| SHIP'S
LOG
As we
continue our westerly leg through the Mediterranean Sea, we are
blessed with continued good weather. The sound of needle guns and
grinders disturb our tranquility, but it is music to the bosun's
ears as more and more topside maintenance is getting done. The
engineer training office was quiet this morning as all the
professors where in the engine room assessing the 2nd class
engineering students. Waldo (our electrician) has a variety of
projects going on from spot light replacement to loud hailer
maintenance. There is always something electrical breaking down.
The bridge and engine watches are being
properly maintained 24-7. This has been a great opportunity for the
second class deck students as far as watches are concerned. Because
this is a fairly small class they are standing at least twice as
many bridge watches than in previous years. Most would say that more
work is a bad thing, but the more opportunities they take advantage
of the greater their confidence level will be. At the
beginning of this cruise, I made a statement that the 2nd class deck
student were going to come out of the Med confident or scared to
death. We have had no fatalities or stress related injuries, which
means that their confidence is growing.
The one duty the students hate the most is
Utility. Their duties include maintaining the sanitary condition of
the vessel , scullery and galley duty, helping in the mess decks as
well as trash management. Not very glorious work but necessary to
the proper functioning of the vessel. But like everything in life
work is what you make of it, and some of our students have found a
way to make light of a difficult situation. (see photo)
Our cooks and galley support people are
doing a great job. I would say that these are the hardest working
group on board. Putting out 3 squares a day for this many people is
a steady job, and we appreciate all their efforts.
Laundry is another necessary evil, which can
not be overlooked. If you think laundry at home is a never ending
chore, look at what 1/4 of the student laundry looks like. (see photo)
So, life goes on aboard the State of Maine,
and attitudes remain good.
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Answer page.
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