City Welcomes Naval Command College Students

On Monday, the City of Key West and Mayor Teri Johnston were proud to host a presentation about the island city with an elite group of students.

Fifty-one members of the Naval Command College’s Class of 2023 came to City Hall to garner insight into local government. The Naval Command College is part of the Naval War College in Newport, Rhode Island where future military leaders from all over the world learn about various aspects of American life and culture.

Mayor Teri Johnston greeted the group, noting that sea level rise and sustainability are top priorities for our city. She outlined the island’s vulnerability and the ways in which the City is tackling these issues.

Assistant City Manager Todd Stoughton gave the group an overview of Key West’s historic significance and its interconnectedness with the military. He highlighted the fact that Key West is now an official U.S. Coast Guard City.

“Our group of international students, representing 48 different countries, is composed of senior officers, many of whom will be the Chief of their country’s military,” said Naval Command College representative Ty Lemerande. “Our goal to educate them about the United States, exposing and enlightening them to as many elements/aspects of our culture as possible.”

At the end of the presentation, the group presented Mayor Johnston with a plaque featuring each of the class members and their nation’s flag.