WELCOME ABOARD!

This is the first of many articles that should keep you informed about what is going on with trainings aboard the SS Jeremiah O'Brien. Many of these posts will include educational info, pictures, training dates, and other things you generally might find interesting.

The first post is dedicated to the initial training Arkansas division had aboard the ship. In addition to doing a great job decorating number 2 tween hold for the holidays, Cadets were briefed on the ship's initial ground rules (posted below the photos), given a tour of the ship's relevant spaces, and more importantly, a more in-depth tour by Oiler/Wiper Steve Wright of the engine room. Cadet's also cleaned up different compartments in preparation for the fast approaching Leaguer ball.

Thanks for Mr. Wright for the tour, and enjoy the few photos below.

Cadets receiving a tour of the engine room and instruction by Steve Wright.

Dedicated decorating by Cadets, Midn. Freitas and Instructor Tapia in No. 2 Tween.

Chief Freitas and Instructor Ritchie follow down the ladders from the flying bridge as part of the ship's tour.

Below are the safety rules that we discussed in our first meeting aboard ship. Know these well, so that you keep yourself and others safe. In case you forget, these will be in number 3 for your reference.

Safety Rules

REMEMBER, YOU ARE ON A WORKING SHIP. Following the orders below will insure your safety:

1. SAFETY FIRST! Be careful and aware of your surroundings at all times.

2. Keep one hand on the ship when going down ladders. NO EXCEPTIONS!

3. If carrying something, also keep one hand on the ship, and one on the object you are carrying. Do not lift more than you can easily carry. If the object is too heavy to lift with one hand, ask for help.

4. When going through an entry way, keep you head low, and your knees high.

5. When walking on deck, always be mindful of what is on deck or around you. Be especially aware of those working in your area, power cords, or lines.

6. NO running or jumping on the ship at any time. The deck is unforgiving, and will hurt you, should you fall.

7. If you barrow it, put it back in better condition than when you took it.

8. If at any time, you are asked by a supervisor to STOP what you are doing, STOP immediately.

9. While working, follow any orders you are given immediately to insure safety.

10. Always clean up what you are working on and return all tools before you leave. If you do not know where something goes, ask, then return it.

11. Advise your leading Petty Officer or Officer of your intended position at all times.

PROCEDURES WHEN ARRIVING

1. SIGN IN SHIP’S CADET LOG
   
2. SIGN IN FOR CHOW
   
3. REPORT TO SHIPS LIAISON OFFICER
   
4. SECURE SPACE FOR BRIEFING AND GEAR STOWAGE
   
5. CLEAN & PREPARE SPACE
   
6. REVIEW POD WITH LIAISON OFFICER OR INSTRUCTOR
   
7. BEGIN WORK PARTY OR INSTRUCTION
   
8. CHOW
   
9. CONTINUE WORK PARTY OR INSTRUCTION
   
10. SECURE SPACE AND CLEAN UP
    
11. SIGN OUT OF CADET LOG
    
12. LEAVE SHIP

SSJOB Command Structure

Below is the command structure of a Liberty Ship.  The O'Brien differs slightly to this in that we also have a ship keeper, who is in charge while in port, and a Board of Directors, who are responsible for keeping the ship operational (they act like the company who owns the ship).  You should be familiar with this command structure so that you know how each department operates, but remember that you report to your Sea Cadet leadership while onboard, which means your LPO, or adult Officers.  Also, while on the ship, you will be paired with a fellow Cadet, in a "Buddy System."  While working on the ship, you should be with, or know where your buddy is at all times.