Weather forecasters train for perfect predictions.

Grease pencils and paper charts, once common tools of the Navy's weather forecasters, are slowly becoming a memory. A new era in Navy weather forecasting training has produced state-of-the-art computerized prediction systems designed to more accurately and rapidly predict weather, a critical need for military planning and execution. Today, at the revamped C school at Keesler AFB, Miss., Navy aerographer's mates (AG)are continually raising the bar of modern weather forecasting knowledge.

The C school, responsible for advanced training and education in a rating, was completely redesigned as part of the Navy's revolution in training to reflect the latest changes in weather forecasting technology. Students now undergo an intense seven-month training program with the latest weather forecasting tools, including electronic classrooms, multimedia projectors and individual student workstations. Coursework for AGs includes advanced principles of atmospheric physics, analysis and properties of the atmosphere, tropical meteorology, severe weather analysis, satellite interpretation and aviation support and warfare operations. The AG school is also working with the Naval Research Laboratory to give Sailors the opportunity to use advanced satellite imagery to track weather systems anywhere in the world.

From the Civil War to the crisis with Iraq, weather forecasting has been a vital part of military operations. The Navy has made great strides in the last decades to modernize the technology and training available to Sailors in this important role. The application of 21st century technology to education is now providing better trained forecasters for the fleet.

JO2 Edward Flynn, Naval Personnel Development Command Public Affairs