Fiesta San Antonio: "Navy Day at the Alamo"

By Master-At-Arms 1st Class Candice Boyd, Center for Security Forces Public Affairs

SAN ANTONIO, Texas (NNS) -- Sailors from Naval Technical Training Center Lackland impressed spectators of all ages during Fiesta San Antonio's Navy Day at the Alamo, Apr. 24.

Fiesta San Antonio is an annual celebration that honors those who fought and died in the "Battle of the Alamo" and the "Battle of San Jacinto." Fought within months of one another, each battle played a pivotal role in the Texas Revolution and ultimately led to Texian freedom.

The year's celebration marks the 124th anniversary of Fiesta San Antonio. It is also the 12th consecutive year of participation by NTTC Lackland in Navy Day at the Alamo.

Rear Adm. William Roberts, commandant, Medical Education & Training Campus (METC) spoke about the Navy being there when it matters.

"Seventy percent of the earth is covered by water, 80 percent of the global population lives near the ocean and 90 percent of international trade occurs by sea," said Roberts, "Around the world and around the clock a Sailor stands the watch. When disasters strikes the Navy is there-being there matters."

Sailors from METC and Master-at-Arms "A" school provided demonstrations that show how the Navy stays proficient through vigorous training evolutions. Training that enables them to deploy worldwide and serve a vital role in safeguarding both military assets and personnel.

Spectators had an opportunity to observe Chief Master-at-Arms Delilah Clymer, receive level one direct contamination spray and complete a confidence course. Oleoresin Capsicum spray is one of several non-lethal weapons used by Navy security force personnel to subdue a hostile suspect or defuse a hostile situation.

"Wow, it is unbelievable. Why would anyone volunteer to be sprayed directly in the eyes?" asked spectator Neal Pooson. "However, it was excellent and realistic."

The highlight of the event was the Military Working Dog (MWD) demonstration where the crowd learned first-hand what it takes to train MWDs. MWD handlers explained the tools used to train these highly specialized dogs such as a bite suit and mock weapons all of which help the dogs become more proficient in performing their daily duties.

"Simply amazing," stated Chris Medina, San Antonio Mayor Pro Tem, "It reminds me how important it is that we have our military operations so well-trained and well-prepared to take on any incident or issue that may come up."

The ceremony and demonstrations concluded with the proclamation reading by Medina who declared it "Navy Day" in San Antonio. "We're Military City, USA and we really value all of our services and we're just so proud to have the Navy for Navy week here at Fiesta," stated Medina.

The Center for Security Forces is the parent command for Naval Technical Training Center Lackland. The Center provides specialized training to more than 28,000 students each year. It has 14 training locations across the U.S. and around the world - Where Training Breeds Confidence.