The training ship Patriot State remains at her berth in Fort Rodman, Panama. Our weather is unchangeable - hot and humid. However, we can look forward to some relief on Thursday afternoon when we leave the Canal Zone.

Captain's Log:

Our stay in Panama has been quite busy. Thanks to the efforts of Lt. Don Antonangeli, our cadets have had the opportunity to take advantage of several different tours. Cadets and crew have visited the local rain forests, gone horseback riding ( those cadets are easily recognizable by how they're walking ) canoeing, and kayaking.

I have not witnessed any severe cases of sunburn...thanks to the serious campaign launched by our medical staff alerting all to the dangers of over-exposure. Education certainly turned out to be the best medicine in this case.

Yesterday, I had the privilege of meeting with the Administrator of the Panama Canal Commission. He is more than likely going to be the last PCC administrator appointed by an American President.

The Canal will be undergoing some changes in the next few years including - the Galliard Cut widening project, new locomotives for lock control, and a new Maritime Training Center that will serve Canal employees, and seaman from around the world.

Some of our officers and cadets took the opportunity to visit the Canal Training Simulator...they were allowed to pilot ships through the lock chambers. On a visit to the Miraflores Locks cadets were given the chance to operate the gate controls - the valves and signals used for actual locking of the ships. Believe it or not ...they were built back in 1912, and are still operating today.

Last night we hosted a reception for local dignitaries. It was a great chance for our cadets and crew to meet Panama Canal Commission officials, and most important, our very active Panama Chapter of the MMA Alumni Association. There were nearly 200 people in attendance. We were entertained by folk dancers, which were terrific. It was probably the best reception I have ever attended during my time aboard the Patriot State.

Tomorrow we will enroll ten Panamanian students from the Escuella Nautica De Panama. This group will sail with us for two-weeks. We created this in order to establish a cultural and educational exchange between our countries.

Tomorrow we sail toward the Realm of King Neptune. Can't wait!