USS FITZGERALD COLLISION: MIDSHIPMEN CASE STUDY

Naval Academy Midshipmen spend four years in a comprehensive program of moral, mental, and physical development meant to mold them into Navy and Marine Corps officers ready to lead in combat. This program includes critical summer training periods where Midshipmen embark with Navy ships and Fleet Marine Force units around the globe to gain hands-on experience with operational units. But what happens when Midshipmen are put in a dangerous situation in the Fleet before they commission? Are they prepared or expected to act, and how does this influence their development? Based on six semi-structured interviews, this thesis details a case study from the point of view of the half of the 12 Midshipmen onboard USS Fitzgerald during the 2017 collision off the coast of Japan that killed seven Sailors. Many case studies and investigations have been written about the USS Fitzgerald collision from the point of view of the crew involved, but the Midshipmen who were on board at the time have yet to be considered. The lessons learned from this traumatic experience can be utilized to improve preparations and training for all current and future Midshipmen as they take leadership classes and execute summer training with operational forces.Distribution Statement A. Approved for public release: Distribution is unlimited.Lieutenant, United States NavyLieutenant, United States NavyLieutenant, United States Nav