Day 9 started off with Round 2 of the PT Assessment. The second time through the assessment allows the Cadet Candidates to see all of their hard work and discipline put into action. The improvements of scores always give C/Cs a sense of pride, and contribute to Admiral’s Cup points.

After PT, the day was packed! 1st, 5th, and 7th Companies had their photos taken today, which is a nice break for the Cadre to take a step back and smile for the camera. 3rd Company had water survival, 2nd Company attended firefighting, and 4th Company took a trip to the pond. Additionally, companies assisted MMA staff with on loading the ship, to prepare for our mini-cruise departure tomorrow. Cadet Candidates also got their sea bags all moved in and settled in their berthings. Once everyone was on the ship, all Cadet Candidates, Cadre, and Ship Personal completed the USCG Required Fire and Emergency drills. This drill needed to be cleared by the Coast Guard, in order for us to sail tomorrow.

In the evening, Cadet Candidates took their Firefighting Exam, which is essential to passing orientation. C/Cs have been diligently studying their firefighting knowledge, and thinking about the hands-on training they received at the firefighting academy.

Everyone is cozied up on the ship tonight, looking forward to our Buzzards Bay Departure in the morning!

“I’m not afraid of storms, for I’m learning how to sail my ship.” ― Louisa May Alcott

Day 8 started off a little differently than the others. There was no PT this morning, and instead, Cadet Candidates had the opportunity to attend a non-denonimational religious service, or continue to prep their rooms and uniforms. This was a nice break for the C/Cs after a long week off waking up and working hard at PT.

Today, 1st Company attended Pond Day, and 7th company completed their STCW Water Survival requirement. Additionally, 2nd, 3rd, 4th, and 6th companies had their company pictures today. Everyone loved the chance to show off their big smiles for the Orientation Blogger!!

Other companies spent time perfecting their drill movements, as today is one of the last chances to practice land-side skills before mini-cruise. All Cadet Candidates and Cadre attending Mini-Cruise embarked on the ship, and had a practice run of our fire and emergency, and abandon ship drills, before the Coast Guard inspects us and clears the ship to leave tomorrow.

The day ended with more company time and drill practice, along with plenty of preparation to move onto our training ship tomorrow. I personally am so excited for mini-cruise, and cannot wait to give Cadet Candidates the opportunity to be aboard the ship they will learn and grow from the rest of their academic careers at Mass Maritime!

“You can’t control the direction of the wind, but you can control the sails.” – Jimmy Dean

We are officially more than halfway through Orientation! It is hard to believe how far the Cadet Candidates have come, but it will be amazing to see their final outcome at Orientation Graduation. The confidence has been building, and leaders are stepping up to motivate their shipmates, in all areas.

During patio, the Regimental Staff has been asking the CCPL, Cadet Candidate Platoon Leader, of each company to say a few words to their shipmates. They C/Cs are beginning to realize what they need to do in order to succeed, and this is a wonderful opportunity for them to emphasize their “why”. The CCPL’s have been doing an astonishing job taking on their first leadership role as future cadets, and they are definitely making an impact on the overall growth of their companies.

Instead of intramurals today, Candidates attended breakout rooms where they discussed major-specific topics. Cadet Candidates learned about many of the resources they have for the coming academic year. This is extremely helpful information before the semester begins to ensure Cadet Candidates are as successful as possible. Meetings like these also get everyone excited for many of the experiential learnings and traveling opportunities they will be offered as a Massachusetts Maritime Academy cadet!

Companies are continuing to perfect their drill skills, and have been introducing a new skill each day. Today, the focus was placed on left and right flanks, and right obliques. Squad Leaders are putting in the time to help each C/C understand the movements, and companies as a whole are starting to get the hang of it.

“When you become a leader you give up the right to think about yourself.” – Gerald Brooks

Day 6 was filled with some rain, but this did not seem to affect the Cadet Candidates. The C/Cs pushed through their field exercises and cadence run, and went on to continue their daily routine.

Throughout the course of the day, 1st, 2nd, 6th, and 7th companies toured our Training Ship. Additionally, 3rd Company attended pond day, 5th company had water survival, and 4th company went to the Firefighting Academy. The days may seem to blend together at this point of orientation, but each day, the Cadet Candidates are one step closer to graduating from Orientation.

Intramurals were electric today, and I loved watching the kickball game between 2nd and 4th companies. The game went into extra innings, and 4th company ended up taking the win after a walk off single. There was great sportsmanship displayed, and everyone was cheering one their shipmates. 3rd and 5th played each other in water polo, with 5th company coming out on top. 1st company took down 7th in frisbee.

At the end of the day, Cadet Candidates attended a meeting to discuss ship life before mini-cruise. They were briefed on the medical side of things, and also what resources they have while being underway. They learned the Shipboard Customs, and ways to stay safe on the ship. The Regimental Training Ship Commander, Cadet Chief Mate, and Cadet Chief Engineer helped to answer any questions C/Cs might have, and got everyone excited for mini-cruise.

“Success is the sum of small efforts, repeated day in and day out.” — Robert Collier

Day 5 started off with a beautiful sunrise and some PT with Rear Admiral McDonald. 1st Battalion completed the run around campus, while 2nd Battalion put in the work at the field exercises. Cadet Candidates are staying motivated and improving their fitness and mental toughness by getting moving early in the morning! Starting each day with a challenge is helping C/Cs build the discipline and determination they will need throughout their time at the Academy.

Cadet Candidates in 3rd and 4th Companies got to tour the TS Patriot State II and learned all about our engine rooms, lifeboats, and life on the ship. Everyone is looking forward to Mini-Cruise, and this was just a sneak peek into the lifestyle that awaits them. Getting the opportunity to step aboard the ship gives C/Cs a better understanding of the hands-on experiences that make a career in the maritime industry so unique.

Today, I joined 1st, 4th, and 5th Companies at the “Goin’ Global 101” meeting, put on by the Global Engagement Officers and our Paul Cuffe Global Institute Staff. Their briefing discussed the resources the Institute offers, as well as many of the fun events and opportunities they put on throughout the year. Meetings like these are a great way for Cadet Candidates to learn about everything the Academy has to offer beyond the classroom and gain a better understanding of the opportunities available to them.

The rest of the day was filled with hands-on learning and experiences across campus. 6th Company Cadet Candidates traveled to the Firefighting Academy, where they continued building their STCW skills and learned more about the equipment and techniques that are essential to working safely at sea. Additionally, 7th Company headed to the pond for a day of teamwork on the water. C/Cs practiced sailing and rowing while learning how important communication and cooperation are when working as a crew. These activities give Cadet Candidates the chance to step outside of the classroom and put their teamwork and leadership skills into action.

Cold-water survival training was also on the schedule for 2nd Company. C/Cs learned important survival techniques and practiced staying calm and working together in challenging situations. While these activities may be outside of their comfort zones, they are an important part of preparing future mariners for situations they may encounter throughout their careers.

As the day came to a close, Cadet Candidates came back together for Company Time. Companies worked on marching, facing movements, and other drill exercises while continuing to build their confidence and attention to detail. The progress being made each day is becoming more noticeable, and companies are beginning to move and work more like a team. With another full day under their belts, C/Cs continue to push themselves, support their shipmates, and take on every challenge thrown their way.

“If you want to change the world, start off by making your bed.” – Admiral William McRaven

Day 4 was a day of pride and honor. It is truly amazing to see companies becoming families, and relying on fellow shipmates and Cadre to work as a team. This started with PT, when 1st Battalion completed the field exercises, and pushed themselves to the limit while cheering each other on. 2nd Battalion took on the run, and everyone was super excited to start their day off with some movement.

Today, 1st Company attended firefighting, 2nd Company travelled to pond day, and 6th Company had water survival. The other 4 companies hung around campus, working on all of the essentials to be a Cadet at the Academy. 5th company had the opportunity to tour the TS Patriot State II, which is an amazing experience for the candidates.

Intramurals continued tonight, with so much energy and enthusiasm. Intramurals are an integral part of Orientation, and the results play into who earns Admiral’s Cup at the end of the two weeks.

Cadet Candidates are continuing to improve on their knowledge, and there have been drastic changes to how each company is performing at patio. Keep studying youngies!!

“Challenges are gifts that force us to search for a new center of gravity. Don’t fight them. Just find a new way to stand.” – Oprah Winfrey

Cadet Candidates got a motivating start to their morning with the PT assessment. Each C/C was tested on their one mile run, push-ups, and sit-ups. The determination put forth was extraordinary, and it was great to see Candidates cheering on their fellow shipmates. By completing the PT test early in Orientation, C/Cs get a baseline for their physical fitness, and look to improve throughout the coming weeks.

After PT and morning meal, C/Cs continued a rotation similar to yesterday, adding in some new meetings and drill exercises. Some companies attended a “Academic Planning” briefing, where they learned about many of the academic resources the Academy provides, and ways to be successful as a student here. Other companies continued trying on their sea bag items, and many smiling faces showed a sense of pride in their uniforms.

5th Company attended the Firefighting Academy today, while 4th Company completed their cold-water survival training. These hands-on activities help to break up the week while providing valuable experiences that directly apply to the Academy.

Intramurals continued today, with 4th, 5th, and 2nd Companies finishing victorious! Cadet Candidates are really showing off their athleticism, while others are stepping up to hype up and support their companies.

C/Cs had Patio before lunch and dinner, and there are already noticable improvements being made. Companies are starting to work as a unit, and spout their knowledge for the Regimental Staff. Confidence is key!

In the evening, C/Cs had “Company Time”, where they worked on their marching and drill movements. Companies also discussed room inspections, and worked to teach Candidates some skills to help them going into the school year.

See everyone in the AM!

“Opportunity is missed by most people because it is dressed in overalls and looks like work.” – Thomas Edison

Day 2, the first full day of orientation. Cadet Candidates proved why they wanted to be here, and showed up to everything with grit and enthusiasm. While some things may still be coming as a culture shock, but friendships are being built and the work is being put in.

There were many tasks packed into one day, including some fun activities as well. Some companies tried on their uniform items, making sure everything fits properly. Others attended meetings learn about everyday life at the Academy, as well as many of our customs and traditions.

First Company completed their STCW Water Survival requirement. This included flipping life rafts, working together on lifesaving techniques, and entering the water from an increased height. This is essential to any license major, as these survival methods will save your life while out to sea.

Third Company had the opportunity to travel to the Firefighting Academy, another STCW requirement. They learned about the different types of fire extinguishers, practiced using a fire hose, and had the chance to wear a full firefighting kit. This is a great experience, and we could not thank the Academy enough for having us each day and being so helpful when teaching the Cadet Candidates.

Sixth Company took a trip to the pond, where they had the chance to learn to sail, row crew boats, and work together to row the monomoy. The Cadet Candidates were accompanied by their senior staff, and were assisted by the pond’s instructors. C/Cs battled it out in the monomoy race, and the teamwork has been excellent!

Intramurals were kicked off today, and the results were awesome! Companies battled against each other in water polo, frisbee, or kickball. This is a great way to build camaraderie and competitiveness while giving the Candidates a chance to develop pride in their company.

Before dinner, Cadet Candidates had their first shot at patio, where they are quizzed on their youngie knowledge and challenged to march to perfection in front of the Regimental Staff. This is a great way to put everything they are working on to the test, and see what companies thrive under pressure.

“Begin today. Declare out loud to the universe that you are willing to let go of struggle and eager to learn through joy.” – Sarah Ban Breathnach

Welcome Aboard! Today Cadet Candidates made their first step to joining the Regiment of Cadets, and this is a huge accomplishment. Cadets Candidates arrived early this morning, moved into their rooms, changed into PT gear, and made their way to Clean Harbors Athletic Stadium. Commandant of Cadets, Commander Pinero, gave his opening remarks, and on marched the Cadre for their oath. This is something these 1/Cs and 2/Cs have been looking forward to throughout their time at the Academy, and it is an amazing achievement.

Shortly after, Cadet Candidates said goodbye to their families and formed up into platoons, where it all became real. They were quickly taught to get in step, look straight ahead, and keep their fists at the seams of their pants. They were quizzed on “Youngie Knowledge” and quickly began studying everything they would soon need to know.

C/Cs moved to lunch, where they ate with Cadre and continued studying their Youngie books. From there, it was time to receive all necessary uniform items for the coming orientation. A C/Cs Sea bag is extremely important, and carries all of their essentials they will need as future Cadets. Making sure every C/C has the correct items is a tedious process, and we could not be more grateful for our Mass Maritime Staff that takes time out of their day to make the Cadet Candidates feel more at home.

Throughout the Sea Bag process, companies worked on facing movements and were quizzed on more youngie knowledge. The more practice, the better!

The Cadet Candidates attended dinner with their companies, followed by a couple of evening meetings. It was great to hear from Dr. Cukor during the medical briefings, as well as from some Firefighting Academy Instructors who provide helpful information before companies attend the Academy.

To finally end the day, TAPS was played to honor those that have fought for this country, something that takes place every night at the academy. Day 1 has been a challenge, but Cadet Candidates are rising to the occasion, and taking advantage of this great opportunity!

“Begin today. Declare out loud to the universe that you are willing to let go of struggle and eager to learn through joy.” – Sarah Ban Breathnach

That’s a wrap on Pre-Orientation!!! Day 5 kicked off with a canal run and a swim in our very own Buzzards Bay. The work these Cadre have put in over the course of the week is astonishing, and capping it all off with the traditional Cadre swim was incredibly rewarding.

Additionally, Pre-Orientation introduced a new competition this year, “The Cadre Cup”. This is a great incentive to maximize leadership skills, and work towards a goal at the end of the week. This year’s winner of the Cadre Cup is 3rd Company!! All of your hardwork did not go unnoticed, and everyone rose to the occasion throughout Pre-O. Each person played a role in building a successful team environment, proving that everyone is needed for the group to shine as a whole!

We are so excited and eager for the incoming Cadet Candidates to arrive, and look forward to seeing everyone on Sunday!

“Success is the sum of small efforts, repeated day in and day out.” — Robert Collier

Pre-O Day 4 was all about team bonding! For PT this morning, Cadre played capture the flag, and were able to have fun after regimented PT all week. After PT and the usual morning meetings, Cadre participated in some friendly games of paintball. This was an extremely fun experience that allowed different groups to team up and work together. The competition was awesome and provided a rewarding break after a long week of training. A little rain could never keep us away, and everyone went 110% to make the experience even more enjoyable.

“The way a team plays as a whole determines its success. You may have the greatest bunch of individual stars in the world, but if they don’t play together, the club won’t be worth a dime.” —Babe Ruth

Pre-O Day 3, arguably the best day of Pre-Orientation. The day started as any other, with PT at sunrise and briefs throughout the morning and afternoon. Cadre had the opportunity to tour the Patriot State II, our training ship. This allowed Cadre to become familiar with everything the ship has to offer, so they can pass that knowledge on to our incoming Cadet Candidates.

After lunch, the focus of the day shifted. Squad Leaders took on the role of Cadet Candidates, while current Senior Staff acted as Squad Leaders. This is an extremely beneficial teaching technique, that gives Squad Leaders the chance to remember what it was like as a Cadet Candidate. They had to impress our seniors with their marching, Youngie knowledge, discipline, and do everything “Orientation Style”. This opportunity also allowed this year’s Squad Leaders to observe different leadership styles, and shape the way they plan to take on their Cadet Candidates.

At the end of the day, Cadre were able to reconvene to discuss why these exercises were beneficial, and the purpose behind much of their training as we count down the days til the Cadet Candidates arrive.

“There is no better tool or equipment you can have on board than a well-trained crew.” – Larry Pardey

Pre-Orientation Day 2 was filled with both learning and leadership opportunities. After getting the day started at 0545 with PT, Cadre attended medical briefs to learn about lifesaving techniques and strategies for handling emergency situations. This knowledge is crucial going into Orientation to help keep all Cadet Candidates and fellow Cadre safe.

Cadre had more opportunities to practice their marching and cadences, and showed off to our Regimental Staff during patio. The 2026 Senior Staff has been passing on their leadership techniques, and it has been great to hear so many different perspectives and stories on how to improve for orientation. Regimental Commander 1/C Liberatore shared encouraging words with our Cadre and posed the question, “What kind of leaders do you want to be?”

“We may have all come on different ships, but we’re in the same boat now.” – Martin Luther King Jr.  

All hands on deck!
Pre-Orientation has officially kicked off in Buzzards Bay, with just six days until the new class of Cadet Candidates arrives. The Cadre have moved in and have been busy preparing for the coming weeks.

The 2026 Cadre started off the day with our PT test at 0545, consisting of a one mile run, push-ups, and sit-ups. This is great preparation to ensure we are in the best possible shape for the incoming Cadet Candidates. And who doesn’t love a great workout to start the day?

After PT, it was full speed ahead! Cadre attended meetings, practiced drill, and spent time getting to know each other as leaders. With the help of our Academy Staff, we are learning techniques for every possible situation, and becoming familiar with all of the resources the Academy has to offer. Day 1 has been awesome and we can’t wait to see what tomorrow will bring!

“Coming together is a beginning; keeping together is progress; working together is success.” — Henry Ford