As part of its weekly all-school morning flag assembly, School of the Ozarks students and staff hear from sailors about a patriotic hero who made a significant contribution to the history of the United States. After dismissal, 9th – 12th grade students engage in a more in-depth discussion about the Navy, its importance, and potential career opportunities for interested students.

POINT LOOKOUT, MO. — Today, the Navy Office of Community Outreach attended School of the Ozarks student orientation day as part of the Navy’s signature outreach program, Navy Weeks. Navy Weeks provides communities with an opportunity to interact with Navy service members and to learn more about the Navy.

As part of its weekly all-school morning flag assembly, School of the Ozarks students and staff heard from sailors about a patriotic hero who made a significant contribution to the history of the United States. After the assembly was dismissed, 9^th – 12^th grade students engaged in a more in-depth discussion about the Navy, its importance, and potential career opportunities for students who may be interested.

S of O students hear from Captain Maria Lohmeyer, who is actively serving as the reserve chief of public affairs at the United States Transportation Command.

The Navy will visit 15 locations throughout the country as part of the outreach program in 2025. A typical Navy Week includes interactions with 50-100 sailors via school visits or volunteer events, as well as live music from Navy Music and performances from the U.S. Navy Ceremonial Guard.

“Navy Weeks highlight our talented sailors and create opportunities for public discussions on the Navy’s pivotal role in fighting for our freedoms,” said Lt. Cmdr. Miranda Williams, the Navy Week program manager, in a press release from the Navy. “Every day, Navy personnel are training and operating with the most advanced ships, submarines, aircraft and weapons systems to ensure they are ready to protect America’s interests around the world when called. We are excited to bring some of those talented sailors directly to Americans during the 2025 Navy Week season.”

The Navy Week visitation upholds the School’s Patriotic Pillar, which is to encourage an understanding of American heritage, the value and responsibility of living in a country that has a constitution, a love of country, and a willingness to defend it.

The Navy Week visitation upholds the School’s Patriotic Pillar, which is to encourage an understanding of American heritage, the value and responsibility of living in a country that has a constitution, a love of country, and a willingness to defend it. Dr. Brad Dolloff, dean of School of the Ozarks, reflected on the value of the experience for the School.

“What an amazing opportunity to have sailors from the United States Navy on campus to present colors at our Monday morning flag ceremony and to share stories with our entire student body about the men and women who serve to protect us every day,” Dolloff said. “We are blessed to have them at School of the Ozarks and honored to pray for those who put themselves in harm’s way on our behalf.”