‘‘It helps them a lot, it’s the first step in their journey to the real Navy,” said Boatswain’s Mate 3rd Class Daniel Cade, an instructor aboard YP 696.

The Plebes set off on a three-hour cruise from the Academy to the Navy Operational Support Center in Baltimore. Along the way, they received training on fire fighting, line handling, navigation and basic shipboard terms and knowledge.

For fire fighting, the Plebes worked with petty officers on the damage control training team, trying on flash gear and learning the basics of using a fire hose aboard the ship.

In line handling training, the Plebes worked with instructors to see the process of mooring to a pier and how a line is stowed aboard a ship.

The Plebes were also able to go on the bridge for navigation training to see how all of the instruments play a part in charting a correct course, and some volunteered to take the helm and steer the ship. This is not only an exercise in navigation skills, but also to test their ability to handle themselves under pressure.

‘‘I want to see that they have the courage to step up to the plate and actually try - give their effort,” said Midn. 1⁄C Kelly Maher, a Plebe Summer detailer.

Along with the basic curriculum, the Sailors also offer advice to the Plebes.

‘‘We want to teach them that if they treat their people well, they’ll return the favor,” said Engineman 2nd Class (SW) Daniel O’Neil, an instructor on YP 696. O’Neil stressed the importance of knowledge of the ship, drilling the Plebes on the differences between trim and list.

On the YP, the detailers take the opportunity to step back and let the Plebes get some interaction with enlisted Sailors. But as soon as they’re off the YP, the detailers regain control.

‘‘I’m going to try to develop them the best that I can,” said Maher. ‘‘They earn my respect, so I’m going to do the same for them.”

On their cruise, the Plebes also paid respect to Fort McHenry, a reminder of the history of the Navy and the heritage they now represent. The Plebes stood at attention and sang the Star Spangled Banner as the YP passed the fort.

In the three hours the Plebes were on the YP, they acquired their first taste of what it is like on the ship. For Electrician’s Mate 1st Class (SW) Eric Pease, he had one important piece of advice for the Plebes.

‘‘There’s always an answer in the Navy,” said Pease. ‘‘Don’t be afraid to ask.”