CAMP GEIGER, N.C. -- The Navy Sea Cadets visited the Nuclear Biological Chemical School here Sept. 23 to learn the importance of NBC safety. They were given the same class Marines receive including instruction on NBC first aid and how to properly wear a Mission Oriented Protective Posture suit.
The cadets were issued suits to wear. After suiting up, they marched to the gas chamber where they received a safety brief before entering the gas chamber.
They entered the chamber in MOPP 4, which included the suit, boots, gloves and mask, and executed the same movements of taking the mask off, putting the mask on, and clearing the mask. The only difference was the gas chamber was not full of gas.
Following the gas chamber, the cadets were given the opportunity to run the obstacle course in MOPP suits.
They were continually asking questions and had a thirst for knowledge, said Cpl. Joshua R. Liles, an instructor at the NBC School.
"These kids want to learn this stuff," said Liles.
"These kids really enjoy this. They don't even realize they're in a class. They just think its fun," said retired Chief Warrant Officer-4 Daryl W. Hardwick.
The program is designed to increase self-esteem, teamwork and patriotism, said Hardwick.
Not only is this program good for its cadets but they have fun too.
"The program is really exciting. I mark each drill on my calendar as my favorite days. I tell all my friends to join and I love wearing my uniform to school," said Cadet Seaman Apprentice Terry L. Pullen, 15, of Wilmington.
"It keeps me of the streets and out of trouble," said Pullen.
"I've been in military youth programs all of my life and Sea Cadets has given me more opportunities for hands on learning," said Cadet Seaman Kimberly B. Hobbe, 14, of Wilmington. "We learn to work as a team and improve our bearing as individuals."