Who’s on the river today? And, our change in the weather could include snow

Who’s on the river today? And, our change in the weather could include snow

We’ll take a look at ships traveling on the river today, talk about cargo and why some ships anchor at both ends instead of just at the bow. We’ll also talk a little about what might be in store, in terms of snow on the coast, over the next few days.

The USNS Guadalupe on the river

The USNS Guadalupe on the river

Today we have a USNS ship heading downriver, a not uncommon sight here on the Columbia. That offers a great opportunity to talk about the MIlitary Sealift Command, what they do, how they differ from regular Navy ships and a bit about today’s vessel in paticular, the USNS Guadalupe.

Photo courtesy US Navy: PHILIPPINE SEA (Feb. 4, 2022) Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Spruance (DDG 111) conducts replenishment-at-sea with fleet replenishment oiler USNS Guadalupe (T-AO 200). Abraham Lincoln Strike Group is on a scheduled deployment in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations to enhance interoperability through alliances and partnerships while serving as a ready-response force in support of a free and open Indo-Pacific region. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Taylor Crenshaw)

Situational awareness: a valuable life skill that defines mariners and first responders

Situational awareness: a valuable life skill that defines mariners and first responders

Today we’ll talk about something that mariners and some specialized land-based jobs share: the need for “situational awareness.” That’s the abillity to pay focused attention to what’s going on around you, and being able to respond appropriately. That means remaining calm, and no panicking.