East Stroudsburg University's Marine Science Club, a club composed of students of the school dedicated to expanding their knowledge of the ocean, reached out to both Ship 90 New Milford, PA and Ship 198 Lewes, DE last spring. Their purpose in doing this was sparked by an interest in learning to sail and was expedited by a member of Ship 90 and the ESU MSC, Chris Powers. Chris proceeded to get in touch with both Ship 90 and 198 and a daylong sail training cruise was planned in Lewes, Delaware. From Ship 90, Skipper Charles Jaget, Boatswain Joshua Warner, and ordinary seaman Chris Powers crewed the "Coup D'Etate" and the "Sea Angel" of Ship 198. Bill Sharp, the Executive Officer from Ship 198 was generous enough to donate his time as well for the training.
The Sea Angel
Overall this experience was rated successful by all parties. The Marine Science Club was thrilled to have learned and practiced the skill and procedure required to sail a cruising sailboat. All of them can be quoted as saying that they learned more than they could have hoped for in one day of sailing. The Sea Scouts were also pleased with how this event played out and were very impressed with the enthusiasm, work ethic, and willingness to learn that these students displayed on the boats. This experience was considered successful by all and is a wonderful example of how cooperation between organizations within the community can be mutual beneficial. There are plans by both organizations to continue a cooperative effort with the MSC offering enthusiastic students and the Sea Scouts offering the boats and instruction.
