Just when the Squad Leaders thought they were getting into routine here at Pre-O, our Senior Staff decided to shake things up. The day started off the same as the past two. PT went very well this morning and an academics meeting followed. At 0930, vessel familiarization tours were given by the Regimental Training Ship Commander, the Cadet Chief Mate, and the Cadet Chief Engineer. These tours reviewed locations of safety and firefighting equipment and all areas of the training ship that will be important for leadership on the upcoming mini cruise. This will be the first mini cruise for the Patriot State and the preparations in the next coming weeks will be extremely important to ensure everything is ready and in order for departure.

After an ordinary lunch break and a meeting to follow, the Squad Leaders were ushered out of Admiral’s Hall like youngies – Orientation style. Senior Staff reminded every single Squad Leader what it’s like to be a freshman at Massachusetts Maritime. They were critiqued on their marching, quizzed on their knowledge, and they were dropped to the grass for push-ups when they couldn’t seem to get it together. The standards for these Squad Leaders are so high so that they can guide the cadet candidates through Orientation and train them to become cadets who wear the uniform with pride.

At the end of the day, the Senior Staff met with their Squad Leaders, explaining their purpose, and encouraging them to continue working hard. The wait is almost over. T-minus four days.