Boy Scouts, service members work out during Fleet Week New York

By Mass Communications Specialist 2nd Class Christopher Pratt, Fleet Week New York Public Affairs

NEW YORK (NNS) -- Boys Scouts and service members from the Navy, Marine Corps and the Coast Guard met for an early-morning workout on the steps of the U.S. Custom House during Fleet Week New York (FWNY), May 23.

Cpl. Charles Taylor, a Charlie Company 1/6 Marine attached to USS San Antonio (LPD 17), led the group in a number of different exercises, while providing insight on proper nutrition and military life.

"I had a great time meeting all the kids," said Taylor. "When I was a Boy Scout, I never got an opportunity to do something like this. I think it's awesome that we got to come out here and visit with them. I hope I have a chance to do something like this again."

Afterward, Lt. Cmdr. Kevin B. Saunders, chief of enforcement for the U.S. Coast Guard, gave Boy Scout Brandon Brown, of Troop 540, and Tiger Scout Jacob Fenster, of Pack 118, a field promotion to lieutenant and lieutenant junior grade, respectively.

"Inspiring and motivating," said Saunders. "Our youth is very important to us. They are the next generation - we all need to do our part to help them develop into good citizens and strong leaders."

Seaman Apprentice Sonia Sanchez, a USS Barry (DDG 52) Sailor, was one of many service members who worked out with the group.

"It's cool to see (the kids') faces light up when they see us," she said. "I'm so glad I had a chance to come out into the community and see how excited people are to meet us - it's definitely not the normal Navy day. Hopefully they all learned something today that they can use to benefit their health and life."

Fleet Week New York, now in its 27th year, is the city's time-honored celebration of the sea services. It is an unparalleled opportunity for the citizens of New York and the surrounding tri-state area to meet Sailors, Marines and Coast Guardsmen, as well as witness firsthand the latest capabilities of today's maritime services. The weeklong celebration has been held nearly every year since 1984.