Mission to Africa – Pit stop in Portugal

Friday, July 2, 2010

Posted by: Victoria Bonk

The Mohawk approaches Funchal, Portugal, for a logistics stop before heading to West Africa. Photo by Petty Officer 3rd Class Victoria Bonk

Week three, we have reached our first port call! Funchal, Portugal. It is a town located on the island of Madeira just off the coast of West Africa. We stopped here for logistics before we make our way to Africa. The crew was granted liberty while we were here to take in the sights. Most of the crew took tours of the island and its many breathtaking views. Some went on hikes and some rode the traditional toboggans down the mountain, but now it is back to work.

“There was breathtaking views from the cable cars and amazing ocean views from my hotel balcony. Portugal is one place I hope to return to again,” said Petty Officer 2nd Class Timothy Eckery, a storekeeper aboard the Mohawk. “This visit to Portugal was a once in a lifetime opportunity and to be there when Portugal played Spain in the world cup was an amazing experience.”

“The local cuisine was similar to food in America but without all the spices and fatty ingredients. The locals were very accepting and social with us during our visit,” said Seaman Ronald Craven, a crewmember aboard the Mohawk. “Even though on game day Portugal lost, we still had a blast representing them in their home country.”

A cadet aboard Mohawk mans the bridge during a special sea detail. Photo by Petty Officer 3rd Class Victoria Bonk

We got underway again Wednesday. Now we are headed to Africa to accomplish our mission to work with our African partners to help them build the capacities and capabilities necessary to make their borders stronger and less porous against drugs and other contraband.

Everyone on the crew has much to do before we arrive in Africa; the ship is up early and is very busy for the next few days. Every department is “turning-to.”

As this week wrapped up we have started to work on and accomplish some of our goals for this trip. We saw a place we have never seen before and may never see again and we took in a new culture and experiences we may not have ever encountered before all while growing personally and professionally.

Keeping checking the Coast Guard Blog for more Mohawk updates and photos. Mohawk photos can also be found in this Flickr set.

PA3 Victoria Bonk, CGC Mohawk

  • Robin Bonk

    Love the update. So very proud of the professionalism of this crew. Keep up the good work. Victoria the pictures are great let someone take one of you.
    Love Mom

  • Abby Bullock

    Ms. Bonk -

    Thank you so much for keeping me “connected”. It helps to close the gap while you guys are away. Please give my regards to BMC and the rest of the crew. Safe travels!

    Regards,

    Abby Bullock

  • Don Klapproth

    I’ve always been proud of the time I spent serving in the Coast Guard’65-’71. I’m especially proud of all the different duties the CG performs for our Country,the great old USA.What I don’t understand is the CG going to Africa to help them control their borders when we at home sit with our home borders as open as a piece of swiss cheese. Arizona is the prime example.Do our goverment officials do thejob they are responsibe to do and close and protect our own borders? No, but we send our Coast Guard to show Africa how to!
    I know you will do a terriffic job and represent our country well! Keep up the GREAT WORK.

  • Nick Guerrero

    I was part of the West Africa Training Cruise (WATC 88). Enjoy this trip and learn as much as you can. Remember that you are always representing our service and our country, on duty or off duty. I thoroughly enjoyed my African experience with the USCG. One tip to all the crew, listen to the Doc, and take you Malaria pills.

  • Klaus G.E. Baumann

    interesting update. It would be nice if you would post your progress with photos on Facebook. My best to CDR Hendrickson and the fine crew.

  • Jorge Arroyo

    As a WATC’86 alumnus, I ditto Nick’s comments, and, also add to not venture out on your own — I’m sure Commandante Hendrickson and the XO will order it so. Other than that, enjoy the voyage, discover the countries, meet the people, taste the food and bring Pepto. You’ll have many ‘sea stories’ after this one!

  • Michael

    Bonk,

    It looks like you and the crew are having fun exploring the Atlantic together. I’ve enjoyed the blog so far and was really glad I was able to see you before you left. Stay safe and keep pounding out the good photos and stories.

    Michael