Not often does one get the chance to reside within a U.S. Coast Guard vessel, a rarity indeed more so during Fleet Week. The USCGC Calhoun, an eminent Legend-class national security cutter with its base in South Carolina, was slated for a splendid journey beneath the iconic Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge as a proud component of the Parade of Ships. The offer to lodge for a night onboard symbolized an uncommonly indulged venture. The adventure commenced right from the moment of arrival at the Coast Guard’s headquarters in Staten Island’s Fort Wadsworth, preparing for the sojourn towards the position of USCGC Calhoun off New York City’s coast.
Embracing the salty sea breeze and the mesmerizing view below the expanse of the Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge were impactful moments on their own, highlighting perspective on this remarkable instance of structural engineering. The incessant crawl of vehicles over the bridge’s upper and lower tiers formed part of the constant urban panorama. The first step aboard the USCGC Calhoun revealed living quarters akin to an average college dormitory in dimensions.
These living spaces were designed to comfortably accommodate four occupants in double bunk beds and came furnished with amenities like a television, telephone, compact shower-and-toilet space along with a communal sink. Post settling in and unpacking, curiosity guided a tour around the vessel’s unique areas which unfolded mesmerizing vistas from every nook and cranny.
For its substantial size, the USCGC Calhoun displays a maze of purposeful entry and exit points, specifically devised considering the crew’s safety. Scaling the ship’s rungs introduced the wide-ranging facilities on board, from the rear deck & helipad to the stern, laundry room, recreational space, private dining zone for high-ranked officers, food storage freezers, and the sizeable hangar.
Mealtime was heralded by the tantalizing offering of either a succulent beef lasagna or zesty ziti noodles bathed in tangy marinara sauce, fused with cheese. This was complemented by a side serving of fresh asparagus spears and crunchy garlic bread, all the courtesy of the ship’s praiseworthy culinary squad.
Upon dinner’s conclusion, a sneak-peek into the ship’s nerve center, the bridge, unveiled a sophisticated navigation apparatus in operation. This was a prime moment of observing the crew in action, steering the large vessel by the orders of Captain Matthew Hammond. The vesting with a Calhoun Challenge Coin, a keepsake signifying a distinct achievement or event linked with the U.S. Coast Guard, marked this occasion.
The ensuing morning aboard the Calhoun was signaled by a hearty breakfast spread. Wholesome servings of piping hot sausage, crispy bacon, fluffy eggs, crunchy hash browns, and biscuits smothered with homemade gravy were expertly prepared and presented by the ship’s seasoned chef.
The grandeur of the ship’s official entry to Fleet Week was amplified by being accompanied by NYPD patrollers and U.S. Navy crafts as they sailed beneath the Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge for the third soaring passage. As the weather turned more hostile, causing the chill to nip and the rain to drizzle, the troop retreated indoors for warmer confines.
The expedition concluded at the 90th Street dock situated on the plush Upper East Side sector of Manhattan. The ship’s contingent began preparations to disembark, packing their carry-ons while looking back at an unforgettable voyage.
In essence, the brief stay aboard the vessel, one alien to most travelers, imparts an uncanny feeling of camaraderie and belonging. The entire journey’s essence was not just about the visit but also integrated a profound sense of shared experience with the ship’s crew.
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