As of 0800 Wednesday 14 January 1998, the Patriot State was located at 27 degrees 52' north and longitude 074 degrees 02' west. Speed 15 knots. Course 180 degrees. Air temperature 67 degrees F. Sea water temperature 76 F. Weather - mostly sunny, occasional clouds on the horizon. Winds light and variable. Seas out of the southwest at 3 feet. Vessel motion - steady.

 Captain's Log:

Under sunny skies and seventy-five degree temperatures the Patriot State continues to steam toward Panama. The tropical temperature and gentle southeast breezes, are clearly a welcome respite from the chill and cold of the northeast.

During their 'free time'... a large number of cadets are enjoying the Patriot State's version of Fort Lauderdale beach. Steel beach, as our cadets affectionately refer to it, is made up of the ships fore deck. Over the years, it has become a popular gathering spot for off watch sunseekers.

 Last night we passed through the Sargasso Sea. Cadets were able to see the sargassum seaweed, from which the sea draws its name[sigma]and several sea turtles that inhabit the area.

 As we continue our preparations for the canal crossing, you can sense the excitement building. Cadets are currently reviewing their sailing plans, which were completed in preparation for the transit; they are continuing with their daily canal history lessons from Dr. Rob O'Leary, a professor of social science at MMA.

 Just four days and a wake up... and our historic ship will once again be back in the Canal Zone. Can't wait!