With several new cadets joining us, this drill was filled with learning and camaraderie.
Bright and early on Saturday morning, we returned to the USS Whitehat for another engaging tour and hands-on training in line handling. Designed to replicate a typical naval vessel, the USS Whitehat never sails, yet it serves as an invaluable training resource at the Boatswain’s Mate schoolhouse at Naval Training Center Great Lakes. BM1 Davis warmly welcomed us and provided a thorough tour along with a quick lesson on line handling. The cadets eagerly participated in a few games to demonstrate their newfound skills, showcasing their teamwork and enthusiasm. A big thank you to BM1 Davis and the entire staff for their warm welcome and dedication to fostering the next generation of naval leaders!
After a long morning of line handling, the cadets got creative and built their own submarines—sandwiches, that is! A huge thank you to Ms. Keyser for providing such a delicious lunch. Your efforts are always appreciated, and you definitely deserve a big thumbs-up for keeping us well-nourished and our bellies full!"
No drill is complete without mandatory training! The cadets participated in an important training session about respect and safety, learning how to create a positive environment for everyone. This training helps them understand boundaries and how to support each other in a professional environment.
The SeaPerch Aqua-Robotics team dedicated more time to perfecting their robots, and their hard work is truly paying off. A big thank you to Instructor Burkut for all the time and effort you invest in guiding the team. Your support and expertise make a significant difference in their learning and development!
Continuing with our culinary curriculum, a highlight for many, cadets participated in a cooking class taught by Chef Robert Collins, owner and founder of Youthage Culinary Specialists, a non-profit cooking school for aspiring junior chefs. Youthage is located in Mundelein, IL. Under Chef Collins' guidance, the cadets learned to prepare Mediterranean Grilled Veggie Wraps from scratch, honing their culinary skills while fostering teamwork in the kitchen. A heartfelt thank you to Chef Collins for this wonderful class and for inspiring our cadets to explore the art of cooking!
After returning to base, the fun continued with delicious fondue and fresh fruit, making for a perfect ending to a fantastic drill weekend. A heartfelt thank you to everyone who contributed to making this drill weekend a success—your hard work and dedication truly shine!