Area teenagers are working elbows deep in a drafting and history project dating back 70 years.

The basic and advanced drafting classes of Destrehan High School are taking a two-part field trip to the John E. Kushner Restoration Pavilion at the World War II Museum in New Orleans to board a PT-305 and visit the exhibits to enhance their experience in the project.

The students are taking part is the Museum’s restoration of a Higgins Industries Patrol Torpedo Boat (PT-305) nicknamed the USS Sudden Jerk. The vessel was built in New Orleans and saw action in the Medi-terranean Sea during the last part of World War II.

It is being renovated inside the Pavilion. Destrehan drafting students are measuring the existing electrical panel box from the PT-305 and producing a technical drawing that will include needed design changes.

“Our students will be able to learn and participate in the workflow of a real-world drafting project that also happens to be a part of the history of our nation and of New Orleans,” DHS teacher Edward Wingard said. “The tour will help them to understand the history of the war and of the vessel that they have been given the opportunity to help renovate.

“They will be able to see first hand how the project they have had a part in completing will combine with countless others to achieve the goal of restoring this historic vessel.”

The technical drawing produced by Destrehan students will be used by a company to manufacture an electrical box to the design specifications that will be installed aboard the PT-305.