09 Nov 09

Today PAPA-182 met the Vice Commandant of the Coast Guard, who is also our company mentor. He brought with him an entourage of esteemed guardians. We had a two hour answer, question, comments and advice session with them. A lot of knowledge was gained and for many of us our motivation was re-affirmed. After a class on Sexual Harassment, Assault, and Rape, we continued to do drills designed to make us work more as a team instead of individuals. We all need rest due to the increasing physical demands on our company.

10 Nov 09

Our classes today were on Military Identification and Safety. In between, we had a survival float class. We learned how to float in cold water while still being able to retain body heat. We learned how to float solo and with a group. It made many of us realize how important things that we learn in basic are, as the knowledge could potentially save a shipmate's, citizen's, or even our own life. In the evening we had a class focusing on the history of the Coast Guard and its illustrious guardians.

11 Nov 09

Today PAPA-182 began its day with a cybex class. Right afterwards we were unexpectantly rushed back to the gym as ESPN was doing a special live broadcast from TRACEN Cape May. PAPA company was lucky enough to be right behind the broadcast stage. We were applauded for our self-discipline and professionalism. Unfortunately, as soon as we stepped out of the limelight we reverted back to a lax attitude. We were reminded later that evening to keep our self-discipline at all times. Guardians in the fleet need self-discipline and to be Semper Paratus at all times.

12 Nov 09

PAPA-182 began the day with a lifecycle class. Everybody did a fairly good job. Today was the ugliest weather that PAPA-1825 has experienced since we've been here. Our company commanders informed us that these are the types of conditions that we will be experiencing while doing search and rescue cases when out in the field. We had our first seamanship class today, which we all thought was very enjoyable. We finished out the night with more teamwork drills.

13 Nov 09

Today we learned about the Coast Guard's cutters, boats and aircraft. After class we returned to clean our squadbays because they were not inspection ready. After cleaning our squadbay, we were finally given time to properly shine our boondockers. After chow we went to another seamanship class and learned the different types of ropes, ties, knots, and lines. After chow we had a short class and introduction to the Coast Guard Honor Guard. Many of were impressed and wanted to join, but were disappointed to learn that there are height requirements as well.

14 Nov 09

We started off today by missing time objectives and showing lack of discipline. After morning chow we began a long day of seamanship classes, where we began some hands on instruction of knot tying and helmsmen simulation. After evening chow we had a motivational instruction by our lead company commander. Unfortunately for us, we are too frequently losing our motivation and military bearing and are constantly needing these instruction sessions.

15 Nov 09

Today started off with Divine Hours. Most of the recruits use this time to get their racks and uniforms inspection ready. The company was split into port and starboard sections so that we can work more efficiently in getting our qualifications. The port side began its indoctrination to marksmanship and will be heading to the range tomorrow to complete the Basic Pistol Marksmanship Course. PAPA-182 actually showed some signs of working together as a team and has high hopes that we will continue in this vein tomorrow.

Blog