Seaman Cheyenne Solis Headlam, from Cocoa, Florida, has been on USCGC Hamilton (WMSL 753) for one year and three months. She is a non-rate in the deck department and is a qualified line handler, helicopter tie-down, helm and lookout, and in-port watchstander.
Solis joined the U.S. Coast Guard at 18 because she thought it would be a great life experience and a good way to further her education. On her most recent deployment with Hamilton in the Mediterranean and the Black Sea, she visited six different countries.
“This deployment shows firsthand how much we can help other countries by sharing best practices,” Solis said. “My favorite thing about being underway and in the Black Sea was the sunrise and sunset over the water every day.”
She said the biggest challenge was being away from loved ones for 97-days but will cherish all the memories made.
“Take advantage of the chance to go underway! It’s a great experience, and the friendships that you build with people will carry on for years to come,” she said. “Also, bring a camera and take all the pictures you can!”