Emilia Higgins

While onboard the M/V Ocean Grand, I assisted in daily maintenance and navigation of the vessel. During this time, our vessel was transporting construction equipment to Mersin, Turkey as well as explosives to Tripoli, Libya. I gained experience standing cargo watch as well as monitoring the cargo daily. Additionally, I became proficient in operating the cranes onboard for the purpose of moving tween decks, deck equipment/lashing gear.

I spent 78 days onboard the USNS Leroy Grumman (T-AO 195). While onboard, I gained experience in loading and discharging JP5 and DFM (class DL). I was onboard while our vessel was attached to the USS Ford strike group, and we assisted in numerous underway replenishments with the members of the group including the USS Wasp, USS Normandy, USS Higbee, and USS Ford. During my time on th

Assisted with the loading, discharge, and transportation of United States Military vehicles and equipment from Jacksonville, FL to discharge ports in Africa and Europe. As a Deck Cadet on board, I gained experience standing watch, navigating the vessel through heavy traffic areas, operating the cranes onboard, as well as planning and maintaining ship stability while loading cargo and ballasting.

Worked on board the M/V CAPE DUCATO (ROS) as a deck cadet, and learned the basics of general vessel maintenance, and the responsibilities that must be upheld by a Keystone Shipping Company third mate–especially pertaining to the safety of all vessel personnel.