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

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

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

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

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

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

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