Official U.S. Navy website - Commander Naval Surface Force, U.S. Pacific Fleet

SAN DIEGO - More than 300 family and friends of USS Makin Island (LHD 8) Sailors and Marines visited the ship during its Family Day event July 11.

The guests were able to learn about the ship through tours, informational briefings about ship-specific equipment, static display vehicles and by witnessing a flight-deck fire drill.

"We decided to do self-quided tours because we figured families would want to spend time with their Sailors and have them show them what they do on the ship," said Ens. Tawney Nakamura, an event coordinators. "A lot of people are excited to bring their families so they can show them exactly what they do and how they contribute to the ship's mission."

Senior Combat Cargo Officer, Master Sgt. Phillip Limon, coordinated with the 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) to bring two high-mobility, multipurpose, wheeled vehicles (HMMWV) on board for display in the ship's upper vehicle stowage.

"Our intent is to show people coming aboard how the Navy transports the Marines using this ship," said Limon. "The ship drops off Marines so we can take care of our mission ashore."

Limon brought his dad, daughter, and wife Shannon aboard to show them how the Navy and Marine Corps team works together on an amphibious assault ship.

"I think it's great that the kids get to see what their parents do and try on all the gear," said Shannon Limon. "The most impressive thing about the ship to me is just the size of it, it's massive!

Makin Island leadership is currently exploring opportunities to host a Family Day at sea prior to the ship's upcoming maiden deployment.