4th Company Commander: 1/C Ryan Anderson
My name is Ryan Anderson and I will be the 4th Company Commander for the 2025-2026 academic year. I am studying Facilities Engineering and am a senior here at the academy. I am from Duxbury, Massachusetts and it was always my goal to be a Company Commander here at the academy. I am responsible for the overall command and daily operations of the company, leading a team of squad leaders and staff to ensure that mission readiness, operational discipline, and professional development are achieved and maintained within the company.
I have a twin brother and a younger sister in my family. My twin brother goes to school at MMA as well and is the 3rd Company Commander this year. I hope I can be someone others look up to in a positive way and lead them to a bright future!
Orientation Day 1
Today was an exciting day for 4th Company and my Staff.
Our staff took charge of the youngies during midday, guiding them through what can be a bit of a culture shock but one that’s ultimately valuable in shaping them into independent individuals and responsible adults.
The day began with the youngies picking up their sea bags and uniforms from the gym After eating Lunch. From there, they were introduced to the foundational aspects of life at Massachusetts Maritime Academy. They learned basic drill standards, including facing movements and marching techniques an essential first step in their training.
After drill, they had dinner and attended two important meetings to further orient themselves. We wrapped up the evening by collecting all contraband, ensuring everyone is set up for success moving forward.
Before lights out, I made sure to tell them how proud I am to have them as part of 4th Company. I’m confident their families are just as proud of them for stepping into something few have the courage and discipline to take on.
Tomorrow, we hit the ground running and I’m looking forward to seeing how much they grow in the days to come.
Orientation Day 2
The Squad Leaders marched the youngies to the athletic field, where they were formally introduced to the 4th Company Cadre. During this time, they met me, the Company Commander, as well as Ms. Burton, the 4th Company Executive Officer; Mr. Mekjian, the 4th Company Training and Retention Officer; Mr. Jones, the 03 Platoon Leader; and all of the Orientation Squad Leaders.
Following introductions, the youngies went to breakfast before attending two important meetings. The first covered the fundamentals of Watch Standing, and the second provided an overview of MMA’s history and key knowledge for all cadets.
After the meetings, Squad Leaders brought the youngies to get fitted for their uniforms, ensuring they will represent 4th Company with sharp appearance and professionalism throughout their time at Mass Maritime.
In the afternoon, we played 3rd Company in a game of Ultimate Frisbee. We were leading 8–2 going into the final quarter, but unfortunately suffered a tough loss in overtime. Despite the setback, morale remained high, and the youngies bounced back strong during evening patio, where they demonstrated their marching skills, knowledge, and volume to the Regimental Staff.
After patio, I gathered the youngies for a brief sit down. I asked them why they chose to attend the Academy and where they were from. It was a meaningful moment and a brief pause that gave them a chance to connect and see a more human side of the senior leadership.
We ended the day with a final round of drill practice before heading up on deck to conclude the evening.
As the 4th Company Commander, I couldn’t be more proud of how our youngies performed today. Their motivation, resilience, and spirit made today an absolute win.
Orientation Day 3
Today, 4th Company kicked off the morning with a strong showing during the Physical Training (PT) Test. A true test of strength and endurance that includes pushups, sit-ups, and a mile run. Our company performed exceptionally well, producing both the top male and top female runners in the entire 2nd Battalion. It was inspiring to watch the youngies push past their physical limits in an effort to conquer their minds.
After the PT test, they recovered with a well earned shower and breakfast before heading into cold water survival training. This crucial session tested their ability to tread water, flip life rafts, and don emergency suits. Vital skills for handling shipboard emergencies.
Following lunch, 4th Company took on 7th Company in a spirited water polo match. We came out on top, winning 3–2 in games and continuing to build momentum and confidence as a unit.
That energy carried into our evening patio session. While we didn’t get every answer right during our drill and knowledge checks, the enthusiasm and volume were there which is exactly what I ask of them at this stage. We also took time to walk them through the Academy’s chain of command and explained how the school and regiment operate. The youngies asked thoughtful questions, and I believe it was valuable for them to gain a clearer understanding of the place they’ll call home for the next four years.
We ended the night on deck, collected laundry, and prepared for what’s ahead. Tomorrow brings a new set of challenges and with each day, we’ll continue raising the bar.
Orientation Day 4
Today was a bit slower-paced, but still productive.
We kicked things off with morning PT, followed by 2nd Battalion heading out for their field exercises. After breakfast, the youngies attended academic meetings to get a deeper understanding of the education they’ll be receiving and what to expect academically.
Later in the morning, we had another Patio drill session. 4th Company performed exceptionally well and it was a great opportunity to feel proud of the hard work and discipline we’ve been building together.
After lunch, the youngies returned to uniform fittings to ensure everything was squared away. Due to inclement weather, most of the afternoon’s scheduled activities were canceled. Instead, we shifted focus to teaching the youngies how to properly make their racks, organize inspection drawers, and study essential youngie knowledge.
All in all, it was another solid day for 4th Company!
Orientation Day 5
Today was one of the most spirited and high-energy days yet for Fourth Company. From start to finish, the motivation among the youngies was palpable. They showed up locked in, focused, and ready to tackle the day.
We kicked things off with morning PT, where morale was high and effort was even higher. Afterward, we regrouped for breakfast and showers before moving into our first event of the day: a Title IX briefing. This session was essential in helping the cadet candidates understand the importance of Title IX and the role it plays at the Academy.
Following that, all freshmen participated in a ship tour led by Mr. MacGillivray, the Regimental Training Ship Commander. This familiarization was an important step in preparing them for the upcoming mini cruise. The youngies were thoroughly impressed by the ship and clearly excited to be onboard—many thought it was one of the coolest parts of the day.
After the tour, we immediately transitioned into a lunch patio session. The youngies brought strong volume, crisp knowledge, and solid marching. I continue to be thoroughly impressed by the consistency and effort of every cadet candidate in Fourth Company, especially through the most demanding parts of the day.
Later, we faced off against Third Company (my twin brother’s company) in dodgeball. After an intense three rounds, we came out on top with a 2–1 victory. Spirits were sky-high as we rolled into dinner patio, which was another strong performance from the company.
To close out the evening, the cadet candidates completed Sexual Assault Prevention training. A Coast Guard requirement in preparation for mini cruise. Once that wrapped up, they hit the racks for some well-earned rest.
I am extremely proud of my staff and the leadership they’ve shown. Their treatment of the youngies has been professional, firm, and supportive. It’s clear that, despite the challenges, our cadet candidates are not only rising to the occasion but they’re embracing the journey. Today was a fantastic day, and I truly believe that Fourth Company is making this experience something they’re proud to be part of.
Orientation Day 6
Today, 4th Company embarked on an important and exciting chapter of training: firefighter instruction. We kicked off the morning with physical training, completing a bodyweight circuit around the athletic field. After dominating PT, we made our way to breakfast to fuel up before heading out to Bridgewater for the day’s firefighter training.
Recognizing the relentless effort our squad leaders have been putting in, I made the decision to give them a well-earned break. Ms. Burton and I accompanied the rest of 4th Company to Bridgewater, where we took a moment before training to emphasize the importance of professionalism and respect. We reminded the youngies that the firefighters we’d be learning from are real world heroes and individuals who serve our communities and respond to emergencies with courage and dedication. They deserve nothing but the highest level of respect.
To say I was impressed would be an understatement. The youngies exceeded expectations, treating the firefighters and each other with maturity, gratitude, and composure. Ms. Burton and I made sure they knew how proud we were of the way they conducted themselves throughout the day. After training, I had them study briefly before allowing them to rest. A small reward for a job exceptionally well done.
Upon returning to our beautiful campus, we jumped straight into intramurals, facing off against 2nd Company in a chaotic game of dodgeball. Unfortunately, the match was marred by unprofessional behavior on both sides, including our own. While the game ended 2-1 in favor of 2nd Company, the referees and regimental officers overturned the result due to unfair play from 2nd Company. So the win was officially credited to us. We’ll take it.
We used that victory energy to fuel our prep for patio. Though our preparation was strong, we stumbled when it mattered most. While disappointment was felt, I made it clear that this is not the time to dwell on missteps. I reminded the Squad Leaders that anger over small mistakes can snowball into something destructive, and that would be unfair to the incredible work they’ve done so far throughout orientation.
Following my speech, we gathered ourselves, ate dinner, and got our spirits back up. In fact, we ended the day more energized than ever, using that stumble as a springboard rather than a setback.
4th Company will continue to rise, continue to lead, and continue to face every challenge head on. With Ms. Burton and myself at the helm, I have full confidence that tomorrow will be nothing short of extraordinary.
Orientation Day 7
Today was a bit hectic, but overall, it was a great day.
We kicked things off this morning with a mile run during PT, setting the tone early. After breakfast and showers, the Cadet Candidates spent the majority of the morning focused on marching. Something we had only briefly touched on a bit. Despite the limited prior practice, we’ve made real progress and are starting to look sharp.
Once marching wrapped up, we took 4th Company group photos. It was a nice moment to relax and come together as a team. From there, we headed straight to patio and dominated. That energy carried through lunch and into our meetings.
The afternoon sessions covered the Regimental Manual and an overview of the Student Government Association. Despite being informational, the energy stayed high.
Then came intramurals. We played 7th Company in water polo and secured another win, bringing our record to 4-1. The youngies love intramurals. It gives them a chance to compete, bond, and build unity through healthy competition.
Afterwards, we showered up and returned to dinner patio, where we once again brought unmatched energy and spirit. While the squad leaders had a meeting, I spent time marching the candidates around, showing them small tips and tricks to help us improve.
We wrapped up with a team meeting on the baseball team, hosted by the Regimental Officers. Everyone introduced themselves, shared where they’re from, and explained their roles. Then came the big news: the Admirals Cup standings at the halfway mark.
4th Company is currently ranked first.
The youngies erupted in chants and cheers, full of pride and motivation. It was an awesome way to close the night. Before lights out, I shared a few words on deck; reminding everyone that now is not the time to get comfortable. We’re leading, but we need to push even harder to finish strong.
I’m incredibly proud of the staff and the youngies. The way we’ve approached orientation so far has been nothing short of inspiring. If we keep this energy, focus, and consistency, I have no doubt we’ll bring the Cup home again for the second year in a row.
Orientation Day 8
Today was a demanding day for Fourth Company. Despite being well into training, we found ourselves struggling with some of the basic expectations that were instilled on day one. As a result, the day centered around reinforcing discipline through pushups, drill, and knowledge sessions.
Since it was Sunday, there was no morning PT. We opted for a calm wake up, allowing the freshmen to start the day quietly and collect themselves before heading to breakfast. Afterward, we conducted a quick round of room preparation for those who still needed to get squared away.
The majority of the morning was spent on the drill field. I was out there leading, teaching, and calling commands throughout the entire session. It was evident that we had some catching up to do, but the progress was steady.
Lunch brought a shift in energy. Spirits lifted, and the team showed some fire during patio spouting. Afterward, we jumped straight back into drill. Due to the hectic pace of our schedule lately, drill has been somewhat neglected, so it was both necessary and productive to spend the afternoon reinforcing those fundamentals.
Later in the day, we took on 5th Company in intramural Frisbee. It was a competitive, chippy match, but we came out on top. That puts us at 5-1, continuing our strong showing across the board.
Evening patio was another success, showing consistent energy and presence from the company. After dinner, we transitioned into several briefings in preparation for tomorrow’s mini cruise, as we will be boarding the ship in the morning.
While today was undoubtedly long and tough for the freshmen, it was ultimately a critical day for their development and for the continued success of the company. If we want to win the cup and remain dominant, these are the kinds of days we need to embrace.
Tomorrow will be lighter with Pond Day on the schedule, offering a well earned change of pace. All in all, today was another strong step forward for Fourth Company.
Orientation Day 9
Today was an exciting and rewarding day for 4th Company!
We kicked off the morning bright and early with the Physical Training (PT) test. 4th Company crushed it. We had the fastest overall runner, clocking in at an incredible 5:13 mile. A truly outstanding performance! Our female cadets also delivered strong results, placing among the top scores in the entire school.
After the PT test, we quickly showered, grabbed a fast breakfast, and loaded the buses for Pond Day. A favorite tradition, especially for the youngies. Pond Day is all about camaraderie, fun, and a well-earned break. Myself, Ms. Burton, Mr. Jones, and Mr. Mekjian were there to support and enjoy the day. The squad leaders had most of the day off. A well deserved rest for the incredible dedication they show day in and day out.
The youngies spent the day sailing, rowing, swimming, and just enjoying time together. In true 4th Company fashion, we broke the record for the fastest row across the lake, earning 1st place in the pond day section for the Admiral’s Cup for that event.
After returning from the lake, we shifted gears and began packing and prepping to board the ship for Mini Cruise. We embarked via the RORO deck, settled in, and conducted an evacuation drill. Dinner was served shoreside with the rest of the regiment before we reboarded the ship for the evening’s fire and emergency drills. Always a long and detail oriented process.
After a full day, the youngies hit the racks to rest up for tomorrow’s Coast Guard Drill.
4th Company continues to lead by example. I’m incredibly proud of the effort my staff and I have put in and even more proud of the growth we’re seeing in the youngies. This is just the beginning.