Naval oceanography hits 181

STENNIS SPACE CENTER, Miss. -- Navy Meteorology and Oceanography Command celebrated its 181st birthday Dec. 6 with activities at its offices and installations throughout the world. "This birthday celebration is important because it reminds us of our legacy, and it reminds us that what we do is important and why," said Rear Adm. Jonathan White, NMOC commander. Naval oceanography traces its roots to 1830 with establishment of the Depot of Charts and Instruments. Early focus was on safety of navigation with surveys of coastlines and islands. Today Navy oceanographers use complex computer models to predict ocean conditions every day. NMOC is the only organization to predict ocean conditions for operations. Navy oceanographers also are the Navy's experts in the operation of unmanned underwater vehicles. (Source: NNS, 11/06/11)