Log - August-10-2003 by Robert McCarthy Previous | Next Expedition Expedition | People Morale night Robert McCarthy Last night was “morale night” on the Healy. Each Saturday night, a different unit helps prepare dinner. Last night, it was the scientific party’s turn. Head of morale planning was Dr. Helen Johnson. As a group, we decided to make pizza for dinner and crème pies for dessert. Gerhard Behrens and I worked on a banner that we placed over the serving line, and everybody on the scientific team that wasn’t busy taking measurements helped prepare the food. It was a lot of fun in the kitchen getting everything ready for dinner at 17:00 hours. It felt good to offer a gesture of our appreciation for what the cooks do day in, and day out. They have done an excellent job all cruise, and I thank them for all of their care in the preparation of every meal. Movies are a big thing on the ship, and the crew shows four movies per night piped through the ship’s cable system. So anywhere there is a TV, you can tune in and watch. There is a nice big-screen TV right behind the science conference room with seating for at least 10, which is a popular spot to relax after a long day. Every Saturday after dinner, there is bingo in the galley; a nice place for the crew to relax and have fun together. The science team is welcome to play and have a good time. Last night, there were board-games up in the science conference lounge. I know everybody had a good time. Morale is a big concern on the ship. I have seen no altercations anywhere on board, and I sense a family and team camaraderie. Everybody is away from family, and they are all feeling far removed from loved ones. So they bond together to form a second family here on the ship, where everybody is looking out for everyone else. I’ve had an excellent experience on the ship, and have nothing but the best to say about everyone I’ve met. Speaking of missing family members, today is my 12 year wedding anniversary to my wife, Julie, who I deeply miss, along with our two children Wes and Syd. I’ll be home soon. Love, Bob.