NFL Network’s NFL Total Access toured the guided missile cruiser USS Lake Erie (CG 70) and filmed several scenes for the Pro-Bowl pre-show on Jan. 25.
Fran Charles, host, and Tom Waddle, analyst, were greeted on board the warship by Capt. David Hughes, commanding officer, and Command Master Chief Brian Ortega. Along with their film crew, Hughes led them through the combat information center and the pilothouse, even letting Charles sit in the captain’s chair.
The two NFL Network personalities were presented with command ballcaps. Waddle expressed his gratitude by exclaiming, “I have the con!” as he donned the hat.
Lake Erie recently exited dry dock and is in the process of finishing a maintenance availability to prepare for sea trials.
The visit concluded with handshakes and a gift of a captain’s coin from the commanding officer.