DAY 11: Emster is an AIMster

July 16, 2021

DAY 11: Emster is an AIMster

Observation of the day

We are so fortunate to have women and men who serve & protect our country every day.

Quote of the day

“This might sound bad, but I only missed you for the first two days.” – EM as she told us about her week-long summer Coast Guard experience.

The sports fields at the Academy, river on one
side, train tracks on the other!

VM: Today, JM and I arrived at the Coast Guard Academy in New London, CT right at 9am to participate in Family Day for AIM (Academy Introduction Mission). Before we got to see EM, the CG recruiters, admissions and administrative personnel gave detailed presentations which essentially “sold” the CG. They did a great job explaining how this branch of the military differed from others. Ultimately, they spoke a lot about “Humanitarian Service” – essentially maritime safety & security, environmental protection and national defense. One of the things which impressed us the most is after the Academy, a cadet has to provide 5 years of service. After 5 years, 85% of these leaders STAY in the Coast Guard. Says a lot about people liking what they do!

Finally, after the morning program and lunch, we were invited to the AIM Graduation Ceremony. This was the first time we had gotten a glimpse of EM as she marched in with her platoon with a sincere look on her face. There was no way to tell if our own personal AIMster was happy to be there or ready to be done! The suspense was killing us.

After some more inspirational speeches which were incredibly well-crafted and delivered, the class was “graduated” and marched out to their dorms. Then, we waited anxiously for about 30 minutes before she finally appeared with her luggage.

The wide smile on her face said it all. She had had a tough but wonderful week. A big thumbs up! So, now she continues to work to be accepted – physical training & maintaining grades are her priorities. Regardless of how it all ends up, we are proud of her and what she has accomplished.

A happy EMster.

Checking out the football field.

A message for the AIMsters!

Proud of her.

After freshening up at the hotel, we went into Mystic for a celebratory dinner at Mariner’s (https://themarinermystic.com) which is on the main street downtown. After a delish meal, we walked around and had to indulge one last time in the Mystic Drawbridge Ice Cream (http://www.mysticdrawbridgeicecream.com). After a bit more walking, we were all pooped and headed home as we need to drop JM at the airport tomorrow & drive 6+ hours to Harper’s Ferry, WV. All in all, we were happy to be here to support EM as she maps out her next steps and starts her senior year.

The CG mascot!

EM: I had a blast. In the beginning, I was second-guessing if I wanted to come here or not because it was so tough. But by today, I didn’t want to leave. GO BEARS!!!