As of 0800 this morning the training ship Patriot State was located at 5 degrees 26.4 minutes north latitude, 077 degrees 38 minutes west longitude, five miles south-south-west of Corrientes, Columbia - Steering a course of 179 degrees true at a speed of 11.7 knots. No visible swell - partly cloudy, 92 degrees, and the sea temperature is 80 degrees. Depth of the water beneath the keel is 1200 meters.

Captain's Log:

During the past twenty-four hours we have been hit with rising temperatures that are approaching the mid 90's. For some, this is a welcome respite from the chill of the north, however, many of our cadets and crew find it uncomfortable and look forward to some cool relief.

Last night we held our memorial service for Commander Robert Strautman. It was a moving tribute to our departed shipmate. Father Jim Houston conducted the service, and spoke of how one can find solace and strength in how they come to terms with the death of a friend or colleague. Admiral Peter M. Mitchell, then read a passage from the bible..the Cadet Honor Guard presented arms...and the three cadets tasked with maintaining a medical watch over Commander Strautman in his last days carried flowers to the rail and dropped them into the sea. I selected a favorite poem of mariners - Alfred Lord Tennyson's - "Crossing the Bar" ...to close out the service. It was a moving tribute to a wonderful and devoted guy.

So now our journey to the equator moves on with great anticipation. We expect to reach the equator Sunday morning at 0800. Tonight I am expecting a message from Davy Jones that will instruct me to prepare the ship for the arrival of His Majesty Neptunus Rex, and the royal party.