Miami Dolphin Cheerleaders, Players Visit PCU Jason Dunham Crew

By Mass Communications Specialist 1st Class Martin Cuaron, Navy Public Affairs Support Element East

FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. (NNS) -- Miami Dolphins cheerleading squad members and football players visited Sailors aboard the Navy's newest Arleigh Burke class destroyer Pre-Commissioning Unit (PCU) Jason Dunham (DDG 109) in Ft. Lauderdale, Fla., Nov. 9th.

"The girls enjoy so much to come out here to entertain our service members," said Emily Newton, cheerleading squad director and choreographer. "The young men and women in the military put in time and hard work, and for us to come out here and put on a show is the least we can do for them."

The eight cheerleaders started the event by performing several routines on the flight deck for the crew.

"This is definitely a positive thing and a big morale booster," said Cryptologic Technician (Collection)(SS) Joshua Thompson. "We have been working hard in preparation for the ships commissioning, and to see these beautiful woman out here, showing their support is something I'll never forget."

Crew members lined the flight decks for autographed photos and photo opportunities with their favorite cheerleader.

"It's really incredible what service members do," said Lilly, Miami Dolphins cheerleader. "Most people don't get the opportunity to go on a Navy vessel, and we appreciate everything they do. It takes so much teamwork, and we understand because we are a team as well."

The cheerleaders were given a tour of the ship, taking them from the Combat Information Center to the bridge.

"I love everything about this ship from the flight deck to the bridge," said Lilly. "It's truly amazing to see how these ships work."

During the ship's port visit, the crew will contribute 300 hours of community service by taking part in numerous community outreach programs such as Habitat for Humanity and assisting three local schools.

"The crew of the Jason Dunham are working hard in preparing for the commissioning of this fine ship," said Cmdr. Scott Sciretta, PCU Jason Dunham commanding officer. "To have the Dolphin cheerleaders and players come out and meet the Sailors, is pretty amazing."

Cpl. Jason Dunham was the first Marine to be awarded with the Medal of Honor during Operation Iraqi Freedom and the first Marine to receive the medal since the Vietnam War. The ship will be officially commissioned Nov. 13 during a ceremony at Port Everglades, Fla.