Sea Scout Tessa Ramsey likes the big family atmosphere of all the crew when the Sea Scouts are on a cruise. The Kauai Sea Scout Ship “Decisive” traveled 900 nautical miles for a total of 45 days in 2015, states
Sea Scout Tessa Ramsey likes the big family atmosphere of all the crew when the Sea Scouts are on a cruise.
The Kauai Sea Scout Ship “Decisive” traveled 900 nautical miles for a total of 45 days in 2015, states a commendation certificate authored by Kauai County Council member Arryl Kaneshiro Wednesday at the Historic County Building.
The certificate congratulates Decisive for being named to the Sea Scout National Flagship Fleet, one of only eight units in the country to receive the award in 2016.
“This is quite an achievement,” said Sea Scout Commodore Larry Richardson. “When we first started the unit, I was just grateful that we were bigger than we were the year previous. To be honored as a Sea Scout National Fleet means we are among the best Sea Scout units in the nation.”
The Sea Scout National Flagship Fleet Award is presented by the Boat Owners Association of the United States, and the Sea Scouts, Boy Scouts of America, and recognizes Sea Scout units that boast excellence in program quality, youth achievement, and adult commitment.
Ross Kagawa, a Kauai County councilman, said the Sea Scouts are worthy of this recognition.
“I know,” Kagawa said. “Three of my students are Sea Scouts, and if they were here, it would take me longer than my allotted time to find out more about them, and the program. With Kauai being surrounded by water and so many people working with boats, this is an important program.”
Scouts learn to plot courses using a depth-sounder and marine radio, reading nautical charts, monitoring food and fuel all the wile staying on course, states the certificate. When on board, everyone carries their own weight.
“One of the best ways to learn is to throw people on a boat where they need to work together,” said Mel Rapozo. “Treasure this experience that you are not going to find anywhere else.”
Richardson said the Decisive crew also received a special shoulder patch and the unit received a special flag.
The Kauai Sea Scout Ship “Decisive” is under the command of Richardson, adult officers Melissa Greenberg and Opal Livingston, and youth crew members Tessa Ramsey, Alexis Baldwin, Naya Greenberg, Lauren Brake, Sage Ioanna, Joselyn Supan, Jonah Fritsch, Faith Gabour, Tiger Fugett, Chandler Martiney, Kailee Mayer, Lucas Freitas-Diaz, and Melody-Ann Marie Mendoza.
