free time to pursue additional training . I was able to qualify as a Lookout , Helmsman and Aft Helmsman , completing the Personal Qualifying Standard , ( PQS ), and practical and oral examinations .
After tying up in Bermuda , I helped at a reception , a�ended by government officials , business , and community leaders , onboard the Eagle . I met Ed Christopher , Hamilton ’ s first and only Town Crier . I had shore leave in Bermuda and was able to visit several bird sanctuaries , Blue Hole , National Museum of Bermuda , Gibbs Hill Lighthouse , and the Crystal Cave .
The last leg of our journey was a transit from Bermuda , back
Carole with Bermuda Town Crier .
Capt Patrick A . Culver 16th Gold ( officer ) Ancient Mariner .
to New London , Connecticut , working with Patrick . Theodore had finished his duty and had left the ship in Bermuda . The weather in this part of the Atlantic was squally at times and we had to make sure to secure plates and other items that might slide on the countertop as the ship rolled . This was also my favorite part of the trip , because we were sailing a lot of the time .
Cooking on the ship while sailing is tricky because in addition to rolling with the sea , the ship is heeled over at an angle , so if you are making food on the griddle , it will run toward the low side . It was fun , learning how to time pouring eggs on the griddle so that it would coincide with the movement of the ship .
As a college professor , I enjoyed working with the Cadets in the galley and watching them train in ship duties such as navigation , leadership , dam-
20 OVER THE BOW USCGAUX FIRST DISTRICT SOUTHERN REGION - WINTER 2023