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