YN1(SS) Clayton Turner (above, center), of USS Tennessee (SSBN 734), explains rules of a field day game to two St. Marys Elementary School students. Photo by JO2 Jennifer Spinner

Tennessee Sailors partner with school for field day

By JO2 Jennifer Spinner
Periscope Staff

Sailors attached to USS Tennessee (SSBN 734) have enjoyed a 14-year partnership with the students and staff of St. Marys Elementary School, one that has improved the school's services and enriched the lives of all involved.

''They've done everything, from install aesthetic lighting and benches to yard work around the school grounds,'' said Jamie Segear, a fifth grade teacher and Navy program coordinator for the school. ''The most recent project involved installing deflectors over every air conditioning unit in the school, a project that saved us $500 the first month after installation. Our partnership is strong.''

Approximately 50 Sailors from both crews came out to the school grounds May 7 for the annual field day, helping to set up the events, monitor the children and add to the fun of the day.

''I really have to brag on Tennessee,'' said Vicki Maxwell, physical education instructor and event coordinator. ''This one day is the culmination of everything we do in the physical education department all year and these Sailors really make it work. We could not do this without them.''

Tennessee Sailors are also a part of the everyday operations of the school, tutoring students in math, reading and other subjects and, most recently, assisting the school librarian with a book fair.

Participants were able to take a refreshing pause from the activities by dunking their heads in 23 gallons of chilly water. There was no goal in the event, just to get wet and cool off! Photo by JO2 Jennifer Spinner

''It doesn't matter what we need,'' said Segear. ''All we have to do is ask and Tennessee is here to help. We have an excellent partnership and everyone here appreciates the hard work and dedication of the Tennessee Sailors.''

One way the students and staff of St. Marys Elementary School show their support is through Christmas cards and decorations sent during the holidays and letters and artwork sent during routine patrols. During the last holiday patrol, students sent paper Christmas trees to decorate the galley.

''It's one way for us to give back and let the Sailors know how much we appreciate everything they do for us,'' said Segear.

USS Tennessee recently renewed its Personal Excellence Partnership with St. Marys Elementary School and presented the school with the Tennessee state flag and a United States flag, both of which flew over the Tennessee Capitol building. The Tennessee's partnership with the school began with the boat's arrival at Kings Bay in 1989 and continues today thanks to the commitment of new crew members willing to carry on Team Tennessee's volunteer spirit.