The International Maritime Officers Course (IMOC) is a ten week course, which is designed to educate and further enhance the existing skill of the world’s maritime officers, whilst giving an insight into the United States Coast Guard (USCG). I was given my joining instructions and briefed by my executive officer, then off I went. The course began on the 24th of September and saw representatives from all the continents present, from Cameroon to Bangladesh to Kuwait to Australia and Jamaica.

After three flights and over fourteen hours of traveling, I was finally there, yes! The Coast Guard Training Centre in Yorktown Virginia. I was met by a representative of the staff who by any figure of the imagination was a pleasant sight indeed. We were put in groups of two and giving our birthing instructions, my shipmate and friend was A captain from Bangladesh by the name of Shohidul Islam.

Training at the institution varied from International Legal Studies to Law Enforcement. Being the youngest and the most junior member of the course I was hitting well above my belt. The skills and knowledge that I have gained in such a short time in the force, proved to be invaluable among my fellow mates on the course.

Apart of the training was a two week tour of the country and the head quarters of the USCG. I was privileged by being selected lay a wreath at the grave sight of George Washington the first president of the United States of America, as well as visiting the White House and Gettysburg the turning point of the American civil war.

The course like all good things came to an end, even though I was happy to be going home, the friendships experiences gain from my ship mates will never leave, as we say:
“GOOD SEAS AND FOLLOWING WINDS”

By Sub Lieutenant Hanif Gray