cadet blogs

Leading Others

(The Cadet Experience, Class of 2013) Permanent link All Posts

I wrote the following entry on the eve of Swab Summer 2011. Having completed my responsibility as Cadre during Swab Summer 2011, reading my thoughts before the experience reminds me of who I was before, and how far I have come since. The following was written in June of 2011…

“It has been a rapid-paced five weeks since our proud Class of 2013 was promoted to the rank of 2/c cadet. Our class is finally ready to cast aside the red shields and bring on the challenges that come with wearing the white shields. The famous white shields distinguish 2/c cadets from the other cadets at the Academy. Aside from the much appreciated pay raise that comes with our promotion, this transition also marks the first time we will be called to lead. In a short amount of time, my classmates will take the reins of Chase Hall, and they will lead the incoming Class of 2015 through their Swab Summer. The white shields that we wear on our uniforms distinguish us as Cadre, and they signify leadership.

The experience that is 2/c summer is one that I will never forget. I have received a vast amount of training that is helping me develop a diverse skill set. Throughout the past few weeks, I have qualified on the pistol range, successfully navigated the Colgate sailing vessels, and piloted a C-130 Hercules just off the coast of the Outer Banks. The Academy has exposed me to numerous successful officers and enlisted members who have made the Coast Guard a career. Thanks to my experiences this summer, I am eager to get back out in the fleet and continue my own adventure in the Coast Guard.

I recognize that I still have a long way to go, and a lot to learn along the way. The remainder of my Academy journey begins this summer with my experience as Cadre. Filling the position of a Swab Summer Cadre promises to be one of the most challenging and rewarding experiences that I have yet encountered. My classmates and I couldn’t be more excited to step up and lead. Anxiousness has also set in. Up to this point in my cadet career, I have only had to “lead self”. As Cadre, however, I will be charged with “leading others”. I must guarantee that each and every swab I am responsible for will remain safe for the duration of the summer. The swabs in Charlie Company will be my responsibility, and I must train them to the best of my ability. Taking responsibility and being accountable for more than thirty other young Americans promises to be a humbling learning experience for my shipmates and myself. That being said, I am more than confident that the Class of 2013 is ready to step up and answer the bell.”

More about Jake.

Posted by Leann Strickland at 2/14/2012 12:53 PM