Return to the USCGC Eagle - September 7th-13th 2013
Well shiver me timbers and batten down the hatches! Sorry, talk like a Pirate Day just passed and I was giving tours on the Friendship of Salem that day and it's hard to shake it off...
At the end of July, another notice went out to TSA (Tall Ships America) inviting TSA to join in the next OCS (Officer Candidate School) training sail in September. Since I had already sailed earlier this year, I figured my chances of being accepted were severely reduced. I forgot a few things though:
1. The Tall Ships Great Lakes event was going on this summer
2. Most Tall Ship sailors are under contract for three months which for many is through September
3. Captain Pulver requested a 45 year old age restriction (more on that later) that reduced the number of applicants even further
4. Apparently they seem to remember me from the last trip. Hey I'm a memorable guy! (yeah right)
Based on number 4, I'm thinking 1-3 got me accepted this time. There were 12 slots offered but only five were filled. A big difference from last time where we filled all twelve!
At the end of July, another notice went out to TSA (Tall Ships America) inviting TSA to join in the next OCS (Officer Candidate School) training sail in September. Since I had already sailed earlier this year, I figured my chances of being accepted were severely reduced. I forgot a few things though:
1. The Tall Ships Great Lakes event was going on this summer
2. Most Tall Ship sailors are under contract for three months which for many is through September
3. Captain Pulver requested a 45 year old age restriction (more on that later) that reduced the number of applicants even further
4. Apparently they seem to remember me from the last trip. Hey I'm a memorable guy! (yeah right)
Based on number 4, I'm thinking 1-3 got me accepted this time. There were 12 slots offered but only five were filled. A big difference from last time where we filled all twelve!
It's been six months since I last sailed on the USCGC Eagle. This voyage was only 6 days for me. We left again from the Eagles home port of New London Connecticut and will sail down to Portsmouth, Virginia. The Eagle will then take on a class of Bosun Mate trainees and sail back home after a stop in Maryland.
Since there are only five TSA, we each were assigned to a different group. Before I was grouped with two TSA (Orion and Calen) that I got very close to. The weather on our last trip was from snow and heavy storms to warm and sunny weather but not until near the end of the voyage. This trip started on sunny warm weather and it looks like it will be that way for most of the voyage. Honestly I kind of like sailing through storms on a good tall ship, it adds so much uncertainty and a little excitement. As long as it's not a hurricane, typhoon etc... During and after the last Eagle OCS cruise, I talked to many guest crew - how good their experience was seemed to depend a good deal on the crew that they were grouped with. Some of the permanent crew have changed and we have a complete set of new O.C.'s (Officer Candidates) so I'm hopeful that everyone will have a great trip. There are so many differences this time around that I expect this experience will be very different from my first voyage. Unlike my last detailed journal, I just wanted to write small summaries and only when I've had the time. This is because last time in order to get as much detail as possible in the journal, I'd stay up late and skip any minor duties. This often left me even more sleep deprived. This time around in fairly calm seas, I've barely had a free minute to myself, never mind write! So this article will not read anything like the previous journal. |
When the left port, Captain Pulver announced we would be doing so under sail. This was pretty significant because the Eagle had not done so in almost two years! The weather has to be just right to attempt it and since this crew was so new, it was going to be a challenge.
When the time came Sunday around noon, there were two push-boats to help out. We first braced and fanned the yards for each mast in different directions to get them ready for multiple wind changes. Then we set the sails and furled them in the order the sailing master directed us to. We came off the dock with little trouble and did need a little help from the push boats when we came about but overall it was a success! Chief Brown seemed to be everywhere at once and a little stressed during the sail rotation. He was well rewarded for his efforts when we left the bay completely under sail. When leaving and entering a port, they have their position manually plotted every six minutes instead of the usual thirty. All nonessential crew are cleared from the bridge during these times. ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- To give you an idea of how busy they keep us, that previous entry (above) was three days ago! So here it is already now Wednesday evening (Sept 11th 2013) and this is the first I've had some time to myself. After Muster, Admiral Parker gave a talk to remind us all that it was September 11th and how important it was for us to keep defending our country. |
September 10th Notes:
Last night (Tuesday) on the 20-24 shift, I helped them take in most of the staysails and the T'Gallants. The T'Gallant's on both the main and fore's stirrups are way too low, on the point of dangerous. I (being around 6 ft tall) could barely get my arms over the yard and it was tenuous to get ahold of the jackstay to stay up. Kelly (from the Jamestown crew of the Godspeed) is very short and the yards were eye level for her. She was put on the QT and boy did she have guts! Her arms stretched up to hold the yard and she inched her way both ways to get on the end of the yards to do the job. She wasn't even our group, she volunteered to help because she wanted to go aloft and almost half our group wimped out and refused to climb. We also examined the ratlines above the crosstrees and they were in a sorry state. While Kelly was examining them I called over and said "Be afraid" and she laughed.
View of night furl from the main
(photo credit Nelson Chin)
(photo credit Nelson Chin)
Having the extra crew aloft would have helped tremendously with the difficult night furl. While we were aloft, I heard the OOD yell at the guys who stayed behind to get on their feet since they were on watch. I figured he did it just because they wimped out because I've sat down fine on other WoD's. I had to work twice as hard to furl and keep myself on the stirrups. When we got the sail on the yard, it was near impossible to tie a clove hitch on the jackstay to secure the sail with one hand. Normally with stirrups keep you up high enough for you to be able to get your stomach on top of the yard so you can easily pull up the sail as well as rest your legs if up for extended periods of time. By the time we had furled the two T'Gallants, I was as tired as if I had been helping furl all sails on the Friendship.
Later I reported to Chief Brown how dangerous the extra length of the stirrups are. I don't know how well he received the news but he did tell me that they will be doing a partial overhaul next month.
Glad to say that so far I have not seen anyone be used as human chaffing gear despite a crewmen telling me he was pretty sure they are still using that procedure.
Had our CO lunch today. The Captain talked less about the history of the Eagle and more about the design. This time when I related my own story to the Captain and group instead of stressing my Tall Ship experience, I talked about my education (since that what the OC's brought up in their stories) dropping out due to a medical, wanting to join the Airforce and becoming a doctor but having it all derailed when Moira was born. I got some laughs a few times so I think I came across well. Lot's of stories to tell when you're the father of a 16 year old girl. Despite my disappointment in my life's path, family always comes first and I'll never regret putting them first.
Later I reported to Chief Brown how dangerous the extra length of the stirrups are. I don't know how well he received the news but he did tell me that they will be doing a partial overhaul next month.
Glad to say that so far I have not seen anyone be used as human chaffing gear despite a crewmen telling me he was pretty sure they are still using that procedure.
Had our CO lunch today. The Captain talked less about the history of the Eagle and more about the design. This time when I related my own story to the Captain and group instead of stressing my Tall Ship experience, I talked about my education (since that what the OC's brought up in their stories) dropping out due to a medical, wanting to join the Airforce and becoming a doctor but having it all derailed when Moira was born. I got some laughs a few times so I think I came across well. Lot's of stories to tell when you're the father of a 16 year old girl. Despite my disappointment in my life's path, family always comes first and I'll never regret putting them first.
On the last OC cruise, I heard about an "incident" with some crew members the night before I left. There were two crew members that he been caught having "improper fraternization". They had been caught twice at this point and one more time would have caused serious consequences. Apparently that Friday night on leave, the male crewman ended it to try to stay out of trouble. The female crewman was so pissed that he could just end it so easily that she slugged him hard in the face and he retaliated. They compounded the issue by apparently missing the ship the next day...having to be driven out to meet the Eagle...and then they lied about how they got their injuries! An investigation brought the truth out and the female crewman left the CG while the male took a demotion and will probably not get the job he applies for. The female crewmen is trying to get back in as a BM1 and I heard that they're dating again! I later learned they told many of the O.C.'s the same basic story. It makes sense that since many of the OC's have career week next week that the story would act as a warning for the OC's to stay on the right path. A good example of how one bad decision can derail your entire career!
Career path briefing in the Wardroom
Wardroom - I joined the other OC's (James too) to go over their career path briefing. The Captain and ANav went through a presentation on what are the best options for their careers. Drop out and likelihood percentage to get the job you apply for stats, job combinations and what not to do to prevent you from advancing were hot subjects. The best thing I came away with is that the USCG generally stresses diversity above time served. So if you stay in only one type of job position and apply for a promotion, when you're asked "what else can you bring to the table" is only the same experience, you're less likely to advance than someone who has diversified their jobs to other area's.
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Notes on People:
TSA - Gerard, Carver, Nelson, Aaron and myself.
Working Guests - Savannah and Nick from Texas Maritime, Jamestown settlement ship Godspeed - Frank, Steve, Bill, Kelly. Todd - Aux crew
Crew guests - Journalist/photographer and artist, Admiral Parker and Wife, James - teacher, son on board. Peter - son on board.
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Notes on People:
TSA - Gerard, Carver, Nelson, Aaron and myself.
Working Guests - Savannah and Nick from Texas Maritime, Jamestown settlement ship Godspeed - Frank, Steve, Bill, Kelly. Todd - Aux crew
Crew guests - Journalist/photographer and artist, Admiral Parker and Wife, James - teacher, son on board. Peter - son on board.
Chief Willard giving his welcome aboard talk
Pleasantly surprised to see Chief Willard again, thought he was retiring over the summer. Turns out he still has 215 days to retire. He's always joking and great for crew morale.
Ran into former OC Bruce on the mess deck! I gave him a hearty greeting and asked how long he had been here. He says he had just started. When I asked him what his official title is, he is now ANav and is very rarely called by his name. I've been sure to call him ANav whenever I see him on the trip though I stumbled a few times in the beginning.. I finally was able to tell them the story how I reported to the Captain about his outstanding service and his desire to serve aboard the Eagle. The Captain had replied it was probably a done deal. I also sent in his name with other crewmen to be recognized for their outstanding service when I sent in my report. Just like the Captain said, James Bruce was now ANAV Bruce and part of the permanent crew. When I related everything surrounding it to Mr Bruce, he was both surprised and thankful. It's been great seeing him work his new job in the bridge pilot house.
Fun hanging with Lauren H. again. I'm ashamed to say she recognized me before I recognized her. I thought it might be her but Laurens hair seemed different than I remembered and it threw me off. Turns out she was voted crewman of the year in 2012. I climbed with her when we furled all the staysails and T'Gallants and worked with her on the bridge. She would always walk up to me and ask loudly how or what I was doing and surprise me (ah!). In our CO lunch, I was surprised that our group brought Lauren up as an outstanding crew member and did so without any prompting from me. I backed up their claims and the Captain's commented on how pleasant she aways was and joked how annoying it is.
Ran into former OC Bruce on the mess deck! I gave him a hearty greeting and asked how long he had been here. He says he had just started. When I asked him what his official title is, he is now ANav and is very rarely called by his name. I've been sure to call him ANav whenever I see him on the trip though I stumbled a few times in the beginning.. I finally was able to tell them the story how I reported to the Captain about his outstanding service and his desire to serve aboard the Eagle. The Captain had replied it was probably a done deal. I also sent in his name with other crewmen to be recognized for their outstanding service when I sent in my report. Just like the Captain said, James Bruce was now ANAV Bruce and part of the permanent crew. When I related everything surrounding it to Mr Bruce, he was both surprised and thankful. It's been great seeing him work his new job in the bridge pilot house.
Fun hanging with Lauren H. again. I'm ashamed to say she recognized me before I recognized her. I thought it might be her but Laurens hair seemed different than I remembered and it threw me off. Turns out she was voted crewman of the year in 2012. I climbed with her when we furled all the staysails and T'Gallants and worked with her on the bridge. She would always walk up to me and ask loudly how or what I was doing and surprise me (ah!). In our CO lunch, I was surprised that our group brought Lauren up as an outstanding crew member and did so without any prompting from me. I backed up their claims and the Captain's commented on how pleasant she aways was and joked how annoying it is.
Red was back on board! Red was in the USCG for 23 years and served aboard the Eagle as XO. He later served as Captain of the Sea Cloud fleet for 17 years. It was great talking to Red again and I greeted him whenever possible. During Sun Sites, Red assisted and the Captain joked that Red knew everything about Sun Siting because he invented the Sextant. Red got a kick out of this so when I assisted in a Sun Site class later, I related the same joke loudly to the students and Red started laughing again. When I talk to the O.C'.'s, I've been sure to tell them to introduce themselves to Red as he is very knowledgable and has some good stories. Red seems more alive to me when he talks to the O.C.'s and answers their questions. I hope he can make many more voyages.
Captain Pulver recognized me right off the bat and call me by name with no prompting. Even called me Max when introducing me from the roster even though it probably said "Emile". Captain Pulver pulled me aside later asked how things were going on the trip so far and apologized for the previous bad experience. I tried to stress that I thought the last trip was a great adventure and I don't regret it at all. It was just that one four hour shift that was a problem. We discussed the details for a few minutes and he stressed that he would keep checking on the guests to insure that it doesn't happen again. I thanked him and I don't think I got across that I was just impressed he even read my report, never mind acted on it at all...
In other conversations with the Captain he mentioned taking the Eagle to Europe next Spring for about four weeks and again invited me to come along. He said the trip is already a done deal, he was just working out the details to try to get the TSA and other guests a free plane ride home. Since the plane would have to drop new OC's off for the second leg of the voyage, it would be empty for the return trip. The Captain just needed to get permission to allow non-USCG on the plane which would probably require us to sign a release. Hey I'd sign anything to do a trans-Atlantic voyage on the Eagle. Chances are we'd be flying home after the first two weeks.
Carver - I met Carver on board first. It sounds like she has two first names so I had to comment on it but but hopefully eased her annoyance by telling her my real name. She has been sailing tall ships for years and knows her stuff. I have talked with her off and on during the trip. She asked if I was going to the airport and asked if we could share a cab. She spent the first sail day on the Main all day, I was so jealous! She climbed often and was received well by the crew. This morning (Thursday) she looked pretty groggy when she came to the breakfast table and it turns out she accidentally slept with her contacts in so her eyes were completely dried out.
Nelson - Next TSA crew I met. Looks like a chubby indian or Hawaiian but told me he's Chinese.....or when he pulled out his hair tie on the windy bow Nelson said "Look, now I'm an Indian!". We both agree that we're all mutts. Goes to New York University and sails ships in his spare time. We talked whenever we had the chance and compared notes. Nelson had met the Captain at a Tall Ships conference when they were both on the treadmill together. After Nelson's CO lunch, he discussed the age limit with the Captain. The Captains argument is that older sailors might have a harder time relating to and socializing with the crew, making it harder to relate and teach their experience (quote: "I don't want anyone older than me). Nelsons argument is that young or old, you might be a complete recluse and keep to yourself. There are plenty of older charismatic sailors that could relate their experiences and there are also plenty of younger sailors that are socially awkward so how do you differentiate? Maybe the requirements must be that the crewman be ready to relate/teach any of their sailing experience to any inexperienced crew. I'm thinking the best equalizer would be a requirement to climb aloft. Never felt like I got to spend enough time with him. I'll have to visit him and Elizabeth in N.Y.
Aaron - Gung-ho firefighter from Hoboken NJ. It sounds like a typical movie character set up but it was true. He took great pride in demonstrating his firefighting skills in the basic classes but he also sails different ships in NY harbor as a hobby, thus his TSA creds. Probably would have joined the USCG except he has a wife and children or as he called us "entrenched". I will say that he did pick up a lot of the USCG training really quick which he demonstrated in DC by naming the locations of the emergency equipment, jumping into his gumby suit in record time and directing many of the line rotations during his shifts.
Todd - USCG Aux corps. Fairly nice guy though I did not spend too much time with him. He is responsible for training crew in CIC. Since he is Aux, I believe they only use him on training voyages. Probably annoyed him by calling him by his first name when I saluted him.
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DC Training
September 11th Notes:
DC (Damage Control) Training:
Smoke exhaust training - The Eagle uses a turbine that connects to a fire hose. A water hose connects to run the turbine (max 250 psi, ship average is 120 psi) which exhausts from a second hose. The turbine connects to long vent hose (max of 3) and has jumper cable for grounding for static electricity. Have to use vinyl covering to cover a door to get maximum suction.
Gumby suit - Was easy to get on, could not get off. Had to get assistance removing.
Fire training – Bosun showed us the different zones based on the frame numbers. There are nine watertight compartments, there were originally six. When there is a fire, isolate the zone and create a secondary fall back. Hose man, line man and plug on each crew. Two sets of each crew in case the first fire crews MMA's run out of air, the second crew will be ready.
Lauren H. - While helping hoist the side boarding platform to be used for when Admiral Parker and his wife depart on another ship tomorrow, got her finger caught in a piece of swinging equipment. At first she thought she cleared it "It's ok, I'm fine" until they pointed out the blood pouring from her hand "No I'm not!". Lauren got seven stitches and walked around with her hand in the air to try to keep it from swelling more. When Lauren was in the M.O.'s office and she was supposed to put her hand in the sink to rinse it and she put the wrong appendage in. When the Admiral asked about it, Lauren told the story and he and his wife got a kick out her telling of it.
Watching movies on the messdeck while typing this. In the Spring we watched The Expendables and Elf, this time they put in Expendables II. :-)
DC (Damage Control) Training:
Smoke exhaust training - The Eagle uses a turbine that connects to a fire hose. A water hose connects to run the turbine (max 250 psi, ship average is 120 psi) which exhausts from a second hose. The turbine connects to long vent hose (max of 3) and has jumper cable for grounding for static electricity. Have to use vinyl covering to cover a door to get maximum suction.
Gumby suit - Was easy to get on, could not get off. Had to get assistance removing.
Fire training – Bosun showed us the different zones based on the frame numbers. There are nine watertight compartments, there were originally six. When there is a fire, isolate the zone and create a secondary fall back. Hose man, line man and plug on each crew. Two sets of each crew in case the first fire crews MMA's run out of air, the second crew will be ready.
Lauren H. - While helping hoist the side boarding platform to be used for when Admiral Parker and his wife depart on another ship tomorrow, got her finger caught in a piece of swinging equipment. At first she thought she cleared it "It's ok, I'm fine" until they pointed out the blood pouring from her hand "No I'm not!". Lauren got seven stitches and walked around with her hand in the air to try to keep it from swelling more. When Lauren was in the M.O.'s office and she was supposed to put her hand in the sink to rinse it and she put the wrong appendage in. When the Admiral asked about it, Lauren told the story and he and his wife got a kick out her telling of it.
Watching movies on the messdeck while typing this. In the Spring we watched The Expendables and Elf, this time they put in Expendables II. :-)
Bridge duty today had me doing plotting the entire time. I tried to get an engineering shift but two OC's still needed engineering sign offs so I bowed out. Hopefully I'll get down there before the trip is over since I never have. Taught McNamara (aviator) what I knew and he took it to the next degree by asking Chief Brown how to do Dead Reckonings correctly. While waiting for my next plotting point, I spotted a large pod of dolphins off of starboard and can't believe I managed to get some of it on video!
Sail stations today - We furled all sails. The WOD (watch on Deck) furled a good deal of them before hand. Today I helped furl the Upper and Lower Top Sails on the Foremast. I ended up as the default yard Captain and called out the commands as needed. The furls went fast and well and I congratulated the OC's for a good furl. Furling the Topsail yards is pretty easy compared to the T'Gallants. I went up with Nelson who was on the QT.
Sail stations today - We furled all sails. The WOD (watch on Deck) furled a good deal of them before hand. Today I helped furl the Upper and Lower Top Sails on the Foremast. I ended up as the default yard Captain and called out the commands as needed. The furls went fast and well and I congratulated the OC's for a good furl. Furling the Topsail yards is pretty easy compared to the T'Gallants. I went up with Nelson who was on the QT.
September 12th notes:
Today (Thursday) I attended the morning NAV brief as we found out the day before that our section was doing it. At that NAV brief, I was surprised when I saw my name on the NAV crew to handle throttle!? Carver was scheduled to do it the next morning and her answer was "Are you sure you don't know someone more qualified?". They also rescheduled the time for us to go to anchor detail to 12:30 which means report at 12. We are already scheduled for WoD 12-4. I asked Lieutenant Ramirez if I should just report for NAV detail and she said yes. We were also scheduled for MAA today but only 8-10 which is two hours less than usual (woo-hoo!) and we finished our assigned duties after only an hour. When we finally made our way up to the bridge, I still had no idea what being in charge of the throttle meant. I hung around for about 45 minutes as our groups OC's were slowly given their assignments. I did my best to stay close but out of the way as no one except officers and NAV detail were allowed on the bridge. |
Throttle linkage on Pilot House
Eventually I noticed a crewman (same on that greeted me on the pier both trips) at the external throttle controls so I simply walked up to her and let her know I was assigned to shadow her. She looked slightly surprised and then simply said ok. I asked her some basic questions and she let me take the throttle and respond to the officer when called. I responded with what I thought was the commands and she told me that she would just respond for me.
I did fine with the throttle controls with multiple commands until I was told to set the engines ahead by 2/3rd's. When you use the throttle to go to forward or reverse by 1/3, the throttle clicks into place. Because of this, I assumed that the next 3rd would have the same function. So when I pushed the throttle forward to get to 2/3rd's, I went beyond as the click never happened so for a split second the engines surged ahead to almost full and almost everyone noticed. Even though it was only for a split second and I immediately corrected for it, it was still noticeable with the 1000 hp engine the Eagle carries. I apologized and the other throttleman apologized because she should have explained to me that the click only happens at 1/3rd. I apologized and said that it was still my fault as I should have pushed the throttle ahead slowly and watched the RPM gage which would have told me exactly where 2/3rds was.
To help drive home my mistake, Captain Pulver came over later and asked about the surge and the looked at me and said with a grin, "That wasn't you was it Max?". I replied sarcastically, "No of course not sir!". I then immediately apologized and said it would never happen again and the throttleman explained my mistake, partially blaming herself but I again reiterated that I should have not have made an assumption about the throttle.
Captain Pulver walked by often today and I even got to announce "Captain on the bridge!" when everyone else missed it. He gave me quick encouragements as he passed by.
Later the throttleman was relieved by Ali from engineering. Ali gave me a chance to handle the throttle alone and respond to commands. However when I responded and executed the throttle command, he winced. Apparently they are very picky about the command responses and they have to be exact. We reviewed the commands and responses and I was ready to give it another try when he suddenly called out "Engine All Stop" which I then immediately executed and responded "Engine answering all stop" which should have started with "Sir". He then jumped on the throttle in case another command came through. What had happened is that the helmsman immediately behind me (ie in my ear) had been screaming his response to the bridge and I missed the command from the Con entirely. The throttleman thought that I had completely froze up because I didn't respond to the command which is why he jumped in. He apologized when he realized what happened but I told him to go ahead and stay on the throttle since we were coming close to the anchor point. I don't care how good I think I am, whatever happens ends up being his responsibility and anchoring is dangerous enough. He thanked me and we discussed everything we could surrounding throttle work.
We finally dropped anchor and Captain Pulver came by saying "We dropped anchor, not exactly where we wanted to but it's still in the same zone." I replied "Well it's close enough for government work anyway.." The Captain grunted in reply and said "Hey I resemble that remark!"
I also talked to the Sail Master to get clarification on how they coil lines. He confirmed that all coils should absolutely be coiled clockwise but they're more wishy washy on the figure eights around the belaying pins. As long as they put a weather hitch on the end, I'm good. But I did also confirm that they actually should always do one full round turn from a fair lead and do an extra turn if it means getting it clockwise. The only exception is where some lines make that impossible to do when other equipment is in the way or when a block has changed the lead direction.
I did fine with the throttle controls with multiple commands until I was told to set the engines ahead by 2/3rd's. When you use the throttle to go to forward or reverse by 1/3, the throttle clicks into place. Because of this, I assumed that the next 3rd would have the same function. So when I pushed the throttle forward to get to 2/3rd's, I went beyond as the click never happened so for a split second the engines surged ahead to almost full and almost everyone noticed. Even though it was only for a split second and I immediately corrected for it, it was still noticeable with the 1000 hp engine the Eagle carries. I apologized and the other throttleman apologized because she should have explained to me that the click only happens at 1/3rd. I apologized and said that it was still my fault as I should have pushed the throttle ahead slowly and watched the RPM gage which would have told me exactly where 2/3rds was.
To help drive home my mistake, Captain Pulver came over later and asked about the surge and the looked at me and said with a grin, "That wasn't you was it Max?". I replied sarcastically, "No of course not sir!". I then immediately apologized and said it would never happen again and the throttleman explained my mistake, partially blaming herself but I again reiterated that I should have not have made an assumption about the throttle.
Captain Pulver walked by often today and I even got to announce "Captain on the bridge!" when everyone else missed it. He gave me quick encouragements as he passed by.
Later the throttleman was relieved by Ali from engineering. Ali gave me a chance to handle the throttle alone and respond to commands. However when I responded and executed the throttle command, he winced. Apparently they are very picky about the command responses and they have to be exact. We reviewed the commands and responses and I was ready to give it another try when he suddenly called out "Engine All Stop" which I then immediately executed and responded "Engine answering all stop" which should have started with "Sir". He then jumped on the throttle in case another command came through. What had happened is that the helmsman immediately behind me (ie in my ear) had been screaming his response to the bridge and I missed the command from the Con entirely. The throttleman thought that I had completely froze up because I didn't respond to the command which is why he jumped in. He apologized when he realized what happened but I told him to go ahead and stay on the throttle since we were coming close to the anchor point. I don't care how good I think I am, whatever happens ends up being his responsibility and anchoring is dangerous enough. He thanked me and we discussed everything we could surrounding throttle work.
We finally dropped anchor and Captain Pulver came by saying "We dropped anchor, not exactly where we wanted to but it's still in the same zone." I replied "Well it's close enough for government work anyway.." The Captain grunted in reply and said "Hey I resemble that remark!"
I also talked to the Sail Master to get clarification on how they coil lines. He confirmed that all coils should absolutely be coiled clockwise but they're more wishy washy on the figure eights around the belaying pins. As long as they put a weather hitch on the end, I'm good. But I did also confirm that they actually should always do one full round turn from a fair lead and do an extra turn if it means getting it clockwise. The only exception is where some lines make that impossible to do when other equipment is in the way or when a block has changed the lead direction.
Mayor of Portsmouth, VA and his daughter were the first to board
September 13th Notes:
Today was the last day on the USCGC Eagle. Our group was set to do an 8-12 shift today but half of the group was set to do bridge duty and the rest of the OC's in our group were told to get into their dress blues to escort on guests. That left me out since I wasn't on NAV duty today. So I made up my bunk and packed most of my gear early and helped out around the ship where I could.
While helping move the gang planks into position for our docking, we saw 7 boats making their way to the ship. One was a very large USCG ship being followed by a bunch of smaller ones. An O.C. got a good laugh when he yelled "They're coming right at us!". This is where I found out we were having around 150 guests come aboard before we weigh anchor and join us for the ride to the dock much further inland (Water St. dock in Portsmouth VA).
Eventually we received our first guests starting with the mayor of Portsmouth and his two daughters. He was followed by the Governor and his entourage and then boat by boat we were joined by USCG Captains and Admirals and all sorts of USCG royalty. After helping secure a few things, I decided to mingle and talk to a few guests as this opportunity does not come often. I talked to multiple Captains and a couple Admirals. One Admiral Bolvita was a cadet on board the Eagle along with Captain Pulver. He was very friendly and gave me encouragement to keep the TSA program going on the Eagle and to be sure to come back.
Today was the last day on the USCGC Eagle. Our group was set to do an 8-12 shift today but half of the group was set to do bridge duty and the rest of the OC's in our group were told to get into their dress blues to escort on guests. That left me out since I wasn't on NAV duty today. So I made up my bunk and packed most of my gear early and helped out around the ship where I could.
While helping move the gang planks into position for our docking, we saw 7 boats making their way to the ship. One was a very large USCG ship being followed by a bunch of smaller ones. An O.C. got a good laugh when he yelled "They're coming right at us!". This is where I found out we were having around 150 guests come aboard before we weigh anchor and join us for the ride to the dock much further inland (Water St. dock in Portsmouth VA).
Eventually we received our first guests starting with the mayor of Portsmouth and his two daughters. He was followed by the Governor and his entourage and then boat by boat we were joined by USCG Captains and Admirals and all sorts of USCG royalty. After helping secure a few things, I decided to mingle and talk to a few guests as this opportunity does not come often. I talked to multiple Captains and a couple Admirals. One Admiral Bolvita was a cadet on board the Eagle along with Captain Pulver. He was very friendly and gave me encouragement to keep the TSA program going on the Eagle and to be sure to come back.
Captain Thomas was in charge of the local area and also spent three years on Capitol Hill with the Captain. He really wanted to go on a trip with the Eagle. His only problem was trying to get the time off.
We made it to the dock without any issues and our guests soon departed. I helped prep the ship for visitors and caught Chief Willard, Lieutenant Ramirez and LCMD Rozzi-Ochs on the bridge to ask about our sea time letters. The other TSAers were unsure if they were going to be issued. The Chief and Lieutenant told me that they were being issued but if any of us were leaving today, they would have to send them by mail.
I let the TSA group know but before I went down I said my goodbyes and apologized to LCMD Rozzi-Ochs for not having been able to spend time with her to talk and she also apologized back because we were all so busy this cruise that "spare" time was hard to come by. I seized the opportunity to relate to her directly that the Friendship of Salem would be laid up for about two years and our crew is going to need the sail practice. Since we are a federally owned ship so that many of our crew were federal employees and could join them for any sail. She said "Sure, this has been working out. I think that would work well."
I had also mentioned this to the Captain before so I'll have to let Jeremy know so he can contact her with his request. When I told the LCMD goodbye, for a split second I remembered how a couple of times I've seen the "crew confusion" with guest crew attempt to shake hands with the guest when the guest had brought their hand up for a salute. LCMD brought her hand out to shake goodbye and my hand immediately went up for a salute. She of course then went to return the salute so I brought my hand immediately down to shake hands. We did this twice before I looked at the Chief who laughed at the motion and I exclaimed "Ha! I did it!" implying that it had been done to someone else other than me. The LCMD laughed and then hit my shoulder both to acknowledge the joke and discipline me for getting her. I'm still chuckling as I write this...
I got to the waist and tried calling for a taxi. It took three cab services before I got one that would come to our area and go to the airport. The first one was called Black and White, was highly rated but would only go to military bases. The second number for a Yellow cab turned out to be the phone number of a minister. The third taxi said they would be there in 10-15 minutes. I doubted it would make it that fast but told Carver to be ready anyway since we were going to share a cab. Carver wanted to take a photo with her OC group but they were busy on trash detail. I told her to get her bags and I'd try to stall the taxi if it came.
I grabbed my gear and said goodbye to James who promised to pray for Moira to find the peace of mind she needs. I got Steve from the Jamestown crew's email so I could email his group some of my photo's as well as get some of theirs as I know Steve got a photo of me aloft.
As I entered the waist to depart, the Bridge called the crew to muster so I stayed despite the impending taxi. The Captain as he had done our last voyage, thanked and named each guest, academy and TSA member. Nick and Savannah then came forward and presented the Captain and LCMD Rozzi-Ochs with the "Admiral's coin" from the former USCG Admiral of Texas AM. A few other guests came forward with thank you's to the crew and we were dismissed. Eventually the cab came and I met Carver on the street after I said another goodbye to Chief Willard who said he hopes to see me aboard again soon.
The cab drive was a crazy big black woman who sang and danced to the music while we drove along. She was very boisterous and did it all with a smile. Right before we arrived at the airport, Carver said that she already misses her group. I told her I felt the same way especially after the first OCS training cruise. You spend a lot of time with these people, you get close quick and suddenly it's over. We arrived at Norfolk International and I said my goodbye to Carver, hoping we'd meet again at one of the Tall Ship festivals.
So here I am flying on my way to Maine to meet Cindy and spend some time with my parents and the Aylwins at our cabins. This trip was a whirlwind of activity and like Carver, I'm sorry to find it's over. There are so many people and things I simply didn't have the time to write about but the experience will stay with me for some time to come.
We made it to the dock without any issues and our guests soon departed. I helped prep the ship for visitors and caught Chief Willard, Lieutenant Ramirez and LCMD Rozzi-Ochs on the bridge to ask about our sea time letters. The other TSAers were unsure if they were going to be issued. The Chief and Lieutenant told me that they were being issued but if any of us were leaving today, they would have to send them by mail.
I let the TSA group know but before I went down I said my goodbyes and apologized to LCMD Rozzi-Ochs for not having been able to spend time with her to talk and she also apologized back because we were all so busy this cruise that "spare" time was hard to come by. I seized the opportunity to relate to her directly that the Friendship of Salem would be laid up for about two years and our crew is going to need the sail practice. Since we are a federally owned ship so that many of our crew were federal employees and could join them for any sail. She said "Sure, this has been working out. I think that would work well."
I had also mentioned this to the Captain before so I'll have to let Jeremy know so he can contact her with his request. When I told the LCMD goodbye, for a split second I remembered how a couple of times I've seen the "crew confusion" with guest crew attempt to shake hands with the guest when the guest had brought their hand up for a salute. LCMD brought her hand out to shake goodbye and my hand immediately went up for a salute. She of course then went to return the salute so I brought my hand immediately down to shake hands. We did this twice before I looked at the Chief who laughed at the motion and I exclaimed "Ha! I did it!" implying that it had been done to someone else other than me. The LCMD laughed and then hit my shoulder both to acknowledge the joke and discipline me for getting her. I'm still chuckling as I write this...
I got to the waist and tried calling for a taxi. It took three cab services before I got one that would come to our area and go to the airport. The first one was called Black and White, was highly rated but would only go to military bases. The second number for a Yellow cab turned out to be the phone number of a minister. The third taxi said they would be there in 10-15 minutes. I doubted it would make it that fast but told Carver to be ready anyway since we were going to share a cab. Carver wanted to take a photo with her OC group but they were busy on trash detail. I told her to get her bags and I'd try to stall the taxi if it came.
I grabbed my gear and said goodbye to James who promised to pray for Moira to find the peace of mind she needs. I got Steve from the Jamestown crew's email so I could email his group some of my photo's as well as get some of theirs as I know Steve got a photo of me aloft.
As I entered the waist to depart, the Bridge called the crew to muster so I stayed despite the impending taxi. The Captain as he had done our last voyage, thanked and named each guest, academy and TSA member. Nick and Savannah then came forward and presented the Captain and LCMD Rozzi-Ochs with the "Admiral's coin" from the former USCG Admiral of Texas AM. A few other guests came forward with thank you's to the crew and we were dismissed. Eventually the cab came and I met Carver on the street after I said another goodbye to Chief Willard who said he hopes to see me aboard again soon.
The cab drive was a crazy big black woman who sang and danced to the music while we drove along. She was very boisterous and did it all with a smile. Right before we arrived at the airport, Carver said that she already misses her group. I told her I felt the same way especially after the first OCS training cruise. You spend a lot of time with these people, you get close quick and suddenly it's over. We arrived at Norfolk International and I said my goodbye to Carver, hoping we'd meet again at one of the Tall Ship festivals.
So here I am flying on my way to Maine to meet Cindy and spend some time with my parents and the Aylwins at our cabins. This trip was a whirlwind of activity and like Carver, I'm sorry to find it's over. There are so many people and things I simply didn't have the time to write about but the experience will stay with me for some time to come.
Want to see more? See the my online gallery of photos from the trip:
http://www.emaxitservices.com/mcgallery/index.php/maxcindy/Sailing/1379356723
http://www.emaxitservices.com/mcgallery/index.php/maxcindy/Sailing/1379356723