Sean P. Gallagher, Navy Office of Community Outreach Public Affairs

MINNEAPOLIS (NNS) -- Sailors in Minneapolis are showcasing the U.S. Navy capbilities during Twin Cities Navy Week July 17-25.

Local Sailors, a Navy SEAL (Sea, air, land) team and the U.S. Navy Parachute Jump Team, the "Leap Frogs," provided demonstrations to the public.

The U.S. Navy SEAL team at the Minneapolis Air Expo demonstrated their accelerator, which communicates real life stories through print, video and online interaction. Attendees also got a chance to engage in an F-18 flight simulator.

"I really think Twin Cities Navy Week is going great," said Lt. j.g. Mike Sheehan, primary field public affairs officer for Twin Cities Navy Week. "We've gotten some very positive responses from people, such as the St. Paul Saints, the Minnesota Twins and local business leaders."

Twin Cities Navy Week has many naval activities and community projects. Commander Submarine Force Vice Adm. John J. Donnelly and Commander Navy Reserve Forces Rear Adm. Lothrop S. Little are attending as leading U.S. Navy representatives.

Sailors have interacted with many Minneapolis residents at various events, including service projects with Feed My Starving Children (FMSC), model rocket building with the Ronald McDonald House and leaders in both the Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts of Minnesota.

The Saint Paul Saints had a Navy Day July 20. The "Leap Frogs" jumped into Midway Park. The Minnesota Twins also hosted a Navy Day July 20 with Vice Adm. Donnelly throwing the first pitch.

"This Navy Week is great," said Sheehan. "It lets people know the Navy has a presence in their community and are working hard every day. It also gives us a great opportunity to interact with local Sailors, community leaders, business leaders and the local citizens."