Tuesday, February 16, 2010

Standing on Cuban Soil-11 FEB 2010


Today I visited Cuba for the first time. I was selected as the boat officer to pick up parts from the USS CARTER HALL and transfer people around on shore. The captain selected me in the event that the motor boat had an issue so I could see what was wrong with it as the auxiliaries officer. The boat acted sluggish at first, but then we got some air out of the fuel system and were able to make 25 knots good. Getting into Guantanamo Bay is an interesting experience. There is a leeward side and a windward side. Viper boats from the coast guard escort everyone. In the base, there are migrants and detainees in different areas. You have to report to the port control when you are crossing the southern boundary, mooring, and leaving. I had an escort boat the entire time. This morning became an adventure when I found the USS CARTER HALL was already underway with a tug. I had to pull alongside her and transfer the part via a rope. Their supply officer was standing by to make sure I signed all the proper paperwork before issuing me the part. After receiving the part, I dropped my chief off on the pier and picked up 2 passengers. My chief is going home on emergency leave for a little while. Sadly, his father has liver and lung cancer and has been given only 3-6 months to live. I am glad my chief was able to go home. I am hoping he will make it back to New Jersey where he is from given the snow storms in Washington DC.

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