04/17/2026
Premier High Schools' Trip to Houston FLEET WEEK aboard the USS Kearsarge (LHD-3)! ⚓️🚁
WHAT AN UNFORGETTABLE DAY FOR OUR PHS STUDENTS!
On April 16, 2026, Premier High Schools joined the inaugural Houston Fleet Week (Houston’s very first-ever celebration of the U.S. Navy and Marine Corps, April 15–22) for an exclusive, hands-on tour of the mighty USS Kearsarge (LHD-3), the flagship amphibious assault ship docked at the Port of Houston. This wasn’t just any field trip — it was a rare, invitation-only experience that gave our students a front-row seat to life aboard one of the Navy’s most versatile “floating cities.”
WHY THIS SHIP IS SO SPECIAL!
The USS Kearsarge is a Wasp-class amphibious assault ship — 843 feet long, displacing over 40,500 tons, and capable of carrying a full Marine Expeditionary Unit, vehicles, landing craft, helicopters, Ospreys, and even F-35B Lightning II jets. Its standout feature? A massive floodable well deck (266 × 50 feet) at the stern. Sailors intentionally flood the bottom of the ship so Landing Craft Air Cushion (LCACs) and other amphibious vehicles can “drive” straight out and onto the shore — perfect for rapid troop and equipment deployment anywhere in the world. Above that is a full flight deck and hangar bay. It’s part aircraft carrier, part Marine transport, and 100% awe-inspiring.
Our students rotated through breakout stations led by Sailors and Marines covering everything from navigation and weapons systems to medical/dental support, firefighting/SCBA gear, trauma care, protective vests and helmets, IT/comms, and the engineering that keeps this city-at-sea running 24/7. They even got to try on real gear and watch live demos!
HOW LUCKY ARE WE?
Houston Fleet Week 2026 is historic — the city’s first time hosting this national tradition. While the public got limited tours, PHS received special group access for students and youth programs. Our kids walked the flight deck, explored the hangar filled with international signal flags, stood at the open well-deck hatch with the Gulf breeze blowing in, and connected directly with the men and women who serve. Moments like these build pride, inspire careers, and remind us all of the dedication behind our nation’s defense.
A huge thank you to the USS Kearsarge crew, the U.S. Navy, U.S. Marines, Port of Houston, and Fleet Week Houston organizers for making this possible!
PHS students — you represented us with curiosity, respect, and enthusiasm. We’re so proud of you!
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