USA: COMSUBGRU 2 Voices Importance of STEM Educational Fields to Students

The commander of Submarine Group 2 discussed science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) educational fields with more than 80 students at Bennie Dover Jackson Middle School in New London, Conn., Nov. 15.

“A world of opportunities are available to you and a lot of doors open if you pursue studies in STEM-related fields,” said Rear Adm. Rick Breckenridge, who spoke for nearly two hours about his career in the Navy and the importance of math and science, especially in the submarine force.

Breckenridge further discussed the importance of math in one’s daily life and by demonstrating “mental gymnastics” with the students asking them to provide answers to his mathematical questions related to target course and bearings.

“Mental gym works out our minds like we work out our bodies in gym class,” said Breckenridge.

Breckenridge was invited to speak at Bennie Dover Jackson Middle School through a daughter of a naval colleague and mentor he had served with at the beginning of his naval career.

“My father, retired Rear Adm. Tony Watson had served with Rear Adm. Breckenridge aboard USS Hammerhead in the late 1980s,” said Erica Watson, an 8th grade science teacher at the middle school. “I’m thrilled to have Rear Adm. Breckenridge speak to the students at Bennie Dover because he is a huge proponent for STEM education for school age kids.”

Watson added that a few of her students have expressed interest in joining the Navy, in particular the submarine force.

“I have a couple of students who have expressed interest in serving aboard submarines, and a few others who are interested in serving in the other services,” said Watson, who has worked at the middle school since August of this year.

Watson and more than 60 students will visit Naval Submarine Library and Museum Nov. 19 as a way to continue their STEM educational focus.

Bennie Dover Jackson Middle School was named in honor of the first African American teacher in New London.

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Naval Today Staff, November 19, 2012; Image: US Navy