way, my original dream job being realized, but as a cook.
The original plan was for Auxiliarists to spend a week or two on the ship, but with scheduling and budgetary considerations, with few exceptions, they would need to serve longer duty tours. After much discussion and planning, it was decided that I would embark on CGC Eagle in Galveston, Texas on June 11, 2022, and sail with her until the return to New London, Connecticut, July 21 st.
I knew the workdays would be long and conditions at sea might be rough, but I approached the journey with an open mind and excited anticipation. My only concern was, could I keep up the pace for 41 days. I thought about all those weekends on CGC Eagle and so felt comfortable in my,“ second home”, and was looking forward to whatever challenges I would face on the trip.
I set off for Galveston via Houston with 2 duffel bags containing 70 pounds of clothing and essentials recommended in the Eagle“ Welcome and Orientation Guide”. At Houston I was met by
Carole in the wardroom galley.
BOSN2 Brandon Hines, our previous OIC from Station Long Island and his wife Melinda. They gave me a quick tour of Houston and a Tex Mex Lunch with another friend, BM1 McGuigan and her family, before heading off to the ship.
Once I spied the Eagle’ s tall masts, I knew I was“ home” and all the pre-trip ji�ers regarding loss of luggage, missing connections faded into the past as I realized, I was really going to go underway.
My gear safely stowed in my quarters, I a�ended a port call briefing where we learned to do’ s and don’ ts and tourist opportunities for visiting Galveston. I walked to town where I met the crew of the local tall ship, Elissa, and spent an afternoon with them.
For the next two days, I enjoyed walking around Galveston, meeting the Eagle crew and cadets and served food at
16 OVER THE BOW USCGAUX FIRST DISTRICT SOUTHERN REGION- WINTER 2023