Good Evening All,

We’re in the final stretch of Orientation! With only 2 days to go, it’s incredible to look at the progress these amazing Cadet Candidates and Cadre have made throughout the week.

Here are your updates from our Company Commanders:

1ST COMPANY

Family and Friends of 1st Company, 

 We are nearing the end of orientation, and the youngies are so excited to come home.  Our CCPL from yesterday, Mr. Penney, told the senior staff and myself at dinner that the first thing he is going to do is eat a greasy cheeseburger when he returns home.  I figured the first thing many would want to do is take a nap or take a long shower, but eating a good meal seems to be a common answer.  Be ready parents. 

 We had our second PT test this morning, which was the exact same as the first time.  The Cadet Candidates are given two chances to pass this test, and also improve their scores.  We once again came in with the fastest mile time of 1st Battalion.  Our push up and sit ups scores were also impressive, and the majority of the youngies improved their scores from the first test.  We then went straight to breakfast before starting our day with drill and knowledge study.  We spent most of the day practicing drill for the upcoming marching competition.  We have practiced a variety of movements and special tricks.  All are definitely improving, but we still need to work on it.

 1st Company did a phenomenal job on both lunch and dinner patio today.  They all knew their youngie knowledge, and even got a compliment from Mr. Francavilla for their performance.  1st Company has definitely come a long way in patio, and have built confidence in themselves that they know the knowledge they have been working so hard to study.  The night concluded with a meeting with the military branches and their involvement with Mass Maritime, then one about student financial services.  At this point in orientation the youngies are tired, but I am pleased with their improvement and overall performance.  They have definitely grown since coming off the bleachers only a week and a half ago.

Very Respectfully,

1/C Jessica Hinds

1sy Company Commander 

2ND COMPANY

3RD COMPANY

This morning was the final PT test of Orientation. 3rd Co worked hard this morning and the scores were much better than the first PT test scores. I can confidently say that all of the C/Cs felt stronger and more confident than they did at the beginning of orientation. 3rd Company Cadet Candidates supported and pushed their shipmates to improve their PT scores. 

 The Cadet Candidates attended Pool Day. At the pool, the Cadet Candidates had their STCW Cold Water Survival Training. They did hands on exercises such as flipping over a life raft, learning how to embark and disembark a life raft, and went over some basic swimming techniques, with and without a lifejacket. 

After having lunch on the grass outside of the pool area, the Cadet Candidates finished up their training and then headed to intramurals. 3rd Company won an utimate frisbee game against 1st Company. Another win for 3rd! Following intramurals, the Cadet Candidates attended evening patio, dinner, and then attended a military recruiting presentation and a student financial service presentation in Admirals Hall. Taps was played at 2130 and the C/Cs sent to bed. 

 The Cadet Candidates are so close to the finish line of Orientation. In just 2 short days, these Cadet Candidates will be reunited with friends and family, feeling proud of what they have accomplished and how much they have grown over the past 10 days. 

Very Respectfully, 

1/C Sophie Strano 

3rd Company Commander

4TH COMPANY

5TH COMPANY

Greeting to all! 

 What another beautiful day at the Bay! This morning was the second PT test at Orientation. We had an early wake up and got the cadet candidates over to the football field. They were very highly motivated and ready to take on the test. Most of our cadet candidates either matched or exceeded their previous scores showing much improvement on their PT! It was a very motivating morning for all! 

 After that we got to head over to Maritime Park as a company and take our pictures. We got plenty of pictures in front of the canal with the mass maritime sign in the background. We took pictures as an entire company, then got some of just the squad leaders, senior staff only, and of course the cadet candidates. 

 They have been working really hard as we start to come to a close to Orientation 2023. The last two days will be the busiest as we have been doing a lot of marching and youngie knowledge practice. The firefighting, youngie knowledge and marching competition is coming up and we are making sure our cadet candidates are ready to take them on!

 Intramurals was a success today as we swept 4th Company and won all 3 games in a row in water polo. This was a moral booster for sure as it lead right into our evening patio that was exceptional. We closed out the day with meetings with the military recruiting staff and the Student Financial Services. TAPS was played as we ended another great day here at the academy. 

 Very Respectfully,

 1/C Michael Riehl

5th Company Commander

6TH COMPANY

Good evening, 

 We began the morning with the second PT test of orientation. The effort seen from all C/C’s reinforced my opinion that they have what it takes to be a successful Cadet at this academy. I was very satisfied with their results, as most of them improved their scores from the week prior. They began with the field exercises (push-ups and sit ups). Our standouts were C/C Hill with 136 push-ups, and C/C Hegedus with 93 sit-ups. Everyone gave amazing effort and the results followed. It was also very nice to see them all cheer on their partners and their shipmates. In only a week, all of the C/C’s have made friends and have learned the value of motivating one another. 

 After the PT test and morning meal, 6th Company did a good amount of drill to prepare for the marching competition. They are starting to master the simple maneuvers and they are getting more familiar with the advanced ones as well. Tomorrow is out last day to prepare for the competition, so it is important that we understand and execute every step to precision or we will not perform the way we would like. We are teaching them a specialty move tomorrow which will hopefully award us some more points during the competition. The Squad Leaders have been doing everything in their power to ensure the success of the marching competition, but we are not alone. Other companies have been practicing just as much as 6th Company and look good as well. It will be a battle to see who is crowned the winner of the marching competition, but I can guarantee that myself and my staff will be ready for it.

 The C/C’s had their company photo today. It was taken at maritime park with the railroad bridge in the background. It made me proud to see them standing as a company with their shipmates taking the photo. I know that in 4 short years, they will look back on these long and difficult days and laugh about everything that occurred. Some of my favorite memories are from orientation my freshman year, and I am fortunate enough to play a role in some of theirs as well. The days go slow at MMA, but I can assure you; the years go fast. 

 After the company picture, we did some more drill and then room prep. The candidates have their first regimental inspection tomorrow. There are a lot of small details that they need to get right in order to ensure they pass the inspections. This teaches them the importance of doing the little things right, and demanding perfection from themselves. They will learn a lot in the year to come as far as inspections go, but tomorrow marks the first one they will stand. I am hoping that they have put in the work for their rooms to be ready, however there is a lot of standards and small steps which are easy to miss when the candidates are still learning that could lead to a failed inspection. Nonetheless, it is their first inspection and the cadre understand this. 

 6th Company had another absolutely dominant day of dodgeball. They won 5 games to 0 vs. 7th company in absolute dominance. The star player was C/C Browne, who caught a plethora of the other teams throws, allowing 6th company to get a player back in, as well as removing the person who threw it from 7th co. I was very happy with their effort as well as their performance. We have created a culture of winning in 6th company. All of the candidates as well as cadre understand their roles, whether it is that they are the star player, or they are providing energy from the sideline. They know it takes an army to be successful and so they show up with a full head of steam every day. 

 The two evening presentations consisted of a military recruiting presentation in which they were informed about the different branches, opportunities, as well as duties of the military. They also had a student financial services meeting so they understand where their tuition goes to, any scholarships that may be available, as well as general information on how financial services operates at MMA. 

 The leadership trait of the day was trust. Trust is the bedrock upon which the foundations of any meaningful relationship, whether professional or personal, are built. In a world marked by uncertainty, trust provides a stable anchor, allowing individuals to collaborate, share, and connect with confidence. It empowers teams to work harmoniously, knowing that each member can be relied upon. I am hoping that 6th Company trusts one another with learning their knowledge, knowing how to march, as well understanding that they all need to trust each other and work together in order to succeed. The lone wolf dies, but the pack survives. We have created an atmosphere in 6th Company that I am very proud of, and I hope that they continue to trust each other as the time goes on. “Trust is the glue of life. It’s the most essential ingredient in effective communication. It’s the foundational principle that holds all relationships” -Stephen Covey 

 Very Respectfully, 

 1/C Michael Nogueira 

 6th Company Commander

7TH COMPANY

The cadet candidates started this morning with their final PT test to determine their improvements on physical fitness in the 1 mile, pushup, and situp. With only two days or orientation left, 7th Company used most of the day to practice drill and set up their rooms for inspection. Later in the afternoon they played 6th Company in dodgeball and then went to evening meal. From there, they attended a military recruiting presentation and a student financial services meeting. They are nearing the end and starting to feel the fatigue, but my team has been reminding and motivating them to finish strong and remember why they’re here. 

 Very Respectfully,

 1/C Luke Dawson, 

7th Company Commander

Morning PT test

Morning run.. part 2!

COMCAD staff overseeing morning PT

6th Co marching to breakfast

5th Company photo

An unsuccesful limo attempt..

Coffee break!

1st Co photo

6th Co photo

High five!

Shipwrecked youngies..

Learning rowing!

More rowing practice

Monomoy practice!

Experienced sailor at work!

Youngie gear check…

7th Co dodgeball

5th Co argueing with the refs at water polo…

More argueing with the ref… uh oh

The Cadre relaxing with a pizza party

Pizza party!

The regimental commander oversees the mile run

Good Evening All,

Today was a bit different at Orientation. Rather than a loud wake-up and a hearty morning PT session, the Cadet Candidates had the morning to reflect and were given quiet spaces to pray, if they chose to. As we get close to Orientation, the Cadet Candidates continue to push themselves to learn their knowledge and come together as a group to succeed. Tomorrow, we go back into the swing of things, with a PT test to gauge how the C/C’s have improved from their initial scores.

Here are your nightly updates from our Company Commanders:

1ST COMPANY

Family and Friends of 1st Company, 

 The senior staff took over for almost the entire day.  There was no PT this morning, and instead we used this as a personal reflection time.  We offered any Youngies who would like to take the time to practice religion to be taken to the new Cuffe Center located in the Fantail.  For those who did not prefer this, we did a reflection exercise with them.  We had all of the Youngies write a letter.  In this letter we asked them to write their name, where they are from, their major and goals they want to accomplish with this degree, a struggle they may be facing during orientation that they are comfortable sharing, and words of encouragement for a shipmate.  After all of these letters were handed in, we then shuffled them all and passed them back at random.  When coming up with this idea, we had the intention of allowing their shipmates to get to know someone in their company they may have had limited conversations with or may not know at all.  It was also to be used as a motivation strategy so if one of them is facing a struggle, they may realize they are not alone.

The entire morning and most of the afternoon was taken up by a day at Great Herring Pond in Plymouth.  The Youngies were divided into three groups and rotated in stations.  One station was with the Maritime Bucs crew coach, where they used a rowing barge to practice rowing.  The second station was with upper class cadets in the Monomoy boats.  These are old open lifeboats that are now used for training.  For license majors, they will have to complete a lifeboatman assessment in the future, and one portion of this is being proficient in the proper commands and being able to steer the boat.  Having to row these boats requires a lot of teamwork and communication, and I can tell you from experience it is not easy.  The Cadet Candidates did end up doing a good job with this however, and I was impressed.  The final station was using the small sailboats that are owned by our sailing team.  The Cadet Candidates were put in partners and got to sail around the pond, which they had a blast doing.  We had quite a few youngies that the crew coach and sailing coach were looking to recruit.

 We returned back to Taylor’s Point and immediately went into intramurals.  I am proud to say that we clean swept 5th Company in dodgeball.  We won three games in a row, and did so well that we took only a half hour of a two hour intramurals block to complete this game.  To kill time, we then played a cadre game, where the 1st Co staff played against the 5th Co staff.  Although we did not win in this cadre match, the companies were getting so loud and excited even though we weren’t directly hyping them up.  They were chanting and singing cadences and just overall happy to be there.  It was incredible to see how invested they were in watching my staff and I play this game.  I can see the sense of pride of being in 1st Company growing.  This will only get stronger throughout the semester

Very Respectfully,

Jessica Hinds

1st Company Commander

2ND COMPANY

(To be added)

3RD COMPANY

This mornings wake up call was a bit different. Instead off attending morning PT on the football field, the Cadet Candidates spent the morning having some personal reflection time. If any Cadet Candidates needed a space to pray or tend to any religious needs, they were given the opportunity to do so.

 Later in the day, the Cadet Candidates attended drill practice. They are currently learning “to the wind” which is a very elaborate drill move. The Cadet Candidates seemed excited and eager to learn. Some time was also dedicated to organizing their rooms and making their rooms inspection ready. This entails of prepping their uniforms, making their beds, and completing their Inspection wall locker and drawer. The 3rd Company Squad Leaders assisted the youngies as needed with their room prep. 

 3rd Company did not have a scheduled intramurals game today against another company. Instead, the company did team building exercises and had a kickball game. 

 The 3rd Company Cadet Candidates are one week into Orientation. The youngies are starting to display more self disciplined and integrity. Although they have made so much progress in the past week, the work is not done yet.

Very Respectfully,

Sophie Strano

3rd Company Commander

4TH COMPANY

With Orientation over halfway through, 4th Company Cadet Candidates continue to make great progress and have shown strong improvement overall. Today was spent mostly on drill and Youngie Knowledge studying. Both of these activities help acclimate the Cadet candidates to daily life and customs at Massachusetts maritime Academy. Additionally, both of these functions play a large part in the Competition for The Admirals Cup, which is an award given to the best overall Company during Orientation. 

 The marching that the Cadet Candidates are performing during drill will be showcased during the Marching Competition, which takes place the morning of Orientation graduation. The Youngie Knowledge that the Cadet candidates are learning will be tested on the same day, and provides Cadet Candidates the needed knowledge of Academy and Regimental Staff, MMA history and customs, and other important information such as ship safety signals and fire safety information. 

 4th Company once again was victorious in intramurals today, securing a win in Ultimate Frisbee against 2nd Company. In the evening after intramurals and evening meal, Cadet Candidates attended lectures on the MMA Conduct system, the Regimental Manual, and the Academy’s community service programs. This information will all be extremely useful to the Cadet Candidates as they begin classes in a little over a week. With Orientation winding down, we will continue to push the Cadet Candidates in their pursuit of growth and excellence over the coming days. 

 Very Respectfully, 

 1/C Jack Mulligan 

4th Company Commander

5TH COMPANY

Good morning,

This morning was different than any other this week. Sundays PT is canceled and in place is self reflection time for the cadet candidates. Cadet candidate could choose to go into their rooms for self reflection or were allowed to go to a quiet space to practice their religion if they needed too. If neither of this option suited them cadet candidates participated in room preparation for the upcoming regimental inspections. The inspections is all inclusive as a member of the regimental staff goes through the rooms and inspects beds, wall lockers, dresser drawer, dust in the room, as well as many other things

Today we also practice more drill. The 5th Company cadet candidates are progressing exponentially with their marching movements and stationary drill movements. We are looking forward to the marching competition as we are practice hard. 

After drill we had noon meal then company officer time with 5th Company’s Officer Senior Chief Jones. They spent an hour with Senior Chief as he talked to them about his aspirations and goals for them moving forward. Once they left that meeting they were excited and ready to continue on marching. We had another hour block for drill until our intramural game of dodgeball verse 1st Company. 

Intramurals did not go in our favor today but we will be sure to bounce back tomorrow with a win. The cadet candidates then attended evening meal followed but a few presentations from the regimental staff. As always the night concluded with the playing of taps. 

Very Respectfully,

1/C Michael Riehl

6TH COMPANY

Good evening family and friends of 6 Co,

Todays morning was conducted differently than what the C/C’s have grown to know from the last week. Myself along with two members of the regimental staff awoke the freshman instead of all of the Squad Leaders on deck today. Although normally we would go to PT in the morning, we stayed inside the dorms for a “Personal Reflection Time” with the C/C’s. We also used this time for any interested in participating in any religious rituals they felt as though they would like to do. The academy did a good job of accommodating those who did participate. For those who did not, I asked them four simple questions in which they wrote down on a notecard for myself to read. 1. What is a regimental or academic goal they have? 2. What is a personal goal they have? 3. What is something they are proud of themselves for this week? And 4. What is something they need to work on? I was very proud while reading some of the answers as they were inspiring as well as motivating. We have a lot of C/C’s who said they want to have high GPA’s, obtain high leadership positions, and those who are especially proud of themselves for coming to this Academy and not quitting on themselves. As for some things they would like to work on, the general consensus was that they needed to work on being comfortable in uncomfortable  situations and working on their confidence. I assured them that no progress has ever been made in a comfort zone, so it is good that they embrace and understand the power of being uncomfortable. 

After morning meal, the C/C’s participated in their second of many morning formations they will have in their time at MMA. I was skeptical about the weather as it was cloudy and foggy over Buzzards bay, but as the morning went on the fog began to clear and the sun started to show. 

Once morning formation concluded, our Squad Leaders taught the C/C’s various marching maneuvers which are beginning to get advanced and complex. The C/C’s have a lot of work to do before the competition on Wednesday. I hold them to a very high standard with the marching. I am proud to say that 6th Company was fortunate enough to take home the trophy last year for the spring marching competition, and I am hoping to lead them to victory once again. It is difficult for the C/C’s to learn the marching, as it is all brand new to them. I was especially impressed with the SL’s patience while teaching them to March. A couple of all stars we have when it comes to marching are C/C Shields, C/C Hill, and C/C Patterson who have all shown extraordinary growth in their confidence and appearance as they march. There is still a lot of work to be done, and I am hoping that we can accomplish this before the competition on Wednesday. 

Losing intramurals two days ago may have been the wake up call that 6th Company needed to fuel their efforts today. 6th Company had an absolutely dominant performance against 7th Company in water polo today. 6 Co swept 7th 3 games to 0 with help from a multitude of candidates. It was nice to see the entire company participating and having a good time. Aguado-Scheyer led the team with a hat trick in the first game to set the tone for 6th Company. C/C Accord gave us some great effort and contributions as well to help lead 6 Co to victory. Our record now stands at 4-1. 

Our evening patio was one of our worst, which was incredibly disheartening. We had ample time to study today, but the C/C’s struggled to remember the older knowledge which we had learned a few days prior. It was not a good moment for sixth company, but I explained to them that good teams are not defined by how they act when things go good, however how they respond when things go bad. I encouraged them to hold themselves accountable and to reflect on how they can make themselves succeed in this aspect. I am hoping that tomorrows performance on patio will be exponentially better than todays. 

Our CCPL for yesterday was C/C Santos, who showed exemplary leadership specifically during intramurals as well as the study sessions he led. Todays CCPL was C/C Cates who plays a vital role in our intramurals team, and also does a fantastic job of motivating the company to perform better in every aspect. Congratulations to the both of them for displaying their amazing character traits and helping the company succeed. 

The leadership trait of the day was initiative. Initiative is the quality that propels individuals to take proactive steps, even in the face of challenges and uncertainties. Initiative embodies the spirit of seizing opportunities and making things happen, rather than waiting for them to unfold on their own. It is the spark that inspires innovation and fosters leadership. Those who exhibit initiative are not content with the status quo, they are the ones who pave the path. Initiative is the catalyst that transforms ideas into actions and dreams into reality. I believe that MMA does a great job of rewarding those who do take initiative. The academy naturally influences the cadets to take initiatives with their mind as well as their body to better themselves. It truly is astonishing to see the motivation that comes from within some of the cadets from this institution, and I would argue that it is second to none. I will end tonight’s blog with a notorious Chinese proverb which I believe portrays this idea of initiative perfectly, “the best time to plant a tree was 20 years ago. The second best time is now” 

Very Respectfully, 

1/C Michael Nogueira 
6th Company Commander

7TH COMPANY

This morning, cadet candidates regiment-wide were woken up at the same time as usual but instead of PT they were given time to reflect and participate in religious services. After breakfast, we had our company picture and did some more drill and knowledge study until noon meal. From there, they had a meeting about the standards outlined in the regimental manual and then moved to intramurals. After that they went to the evening meal and an STCW meeting about the conduct system where they learned about discipline within the academy. After that they were briefed on the uniform standards and community service and then sent to bed. These last two days of orientation will be packed with activity and the cadet candidates are increasingly more excited to graduate the program. As I have mentioned, they have come a long way already since the beginning and will certainly be changed for the better. I look forward to seeing what they can achieve. 

 Very Respectfully, 

1/C Luke Dawson, 

7th Company Commander

C/C’s listen in on a meeting out uniforms standards

A very foggy morning formation

7th Co group picture

C/C’s learn to set up their rooms for inspections

More room set up

3rd Co group picture

5th Co learns drill

6th Co group picture

Sr. Chief Jones and his 5th Co Cadre

A very heated Cadre dodgeball match

Teambuilding relay race

1/C Lydell participates in the relay race

Ultimate frisbee intramurals

More frisbee…

1/C Francavilla helps the Orientation Assistants

1st Co C/C’s work together to carry their lunch coolers

Good Evening All,

Another great day of Orientation for the books! Despite some not-so great weather, the Cadet Candidates continue to have high spirits, training to be their best before graduation, and improving every day.

Here are your updates from your Company Commanders:

1ST COMPANY

Family and Friends of 1st Company, 

 Our morning started by being the first company on the football field for PT.  We were so excited for this, and glad it has become a trend in our mornings.  We completed the calisthenic exercises this morning, and I am pleased to say that members of the Commandant of Cadets, who are some of our highest ranking officers on campus, complimented 1st Company for our volume and sense of morale.   

Until lunch my squad leaders focused on practicing marching with the Cadet Candidates  and studying their youngie knowledge.  They are about 75% completed with learning youngie knowledge, which they will be tested on at the end of orientation.  This knowledge consists of the names of the regimental staff, various leadership traits, quotes, the steam cycle, shipboard emergency signals, and more.  Today the youngies really focused on the emergency signals and the 41 parts of a lifeboat.  Patio went perfect today, and this really motivated the Cadet Candidates to be better. 

 The afternoon consisted of meetings with regimental staff about the honor code and a breakout session by academic majors.  This meeting was a good opportunity for the Cadet Candidates to meet others in their major, as well as learn more details about the degree they will begin to pursue in just a week or so.  These meetings were then followed by all freshmen being brought to the bleachers to watch our football team scrimmage against Dean College.  1st Co began to cheer on the team with a distinct chant, and eventually all other companies joined in. 

 Yesterday, our CCPL was C/C Sandoz.  Mr. Sandoz has excelled in all aspects of orientation, and also holds his shipmates to high standards.  When asked at patio, Mr. Sandoz explained to Mr. Francavilla, the Regimental Commander,  that he wants to see this company succeed, and we want the Admiral’s Cup.  Today, our CCPL named was Mr. McEvoy.  Mr. McEvoy has made a large amount of improvement in everything he has been taught.  He is a quick learner, and adapts to any challenge that has been presented to him.  Congratulations to both Youngies! In the evenings, a privilege of the CCPL is to be able

 to sit with senior staff for dinner.  It has been a pleasure to get to know each CCPL, and learn about who they are beyond just a Cadet Candidate.  Each of these Cadet Candidates have impressed me with their desire to be here and their dedication to leading their shipmates in becoming better versions of themselves. 

 Very Respectfully, 

 1/C Jessica Hinds 

1st Company Commander

2ND COMPANY

Good Evening everyone.

Today the Cadet Candidates started out with a mile and a half run while spouting different cadences from the Cadre. After a quick recovery and change of uniform, Second Company attended Morning Formation. After, the 2Co C/Cs, under the guidance of their Squad Leaders, started to arrange their rooms in the way they shall stay for the entirety of their freshman year. They then went out to the baseball field and learned new marching movements. After a very successful Patio, they enjoyed a Maritime Dining lunch, and proceeded to their various lectures for the day. At 1900, the Regiment moved over to Clean Harbors Stadium to support the Buccaneers Football team in their scrimmage against Dean College. The night finished with an hour where the C/Cs got to know each other better, and study their Youngie Knowledge. Stay tuned for more updates!

Very Respectfully,

1/C Matthew Barry

2nd Company Commander

3RD COMPANY

Today, the Cadet Candidates started their morning with PT on the football field. 1st Battalion completed the field exercises. All of the Cadet Candidates worked hard and cheered on their shipmates through the workout. 

 After breakfast, the Cadet Candidates spent a lot of time on learning drill movements. They are starting to work together and listen to drill commands. I spent some time outside with the Cadet Candidates practicing for the marching competition that is planned for Wednesday morning. After drill, the Cadet Candidates spent some time in the shade, reviewing their young knowledge for lunch patio.

 After lunch, the Cadet Candidates attended a few presentations. They attended an academic breakout session and Honor Code presentation. 

 Following evening meal, the 3rd Co attended the football scrimmage. This was a good opportunity for 3rd co youngies to get to know each other and enjoy the football game.

Very Respectfully,

Sophie Strano

3rd Company Commander

4TH COMPANY

Today was a day spent predominantly on learning for the Cadet Candidates, as time throughout the day was spent on drill practice, knowledge learning, further room and uniform standards, and academic major breakout groups. All of this knowledge is essential to a Cadets success and growth at Massachusetts Maritime Academy, and the Cadet Candidates are constantly striving to improve in all categories. 

 The academic breakout rooms was a new experience for the Cadet Candidates, and they were all afforded the opportunity to meet with Operations Officers and Training Rates for their chosen majors, and learn more about the material they will be learning throughout their 4 years at the Academy. This was a great opportunity for them to ask questions and begin to dive deeper into their future careers and professions. 

 To finish off the day, Cadet Candidates attended the football scrimmage against Dean College. This once again proved a great opportunity for further bonding between them and gave them an opportunity to showcase their school pride. 

 With only a few days remaining in Orientation, 4th Company is in a great position. We are pleased with everything the Cadet Candidates have accomplished so far, and can’t wait to see their continued growth throughout te remaining days. 

 Very Respectfully, 

 1/C Jack Mulligan 

4th Company Commander

5TH COMPANY

Good morning, 

 This morning started off the same as any other. We had PT on the field and participated in a variety of field exercises such as push-ups, planks, mountain climber, and burpee’s. 

 After morning PT 5th go right into learning new marching movements. The platoon worked with determination to perfect there column left and rights as well as a move known as “to the rear”. We are getting into more advanced moves in the coming days and the cadet candidates hard work will continue to pay off as we move forward towards the marching competition. 

 The cadet candidates had a stellar patio performance at noon meal where they were able to spout all the knowledge they were asked in a confident manure. Your cadet candidate have come so far already in their ability to work as a team and it is showing in all aspects of orientation. 

 There were a couple of meetings today which included academic breakout sessions and a honor code meeting. The afternoon continued with dinner then into the evening all the cadet candidates attended the Buccaneer football scrimmage where they were able to relax for an hour and a half.

 The night concluded as normal with the playing of taps. 

 Very Respectfully, 

 1/C Michael Riehl

5th Company Commander

6TH COMPANY

Good evening, 

 There’s something about a maritime morning that makes it all worth while. Having the privilege of leading my company in a cadenced run is something I will look back on and smile at for many years to come. I can think of no better way to start my morning than running alongside the canal at 0545, as the sun is rising and the world awakes. To see the look of determination on the C/C’s faces as they echo our cadences at full volume is more than enough to keep my mornings going. Knowing that they are bettering themselves when they could have still simply been on summer break, letting the complacency win, and continuing to be average proves to me that they have what it takes to find a place in this world. I was very motivated this morning by their volume as well as their energy as we went on our run. It makes my job a world easier when I think about it in this manor. I know that these mornings, although tiresome, will be etched into my mind forever. 

 Today was pond day. The C/C’s transited to the pond after breakfast. Upon arrival I turned them over to the very nice MMA staff who was working there. Having no cadre in their proximity allows for the candidates to have a relaxing and more fun day than normal, as the general stresses of orientation are dissipated by the tranquility of the pond. The candidates participated in three different activities while at the pond. The first was sailing small sailboats with a shipmate. They had buoys set up which the candidates had to maneuver around. I was impressed as I watched from a far by C/C Schiano who had clearly sailed before as she was a master with the boat. Furthermore, C/C Lavinski proved his veteran status as a sailor with impressive speed and maneuverability with his vessel. C/C Naar also demonstrated her willingness to success with amazing effort and focus throughout this activity. The next exercise at the pond was putting the monomoy training they learned at their sea lab a few days ago into practice. Each monomoy boat had a crew which had to work together to steer and maneuver the boat, which is easier said than done with the long wooden oars. If the candidates do not work together as a cohesive unit, it is very difficult to steer, and the loss of an oar is a possibility. Once the candidates learned how to operate the monomoys, they raved against eachother and their times were recorded. From what the instructors had told me, 6th company had the highest average times over all the other companies thus far, which goes towards admirals cup and made me smile. The final activity was a cadenced row similar to that of which the crew team would participate in during their season. It was nice to see the candidates working together and getting their boats up to speed. C/C Madden and C/C Griffin displayed great character during this event. The pond day was a great success, and a nice break for the candidates from the long days at Taylor’s Point. 

 After the pond, the C/C’s met with the Academic Operations Officers and their Rates, who essentially oversee the success and the operations of their major. The C/C’s were very active and asking questions which were great to answer. It was the first real taste of what their intended major was truly about, so to see the passion in their eyes as they set their goals on a profession was inspiring to myself.

Evening patio was decent for 6th Company, but as the saying goes; the biggest room in the house is always the room for improvement. Patio was led by C/C Joy, who knew all 41 parts of a lifeboat as well as the steam cycle and spouted it with confidence.

There was no intramurals today, but instead the candidates spectated the football scrimmage which took place on the field. It was a gorgeous night coupled with a beautiful sunset and the stands packed with Youngies cheering their shipmates on.

The leadership trait to reinforce today was managing complexity. Managing complexity is one of the most important lessons that we need to learn in order to comprehend, as well as tackle any of our conflicts within our lives. It is no secret that life is complex. At a glance from a far, tasks can often seem impossible, unbearable, or simply infeasible. A big part of reaching your potential and becoming a high functioning individual is centered around your ability to manage complexity. Having the ability to break down intricate problems into manageable components and being able to address them one by one is one of the most important lessons of success. This lesson can be applied to all facets of life. It is important that our candidates realize now where they stand. Yes, graduating college is a complexity in and of itself. With this being said, being able to get small wins every day, and improve themselves just 1% day by day will ensure their success in their four short years here, and set them up for a lifetime of greatness. Leonardo da Vinci said it best, “simplicity is the ultimate sophistication”

Very respectfully, 

 1/C Michael Nogueira 

 6th Company Commander

7TH COMPANY

7th company has firefighting in Bridgewater today. From all accounts, cadet candidates were respectful, well behaved, and enjoyed themselves. Activities involved flowing water from a hydrant, handling charged hoselines, and putting out live fires with an extinguisher. Upon their return, they had several meetings and then attended the first football scrimmage of the season. Similar to pond day, firefighting day was a bit of a break from the cadre that allowed the cadet candidates to bond some more. They’re nearing the home stretch and getting better every day! 

 Very Respectfully,

 1/C Luke Dawson, 

7th Company Commander

Having a blast at our football scrimmage!

Morning run

4th Company group picture

Celebrating a good patio session

Academic breakout session

MSSEP majors in their natural habitat

Marine Transportation majors explore down by the docks

Preparing for patio

Spouting youngie knowledge

Evening Patio session

Marching up to patio

C/C’s enjoying themselves at the football game

More fun from tonights game

Making friends

Lots of excited youngies!

Some 7th Co sillyness

Good Evening All,

Today was a good, albeit very rainy day here at MMA. Everyone adapted to the weather the best they could, and the Cadre came up with creative solutions on how to adapt to being indoors all day. Everyday we get closer to Orientation Graduation, and the Cadet Candidates and their Cadre couldn’t be more excited.

Here are your nightly updates from our Company Commanders:

1ST COMPANY

Family and Friends of 1st Company,

This morning started with a mile and a half cadence run around campus.  Our squad leaders have worked hard to learn various cadences to sing in an attempt to motivate the platoon.  We got loud and it helped those who struggled to keep up.  At one point one youngie was falling behind, and another fell back to run with them.  They ran together and the youngie never left their side.  When the run was completed, the two shipmates thanked each other for holding each other accountable.  

The weather at the Academy today was not great, so most of our day was spent inside.  The Cadet Candidates took this time to start prepping their rooms for inspections.  Each morning during the school year the Cadet Candidates will have their room inspections.  There is a long list of detailed standards that each room must be kept up to.  My Squad Leaders did a phenomenal job of going around and guiding each room in the right direction of completing the room.  Later on in the week, the Regimental Staff will inspect the Cadet Candidates room, and I am confident they will be successful.  

Today was the Company’s off day for intramurals, so the Student Government Association president created an online trivia game for the Youngies about Mass Maritime facts.  They were divided into teams, which boosted team building and Company bonding.  Patio occurs before every lunch and dinner, and is when each Company is quizzed on their youngie knowledge.  Because of the weather, dinner patio was secured.  The senior staff and I set up a mock patio to quiz them on their knowledge, and they nailed it.  I was impressed to say the least, as patio has been our weakness so far in orientation.

The Company is slowly becoming more unified, and it has been encouraging to watch each of the Youngies bond with their shipmates who they did not know five days ago.  When they return home in just five short days, I can guarantee they will return home a better person with a sense of pride for being at this Academy.

Very Respectfully,

1/C Jessica Hinds
1st Company Commander

2ND COMPANY

Good evening everyone!

The Second Company Cadet Candidates had a nice hard workout this morning and then immediately prepared to go to the Mass Fire Academy in Bridgewater for Firefighting training! There, the C/Cs learned how to handle a hose, fire extinguishers, and how to identify different kinds of fire and how to fight them. After returning to campus, Second Company defeated Fifth Company in dodgeball! Their C/Cs had a fantastic Maritime Dining dinner of barbecue chicken, and headed off to their nightly lectures. Tonight, they got a lecture from the Campus Police and also a lecture about Shipboard Customs and Safety Management Systems. More to come about their extraordinary progression tomorrow.

3RD COMPANY

After PT this morning, the Cadet Candidates headed to Great Herring Pond for Pond Day. The C/Cs spent the day at the Pond and learned how to sail, row, and row the Monomoys. Although it was raining for most of the day, the Cadet Candidates did not complain and enjoyed socializing and getting to know their shipmates. Once the Cadet Candidates got back to campus, it was time for them to lock it up and get back to the grind. They spent some time practicing a new marching move which was “by the right/left flank”. After a bit of practice the Cadet Candidates picked it up quickly. In the evening, the Cadet Candidates attended a Campus Safety briefing and a Shipboard Customs & Safety Management System briefing. The night ended with selecting the new 3rd Company Guidon. The new 3rd Company Guidon is C/C Landry. Congratulations!

Very Respectfully,

Sophie Strano

5th Company Commander

4TH COMPANY

Friday was an exciting day for 4th Company, as the Cadet Candidates spent the majority of the day at the Firefighting Academy in Bridgewater being taught basic firefighting skills with fire extinguishers, hoses, and firefighting equipment. This was a great opportunity for the Cadet Candidates to get off campus, get to know their fellow shipmates better, and start building their teamwork as they work towards Admirals Cup together. 

 Once returned from firefighting, the Cadet candidates went straight into intramurals. While the contest was unable to be finished due to rain, 4th Company was able to compete for awhile before heading back inside. Inside, Cadet Candidates learned about proper room set-ups and uniform standards, helping to prepare them for Regimental Inspections throughout the academic year. 

 My staff and I are pleased to see the 4th Company Cadet Candidates continue to grow and come together as a team. 

 Very Respectfully,

 1/C Jack Mulligan 

4th Company Commander 

5TH COMPANY

Good Morning 5th,

Today started off with the usual 0530 wake up and PT. Today the cadet candidates participated in a 1.5 mile cadence run. After breakfast the cadet candidates were quickly rushed to water survival at the pool. This consisted of each cadet practicing flipping rafts as well as other survival skills such as the human carpet, help position, and putting on immersion suits. After noon meal 5th company was able to participate in a close game against 2nd Company in dodgeball. After showering and evening meal the cadet candidates sat through a campus police and a shipboard customs and safety management system presentation before being sent to bed.

Very Respectfully,

1/C Micheal Riehl

5th Company Commander

6TH COMPANY

Good evening all, 

 The morning began in a regular routine with a standard wakeup. The Cadet Candidates are starting to get used to the sleep schedule, so they were not as tired as they normally are. Something else that helped them wake up was the announcement of our guide-on for the year. The guide-on is the flag bearer at the front of the platoon who holds the company flag. Our flag displays the number 6. Becoming the guide-on is a very honorable roll, as it is generally given to the fastest tracking cadet candidate who displays great leadership ethics as well as epitomizes the academy standards and values. I would like to recognize C/C Craig Hill as the 6th Company guide-on. His continuous effort and willingness to push himself has earned him the title of our guide-on. Congratulations to him. 

 Upon review of my blog from yesterday, I neglected to put in the CCPL we selected. Yesterdays CCPL was C/C Barruza who was awarded this for her intense energy, loud voice, as well as her impressive understanding of the Youngie Knowledge. Her quick understanding of the knowledge allowed her to lead a study session to help the other candidates learn as well. 

 Todays CCPL was C/C McQueen. He displayed a great addition of energy when spouting Youngie Knowledge, as well as becoming a key player during the intramurals against other companies. He did a very good job leading a study session and some team building exercises to build camaraderie. 

 A large part of running any successful organization is having the ability and the skill to adjust on the fly and be adaptable. Due to the rainy weather today, 6th Company as well as the rest of the regiment had to adjust their daily schedules to combat the weather. Instead of having morning formation and Company Officer time, we did some room preparation in which the Squad Leaders taught them how to iron. Parents, the days of ironing your sons and daughters laundry is hopefully over, as they were taught how to iron their military creases and how to flat iron as well. (Perhaps you can use this to your advantage and make them return the favor). Once this was over, they had an Academic Planning meeting in which they planned out their academic schedules and went over their course curriculum. I’m sure the last thing on their mind is academics, however this is the reason they came to this academy, so it is important they understand the classes they are taking, as well as how to succeed academically at MMA.

 We suffered our first loss of the year in Intramurals today, but 6 Co did not go down without a fight. Water polo against 3rd company came down to the wire. We unfortunately lost 4-3 ending in a shootout. Our star players were C/C Cates who had two goals, as well as C/C White played great defense the entire time. A special shout-out to C/C Ferringo who led the company in some motivational chants to keep the morale high. After the game, I stressed that we can not win them all, however our success will be defined with how we bounce back from defeat. We will put this to the test tomorrow.

 Todays leadership trait of the day was courage. Courage is the duel that propels individuals to confront their fears and challenges head on, transcending limitations and unlocking their true potential, which is a goal of mine I prefaced in my first blog. It is the vital ingredient in the recipe for personal growth as well as societal progress. Without courage, innovation and progress would stall, as it takes courage to step into the unknown. As the notorious quote goes, “A ship is safe in the harbor, but that is not what ships are build for”. Your C/C’s are casting off their lines and beginning to sail away from their bad habits as they delve into the world of unknown to find their true potential. It is important that they maintain the courage to try new things, learn knew lessons, and most importantly enjoy the journey. To bring this to an end, I will close with this, “Courage is not the absence of fear, but the ability to act in spite of it” – Epictetus 

 Very respectfully, 

 1/C Michael Nogueira

7TH COMPANY

This morning, cadet candidates participated in PT despite the misty morning weather. After PT and breakfast, they had formation, and had some time to study their knowledge and drill. After lunch, the cadet candidates met with our Company Officer LCDR Magee and the component staff to learn about the drill, honor guard, and band components that 7th Company offers. They then went to intramurals for a short period before it was canceled due to the rain. The remainder of the day involved dinner, a meeting with Campus Police about security operations on campus, and learned about Shipboard Customs and Safety Management Systems. Tomorrow the cadet candidates have firefighting in Bridgewater, which is close to home for me because I am I firefighter and I also live in Bridgewater. I am excited to learn which of the cadet candidates become interested in firefighting once they are exposed to it. Three days of orientation remain!

Very Respectfully,

1/C Luke Dawson

7th Company Commander

The regimental staff sit down for lunch

2nd Co morning wake-up

Morning stretches

Preparing for the morning run

Some very motivating situps

Push up circle

Forming up after PT

Practicing drill in the rain

Reciting their youngie knowledge at patio

Our regimental staff getting lightly rained on

Enjoying a nice, warm lunch

5th Co having some fun at indoor intramurals

Cheering on their shipmates

2nd Co at intramurals

6th Co giving advice to their team

More 6th Co having fun at water polo

Reciting their youngie knowledge

The Cadre enjoyin themselves on their break in our new Fantail

Evening meeting in Admirals Hall

One lucky C/C gets a Kitkat for answering a question

1/C Acevedo presenting on ship customs

Good Evening All!

We’re over halfway through Orientation, and today we enjoyed another day of beautiful weather. Even with some rain forecasted for tomorrow, nothing can temper these Cadet Candidates spirits! They are making incredible progress, and everyday they get closer to becoming fully recognized cadets at this academy.

Without further ado, here are your updates from our Company Commanders.

1ST COMPANY

Family and Friends of 1st Company,

 We started our morning with PT on the football field, which consisted of field exercises today. This was the second day in a row we were the first company on the PT field. It is quite an accomplishment considering we are one of the farthest companies from the football field. 1st and 2nd Battalion alternate each day between a run around campus and various calisthenic exercises on the field. The youngies got super into the field exercises. When completing the situp portion, the C/Cs were instructed to interlock legs with the person next to them and complete the situps together. All partners did the sit ups together, and at the top would give each other high fives or words of encouragement. The morning consisted of drill and youngie knowledge studying, before moving into open lifeboat practice and intramurals in the afternoon.

 Throughout orientation the Cadet Candidates are given multiple opportunities to lead their shipmates. We introduced the Cadet Candidate Platoon Leader position yesterday (CCPL). Each day the 1st Company Cadre will choose a youngie who goes above and beyond. The CCPL will then be given a window of time to speak with their shipmates and lead their platoon in a guided discussion on how to be better and motivate each other. The CCPL is given a colored pinnie to tie on their youngie pack to signify their achievement. Yesterday our first CCPL was awarded to C/C L. Lee. Ms. Lee has gone above and beyond her shipmates by excelling in youngie knowledge. She continues to uphold herself to the highest standards and that has stuck out to us. Congratulations Ms. Lee! Our CCPL for today was C/C Hill. Mr. Hill continues to better himself every day, and never loses motivation. He brings a high level of morale to the Company, and puts his shipmates before himself. Congratulations Mr. Hill!

  A final position awarded to a Cadet Candidate is the guidon bearer position. Each Company possesses a guidon flag which is used in the Company wedge during formation and ceremonies. This position is given to a Cadet Candidate who has proved responsibility, pride, and ability to set an example for others. The Cadet Candidate who is awarded this position will be the permanent guidon bearer for the entire school year. The guidon bearer selected for 1st Company is C/C Scigliano. Mr. Scigliano has proved to the Cadre his desire to be at this Academy and the amount of pride he has for 1st Company. He is the loudest youngie and goes above and beyond to be the best version of himself. Congratulations Mr. Scigliano!

 Very Respectfully,

 1/C Jessica Hinds 

1st Company Commander

2ND COMPANY

What a beautiful morning in Buzzards Bay. Second Company started the day off with a one mile cadence run around campus, which the C/Cs did fantastic on. After morning meal, Second Company headed to the pool for their STCW Cold Water Survival Training. Here they learned how to swim with and without a life jacket, flip over a capsized life raft, and how to embark and disembark a life raft safely. After their training was complete, the Cadet Candidates stayed at the pool where they defeated First Company in water polo! Second Company then enjoyed a delicious dinner and went to finish the day off with an Athletics presentation and a lecture on Training & Retention.

Very Respectfully,

1/C Matthew Barry

2nd Company Commander

3RD COMPANY

Today the Cadet Candidates participated in a motivating PT session on the football field. After breakfast, the Cadet Candidates went to firefighting training in Bridgewater where they learned fire suppression tactics and the various equipment used for it. They went through several evolutions of fire training and learned to work together as a team. It was beneficial for the Cadet Candidates to get off of campus for a bit. When the Cadet Candidates returned to campus, they participated in a dodgeball game against 4th company and unfortunately lost 3-1. The night ended with an athletics presentation and a training and retention presentation.

Very Respectfully,

1/C Sophie Strano

3rd Company Commander

4TH COMPANY

The Cadet Candidates began the day with PT once again, with today being focused on endurance training. The Squad Leaders led 4th Company on a run around the MMA campus, as the Cadet Candidates recited cadences. From there, the Cadet Candidates had Morning Formation followed by MMA ID pictures in their “At Sea” uniforms. Cadet Candidates also began learning from their Squad Leaders about the proper ways to keep their uniforms and their rooms, how to iron, and other basic tasks required of every Cadet at MMA.

 After lunch, the Cadet Candidates were introduced to 4th Company Officer LT. Jordan, who had many words of encouragement and motivation for them. Lt. Jordan has a long and storied history at MMA, and has led 3 different companies over his time at the Academy.

 The Cadet Candidates had Academic Planning as well, where they worked with Academy staff to begin constructing their schedule for the Fall Semester and planning out their courses for their time at MMA. From there, 4th Company picked up another dodgeball win, this time defeating 3rd Company.

 Very Respectfully, 

 1/C Jack Mulligan 

4th Company Commander

5TH COMPANY

Good Evening 5th,

 Per usual the day started off with an 0530 wake up followed by physical training. Today the cadet candidates participated in stations, each containing a different workout (push-ups, burpees, sit ups, etc.). After heading to breakfast the company took part in morning formation and were quickly rushed back to the dorms to change into their “at-sea” uniform for pictures later on in the day.

 The cadet candidates were able to tidy up some of their knowledge with proper drill training and youngie knowledge quizzing in the after noon. 

 The evening consisted of a very motivating game of ultimate frisbee against 6th company. After the cadet candidates were sent to shower and their evening meal, the day concluded with lectures by Coach Kelly and 1/C Gubert where they leathered more about athletics and training and retention. As always the day concluded with Taps. 

 Thank you for following along, as always please contact me with any questions. 

 Very Respectfully,

 1/C Michael Riehl

5th Company Commander

6TH COMPANY

Good evening, Today 6th company began the day with a cadenced run. The Candidates were especially quiet this morning. I believe this was due to fatigue setting in. The Squad Leaders did their best to motivate them with their cadences, however they remained pretty quiet and it was difficult to get the energy up. Following PT the candidates had a shower and recovery with some breakfast.

 Today 6th Company had firefighting training. Here they learn how to use and wear certain PPE. They also learn the different types of fires, and how to distinguish them. For example, a Class C fire is an electrical fire. You cannot distinguish a Class C fire with water, as a matter of fact the fire will become more aggressive and spread. Instead, a chemical powder is used to distinguish the fire. The candidates learned how to correctly operate the fire hoses at the academy with different nozzles which for different types of situations. This is a group effort usually with 5-6 candidates as the fire houses are incredibly heavy and powerful. CC Croft learned how to use the oxygen tank and mask effectively in the presence of smoke and did a very good job in doing do. The firefighters applauded our Cadet Candidates for their respect as we left Bridgewater.

 We had a very good battle with 5th Company in ultimate frisbee today. There were many lead changes, but 6th Company got the victory in a 8-7 win at the last second. The game winning pass was caught by myself off a beautiful throw from CC McQueen into the end zone. The Candidates surrounded one another and chanted with excitement as we improved our record to 3-0.

Everything in life has trade offs. Today, ours was patio. The CC’s had undoubtedly the worst patio of the week at evening meal. They struggled with the Steam Cycle, and also sir’ed a woman when she asked a question, which the Regimental staff was not happy about. They did have firefighting today, so there was not ample time to study, but we stressed the importance of remaining consistent and moving on to the next time we have patio. We will see if we can bounce back from our sub par performance tomorrow at noon meal. After evening meal, the CC’s had an Athletic Presentation as well as a Training and Retention meeting.

 The leadership traits of the day were Character/Integrity. Integrity and character are the cornerstones of an individuals moral compass. It’s not just about doing the right thing when others are watching, but maintaining that ethical resolve when no one is around to witness. My goal is not only to form these CC’s into good Cadets, but also good people. They have already convinced me they have it within themselves, as they have proven they can help each other, work together, and place their differences aside to accomplish a common goal. This is a skill which has been lost with time, however those who truly know the value will still prevail. In closing, “character is like a tree and reputation like its shadow. The shadow is what we think of it; the tree is the real thing”- Abraham Lincoln

Very respectfully, 

 1/C Michael Nogueira 

 6th Company Commander

7TH COMPANY

Today the cadet candidates went to Great Herring Pond to participate in Pond Day. They were authorized to relax from the regiment and have fun while still working as teams and small groups to row and sail around the pond. CDR Klimm organized a few races between the different groups and cadet candidates were very motivated and competitive. Pond Day is usually a morale booster because it allows them to get to know each other which helps with team building and motivation. Each day the cadet candidates are getting better and even more excited for what’s to come. 

Very Respectfully,

 1/C Luke Dawson, 

7th Company Commander

A heated match of water polo!

Morning PT

Sit-ups

Running between stations

Butterfly kicks

Morning run

Rear Admiral McDonald joins us for PT

3rd Co lined up for firefighting

Firefighting

Having some fun here!

Supporting each other

Taking a break in the shade

6th Co at firefighting

Learning how to use SCBA gear

Using the fire extinguishers

More firefighting training

Learning how to flip a liferaft

1st Co sharing stories at Sea Lab

Making new friends!

More storytime

1st Co Ladies!

4th Co getting hyped up for dodgeball

3rd Co!

A heated dodgeball match!

6th Co at water polo

1st Co Water Polo

Some water polo action!

Good teamwork

Go 1st Co!

Company Commanders meeting with their Company Officers

5th Co frisbee!

Reciting knowledge

4th Co newly chosen guidon!

7th Co after patio

Marching to evening patio

Ready to recite their youngie knowledge

Regimental Staff at patio

Our squad leaders enjoying their time off

Day 3 was another great day for the Cadet Candidates here at MMA! In only one week, they’ll be marching across the football field for Orientation Graduation. The Cadet Candidates have already shown great improvement and everyday they work to be better than the day before. One more week!

Here are you nightly updates from our Company Commanders:

1ST COMPANY

Family and Friends of 1st Company,

Because we have spent the last two days completing STCW requirements, today was the first day my staff finally got to spend a lot of time with the C/Cs.  The morning was taken up by various academic meetings, as well as drill time.  The platoon also spent a large amount of time practicing drill.  The biggest goal today was practicing columns.  Columns are used when the platoon needs to make a turn.  We have gotten so much better at marching, and I am confident we will do well in the marching competition later on in the week.  The late morning was spent in the gym sorting out any uniform issues.  During down time, they quizzed each other on their youngie knowledge by sitting back to back, using flashcards, and just quizzing each other.  Promoting collaboration has been a large priority in my staff.  Although we are here to teach, it is at times more productive and efficient when helping your shipmates.  This skill will carry on into their future at MMA, as well as in their careers.  

We played 4th Company in dodgeball this afternoon, and I am disappointed to report that we did lose.  It was a VERY close game, with 1st Co winning two out of five games.  The C/Cs started off strong in the first game, by beating our opponent in less than five minutes.  I believe we got tired and complacent.  However I am hopeful that tomorrow we will beat 2nd Company in water polo.   The youngies finished the night with a health services meeting and one with career services.  These two departments are crucial for the success of our campus.  The youngies were able to meet the faculty who are in these departments and further their knowledge of all the resources we have on campus.

Very Respectfully,

1/C Jessica Hinds

1st Company Commander

2ND COMPANY

Today the Second Company Cadet Candidates headed over to Great Herring Pond after a motivating PT session and a hearty morning meal. There they learned how to sail, and how to perform different tasks in rowing and commanding a Monomoy. They all had a lot of fun with these different activities. After returning to campus, the C/Cs participated in their first Water Polo match where they defeated 3rd Company 3-1! After Patio and evening meal, they had two lectures, one from Health Services and the other from Career Services. Each day is an improvement upon the last.

Very Respectfully,

1/C Matthew Barry

2nd Company Commander

3RD COMPANY

It is a beautiful day on campus! The Cadet Candidates started their morning at 0530 for an early morning PT session. 1st Battalion did a 1 mile cadence run around the campus and got to enjoy the sunrise peaking up over the Cape Cod Canal. 3rd Company Squad Leaders had the Cadet Candidates spouting loud and proud during the run. The team spirit was at an all time high this morning and it was motivating!

This morning, the Cadet Candidates had a couple hours dedicated towards drill. 3rd Company Squad Leaders broke the platoon up into smaller groups and taught the Cadet Candidates how to do drill moves step by step. They practiced their column lefts/rights, and learned “to the rear”. I was very impressed with their progress. I spent some time marching the platoon to prepare for the Marching Competition next week.

The Cadet Candidates had a fun afternoon. They attended Sea Lab, where they learned how to row the Monomoy boats. This activity is extremely beneficial for our licensed Marine Engineering and Marine Transportation Cadet Candidates. The C/Cs were able to relax a bit and get to know each other. Following Sea Lab was intramurals. 3rd Co unfortunately lost to 2nd Co in water polo.

Our First CCLP (Cadet Candidate Platoon Leader) was chosen today. Every day, a Cadet Candidate who has demonstrated grit, respect, dedication, and tenacity is elected by the 3rd Company Squad Leaders. The CCPL was C/C Monteiro. Well Done!

Very Respectfully,

1/C Sophie Strano

3rd Company Commander

4TH COMPANY

The third full day of Orientation was a busy one for 4th Company, and the Cadet Candidates were moving through campus all day conducting activities. The day began with their first day of morning PT, led by the Regimental Staff. The Cadet Candidates were able to complete their PT alongside Rear Admiral MacDonald, who was very excited to see the energy and enthusiasm throughout the company.

 The Cadet Candidates underwent another Morning Formation led by the Regimental and Battalion staffs, which was then followed by drill practice with their Squad Leaders. They began to learn more advanced marching techniques and continued to refine their previous learned knowledge.

 After that, 4th Company participated in “Sea Lab”, which is a basic course on rowing techniques and practices, as well as small boat safety training. While unable to get in water, the Cadet candidates were able to build teamwork in practicing rowing cadences among small teams.

 4th Company also picked up it’s first victory in intramurals, defeating 1st Company in dodgeball!!

 The teamwork and comradery is growing in 4th Company, and the Cadet Candidates are coming together as one team, 4th Company, and working together to accomplish their daily tasks to the highest level possible.

 Very Respectfully, 

1/C Jack Mulligan 

4th Company Commander 

5TH COMPANY

Good afternoon,

Today 5th Company started with the run at PT. We did a 1 mile cadence run as a platoon around campus. After the completion of the run we did a cool down stretch and marched back to the company for recovery time before preparing to head to Bridgewater for firefighting.

Your cadet candidates ate a quick breakfast then boarded the buses to head out. Today at fire fighting cadet candidates completed three stations. The three stations included hose handling, fire extinguishers, and self-contained breath apparatus (SCBA). During the hose handling station C/C’s were taught different types of hoses and appliances. Additionally, they learned how to deploy different fire attack lines with maritime nosels. At the next station C/C’s worked on fire extinguishers. They learned about classifications of fire extinguishers and how to use them. With this knowledge, C/C’s finished the station by putting out live fires. Lastly, at the third station, C/C’s discussed SCBA. They received hands on instruction about the components of the breath apparatus, and how to don and doff SCBA.

After returning from firefighting we participated in intramural ultimate frisbee verse 7th company which we won. The cadet candidates night concluded with a medical brief as well as a career services meeting.

Thank you for following along, as always please contact me with any questions.

Very Respectfully,

1/C Micheal Riehl

5th Company Commander

6TH COMPANY

Good evening,

The day began with excitement as the C/C’s were awaken before sunrise. They ran over to the football field as a cohesive unit singing a running cadence which got me excited to begin the day. Each and every one of them pushed themselves to their maximum today during the PT stations we did on the field. The workouts consisted of push-ups, sit-ups, mountain climbers, and one of my personal favorites, flutter kicks. The C/C’s began the morning with low volume and were groggy, but by the end of PT they were cheering each-other on and spirits were high.

Following the morning PT, the candidates showered and recovered with a morning meal provided by maritime’s dining. After this, they headed to the pool to complete their water survival training. This consists of many exercises in which the C/C’s learned how to survive in hazardous situations. They learned techniques for surviving an oil or gas fire on top of the water, as well has how to use a group of people to help each other stay afloat. They learned that by locking arms together in a circle and placing their legs out, they could keep an injured shipmate afloat that would otherwise sink. They also learned that if they create a large chain in the water with one another, they can be spotted easier and move as a unit without losing one another. Although this training will hopefully never be put to practice, it is very good that they learn these survival techniques. I would like to recognize two cadets specifically that impressed me at the pool. C/C Joy as well as C/C Shields both had not been strong swimmers, or could not swim at all before this exercise. Through their shipmates encouragement and their cadres support, they both conquered their fears and gained confidence in the water. They both had smiles on their faces as they overcame the adversity.

Following pool day the candidates played kickball against one another as we did not have an opponent scheduled for intramurals today. Everyone participated and had a fun time doing so. The losing team payed the price by doing some motivating push-ups, however the winning team decided to help them out by doing it with them. Our Cadet Candidate Platoon Leader (CCPL) for today was C/C Hill. The CCPL program is designed to highlight Cadet Candidates who go above and beyond during orientation. When selected each day, they are expected to lead the company with studying, as well as motivate them when needed. Mr. Hills enthusiasm, team work, and willingness to strive for greatness secured his position as our first CCPL. He lead our study session before patio today, and did a very good job doing so. The candidates did well on patio and enjoyed the meal they very much so deserved following it. After their dinner, they went to a health services meeting as well as a career services meeting led by LT DeMello who educated them on the resources that they have to help them find their dream jobs and financial freedom in their future. Although this seems like it is far far away, I assured them that the job search comes quicker than they anticipate.

The leadership trait of the day was endurance. I expressed what this meant to the cadet candidates. Here was the consensus: it is easy to start something. Beginnings are often filled with excitement, adrenaline, and curiosity, which is inherent. What is hard is continuing day in and day out to perform with the same intensity you did on the first day. Life is a perpetual uphill battle. It always was, always has been, and always will be. It can wear you down at times. If people have the courage to start, but lack the discipline to continue, they will never reach their goals, and will certainly never reach their full potential. In conclusion, I will leave you with this: “With the courage to begin, and the discipline to endure, victory becomes a matter of time”…

Very respectfully,

1/C Michael Nogueira

6th Company Commander

7TH COMPANY

Day three of orientation is officially in the books. Today 7th Company had more academic meetings and time to set up their rooms for inspection as well as an intramural game of ultimate Frisbee. The cadet candidates are getting much better at marching and retaining their knowledge, and they are extremely fired up for Pond Day tomorrow where they will learn basic sailing, rowing, and water survival operations. They are learning to work as a team and have seemingly embraced the core concepts of the orientation program. Many of them have expressed their appreciation of the physical training we do in the mornings and are beginning to get used to their new lives as cadet candidates. My staff and I continue to work hard to keep these cadet candidates safe and give them the basic training they need to be successful. 

Very Respectfully, 

1/C Luke Dawson, 

7th Company Commander

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1st BN Staff watch the sunrise

Morning run

Mountain climbers

Morning run

Lining up for breakfast

CCPL time

Sea Lab

Studying youngie knowledge

Pool day

Marching with sea bags

Marching with cadences

Trivia

5th Co Intramurals

A very special birthday boy !

Good Evening Everyone! We had another great day of Orientation today here at Mass Maritime. From here on out, you’ll be able to read daily Company updates directly from our incredible Company Commanders. Yesterdays blog post has been updated with their introductions. Please be patient as we work to write and receive entries from each Company.

Without further ado,  here are your updates from the Company Commanders!

1ST COMPANY

Family and Friends of 1st Company,

We started our day here on Taylor’s Point bright and early to take the physical fitness test.  This test is comprised of a timed 1 mile run, and a two minute intervals to complete as many pushups and situps as possible.  The scores reported were impressive, with one Cadet Candidate reporting 120 pushups.  The first two Cadet Candidates to finish the 1 mile run were also from 1st Company.  My Squad Leaders worked hard to instill morale and camaraderie amongst the C/Cs, by cheering on their shipmates completing the test and pushing each other to their limits.  

Shortly after, the C/Cs were transported by bus to the Mass Fire Academy in Bridgewater for basic firefighting training.  This is an STCW requirement for license majors, but all participate.  The Cadet Candidates review the classes of fire, learn how to use a fire extinguisher, try on SCBAs, and do various exercises with fire hoses.  This was a huge success, and the C/Cs enjoyed their time at the fire academy.  Even if this knowledge is not needed for each major, it is still very good information to know that could help save their lives in the future.

Once returning to campus, the company immediately moved into the intramurals game of water polo against 7th Company.  We have won 3 out of 4 games, and it was amazing to see the Company come together.  There was a point where our goalie had made a mistake of dropping the ball right in front of the net and 7th Co had taken possession.  The goalie was out of the net, and the other team took a shot, but another player on our team stepped into the goal at the perfect time to block the shot.  The Company went crazy, and the two players gave each other the biggest hug, as well as the rest of the team coming over and hyping each other up.  This Company has begun to bond, and I can promise you they will return home with friendships that will last a lifetime.

Very Respectfully,

1/C Jessica Hinds

1st Company Commander

2ND COMPANY

(To be updated)

3RD COMPANY

Its Day 2 for the Cadet Candidates and it started off with a motivating PT test on the football field. 3rd Company did a great job supporting each other during the pushups, sit-ups, and the mile run.

Following breakfast, 3rd company attended uniform fittings in the gym, an academic planning session, and took their school pictures for their ID Keycard. 3rd Company CRUSHED 4th Company in Ultimate Frisbee today. Another win for 3rd Co!

In the evening, the Cadet Candidates attended a Title IX and Diversity 101 presentation in Admirals Hall. They were sent to bed at 2200 following Taps. Right now, the Cadet Candidates are experiencing the hardest part of this program. They are learning to work as a team and not an individual. It takes discipline, integrity, and loyalty to be successful here at the Academy and each Cadet Candidate has already demonstrated these qualities. The hard work they are going to have to put in is just getting started, but I am confident to say that each and every Cadet Candidate will find themselves stronger than ever on Orientation Graduation day.

Very Respectfully,

1/C Sophie Strano

3rd Company Commander

4TH COMPANY

Hello all,

Today was another great day for 4th Company, as the Cadet Candidates spent a majority of the day at the pool conducting water survival exercises. Here, they learned basic swimming and treading water techniques, water survival skills, and teamwork in the pool.

The Cadet Candidates also conducted the Physical Fitness Assessment this morning. The test consisted of a 1 mile run around campus, and 2 minutes of both pushups and sit ups. All Cadet Candidates pushed themselves physically and mentally, all while comin g together and supporting one another as a Company.

4th Company also participated in intramural ultimate frisbee today. After water survival and drill practice, this time allowed the Cadet Candidates to compete with another Company, and while 4th Company did not come away with the win today, the Cadet Candidates enjoyed the competition and are eager to get back on the field tomorrow.

We continue to be impressed daily by the Cadet Candidates, and how much they are coming together as a Company already.

Very Respectfully,

1/C Jack Mulligan

4th Company Commander

5TH COMPANY

Good morning,

Today was the first of physical training for your cadet candidate. They were woken up at 0530 by the cadre and hurried to the football field were they completed their first physical training test. The test includes a 1 mile run, push-ups, and sit-ups. We represented well with some top finishers in the run. After PT we enjoyed a hardy breakfast and then we hurried to Herring pond. Cadet candidates got the opportunity to step away from the regiment and cadre to participate in various pond activities such as monomoy rowing, sailing, and crew rowing. After an exciting day at the pond we headed back to the academy in the mid afternoon to practice drill. After drill and dinner the cadet candidates had meetings on Title IX and diversity. The day concluded as always with the playing of Taps. Thank you for following along, as always please contact me with any questions.

Very Respectfully

1/C Michael Riehl

5th Company Commander

6TH COMPANY

Hello again!

After the second full day of orientation, it is encouraging to see how much progress our C/C’s are making. Their commitment to the program and their desire to improve is something that is worth noting. It is making the staffs job a lot easier as they are willing to learn and trying their best to improve in every aspect of their lives.

The C/C’s were awoken bright and early today and headed straight to the football field to participate in the baseline Physical Training Test. This is where their first benchmark scores are recorded for the timed mile, as well as their maximum push-ups and sit ups in two minutes. 6th company had outstanding results and effort from everyone involved. It was very motivating to see the C/C’s giving 110%. It was also very good to see them cheering and encouraging one another to push themselves. We had a few standouts in 6th company. Finishing first in the company, as well as first in the entire freshman class was C/C Reese with a 5:13 mile! We also had two C/C’s that had over 100 push-ups. C/C Gaudiano did 108 push-ups and C/C Hill completed 113. 6th company as a whole had some very impressive PT scores, but it is important to keep in mind this is a baseline, and improvement is always a possibility.

Following PT, the C/C’s changed into their “At Sea’s” Uniforms for picture day. It was nice to see some smiling faces. After the photos were finished, they headed over to the gym to get some more uniforms that they did not receive on the first day. Once this was over, they headed to the water front of campus to participate in a “Sea Lab” class. This is where the Youngies learn how to operate the monomoys, which is a mid-size wooden row boat, as well as how to tie basic marine knots and learn tips and tricks of maneuvering the boats.

6th Company had a dominant performance in dodgeball vs. 2nd Company winning 3-1. Some CC’s that stood out today were McQueen, Gaudiano, White, and Mcsharry. I personally loved the energy and the help from the sidelines with encouraging chants. We had two decent patio performances today, but still struggled with volume.

Overall, today was a great day. The leadership trait of the day was teamwork. The C/C’s are starting to learn the power of working together. They helped each other study, cheered each other on during intramurals, as well as the PT test which booster their performance. In conclusion, I will leave you with this: “Coming together is a beginning; keeping together is progress; working together is success”. The C/C’s had their first experiences as working together as shipmates. This is the beginning of bonds that will last a lifetime, friendships that will last an eternity, and memories which will last forever.

Very Respectfully,

1/C Michael Nogueira

6th Company Commander

7TH COMPANY

Seventh Company Cadet Candidates have officially completed their second day of orientation. They learned how to row and experienced their first exposure to the Maritime opportunities at MMA during Sea Lab today, got their pictures taken for their MMA ID cards, finalized more of their uniforms and inspection items, and played an intramural game of water polo against 1st Company. Throughout the day, cadet candidates were quizzed on their youngie knowledge, practiced marching and facing movements, and exemplified teamwork as the leadership trait of the day. These cadet candidates are learning how this academy works and are beginning to understand the “why” behind everything that my staff and team of Squad Leaders are teaching them. Many are beginning to understand the standards expected of them and demonstrate their desire to become cadets at Massachusetts Maritime Academy. I’m looking forward to tomorrow to see how much better they can become each day. I would like to extend my sincere thanks and appreciation to the orientation assistants and Commandant staff as well as Chartwells and facilities employees for keeping this operation running smoothly behind the scenes. 

Very Respectfully, 

1/C Luke Dawson,

 7th Company Commander

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3rd Co at intramurals!

Our Cadre are always styling

Positive attitude!

Encouraging each other!

Smiling through it all

Mile run

Our incredible seniors

1st Co getting pictures taken

7th Co at Sea Lab

7th Co learning to row

Styling some new black pants

4th Co Pool Day!

Youngie chain

5th Co making new friends

5th Co Simon Says

Learning to Sail!

Great catch!

4th Co

Girl power!

And we’re off, to the first full day of Orientation! The cadet candidates were woken up today by their Cadre ordering them up and knocking on their doors, and then filed out to the hallway to start chanting “we’re waiting for you” while waiting for the rest of the platoon to be up and ready. Once fully assembled, the companies marched out to the parade field for “Meet the Cadre”. Each of the Cadre in their company introduced themselves and set their standards for these cadet candidates. After meeting their staff (and enjoying a beautiful sunrise), the platoons marched back to their companies to shower and change before breakfast.

After breakfast, the companies split up- some went to replace uniform items, some went to practice monomoy rowing, ans some sat in meetings on Watchstanding and MMA History. Every company came together for our “Morning Formation”, where every company marches onto the parade field and reports their musters. During the school year, cadets attend morning formation (which we call MoFo) every single day, so it’s good to get a start on it now.

Before lunch, every company had a “patio” session, where they are marched up in front of the Regimental Staff and asked questions about their Youngie Knowledge. The cadet candidates are expected to spout the information in unison. The first day of patio was extremely rough- many C/C’s didn’t know any of their knowledge, were addressing the women as “Sir”, not speaking in unison, or not responding at all. There is a lot of room for growth. Every single company got “dropped” (made to do pushups) by the Regimental Staff because of their performance at patio.

After lunch, company’s continued their meetings and learning basic drill movements. In the afternoon, they got to participate in intramurals- 1st Co vs 3rd Co in Ultimate Frisbee, 2nd Co vs 7th Co in Dodgeball, and 5th Co vs 6th Co in water polo. Intramurals are a great chance to relax and get to know each other while cheering on your shipmates in the game, and there were smiles on everyone’s faces. The groups are beginning to develop a natural camaraderie with each other that’ll last all 4 years. The C/C’s were able to take showers again after intramurals finished, and then got into boiler suits and boots for their firefighting meeting tonight. But before that, they had to have another evening patio session.

Many companies did improve for dinner patio, but many still faltered with their marching and knowledge. Every day, every patio, they have to strive to be better then they were before, and the potential is there. The evening concluded with a meeting on firefighting, and then standing at attention for Taps before being sent to bed.

The first full day of Orientation has been successfully completed, and I know that every cadet candidate here can make it through the week. Tomorrow, 1st Co and 5th Co will be going off campus to learn firefighting and sailing/rowing respectively, and the remaining companies will continue to drill and study here at MMA. We’re all ready for another amazing day!

Here you can receive updates on each specific company:

1ST COMPANY

To the Friends and Family of 1st Company,

I would first like to begin by introducing myself. I am 1/C Jessica Hinds and I am the 1st Company Commander for the 2023-2024 academic year. I am currently entering my senior year as a Marine Transportation major, and words can not describe how excited I am to lead your Cadet Candidates. While attending this Academy, I have had countless opportunities that have shaped me not only into the student and young mariner I am today, but also a leader. I have the utmost confidence in my staff of Executive Officer, Training and Retention Officer, 03 Platoon Leader, and eight Squad Leaders under my command will transform your cadet candidates into young professionals not only after these ten days, but the whole school year.

Day 1 mostly consisted of what is known as pool day, which is when cold water survival is completed. This is mainly for our license major cadets which are Marine Transportation and Marine Engineering, as this training is an STCW requirement for sea term and eventually their Coast Guard Licenses. Tasks include treading water, practicing huddling in a group as an attempt to retain heat in cold water, entering a life raft in the water, flipping an upside down life raft, and other small assessments. All Cadet Candidates must complete these assessments, and it also serves as a time to build friendships with their new fellow shipmates. After pool day, we played 3rd Company in ultimate frisbee which was a great game to watch. Although we did not bring home a win for 1st Company, the cadet candidates had a great time bonding with their shipmates and getting hyped up. To finish off the day, the Cadet Candidates attended a firefighting lecture, which is also an STCW requirement for license majors. They will be traveling to the Mass Fire Academy in Bridgewater, MA tomorrow to complete their basic firefighting training. Although only one day has passed, I have seen enormous amounts of improvement amongst the Cadet Candidates in 1st Company. There is still room for growth, but we as a staff are looking forward to training them to become the best Cadets they can be.

Very Respectfully,

1/C Jessica Hinds

1st Company Commander

2ND COMPANY

The Cadet Candidates experienced their first full day of orientation today. After morning meal, they participated in their very first morning formation with the Regiment of Cadets. After that they went through some meetings, including watch standing procedures, and MMA history and traditions. They also received the rest of their uniforms later on in the morning. The Cadet Candidates also experienced their first “Patio” with the Regimental Staff, where they are quizzed on their Youngie Knowledge before mid day meal. They then went to intramural dodgeball where they defeated 7th Company 3-0. They ended the day with an STCW fire fighting lecture. We are continuing to work hard to shape the Cadet Candidates into Fourth Class Cadets!

3RD COMPANY

My name is 1/C Sophie Strano and I am the 3rd Company Commander for the 2023-24 academic year. I am from Sandwich, MA and I am a Marine Transportation major.

Today was the Cadet Candidates first full day here at Massachusetts Maritime Academy. The Youngies started their day by meeting their Company Staff during Meet the Cadre on the football field.

After breakfast, 3rd Company Cadet Candidates headed to the gym for uniform fittings and then attended some Academic presentations in Admirals Hall. Any down time that they have during the day has been devoted to learning the key knowledge they need to know in order to be successful at the Academy.

Following lunch, the Cadet Candidates participated in intramurals and led 3rd Company to their first win against 1st Company during their Ultimate Frisbee game. Winning an intramurals game means more points towards winning Admirals Cup at the end of Orientation!

The Cadet Candidates attended an STCW Fire Fighting Lecture tonight. This lecture prepares the Cadet Candidates for the hands on Fire Fighting training they will be receiving in the days to come.

It is the first full day and I can already see the hard work and determination the Cadet Candidates are demonstrating. They are learning to work as a team, spout with pride, and endure and overcome challenges. I am looking forward to seeing 3rd Company grow over the next 9 days.

Very Respectfully,

1/C Sophie Strano

3rd Company Commander

4TH COMPANY

Good Afternoon, I would like to introduce myself to all of the parents, family members, and friends who will be following this blog to track the progress of their Cadet Candidates through Orientation. My name is Jack Mulligan, and I am the 4th Company Commander. I am entering my senior year here at Massachusetts Maritime Academy studying Emergency Management. Together with my fantastic Senior Staff and group of 8 Junior Squad Leaders, we will work tirelessly to develop the Cadet Candidates into self-disciplined, responsible, and professional leaders.

Today began with “Meet the Cadre”, where myself and my staff introduced ourselves to the Cadet Candidates. Cadet Candidates also experienced their first Morning Formation today, a daily routine for all Cadets at the Academy. The staff took the Cadet Candidates through drill practice, where they began to learn the basic functions of marching here at the Academy. Furthermore, Cadet candidates studied their Youngie Knowledge extensively, working to acquire the knowledge of Academy customs, traditions, and staff.

Before the day ends, the Cadet Candidates will go through their required STCW Fire Fighting meeting to learn the basics of fire safety and prevention before they put those skills to use later on during Orientation. Our staff has been impressed with the Cadet Candidates motivation and desire to learn the skills being taught to them. They are all performing well, and we look forward to seeing their continued growth over the coming days.

Very Respectfully,

1/C Jack Mulligan

4th Company Commander

5TH COMPANY

Good afternoon,

Today was the first full day of orientation for the 5th Company cadet candidates. The day started off with “Meet the Cadre”, this event is the cadet candidates official introduction to their cadre staff. From this point on any little mistake made by your cadet candidates will be recognized and the staff will correct it.

The platoon was moved to the mess deck where the cadet candidates had breakfast which was then followed by morning formation on the parade field. Morning formation is held everyday during the school to confirm accurate accountability of personnel. The rest of the day was an assortment of meetings included hands on Monomoy rowing, watch standing, and MMA history.

The day concluded with an intramural game of water polo verse 6th Company and a STCW firefighting class.

At 2200 all of the cadet candidates are sent to bed after standing taps; a military procedure done to honor those who served. Today was a hard day for the entire platoon but we expect nothing but the best from them. I have hope in my entire 5th Company staff to push these cadet candidates to the best of their ability and strive for success. Thank you for following along as always please contact me with any questions.

Very Respectfully,

1/C Micheal Riehl

5th Company Commander

6TH COMPANY

Hello, First off, I would like to introduce myself for those following the 6th company blog for Orientation of 2023. My name is 1/C Michael Nogueira from Pembroke, MA, and I have the honor of being the 6th Company Commander for the year. I am entering my Senior year at Massachusetts Maritime Academy studying Energy Systems Engineering. Words cannot begin to express what this academy has done for me. Myself and my staffs goal is to provide the same opportunity, and allow our Cadet Candidates to discover their true and full potential.

Yesterday after you said your goodbyes to your Cadet Candidates, they began the orientation traditions right away. They were escorted by their cadre to the dining hall, and while waiting for their food we’re studying their “youngie knowledge” learning the academy staff, the chain of command, as well as some of the Academy Policies provided in the handbook. After that, they were issued their uniforms which they will learn how to wear, respect, and love within the next nine days. Following the uniform distribution, they began some room prep, which is a series of very specific standards established by the academy. From there, they were issued a medical brief by the Academy medical team and Dr. Cukor. Their spirits were high, as well as their nerves as they began their journey here at MMA.

Today the candidates were awoken slightly before sunrise and marched to the football field to participate in a tradition titled “Meet the Cadre” which is their official introduction to those who are in charge of them and responsible for their well being. Following this, they were taught some facing movements, as well as some basic marching maneuvers to allow the platoon to move swiftly throughout campus. Following their noon meal, 6th company clenched its first victory in Intramural’s in a tight game between 5th company in water polo. Some Cadet Candidates that went above and beyond to secure the victory were as follows: C/C Cates, C/C Hill, and C/C Guimares. Their effort and energy ensured that 6th company got the win, and gave us the first points toward winning Admirals Cup. With this being said, 6th company was not infallible. They had a very rough patio performance, which is where they are quizzed as a company in-front of the regimental staff to prove they know their knowledge. Unfortunately, we had some struggles with knowing the information, our low volume, as well as difficulty with saying it in unison. Following evening meal, the Cadet Candidates were given a Fire Fighting Lecture from the firefighting academy instructors so they are prepared to practice in their trainings in the days to come.

Thus far, I am very impressed with the willingness of the C/C’s to learn, as well as their competitive nature. They respond very well when mentioning competitions against other companies, as well as against each other. The camaraderie within the company has begun today with the win in the pool, and I suspect will only increase with days to come. My Orientation Squad Leaders have been doing a fantastic job with ensuring that the C/C’s are both in physical and mental well being. I am looking forward to getting to know the C/C’s. I am confident that this company has what it takes to be Admirals Cup Champions, as well as unwavering cadets here at this academy for the years to come. I will close with this, “life is either a daring adventure, or nothing at all”. Your C/C’s have made the courageous decision to be apart of something bigger than themselves. They have chosen the path less traveled, and it will pay dividends. They have taken the risk that others did not. Although time away from families, friends, and home may be difficult for all of us, it is what is best for them now, and what is right for their future.

Very Respectfully,

1/C Michael Nogueira

6th Company Commander

7TH COMPANY

Today marked the first full day of orientation for the cadet candidates. Throughout the morning and into the afternoon, cadet candidates received and fit tested their uniforms, learned about academy history and tradition, and practiced marching movements. The day ended with an intramurals game of dodgeball against 2nd Company, the cadet candidates first knowledge quiz at patio, and an STCW Firefighting lecture. Your cadet candidates are starting to get the hang of things and I have full confidence in my Squad Leaders to improve them each day. 

Very Respectfully, 

1/C Luke Dawson 

7th Company Commander

7th Co Meet the Cadre

A typical Maritime wakeup

Morning meetings

More meetings

1st Co Cadre hard at work guarding our lunches!

1st Co C/C’s get ot meet each other during lunch

4th Co marching with their seabags

1st Co C/C’s

1st Battalion staff

5th Co Cadre

Meet the Cadre

Afternoon Patio

Marching off the football field

The Orientation Assistants!

Afternoon meetings

More meetings

In formation

All Star referees!

3rd Co having some fun at intramurals!

More 3rd Co

Ultimate frisbee

2/C Fountain carrying the guidon with pride!

3rd Co vs 1st Co intramurals

7th Co vs 2nd Co intramurals

2nd Co dodgeball

Escape from Alcatraz…

5th Co vs 6th Co Water polo

More water polo

Even more water polo

Your wonderful seniors!

Cheering from the sidelines

Making new friends!

Goofing off…

Patio

Someones having a little too much fun at dinner

Welcome to the first day of Orientation! Or as we call it here, “Day 0”- the real show starts tomorrow! You could feel the excitement in the air this morning as families and their cadet candidates lined Academy Drive, duffel bags, contraband bins, and pillows in hand. I had a great time getting to meet so many wonderful families, and hearing how far some of you have traveled to be here. Arizona, Michigan, Illinois, Florida, Hawaii, plenty from Maryland and New Jersey, and some from even further- Panama, Trinidad and Tobago, and more! We’re so happy to have all of you join our MMA family, and I hope that you’re able to follow along with this blog, no matter where you call home.

At sharply 0900, check in started, and cadet candidates were issued nametags and PT gear, and assigned to a company. Their company will be their second home here at MMA, and the friendships they make there will last a lifetime. All of the cadet candidates here have taken the first step in a journey that will last the rest of their lives. The next 10 days will be physically and emotionally tough, but these cadet candidates have already made the choice to come here. They chose to come to MMA, to learn discipline and leadership and set themself apart from their peers- to take the road less taken. These two weeks will fly by, and soon enough they’ll look fondly back at their cadet candidate days.

After move-in, the cadet candidates changed into their PT gear and headed down to the stadium for our opening ceremony. The Cadre marched onto the field, looking crisp and sharp in their uniforms, and turned towards the audience to take their oath. These Cadre promised to guide the cadet candidates placed in their care, and I know that each and every one of them will do just that. They marched off the field, and as the cadet candidates left the bleachers, Orientation really started.

The cadet candidates formed up behind the bleachers in platoons, and were instructed by the Cadre on how to present themselves during orientation- to stand at attention, eyes straight ahead, don’t look at anyone, tuck your shoelaces/shirt in, address the Cadre with “Sir/Ma’am/M Sandwiches” (that is, to start and end every sentence or question with Sir/Ma’am/M), that there are no more I/Me/My’sas they are all one team now, and to refer to themselves as “this Cadet Candidate”. They quickly learned the meaning of “books in your faces”- that is, to open up their youngie handbooks and hold it in front of them to learn their knowledge. The Cadre would quiz them on different youngie knowledge and the C/C’s were expected it spout it in response. It was absolutely a culture shock, but the Cadre carried themselves with professionalism and respect, and made an effort to teach the C/C’s rather than just scream at them.

From there, they were shuttled to lunch, where they learned of even more customs to follow. You must ask permission to come aboard (meaning, to sit down) from the squad leader sitting at your table, when they get up everyone must rise, you must take your “moonbeam” (flashlight) out and place it in front of you, you must pass the salt/pepper/water/etc clockwise and thank your shipmate who passed it to you with ‘Shipmate, thank you, shipmate.” While many of these customs may seem unnecessary or bizarre, they’re all rooted in real life applications that you need at MMA. You have to always carry your “youngie gear”, including a moonbeam, because in an emergency on the ship, if you don’t have a flashlight you wont be able to find the exit. You can’t “block a hatch” (stand in front of a door) because ship doors will automatically slam shut if a fire is detected and can seriously hurt someone standing in the way. These are all important rules to abide by, even if they may seem confusing at first to these cadet candidates.

After lunch, our wonderful volunteers from the MMAPA, Campus Bookstore, and cadets and their families helped process all the C/C’s to get all the uniform parts of their Seabag. We thank everyone who helped get the uniforms ready, we couldn’t have done it without you! Rear Admiral McDonald, the President of MMA, and Mr. Ortiz, the Dean of Enrollment Management, Equity, and Inclusion, were there to personally greet these C/C’s and give them their Seabag. Once recieving all their uniform items, the cadet candidates returned to their companies to get quized on their youngie knowledge and practice basic drill movements.

Before too long, it was time for dinner, where everyone went through the same procedures as lunch. After dinner, the C/C’s were shuttled to Admirals Hall for their first of many meetings during Orientation- a medical briefing by Dr. Cukor. Everyone’s safety is our absolute priority this week. During these meetings, the Cadre were able to meet to discuss what’s been going well and ways to improve on today, before picking their kids up and marching them back.

Afterwards, we had a fire drill, and all the companies met on the field to go over evacuation procedures. Then, it was time to return to their dorms, and give in all their contraband- phones, watches, fans, wallets- that will be returned to them at the end of the week. The Cadre explained the importance of Taps while every single cadet candidate lined up at attention in the hallways of their respective companies. After Taps played, it was time for bed, their first night of many here at MMA.

Tomorrow, we look forward to “Meet the Cadre” in the morning, where squad leaders will outline their expectations to the week and introduce themselves to their C/C’s. We have a full day of activities lined up, and I can’t wait to watch as these cadet candidates develop into fine young leaders.

C/C’s standing at attention

C/C’s studying their youngie knowledge

Cadre Oath

1/C Francavilla leads the Cadre Run

Got to meet the lovely puppy Nala <3

Youngies form up after lunch

Spouting youngie knowledge

The Rear Admiral greets the C/C’s

Senior staff watches the C/C’s

Cadre supporting each other

Our wonderful bookstore volunteers!

Senior staff overseeing the platoons

Our C/C’s keeping a positive attitude!

Uniform distribution

More of our amazing volunteers!

Lining up at attention

The amazing orientation assistants!

Fire drill

Lined up at attention