The Vigilantes of the Deep were honored to provide strong and unique encouragement on Saturday, December 2, to University of Montana Grizzly and University of Delaware Fightin’ Blue Hens football teams before their Football Championship Subdivision (FCS) second round playoff game in Missoula.

Commanding Officer Jon Quimby and sailors appeared by video recording from the Crew Mess aboard the USS MONTANA, thanks to help from Senior Video Production Specialist Aaron Pritchett of HII Newport News Shipbuilding where the submarine is undergoing maintenance and upgrade work.

Cooperation of the NCAA, the UM Athletics leaders and staff, and the USS Montana Committee led to the crew’s message complimenting both teams on their athletic skill, teamwork and sportsmanship. It also included appreciation for support by both schools and their fans of the military, the USS MONTANA and her sister Virginia Class fast attack submarine, the USS DELAWARE.

In wishing both teams a great game, the Vigilantes concluded with a rousing “GO HENS!” and “GO GRIZ!”

The University of Montana moves on to the next FCS round by winning, 49-19.