Finding time to write is a difficult task - especially when one first starts this kind of project. I am not a writer by nature so I have to teach myself and remember that I am working on this.
A lot has happened since January - we held our annual awards ceremony and banquet. A resounding success - for the cadets anyway. At least a half dozen dignitaries attended and spoke at the ceremony. USCG Region 13 Commander, Admiral Taylor presented, several skippers from various commands in the area presented, including Naval Station Everett. A lot of work but the cadets found it worthwhile.
The Seattle Council of the Navy League also help their annual awards ceremony in January. This was for the different commands that the council supports - including the USS Nimitz, Naval Station Everett, Kitsap-Bangor, USCG Base Seattle and others. I was also present to award one of my cadets a Cadet of the Year Award. Now this was a bit intimidating - I left the Navy in 1984 as a Petty Officer 3rd...now 30 years later I am having dinner with Admirals (2), Captains, Commanders, Command Master Chiefs all dressed up. And I spoke first...oh wow!
In February we spent the day aboard the USS Nimitz courtesy of a Blue Angel Alum, Chief Knopp a current Chief aboard her. Also another a USNSCC alum AN Duncan from Florida helped coordinate this - the cadets had a great time.
Then on Sunday at the drill - Chief Cerrillo, USN (Ret) came aboard the drill deck and led PT for the cadets. This is big because Chief is retired Seal so his PT was a bit more intense than a normal cadet PT. The cadets loved it though.
In March we helped at Jim Creek Recreation Facility for the Navy getting it ready for the summer months. Cleaned up storm debris, put things back together and had a great time.
For April we spent it on the drill deck cleaning, painting, and finalizing details for the new uniforms. Routine and mundane but productive. We also received some great news. The CO of the USS Nimitz has allowed some of our cadets to participate in a Tiger Cruise between Everett and San Fransisco at the end of May. We have 13 or 14 cadets going with two adult escorts -alas not me. Work is conflicting. Oh well...
Hopefully pics will be coming soon.
For now I am signing off. Fair winds and following seas
