October 2, 2021 USCGC Eagle Thames River Connecticut

October 2, 2021. We had booked a 6:30 pm ferry leaving New London Connecticut enroute Orient Point. Being way ahead of schedule, we decided to see if we could catch an earlier ferry, which was not to be. The Coast Guard Cutter Eagle was tied up on the slip adjacent the ferry terminal, so with time to kill, I took a stroll down to see if I could get close enough to get a good look at her. To my surprise, there was an open gate which allowed the public entry to the pier. After speaking with Boatswains Mate 2nd Class Thompson, he informed me that I was able to do a self guided tour till 4 pm. When a Coast Guard Apprentice/SA reports aboard his ship for the first time, he would show his orders to the Quartermaster of the Watch. From there he would make his way up the gangway, turn to his left and salute the Ensign/American Flag. After rendering a hand salute to Old Glory, he would turn towards the bridge, salute the Officer of the Deck/OOD and ask permission to come aboard! At least that’s the way I remember it, it’s been over 40 years. I hope you enjoyed the videos of USCGC Eagle, formally the Horst Wessel. Semper Paratus BM2 Tommy May