Few experiences in life compare to the rare opportunity of being aboard a United States Coast Guard vessel, particularly during the celebrated Fleet Week. The USCGC Calhoun, an illustrious Legend-class national security cutter harbored in South Carolina, was primed to sail beneath the renowned Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge as a component of the much-admired Parade of Ships.
An invite to linger for a night on this vessel was perceived as an entry to a seldom encountered journey. Embarking at the Coast Guard’s base in Fort Wadsworth on Staten Island, a uniquely exciting voyage kicked off to the stationed location of the USCGC Calhoun, just off the coast of the Big Apple.
The amalgamation of salt-infused sea breeze and the view from under the sprawling expanse of the Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge furnished an unparalleled viewpoint of the urban marvel while autos on both the upper and lower lanes persisted on their routes overhead.
Transitioning on to the USCGC Calhoun, guests found their overnight accommodations to be strikingly similar to an average university dorm room. The living quarters hosted four individuals with pairs of bunk beds and were outfitted with amenities like a television, a landline, compact bathing/toilet facilities, along with a sink in the general area.
The ship’s vast corners were accessible from the quarters, providing an exhaustive view of the surroundings. Once the luggage was neatly arranged and the beds neatly set, attendees readily embarked on their exploration of the vessel.
The USCGC Calhoun, thanks to its grand scale, exhibits myriad points of entry and exit, a thoughtful detail aimed at the safeguarding of the crew members. It was exciting navigating the ship’s corridors, heading up the ship’s ladders to tour areas such as the rear deck, the helipad, stern, kitchen, laundry facilities, leisure room, exclusive dining room for higher-ranked personnel, food storage freezers, and the aircraft hangar.
When it came time for supper, choices presented included beef lasagna or ziti pasta with flavorful marinara sauce and cheese, supplemented with asparagus and fragrant garlic bread. This mouthwatering fare was the creation of the ship’s accomplished culinary team.
Post dining, participants were invited to visit the ship’s command center, also known as the bridge, where they could observe the intricate navigation systems and the crew skillfully maneuvering the ship under the responsible guidance of Captain Matthew Hammond.
Visitors were also given a Calhoun Challenge Coin during their visit. This token is a prestigious memento that represents a unit under the U.S. Coast Guard or symbolizes an important achievement or occasion.
The subsequent morning aboard the Calhoun began with an appetizing breakfast spread. The ship’s dedicated chef prepared a diverse menu that included fresh sausage, crisp bacon, perfectly cooked eggs, hash browns, and biscuits served with a hearty portion of gravy.
The much-awaited highlight of the Fleet Week – the ship’s grand entrance – occurred shortly after breakfast. The ship, flanked by NYPD marine units and U.S. Navy vessels, made its magnificent passage beneath the Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge for the third instances since it was anchored.
As the weather unexpectedly turned brisk and rainy, the ship’s occupants smoothly transitioned their activities indoors. When the vessel finally reached the 90th Street dock in the affluent Upper East Side of Manhattan, it was a hive of activity as everyone gathered their belongings preparing for their eventual disembarkation.
Even though being on the ship was similar to entering an unfamiliar territory, an underlying sense of camaraderie was felt and was evident in every interaction. Throughout the voyage, one could not help but sense a feeling of inclusion and of being part of the crew.
The unique experience of spending time aboard the USCGC Calhoun, touring the ship, sharing meals with the crew, and observing their life at sea, was an unforgettable testimony to the prowess and the tireless work of the U.S. Coast Guard.
While the journey came to an end, the memorable experiences aboard the USCGC Calhoun remain as snapshot echoes of an extraordinary Fleet Week, reflective of being part of something inherently special and larger than oneself. The sights heard, seen, and shared reaffirm the memorable mark this experience leaves on those fortunate enough to be on board.
The post An Unforgettable Voyage: Spending Fleet Week on the USCGC Calhoun appeared first on Real News Now.
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