07May2012

Today we learn about cold water survival at the gym pool. We learn that people can survive allot longer then what you expect. What we learn is that the cold weather puts the body in a dormant state so you would have to bring the body back to normal temperature to help rescue them. We got to try the “mustang suit” which is what you would wear if you are in an area that you may fall into the cold water. We hopped in the pool with them on and practice survival floating. While the suit didn’t keep you dry it kept you warm. In the afternoon we learned about the Post-911 Bill. It’s an amazing piece of legislation that covers not only tuition cost but cost of living. We then ended the day with some extra incentive training.

                                                        08May2012

Today wasn’t the busiest day but it still was a good day. We did laundry, it gets done twice a week but the way we sweat it can’t come too often. We had another core strength class and also took the practice physical test to see where we stand for the real test that we will take on Wednesday of next week. With the way we sweat as a company we should all do well. In the afternoon we learned about Coast guard history. It dates back to the founding of our country with the formation of the Revenue Cutter Service on 04AUG1790. We also learned about Joshua James, who our Hall is named after. In the last 13 years he helped save 540 people. He died after 76 hours of saving people during a violent storm. He is the icon of the coast guard and we are training to walk in his footsteps.

                                                         09May2012

Romeo woke up to a very wet and rainy morning. After morning chow we all reported to the gym to do a cybex weight lifting class. Afterwards we went to class and spent allot of time in class. We had 3 classes where we learned about Coast Guard roles and missions and advancement. The final class was about leave and liberty and how it works in the military. As we push further into training we find ourselves studying more and more. In our third week of training we still not a complete unified company, which is what we need to work on, but we are overcoming obstacles every day. As we push forward closer to week four we are anxious to start learning more about being a proper seaman and putting those lessons to work someday.

                                                            10May2012

Today we woke up to a much drier and sunny morning. We started our day with a tough endurance and cardio workout on the training bikes in the gym. This got our blood flowing to prepare us for a long day in the classroom. Our first class was Code of Conduct, which is an ethical guide on how to act if we become a POW. The class reminded us that we raised our right hand and swore to protect the United States with possibly our lives, and that this can happen if we go overseas. Our lead company commander then taught us all about proper ethics we as military members must follow. After class we marched off the regiment to our seamanship class where we will learn and do most of our hands on training. These classes are further preparing us to be successful in the fleet. We will be spending most of our time here in seamanship classes for the next 3-4 weeks.

11May2012

Today was a motivational day. Romeo-186 was able to march in the graduation ceremony. It was inspiring to see what we will become in 5 weeks from now. It reminded us that 3 weeks ago we went from clueless civilians to mildly confused recruits. Every day we seem to take on age but we seem to progress notable each day. Today we learn how to identify the most common coast guard vessels and aircrafts. We also learned about ropes and how to handle them. With all that we learn from BM2 Thompson it’s been a good day.

                                                           12May2012

After a bit of morning physical training we grabbed breakfast and headed to class. We were able to enjoy marching on a sunny day to our seamanship class. Today we learn how to tie a line (rope), lookout, and how to steer a boat. Everyone can now tie 5 basic knots. We learn the basic of being a look out on a boat and learn that it takes a human 30 minutess to adjust from light to darkness. Our eyes also sees better at night when not focus on an object. It makes you wonder about all those things you see at night at the corner of your eye that then disappear. As far as steering a ship Romeo has a long way to go, fortunately we get to try again Thursday. 

Week 05 was a good week for Papa company. We all pulled together and met most of our time objectives. We learned about personal flotation devices and emergency procedures in all types of emergencies on a cutter. The company was able to cheer on and help their shipmates through a very difficult confidence course. We got our colors and our orders to our first duty stations. This week was a giant step for Papa Company in ways of leadership, teamwork and dedication to our core values. Though we still have many challenges ahead, I have no doubt that we as a company will overcome the challenges that lay ahead.

 Another week down for Papa Company, and the next three weeks are going to hopefully fly by like the others, and we can graduate on week 08 as one of the best companies to come through Cape May.

12MAY12    OSCAR-186, Week 06

Week 06 started off pretty well but got a little rocky as it progressed.  We had our Manual of Arms test on Sunday.  We did alright; it wasn’t our best performance so we didn’t score high enough for the pennant.  Yes, we still have no pennants for our colors.  We had firefighting classes this week.  We got to put out fires with extinguishers and learn how to properly wear fire fighting suits with breathing apparatus.  For our practical we were surprised with a room full of simulated smoke and fire.  We had to quickly change and form up as teams on the hose.  It was more challenging than we expected, but we all did great.  That is the same day trouble happened.  A shipmate was found leaning on a bulkhead doing nothing by our Section Commander.  We spent approximately the next hour and a half leaning against the bulkhead on the quarterdeck, our pieces in one hand, an imaginary cocktail in the other, “Chillaxing” as we watched our Lead Company Commander tape up our Oscar colors around the guideon.  On the dry erase board he wrote a long list of remedial training exercises for us to complete to help us remember how we are supposed to do act.  It took the next 02 days for us to complete the list, but we sucked it up and completed our tasks ready to move on from our mistakes and get back on track.  We are at a point where we truly look up to and respect our Company Commanders.  We do not enjoy letting them down, we want them to be proud to be leading Oscar-186.  We earned our colors back, and hopefully we will earn their respect back as well.  Today we got out a little bit of intercompany aggression with pugil sticks.  It was a great time cheering each other on.  After that we were granted a whole sweet 06 hours of on base liberty.  Recruits made phone calls home, bought junk food, played pool, and even watched a movie.  It was an amazing break that was all too short.  Moral is again high, we’re seeing the light at the end of the Cape May tunnel.

07MAY12

      November took yesterday as a wake up and stepped up today. We were sounding off louder than we have been in the past couple of weeks. We even surprised our Company Commanders with how loud we were. Even though we were loud and locked on for most of the day we have to make sure we stay like that even when we know we are doing good. We can’t take more than we are given. The lesson of the day was CPR. We learned the basics on giving adult, children, and infants CPR and also about what to do in certain emergency situations. Tomorrow is a big day for November, being we have an inspection, manual of arms test, and close order drill test. We need to stay locked on and bring our best to make our company commanders proud!

 08May12

      November Company had one of its best days yet today. We completed a number of tests that we have been very stressed out about these past few days. First, this morning we had our seamanship final which overall went very well for the company. Although we are not sure if we have qualified for the seamanship pennant, everyone has been putting forth a tremendous effort studying and has been giving 100%. Later on in the day we had our tropical blue long inspection by the Battalion Officer, Lieutenant Herbst. There were some minor corrections that needed to be made with the uniforms, but as a whole our company was very successful. The big event of the day, which we all have been awaiting for, was our close order drill and manual of arms test. We got a 10/10 on our manual of arms and a 9/10 on our close order drill. Our company commanders informed us how well this score is and we are all very proud of how well this score is and we are all very proud of how successful we were. Although there is not much time left in training November Company is going to keep the momentum up and finish strong. After all we are November-186.

 09MAY12

 Today November was able to get some practical hands on line handling. We practice throwing lines and mooring a vessel. The males got their hair cut for the last time at boot camp. The company also had a lot of Administration time to contact our sponsors and set up our house-hold goods move. A highlight of our day was receiving the seamanship pennant for our colors. The company had a combined average of a 94 for the final and midterm, the highest average our seamanship instructor has had. November needs to stay locked on and our last week at Cape May will be over before we know it.

 10MAY12

      Everyday is another day November Company grows together. Today we achieved an almost perfect score on our squad bay inspection, which puts us much closer to the Battalion Commander Pennant. Also, we signed our orders today which set everything in stone for our first unit assignments Although today was a victorious day for November Company, we have our final exam tomorrow. Some of us are nervous, but we are all confident that we are going to do well on this test! Mike-186 is the graduating company and fortunately we get to participate in their ceremony tomorrow. They are the first outdoor ceremony of the season and all of the companies on the Regiment are marching tomorrow as part of the ceremony. Today we practiced marching to ensure that we are squared for the event tomorrow. November Company has really pulled it together this week. Even though we had a rough start to the week it is apparent that we want to finish week 07 as a prideful senior company. Being the senior company on the regiment is a privilege and we intent on showing how it’s done.

 11MAY12

      November-186 is officially the senior company on the regiment. After a successful march during the graduation ceremony, we were able to hoist our company colors and fly them proudly. Despite a few minor disagreements today, it is noticeable how well we are performing as a team. Also, we had our ironman challenge later on in the evening which was exciting to watch. All of the members of November that competed gave 100% and put a great effort forward. Tomorrow is our off base liberty which all of us are really looking forward to. After a long day of finals, manual of arms, marching, and moving. It’s safe to say that November Company is more than ready to prove that we’re the best.

 12May12

      Today November had off base liberty. The recruits had the opportunity to go into Rio Grande to go to Wal-Mart to buy cell phones to call loved ones, go to the movies, or grab something to eat. We also have the chance to go to the board walk in Wild Wood and explore. Some people rented hotel rooms so that they could just relax. No matter where we ended up food was a main focus for all of November that may lead to an interesting three mile company run tomorrow. All in November had an enjoyable day off base, now it’s time to lock it back on for one more week.

INDOC WEEKEND

       "You have 15 seconds to get off this bus!"  I used to read the TRACEN Cape May Boot Camp blog online all the time.  I thought reading them would give me a head start on boot camp.  A word to the wise, nothing could ever prepare anyone for this place.  You just have to live it.  It's crazy being on the other side of the journal.  Cape May is a lot more beautiful that I thought it would be and there is a lot of wildlife on the base.  Not all the wildlife is tame though.  The seagulls here are five feet tall and they prey on the weak recruits.  They are as mean as the Company Commanders.  Almost!  The Company Commanders are what makes this place boot camp.  They were waiting for us when we stepped off the bus.  The first set of Company Commanders spent 04 days with us getting all the administration issues out of the way.  On Friday the 4th we met our three Company Commanders that were going to be with us for the next seven and a half weeks and we spent the weekend "getting to know them".  Let me tell you, after numerous pushups, sit ups, squats, and flutter kicks we got to know them pretty well!  Our recruiters weren't kidding when they said boot camp was going to be a massive change from our normal daily lives.  Just driving up to the gates of Cape May was probably one of the most nerve wracking situations many of us recruits have ever been in.  We had no clue what to expect.  Sixty six recruits from all over the country are somehow expected to come together as a team during the next 08 weeks.  Our first week together was a mess.  A lot of us were scared, nervous, and homesick but some way, somehow we survived week one of Coast Guard boot camp. We have 07 weeks left here at Cape May and it's up to us to get ourselves where we need to be.  Teamwork will be the key to our survival.  There is strength in numbers!  I heard that usually at least one recruit flakes out by the end of Indoctrination Weekend.  No one did this weekend.  We're a diverse bunch and we have more than our fair share of problems but we're tenacious. We have officially become Sierra-186.   

 Week 02

 07MAY12- Today we went to the Chapel to have a discussion with the Chaplain about how to deal with stress.  It didn't feel right though because we caught ourselves becoming relaxed.  The Chaplain talked to us for about two hours on what we are going through.  He said it is all perfectly normal.  He told us stories about his past experiences and it was cool to know that we could be totally open.  That is a very rare thing in Cape May, to be able to be a normal person and have a normal conversation or as our CC's say "a civilian".  So that was a big treat for us.  Boot camp is tough!  It hits recruits both physically and mentally.  Our stress levels go sky rocketing at times but when we stop and just think of the reasons why we are here in the first place it kind of balances out.  The Chaplain really helped us out.  He pulled us back in mentally and reminded us that it's only eight weeks.

08MAY12- Today we went to the gym where we went over all the workout machines, how to place our bodies on them, and how to utilize them properly.  We didn't actually start working out but when we do it's going to get pretty intense. 

 09MAY12- We got a small sample of RAMP (Recruit Aptitude and Motivational Platoon) today.  This is a three 3.5 day motivational tool for recruits that are not performing up to standards.  RAMP could break anyone.  We don't know if that workout motivated the recruits in RAMP but it was enough for us to know we want no part of it.  Then we got a visit from the Chaplain to help boost morale.  It's crazy how the mind games work here.  Even with the daily schedule laid out for us training is very unpredictable.

 10MAY12- Our first swim assessment today!  We were required to jump off a six foot platform and into the deep end of the pool, swim 100 meters, pull ourselves out of the pool without a ladder, and then tread water for five minutes....sounds easy right?  Wrong!!!  Unfortunately we didn't all pass the swim test this week so several people have to go to remedial swim to hopefully improve.  We also didn't realize that a person could be in more places than one at the same time.  We only have three CC's but with them watching our every move and popping out behind corners, bushes, and wherever we may be doing something wrong we feel like we have 66 of them....one for each recruit. 

 11MAY12- Today was probably one of our worst days as a company.  As a recruit I can admit that we had no motivation.  We weren't loud and we weren't moving fast.  We kept making the mistakes of a week one recruit and not acting like recruits that should be progressing therefore we spent most of the day paying for those mistakes.  To make matters worse we lost 03 recruits today.  It's hard to see your shipmates leave but it's also hard to spend all day being disciplined instead of training like we should be.  As Sierra-186, we have a lot or work to do.  Today was kind of a slap in the face for many of us because we know how good we can be but it's a matter of pushing our limits and reaching that pinnacle.  Let's hope we wake up tomorrow and start acting like the company we know we can be.

 12MAY12- As recruits many of us are confused as to what's really going to happen after we leave basic training.  We have no clue as to where we may be going or how we are going to deal with this gigantic step in our lives.  Today a lot of our questions were answered.  We met our company mentor, CWO Popelars.  He has a lot of knowledge and experience and will meet with us at scheduled times during training to assist us with our transition.  The next meeting we have with him we will have our orders so I know there will be a lot of questions from everyone.  We also learned some Manual of Arms today with our pieces.  A piece is a 9.9 pound M-1 Grand rifle that has had the firing pin removed and the barrel filled with lead.  They serve both as a learning tool and a torturing device.  It depends on the mood of our Company Commanders.  In time we will have a routine down and will perform a Manual of Arms test for a grade as a company.  We have lots of work to do but in time we will pull it off.  

Week 07. First week with our colors, Last week of training. There were a few hiccups but over all this week did nothing but stroke our already massive egos about our company.

      Monday, started it off by running to the gymnasium in the rain. This might have been miserable but instead we took it as a way to show off. Mike company doesn't care about something as trivial as the weather. Neither do our Company Commanders either. Every time it rains the other CC's on the regiment will don their gortex jackets or something of the like. We have not seen any of our Company Commanders as much as look at a jacket. Every week your chow times change, and on Monday we learned that we would be eating at the same time as Romeo Company (week 02). This might be to show us just how far we've come, but we're too busy watching them get chewed out to notice. Petty Officer Milligan spent each meal ripping into the new recruits while we ate in silence. It's nice to have him less focused on us for a change. We've pissed him off enough as is. The class for the day was on CPR. We practiced on test mannequins which while useful were also kind of creepy looking. What the class came down to was rhythm, once we understood that every one performed much better. The evening was spent learning how to wear our dress uniforms properly and practicing for the Close Order Drill test we would have the next day.

      Tuesday morning went about the same, except it was Petty Officer Garza having us do fire fire fire, and he was the one making Romeo wish they had never stepped foot in the Galley. On our march to Seamanship we really began to experience the perks of having your colors. That perk is cadences on regiment. Nothing feels better than marching past a junior company singing a song about how "Mike Company is the best". We sang all the way to the seamanship final which went alright. Average score was @5 less then what was required for the seamanship pennant. I blame it on us having our minds wrapped around the close order drill test, which we took soon after getting back to the house. We were given time to change into our Alpha's first (Dress jacket, white shirt beneath). Dress to impress. We looked good and felt confident, but the weather was not on our side that day. Muggy doesn't really describe it. Moment we crossed the deck plate we were sweating. We formed ourselves up at the same location as the MOA test we had done early and went through our movements. We also did a few Company exclusive movements, because we always go the extra mile. Overall it looked good, all of our movements were tight and sharp, but there was one mistake. One of the squads didn't cover correctly, and because of it we got a 9/10. Now, that might not sound bad, but to us anything but a 10 is a failure. We marched home feeling nothing but disappointment. In the squad bay, Petty Officer Garza went over it with us, and he could tell we were upset. He mentioned that the grader for that test was much tougher than anyone here, and that a 09 from him was 10 from anyone else. That being said he was also not sure how we messed that up either. After he said his piece he walked out and closed the hatch to our squad bay, leaving us alone with Petty Officer Byrd and Petty Officer Milligan. Could have heard a pin drop. They were pissed. Worst part was that we knew we could do the movement; it was just a dumb mistake. The score was punishment enough though, and we were urged to get over it. I think they could tell that we were already in the process of beating ourselves up for it. We have a history of taking failure badly and we did our best to not let this force into a spiral.

      On Wednesday the big thing was a squad bay inspection by our Battalion Commander Master Chief Carlson. For the record, our squad bay was immaculate that morning, but some of our shipmates came back from sick call and left a bit of a mess. Enough of one that main muster squad bay got a 47/55 along with a note that said "Expected better from a week 07 companies." I'm sure I don't have to say that this is not good. We were told we would pay for it later that night, but some work had to be done and it took precedence. That work is called Admin time. Time given to contact your sponsor and learn more about your unit. It is very important that we receive this time and our Company Commanders do their best to make sure we have it. We did this all the way up till 10 minutes before chow, at which point we got back on line. Petty Officer Byrd had a new cadence that he wanted to teach us. I would go into detail, but it seems like everyone on this regiment wants to get a hold of Petty Officer Byrd's cadences. I'm not going to be the one responsible for giving out that secret. It is awesome though. After Chow we were told the clean the gym in preparation for the board of Advisors visit. The Board consists of several Admirals as well as the Master Chief Petty Officer of the Coast Guard, so it was imperative that we make everything sparkle, and the moment the gym was done we did the same to our building. Our punishment for having a dirty squad bay was a completely trashed head. It was disgusting, and the first thing we had to clean that night. So by the midway point in the week we had failed a squad bay inspection and had not gotten the correct score on manual of arms. Mike Company was very afraid that we might be taking steps back. We knew Petty Officer Garza would be in the next day, and we would pay for what we had done.

      Thursday was our chance for redemption though. We would be performing both Manual of Arms and Close Order Drill for the Board of Advisors, and we decided right when we woke up that morning that we would show them just what to expect from Mike Company. Petty Officer Milligan tried to wake us up to fire fire fire, but the moment the lights came on we were already running out of the door. The whole morning was spent doing Admin time, with every talking at a whisper. The Admirals were having their meeting right below us. Midday chow was a blur. We had an appointment to make for the Board and we were told to shovel our food into our mouths. We even ended up breaking formation outside of the house and it looked like some great wave of recruits trying to enter the building. We grabbed our pieces and launched right into MOA practice. We did each movement one time and then had to get outside. No time to think, just move. Petty Officer Garza marched us out in front of the board, and I can tell you that it wasn't the heat that made our palms sweaty. Control of the company for this drill was handed over to Petty Officer Chase, the head of ceremonial who had us do one or two moves just to get us accustomed to his voice. After that the test began. I think we've marched with our pieces a total of 05 times since we got here. It's not really something that is required for the test so it wasn't something we were used to. We did the best we could when it came to that. The test ended and we were told that for every screw up seen, we received one tick mark. Mike Company had 04 tick marks. We felt awful. We felt like complete failures. We felt that way for about 02 seconds before the next sentence came out of Petty Officer Chases Mouth. "The best we've seen up till now had around 10 tick marks. You've set a new standard." Redemption achieved. When we formed up outside of our next class Petty Officer Garza had only one thing to say to us; "What Squad Bay inspection?"  The next class was on STD's and Contraception. Most of it felt straight out of high school, and I really don’t think I need to go into detail on it. When we got back our Company Commanders told us that they proud of us. We haven’t heard that very often and it made us feel amazing. Petty Officer Garza and Petty Officer Byrd took turns asking us why it took us so long to get this good. We don't have an answer but we do know we're never going back. We earned a new cadence with that, probably the coolest one yet. Petty Officer Garza had us do around 04 laps just so we could keep going. Ask your loved one about the freedom cadence next chance you get. It's physically impossible not to puff your chest out while you sing this thing.

      Friday was the day of the Final. I don’t think many of us were even that stressed out about it. The day before we had marched in front of some of the highest ranking people in the Coast Guard. How could a test even begin to bother us after that. The first time around 04 recruits did not pass, but as of today they all have. Like I said, it was no problem to us. While marching on the regiment, we couldn't help but notice some other companies doing our marching movements. Mimicry is the best form of flattery I suppose. At midday Lima Company graduated, which made us the most senior company on the regiment. In recognition of this we got to the raise the mike flag on the regimental flag post. Actually, Petty Officer Byrd raised it while we did push-ups. The speed at which he raised it was proportionate to how loud we sounded off. Standard Procedure. All the while Petty Officer Milligan was roaming through our ranks making sure everyone was giving 100%. We raised it up and shouted out the company motto. Made sure every hall could hear it too. Feels good to be the kings. From there we went straight to the confidence course. We all got to give another go, and most of us that failed to make it up last time, rang that bell on Friday. Dress Uniform inspection followed this, preparations for Off Base Liberty and all that. Over all, just a good day.

      You all know what happened on Saturday. We were set free on Saturday, and the first thing we all did was go to Wal-Mart to buy a phone so we could get in touch with you. They knew we were coming too, a sea of trop wearing recruits flooded the phone section and they had us all squared away in no time. Sometimes it's hard to remember that this happens every weekend.  Most of us took this day as a chance to relax. Spent it loitering in various diners or coffee houses. Others went out and saw some movies. Hunger Games and Avengers were the big ones. Really there is not much to say about Saturday. It was surreal being off base. We've only really seen enlisted personnel for the last 07 weeks, and all of sudden were dropped into a civilian atmosphere. It was strange how different we felt from the people around us. We pigged out most of the day of course, junk food and gas station coffee. All those things we used to take for granted. We had enough to make half of us sick that night and feel like crap the next day. No regrets.

      Sunday, our last divine hours, one last boot shining session. It's like a ritual for us, except that this time most of us paid more attention to our dress shoes. We have to look good for Friday after all. I say that, and then we went out for the last 03 mile run. Safe to say none of us looked good during this. Cape May was flooded with recruit sweat. It was disgusting. We got back inside the house with our shirts plastered to our bodies. None of us will miss the scent of a Sunday squad bay. Sunday also marked the day for piece returns. I don't think we could have been happier. Those pieces have been almost nothing but a constant form of pain to this company and the idea of never seeing them again is something akin to bliss. Of course you have to earn the right to get rid of them. Most of us were smiling on the way, our mood was that good. It stumbled a bit after that though. We had moved too slow getting from point A to point B, and we had to do fire fire fire because of it. Our Company Commanders do not want us to slip back, and if it takes a couple fire drills to keep us moving quickly then that's what we'll do.

      After the fire drill we had a debrief. This is pretty much setting the tone for week 08 (as long as we don't mess it up.) In this debrief, we were told to ask any question we had and to relax a little bit. All those drills we've ran were explained to us. There was a reason why for everything that happened here and we finally got to hear it. All the while Petty officer Garza would mock us a little bit, and the night eventually turned into the company reminiscing on the last 07 weeks. "Remember when recruit _____ called him Petty Officer Gilligan?" Petty Officer Garza was right there with us on the stories too. There were a lot of laughs and it made us realize that even though this entire time it may have felt like a "us against them" situation, they were really with us the entire time. Week 08 means we finally get to see what the men behind the campaign covers are really like, and by the end of Sunday night we had nothing but respect for them. Yes they have murdered us for the last 07 weeks but now as we move onto graduation we see things a little bit differently. Everything we've done here was preparation, and as far as we're concerned no one on this regiment could have prepared us the way Petty Officer Garza, Petty Officer Byrd, and Petty Officer Milligan have. We've seen the other companies on the regiment and all we talk about in the squad bays is what would happen to them if our CC's were around. Mike company had a hard time here, but that's what makes this success so much more sweet. It's a cliché, but that's because it's applicable. All that's happened to us here, every push up, every sniper position, and every screw up, we're thankful for. We couldn't have learned without them.

30APR2012…

     It’s the beginning of the third week for Quebec 186.  AS training becomes more complex the challenges increase and our ability to achieve our objectives are constantly being tested.  We had several significant events occur, we are continuing our studies and we practiced using our pieces in formation.   In class today we discussed our educational benefits and opportunities, but our real highlight was getting to jump into the pool in mustangs to perform our survival float.  We donned the uniform and jumped feet first into the swimming pool and began to see how effective the survival gear really is as we just bobbed up and down in the water. 

 01MAY2012…

     Another full and exciting day for Quebec company.  Today we started off the day by having a class on family benefits health, dental and life insurance… It was great information to receive because a large portion of the company came in with dependants.  Then we had our fourth core strengthening workout.  This time was different because we were allowed to cheer on those who were having a difficult time doing the exercises. The individuals who were having hard time were placed in the center of the company and the rest of us formed a circle around them and began rooting them on.  After that our evening was filled with more classes where we learned about Coast Guard history as well as what it takes to be a member of this great lifesaving service. Although we are currently lacking in the skills that we need we are on the right track to getting where we need to be.

 02MAY2012…

     It’s the middle of the week for Quebec company, and we are starting to realize that the days are long but the weeks blow by.  Today we were able to perform a mock PF assessment where we gauged ourselves on pushups, and sit-ups, and then were directed into the gym to get the rest of our workout on.  It’s safe to say that for the most part every individual is putting forth 100 % effort into our workouts so that we can be ready for our actual assessment.  After that it was off to classes again, this time we learned about the Coast Guards roles and missions in serving the United States. Then after that we were instructed on how the Coast Guard advancement system works.  As well as all of the advancement opportunities available to us.  After that we had an opportunity to work on manual of arms and then we had a welcome reprieve from training, as the Chaplain came by to speak with our company.  It was nice to hear about the world outside of Training Center Cape May.

 03MAY2012…

     Well it’s the middle of the week which means another busy day… We started off with bike workout and then a half mile run on the track.  The rest of the day was filled with academics. We had a class on the Code of Conduct, Standards and Ethics and then finally a class on Deck Seamanship.  This last class was awesome. The building had all sorts of nautical line work, as well as some very interesting displays throughout.  We were also instructed on proper nautical terminology. Even though today was just an introduction into seamanship, we are glad to know we will be going there quite a bit over the course of the next several weeks.

 04MAY2012…

     Quebec Company is almost through with week 03. We spent the day in seamanship again learning the basic in maritime knowledge. First off, we covered the various units, vessels and aircraft that the Coast Guard uses today.  Then after that we began to learn basic marlinspike seamanship.  We got to learn the basic knots that we will be using throughout our Coast Guard career. Then after that we got the breakdown on which lines were suitable for certain applications.  It's kind of interesting but we never really thought about how important it is to actually tie the right knot using the right type of line, and the impact that can have when you are trying to save a life at sea.  We are really enjoying the hands on applications and cannot wait to do more. 

 05MAY2012…

     Today was another busy day for Quebec 186.  We spent all day at seamanship today working on our nautical skills.  We only broke for lunch this afternoon.  We really enjoyed the hands on experience working on knots and line handling.  We also had a class on lookout protocol.  Which is basically standing a lookout watch while underway on a vessel.  To piggyback off of that we also learned our positions for where we need to be in case of an actual emergency on board a ship. Things such as fire or flooding.  Probably the coolest part of the day was when we got to use a helm simulator to practice changing directions from the helm of a ship.  After being in class all day we were given a real treat. We got to meet with our company mentor.  LT Amacher AND LT Harkins from Coast Guard Headquarters.  They spent the evening telling us about their experiences in the service as well as answering questions that we had about the fleet and what we can expect when we arrive at our first units.

 06MAY2012…

     Well today is the last day of our third week in training. We got to utilize a few hours in the morning to take care of personal things like working on uniforms, studying and some of the company attended church services.  After lunchtime it was back to business as usual. Our company commanders ran us through everything that we would be doing during our physical fitness assessment that is fast approaching.  We are anxious to see what the new coming week will hold for us. 

Romeo-186 Week Ø2 Blog

 April 29th (Sunday)

     It’s been an interesting few days at Cape May.  We arrived the evening of April 24th and immediately began processing and being indoctrinated in military life.  Over the first couple days, recruits were instructed in the basics of military bearing.  Recruits learned proper forms of addressing Company Commanders and other permanent party members; how to stand at position of attention; and beginnings of marching drills.  Most of the time was spent processing paperwork and ensuing the company was healthy.

      On 27Arp12 ROMEO-186 was officially formed by order of the Training Officer.  The Captain of the base also said a few words of encouragement.  After the company was formed, the training really began!  ROMEO-186 has been doing a lot of exercise, running fire drills and learning marching.  Even though we've only been a company for Ø3 days it seems much longer so it was nice to have divine hours to prepare for the upcoming week.  Today members of ROMEO attended church while others got to know each other while squaring away the squad bay.  At 1145 ROMEO went to the galley, and it was shockingly good just like most of the other meals we've had here.  Later we took a tour of the gym and were introduced to a variety of core exercises.  They were strenuous but will help ensure no injuries later on.  We also got to tour facilities her at the Training Center.  What was previously a confusing mass of buildings is starting to take shape as home.  As the evening came to a close, jobs were selected by recruits within the company.  Company yeoman, squad leaders, religious petty officers and many others were chosen by the Company Commanders.

 30APR12

     ROMEO woke up this morning to a fire drill.  The company spent half the day at the gym.  Each recruit was fitted to the cybex machines and a starting weight selected for the workout program.  After that the company repeated the previous day's core workout.  In the latter half of the day ROMEO attended a stress relief class held by the Chaplin.  It was light hearted and focused on the recruits coming weeks.  The company seems to be in early stages of becoming a group rather than a collection of individuals.  Recruits are starting to think about the group and coordinate efforts to complete tasks.  The company was also finally allowed to wear their boots they were issued.

 01MAY12

     Today marked one week since we stepped off that bus on to Training Center Cape May and what an eventful week it has been.  We have begun to work as a team more since last Tuesday night.  But still have miles to overcome to make it to graduation.  Today we completed yet another core workout to prepare us for our physical fitness test.  Jobs were given out to recruits which is making things run more smoothly.  We spent a good portion of the day attending our first class outside James Hall.  We experienced quite a weather change as we marched to morning chow in a complete downfall and left evening chow with sun blazing down on us.  The mosquitoes were in a frenzy!

 02MAY12

     ROMEO company woke up to a 01 mile run this morning to further prepare us for our physical fitness test.  After morning chow we reported to a number of classes including Rates/Ranks as well as addressing military personnel.  We are now required to address all personnel on the regiment properly.  During evening chow we saw the new recruits in the galley which gave us a perspective of how far we've come in a short week.  After evening chow the recruits involved in the ceremony that will be performing on our graduation had their first practice, taught to us by the senior recruit company.  Recruits will be performing in band, and color guard.  Today we also picked up our pieces which are rifles with their barrels filled with lead and the firing pins removed.  As we edge closer to week 03 we are eager to find out what's next to come.

 03MAY12

     Today was the first day we didn't wake up to "FIRE, FIRE, FIRE!"  Of course everyone is so wired that we wake up at 0530 anyways.  After chow we took the swim assessment, which will help the people who can't swim learn in time for the deadline for graduation.  Then we went to a class about what the Coast Guard does for member's families.  There are a surprising range of programs available to help all sorts of family needs.  Then we had some chow.  In the afternoon we learned about etiquette in the Coast Guard including how to properly board a cutter and salute.  The evening was a bit difficult; we did a lot of exercises with our pieces, which are heavy.

 04MAY12

     This morning we went on another run.  This time we did it in a marching formation.  ROMEO-186 still has some ways to go for running in formation.  We did one thing right though, our formation was generally square.  After chow we had our first swim workout.  It was quite refreshing to not be covered in sweat during a workout.  After lunch we learned about the alert levels for the Coast Guard as well as some safety tips for travel as a member of the American Armed Forces.  It's interesting to hear some of the stories that Petty Officer Bauz has.  This marks a significant change in our training tonight will be the first night we stand watch.  It will be the first time that many of us have had a chance to do something without our Company Commanders looking over our shoulder.  But of course PAPA-186 will be to walk us through the first few nights.

 05MAY12

     ROMEO-186's Saturday kicked off with another morning run around the regiment.  Before noon chow we had a nice class meeting with our company's mentor, Master Chief Petty Officer Hollcomb.  He came to visit us from New York and answered all our questions regarding duty stations, "A" Schools, and what to expect when we get out to the fleet.  He will come again and visit during our sixth week of training.  Later in the afternoon we reported to class and learned about proper military customs.  With the military operating on separate laws and regulations than civilians, it also has its own set of customs to go with it.  We spent a good portion of the day working on perfecting our marching as well as implementing new movements.  Saturday night’s recruits are given the opportunity to go to choir at the chapel and sing, which some recruits took part in.  We ended our night with manual of arms, which is exercising while using our pieces.  We look forward to our divine hours tomorrow, which we will use to catch up on all our ironing and cleaning.

It’s been an amazing week for Oscar-186.  We prepped ourselves hard with required knowledge and perfect uniforms for an inspection by our Battalion Commander, and scored one of the three perfect scores he’s even given.  We worked really hard to pull it all together and we must have made a real impression on our Company Commanders because we were presented with our colors later that night.  It was an emotional event that bonded us all together as a team.  We’ve been proud marching behind our colors all week.  We’ve been told that being given your colors is rare for a week 05 company.   We also were given our first orders this week.  We’ve all been anticipating finding out where our new home is going to be since we’ve arrived.  Most people are pleased and excited about their assignments, but you can’t please all people, especially when the needs of the Coast Guard come first.  There are a few disappointed shipmates but were regularly reminded that we really won’t know anything about how we’ll like our station until we get there.  We received a lot of advice from a number of sources this week.  We got the opportunity to meet with the Master Chief Petty Officer of the Coast Guard.  With us he shared his three keys that he promised would equal success- work hard, love what you do, have fun.  We also had a second meeting with our company mentor who we asked nearly a million questions.  He patiently answered each question with sincerity and thought, which was received with a lot of value by the company.

Team moral and pride are riding high this week.  We are taking training seriously, we know our jobs and we’re doing them well, and we’ve even been able to sneak in a little fun and laughter.  We’ve been reminded several times this week to continue striving to better ourselves, because once you think you’ve arrived and made it to the top there will be nowhere to go but down.  The end of boot camp is finally in sight, and we’ve hoping to keep all this positive momentum going.

 23APR

It is the beginning of the second week for Quebec-186 and we're still covering the basics.  I guess that's why they call it basic training.  Quebec-186 visited the chapel today.  Everyone loves visiting the chapel because it's peaceful, which can be a relief from the non-stop activities at TRACEN Cape May.  The chapel is non-denominational, allowing people of all faiths to exercise their religious freedom.  All in all, it was a great morale booster for the entire company and everyone greatly enjoyed the visit.  After the visit to the chapel, Quebec-186 exercised and then went to class.  We are learning the Coast Guard Core Values of Honor, Respect, and Devotion to Duty.  But we all know we can't learn those simply by reading them.

 24APR

Quebec-186 has been exercising its mental and physical muscles with core strength training and academic studies.  We have been learning about effective communication and civil rights.  Communication is an essential part of any organization, especially for a lifesaving organization like the Coast Guard.  The company enjoyed the civil rights class very much because it allowed for interactive and stimulating classroom discussions.  The company has been hitting the gym and we engage in rigorous and substantial exercise.  Everyone already feels a little bit stronger and is excited about how healthy they will be by the end of training.

 25APR

It's almost the end of the week for Quebec-186.  Many significant and exciting things happened today.  Quebec-186 is starting to address our Company Commanders by their proper ratings instead of saying sir yes sir or ma'am yes ma'am, also known as sir or ma'am sandwiches.  Along with that, the company took a class on how to address military personnel and how to identify different insignias and how they pertain to that person.  Quebec-186 will definitely need more practice but we will get it in no time, especially since we are expected to address each military member properly starting today.  Another significant event that happened was getting our pieces.  The made the company feel like actual military members for the first time.  The company also went to the gym today and did their first bicycle workout.  This seemed to be a really good workout for the company considering everyone was drenched in sweat afterwards.  Quebec-186 is getting stronger and closer, and every day gets a little bit easier.

 26APR2012

Another exciting day for Quebec-186. We had our initial swim assessment and most of the company did very well. It was the first time the company used the coast guard issued bathing suits. After the swim test were classes. We were introduced to many beneficial work life service’s the Coast Guard has to offer. Next, Quebec-186 had a more hands on education. Learning how and when to properly salute. After the class, we had a real life demonstration, and then practiced saluting. The rest of the day was more hands on and physical. We practiced marching in formation and we began to practice using our ceremonial rifles in formation.

 27APR2012

It’s about the end of the week for the company and it’s defiantly been a full one. Today we had our first swim workout which consisted of pushups and flutter kicks in the water as well as swimming as fast as we could back and forth several times. Some people had to have their wisdom teeth pulled out. We spent a lot of time on close order drill movements and some new drills that we are starting to get the hang of. Quebec-186 took a class on watch standing and is starting to practice from here on out which is pretty significant because it is the biggest responsibility yet. Throughout all hours of the night, we are scheduled for one hour watches which consist of going through the squad bays and making sure everyone is safe, cleaning, writing down pretty much everything that happens including recording if gear is out of place. Again, this is a huge responsibility but Quebec-186 can handle it.

 28APR2012

Another busy day for Quebec-186. AS we quickly approach the third week at Cape May. The company is overcoming many challenges to accomplish the goals set for us. We had a class on military customs and courtesies. We are learning how, what, when, where, why and who we are saluting. Quebec-186 is constantly preparing itself. We have also been going over our manual of arms, learning how to use our rifles in formation. Almost three weeks old and the company is still refining the basics in preparation for the advanced responsibilities. At the end of the day, the company gets a lot of mail, which always lifts our spirits.

 29APR2012

It is the end of week for company Quebec-186 and starting tomorrow it will be officially week three for us. Today we had divine hours from 0800-1200 which the divine hours we had this Sunday were a lot different than the first divine hours we had last week. We were able to more independent and prove to our company commanders that we knew what was expected of us and could use our time wisely. Since there wasn’t as much to do compared to last week, many of us were able to write longer letters to our friends and families which is a huge stress relief and go to church which is also a major stress reliever. The company worked on marching which we have improved a lot on. But have got a long way to go which is to be expected. Quebec-186 got a little taste of what later weeks of training can be if we start following directions more and take training a little more seriously. Instead of doing incentive training such as pushups, sit-ups etc…We were able to polish our boondockers and received tips on how to look professional in uniform.

 30April12

      Today was an extensive day of manual of arms training. We need all the practice we can get for our manual of arms test. We want to make our company commanders proud and get the best possible score that we can get. November Company also had a swim circuit today which is always great, but very tiring! The best part about today’s swim circuit was that everyone was able to participate because our entire company has finally passed their swim tests. For classes today we had an introduction to firefighting. We will continue this training tomorrow. Being able to fight a fire properly is imperative because everyone’s job in the Coast Guard varies. For instance, if you are aboard a cutter, you are the only line of defense against a fire. The ability to keep your shipmates safe and protect your ship is a skill that will carry on with us for the rest of our lives.

 01May12

      Today was another day of testing our ability to remain faithful to the Coast Guard core values. After chow November Company was lead to Goff Hall where we had our first day of hands on fire fighting. We learned how to properly put out a fire with a water hose and put on firefighting equipment. After class we were without company commanders until approximately 1300. Although we could have taken advantage of this time for other purposes, we decided to practice and perfect our manual of arms movements, which proved to be successful late on in the evening. Also, we finished our travel arrangements and were given our official reporting date for our next unit. We are getting the ball rolling on becoming official members of the Coast Guard.

 02May12

 Today was another test of responsibility for November Company. While half of the company created their military identification cards, the other half of the class had their second day of fire fighting. Both groups were unaccompanied by a company commander which is a great way for us to practice staying locked on and keeping our military bearing. Having more free time has allowed our company to come together and really mature as adults. Although this process is still in the making, each day we have more time to ourselves, is another day sending us in the direction to success. We are having a continuation of pugil sticks tomorrow which will let the company cheer on each other. The main objective for the rest of the week is to stay locked on at all times. The more we can prove ourselves as a company, the less difficult these next two weeks will be.

 03May12

      Today was another day of fire fighting training and identification cards. Shortly after chow the company got to do pugil sticks and the confidence course. The one great thing about the confidence course is that there is always room to improve, which most of the company did. It’s an opportune time to exercise and cheer on each other in a positive way. A lot of us were a little anxious due to all of the officers on the regiment. We had to not only worry about greeting them properly, but remain locked on at all times; moreover, it was excellent practice for us. Later on in the evening we began contacting our sponsors to our next duty station. Each day is one more day closer to what we are all working toward. Each day we progress more and more. Our confidence is becoming stronger, just as our bodies and our minds. Slowly, but surely we are becoming men and women of the United States Coast Guard.

 04May12

      The main responsibilities today were sponsor calls and graduation watches. All of November needs to speak to their unit before Monday. We were also responsible for standing watch during the graduation. This was a test on how well we know to greet permanent party personnel. There were many high ranked officers on the regiment and many of us had to greet them on watch. The company t-shirt is in the process of being made. The design is submitted and we are all excited to see the great art work done by members of our own company. Tomorrow is on base liberty and that is what everyone has been looking forward to. We just have to stay locked on so we can get it!

 06May12

      November Company finally had a day of freedom today. Our first on base liberty was today and it was very refreshing. Although the beginning of the day started off rough for the company, we pulled it together and got done what we had to do. Also, we got to take a tour of the cutters and small boat station located on the base. It was very interesting getting to see where most of us will be working for the next couple years and beginning of our Coast Guard career. Having freedom today was a very new experience for our company, but as a team we kept our military bearing and acted accordingly. Everyone got to call their loved ones today as well, which was great for our spirits to be lifted. Overall November Company has a successful day, let’s just hope we can keep a positive effective attitude for the next two weeks!

 06May12

 I would say that we had a productive day of training if I thought that were true, but November Company struggled more than they have in the past three weeks today. We are losing sight of what we can here to accomplish and its beginning to catch up to us. Even during our company run we were unable to remain in step. Although the day was rough, our company commanders are merely trying to correct our deficiencies and set us up for success. When you are close to reaching a goal sometimes you lose focus. If we want to be the best, then we need to start acting like the best. With only a short period of time left in Cape May to better ourselves, November-186 needs to get the momentum back and push to the end with pride.