CASTINE – Several area midshipmen were recently sworn in as members of the Maine Maritime Academy Regiment of Midshipmen at a ceremony held this fall during the college’s annual family weekend. The Midshipman Oath was administered to the 201 candidates by Capt. Jeff Loustaunau, commandant of midshipmen, marking the successful conclusion of regimental preparatory training.

Midshipman Frank Benedict, Poland, a graduate of Poland Regional High School, is a member of the MMA Class of 2015 and is majoring in marine engineering technology.

Midshipman Robert Cloutier, Auburn, a graduate of Edward Little High School, is a member of the MMA Class of 2015 and is majoring in marine engineering technology.

Midshipman Zachery Frost, Leeds, a graduate of Leavitt Area High School, Turner, is a member of the MMA Class of 2015 and is majoring in marine engineering operations.

Midshipman Conrad Labbe, Minot, a graduate of Poland Regional High School, is a member of the MMA Class of 2015 and is majoring in international business and logistics.

RPT, a six-week intensive training program, emphasizes traditions of the MMA Regiment of Midshipmen, military drill, aquatic training and ship familiarization. While in the program, candidates for the Regiment of Midshipmen receive instruction and guidance in their conduct and responsibilities as midshipmen and potential seafaring officers. The MMA Regiment of Midshipmen, a student-run management model, is comprised of students seeking a U.S. Merchant Marine license as a third mate or third assistant engineer on unlimited tonnage vessels following graduation. For other students at the college, participation in the Regiment is optional. The regimental system promotes learning and self-reliance, leadership and effective communications and interpersonal skills.

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