2nd Company

2nd Company Commander: 1/C Chloe Johnson

My name is Chloe Johnson and I am honored to serve as the 2nd Company Commander for the 2025–2026 academic year. In this role, I am responsible for leading over 200 cadets, fostering their development into disciplined, professional adults. I work closely with 2nd Company Officer, LT Coley, to ensure our company operates with excellence, accountability, and purpose. My commitment to leadership is driven by a deep dedication to the growth and success of those around me. Whether it’s day-to-day guidance or long-term development, I strive to lead by example and remain fully committed to creating an environment where every cadet can thrive.

During Orientation, I will mentor a team of cadre, helping them grow into confident, capable leaders as they welcome and guide the incoming freshman class. This period of transition is critical, and I am dedicated to ensuring it sets the tone for a strong, supportive start to each cadet’s journey at the Academy.

A few facts about me: I’m from the small town of Spencer, Massachusetts, and I’m currently pursuing a degree in Marine Engineering, and after graduation I plan to ship out and travel the world. I proudly serve as a team captain on the Volleyball team, where I’ve developed a deep appreciation for teamwork, perseverance, and leadership, both on and off the court. I’m also grateful for the unwavering support of my family, my parents and two sisters, who continue to be the strong foundation behind everything I do.

Orientation Day 1

Their first day of orientation as youngies was both overwhelming and exciting. We spent the morning taking the oath as a team of cadre. After that, the youngies learned how to march and move together as one. Every step and command felt like a challenge, but it pushed them to focus, listen, and trust the shipmates standing next to them. Even though it was only the first day, we started to see how discipline and teamwork would become a big part of our lives here.

Later, we were introduced to the customs and traditions of Massachusetts Maritime Academy. They learned why carrying their moonbeams matter, the meaning behind not blocking a doorway, and the pride that comes with being part of not just the regiment, but also 2nd Company. It was a lot to take in, but it gave them a sense of connection to something much bigger than themselves. By the end of the day, they were tired, but already standing a little taller, ready for what’s ahead.

Orientation Day 2

The Cadet Candidates began the day by learning more about the customs and traditions of Massachusetts Maritime Academy, gaining a clearer sense of the heritage and values they were stepping into. Receiving their uniforms was a milestone moment, as each Cadet Candidate felt a sense of pride while trying them on for the first time. Wearing the regiment’s attire helped them recognize the significance of their commitment and created a stronger bond among the group.

The day also included moments of teamwork and spirit, highlighted by a dodgeball match where the Cadet Candidates claimed victory over 7th Company, sparking excitement and unity within 2nd Company. As the day came to a close, they turned their focus back to drill, practicing the basics of facing movements and learning how to maneuver the platoon in different directions. The combination of tradition, pride, and teamwork made the day both challenging and rewarding, leaving the Cadet Candidates with a growing sense of belonging.

Orientation Day 3

The Cadet Candidates spent the day gaining a deeper understanding of the Academy and the people who help it run. Through meetings with Academy staff, they were introduced to the expectations and morals that every cadet is expected to uphold, reinforcing the values of discipline, respect, and integrity. These lessons provided perspective on the standards they will be held to throughout their time at Massachusetts Maritime Academy.

Drill training continued to challenge the Cadet Candidates, as they practiced different facing movements and focused on the importance of staying in step with one another. Precision and teamwork were emphasized, helping them see how small details build unit cohesion. To close out the day, they were taught the basics of personal and professional grooming—how to properly shave and how to correctly put up a bun—skills that, while simple, play a key role in maintaining uniformity and professionalism within the regiment.

Orientation Day 4

The Cadet Candidates began the day with their regular round of physical training, starting before sunrise with a series of field exercises that included push-ups, planks, burpees, and sit-ups. Though challenging, the workout served to wake them up and build both strength and endurance, while reinforcing the discipline of beginning each day with purpose. As the sun came up, there was a sense of accomplishment in having pushed through the early morning routine together. After a quick breakfast, the Cadet Candidates boarded buses and made their way to Great Herring Pond for a day on the water.

At the pond, the Cadet Candidates were introduced to a variety of water sports. They rotated through different activities, learning the basics of sailing, rowing in a monomoy, and listening to commands while practicing teamwork in a crew boat. Even though the weather brought a light drizzle, morale remained high as the Cadet Candidates embraced the challenge and enjoyed the chance to try new skills on the water. Lunch by the pond gave them a short break to relax and reflect before loading the buses to return to campus.

Back at the Academy, the focus shifted from the water to the regiment’s standards of discipline and professionalism. Squad Leaders instructed the Cadet Candidates on how to prepare their rooms for inspection, covering everything from hospital-cornered beds to perfectly folded socks and t-shirts. What began as individual tasks quickly turned into teamwork, as shipmates stepped in to help one another succeed. The day concluded with another round of knowledge training, where Cadet Candidates continued memorizing the names of Academy Staff as well as cadre from other companies. By the end of the evening, they had not only trained their bodies and tested their maritime skills but also strengthened their discipline, teamwork, and attention to detail.

Orientation Day 5

The Cadet Candidates began their morning with their very first cadence run, an important milestone in building unity within the platoon. As the sun rose, they ran together in step, guided by the voices of their Squad Leaders calling out cadences. What started as a physical challenge quickly turned into a shared experience, bringing the platoon closer together as each Cadet Candidate matched pace and rhythm, reinforcing the idea that they succeed as one team. The run left them energized and ready for the day ahead.

The highlight of the day was “pool day,” where the Cadet Candidates were introduced to Cold Water Survival training. In the Academy’s pool, they learned critical skills such as how to board and flip over a life raft in the event of a capsize, as well as survival techniques like the “HELP position,” which emphasized the phrase “bigger, brighter, better” to maximize visibility in the water. Instructors also introduced them to essential lifesaving equipment used in maritime emergencies, including flares, orange smoke, and radar indicators. These lessons connected directly to Massachusetts Maritime Academy’s mission, preparing the Cadet Candidates for the safety aspects of maritime life and providing a foundation for their upcoming mini cruise aboard the Patriot State II.

After returning from the pool, the Cadet Candidates were tested on their knowledge, reciting emergency signals aboard a ship and confidently stating their “youngie function” on the Patio. The day closed with drill, where they practiced marching in a large platoon, striving for uniformity and precision with each movement. Though the training was demanding, encouragement from their shipmates pushed them to keep improving and reminded them to make every day of Orientation count. By the end of the evening, the Cadet Candidates were not only more skilled but also more united, carrying forward the discipline and teamwork that will define their journey at the Academy.