05/31/2026
Happy Summer Cruise Sunday! ⚓️🌺
MIDN 2/C Maynard recently returned from a Phase 0 Surface Cruise in Hawaii with DDG-108 Wayne E Meyer while they were assisting the Royal Australian Navy helicopter crew get qualified for DDG landings for the upcoming RIMPAC exercise.
MIDN Maynard took the opportunity to participate in several training events. He participated in VBSS (tactical boarding, search, & seizure) shooting the .50 Cal Browning M2; exploring the engineering spaces; and working with the deck division. He also had the opportunity to watch a neighboring ship’s change of command ceremony.
He also explored around Hawaii in his free time. From hiking Diamond Head park, an old military base from WW2, to trying local cuisines, and exploring the beautiful beaches, he was able to get the Hawaii experience while training.
One of MIDN Maynard’s favorite parts of his cruise was a ship event where all the ship’s officers (including the CO and XO) served ice cream to the crew.
Summer Cruise is a great opportunity for Midshipmen to travel and explore while getting leadership training and experience.