Truxtun Sailors Complete First College Course While Deployed

By Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Kevin J. Steinberg, USS Truxtun (DDG 103) Public Affairs

USS TRUXTUN, At Sea (NNS) -- A group of Sailors aboard guided-missile destroyer USS Truxtun (DDG 103) completed their first college course while on deployment through the Navy College Program for Afloat College Education (NCPACE) July 5.

NCPACE courses provide Sailors with a distance learning process that allows them to continue their educational pursuit while at sea through classes taught on board ships.

Andrew Block, an instructor from Central Texas College, taught English 1301 to Truxtun Sailors.

"It's amazing how the Sailors find the energy and motivation to study, write essays and participate in class, while completing their responsibilities on the ship," said Block.

Although the Sailors had to purchase the required textbooks, NCPACE classes are free of charge.

"This was an opportunity that I'm really glad I took advantage of," said Sonar Technician (Surface) 3rd Class Isaac Henry.

All 17 Sailors who are students successfully completed the course.

NCPACE courses are offered free of tuition to deployed and overseas service members in geographically isolated locations.

Truxtun is assigned to Combined Task Force 151, supporting counter-piracy and maritime security operations in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility.