Admiral's Journal: July 23, 2010
Dear Faculty, Staff, Parents and Friends,
It has been an honor and pleasure to be aboard the Empire State for Summer Sea Term ’10! By every measure, this has been the best summer at sea I have spent aboard Empire State. We were challenged by having to do two Summer Sea Terms this summer because of the largest number of cadets in recent history who needed time at sea. While two terms had been done before, in the mid ‘70’s, it was new to everyone aboard. We figured out how to get 300 or so cadets and staff to and from New York and Dublin, Ireland, and both evolutions were superbly executed due to the detailed and meticulous planning undertaken by Captain Smith and his staff. The training the cadets received was tremendous, particularly for the 1st class cadets who were onboard for both terms. The maintenance and repair of the ship while deployed was the most extensive in recent memory. Although extensive, every task, whether repairing or fabricating parts, cutting out old steel and welding in new steel, or preparing and painting bulkheads and decks, was all professionally carried out.
To our ship’s officers, faculty and staff: You have done a tremendous job on the bridge and on deck, in the engine room and in the classroom. I thank you for making a difference for us all, most especially our cadets. In addition to your positions aboard the ship, you have been mentors and role models for the cadets, and they could not have had better! To Chartwells and the hospitality staff: my thanks to you all for everything you have done to make our time aboard comfortable and enjoyable. It has truly been a pleasure to sail with you all.
To our cadets: it has been a pleasure to have been with you this summer. I continue to marvel at all that you are learning, how well you are applying what you have learned when standing watch and working in the engine room and the talent and professionalism you have exhibited in the maintenance and repair of the ship. I’ll always cherish the memories of seeing you come off watch, or from an exam, or from completing a job with a smile of satisfaction in knowing that you did a great job. You are the inspiration behind all that we do each day. Thanks for making my time with you so rewarding and satisfying.
As I leave to return to New York, I take with me many fond memories of our time together on the ship and in port. I wish you a safe and enjoyable transit back across the Atlantic, and I look forward to seeing you back at Fort Schuyler on August 7!
Sincerely,
John Craine
John W. Craine, Jr.
President
