On August 21st, the Washington Nationals honored U.S. Navy Sailors from across the National Capital Region during Navy Day at Nationals Park in Washington, D.C.
As part of the Navy Day celebration, Senior Chief Jake Pendergrass, Chief Jessica Barnes, Petty Officers Shadiyd Fuller, Bradley Harbottle, Bailey McInnis, and Mikel Treece, some of the Sailors assigned to PCU District of Columbia (SSBN-826), traveled from Groton, CT to DC to join members of the USS District of Columbia Commissioning Committee -- Bethany Klein, Lauren Yancey, and Leo Cruz -- at Nationals Park.
Fans walk by the 50' inflatable model of the future USS District of Columbia (SSBN-826) during Navy Day celebrations at Nats Park.
As part of the celebration, static displays were positioned around Nats Park, giving fans a chance to explore the Navy’s history and capabilities. Exhibits were provided by Naval History and Heritage Command, Navy Medicine, Navy Explosive Ordnance Disposal, as well as our 50' inflatable model of the future USS District of Columbia (SSBN-826), which will be the first Naval warship named for DC.
Our 50' inflatable USS District of Columbia model "docked" outside the Washington Nationals Team Store before gates open to the public.
Members of the USS District of Columbia Commissioning Committee shared information about the incredible men and women who will operate this highly capable submarine and provided updates on the submarine’s construction as well as our commissioning activities.
Even first time Fans stopped by to take selfies with the submarine and pick up a "squishy" USS DC!
RDML David Faehnle, USN, Commandant, Naval District Washington/Deputy Commander, JTF-NCR, stopped by to talk with Bethany Klein, USS District of Columbia Commissioning Committee/Executive Director, National Capital Council of the Navy League
This year’s Navy Day carried special significance as it coincided with the Navy’s 250th birthday, which will be officially marked October 13th.
Pre-game ceremonies celebrating the Navy's 250th Birthday
This year’s Navy Day coincided with the Navy’s 250th birthday
Pregame ceremonies featured several unique Navy tributes. Rear Adm. Jennifer Couture, director of Military Personnel Plans and Policy, threw out the ceremonial first pitch and administered the oath of enlistment to 17 future Sailors. A Navy Gold Star family delivered the official game ball, honoring the service and sacrifice of their loved one. The official lineup card was delivered by a cutting-edge robotic system operated by the Explosive Ordnance Disposal Unmanned Systems Department of Naval Surface Warfare Center Indian Head Division. Fans were also treated to a flyover by CMV-22B Ospreys during the national anthem, performed by the U.S. Navy Band.
Pre-game ceremonies celebrating the Navy's 250th Birthday
During the third inning, Sailors were recognized again as part of the Nationals’ “Salute to Service” and were featured on the jumbotron to the applause of fans. To top off a very special day, Fans enjoyed an exciting 9-3 Nationals win over the Mets.
A big thank you to Naval District Washington and the Washington Nationals for giving us the opportunity to participate in U.S. Navy Day at Nats Park!
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