Regimental Manual

Discipline, Knowledge, Leadership

 

Printable PDF of Regimental Manual

 

Letter of Promulgation 

20 August 2025 

1. The Regimental Manual for the Regiment of Cadets, Massachusetts Maritime Academy, is hereby promulgated. 

2. This Regimental Manual supersedes all other documents of a similar nature and shall be considered official and binding on the Regiment of Cadets. 

3. All subsequent changes to this manual shall be issued as consecutively numbered amendments and will be entered and recorded on the Record of Changes included within. 

Christine McCarey, CAPT 

Vice President of Student Services / Dean of Students 

2

Table of Contents 

Chapter 1: Regimental Organization 1 Chapter 2: Orders to the Cadet Watch/Emergency Procedures 42 Chapter 3: Rules and Regulations 70 Chapter 4: Daily Routines and Formations 132 Chapter 5: Uniforms 140 Chapter 2: Cadet Rooms and Stowage 176 Chapter 3: Honor Company Competition and Individual Cadet Awards 194 Chapter 4: Customs, Traditions and Courtesies 202 Chapter 5: Cadet Development 212 Chapter 6: Orientation and Training of Fourth-Class Cadets 224 Chapter 7: Cadet Services 245 Chapter 8: Education Records Policies and Procedures 257 

3

Appendixes 

Appendix A: Honor Code 268 Appendix B: Student Alcoholic Beverage Policy 279 Appendix C: Hazing Policy 282 

Appendix D: The Final Rule: Sexual Harassment, Title IX, 

Violence against Women Act, and CLERY ACT 285 Appendix E: Intentionally Left Blank 286 Appendix F: Fraternization 287 Appendix G: Chemical Testing Program 289 Appendix H: Highlight Points of USCG Policy on Drugs, Alcohol and Conduct 294 Appendix I: Bullying 296 Appendix J: Recycling Plan 297 Appendix K: IT Services Acceptable Use Policy 298 Appendix L: Care and Action for Students Team (CAST) 301 Appendix M: Drug Free Workplace 303 Appendix N: Athletes on Watch Policy 305 Appendix O: Notification of Rights under FERPA 306 Appendix P: TWIC Requirement 308 

Appendix Q: Smoking / Tobacco (Smoking & Non-Smoking) / Vaping / 

E-Cigarette / Zyn / Non-Tobacco Use Policy 312 Appendix R: Policy on Transfer Student Regimental Standing 314 Appendix S: Class I and Aptitude Review Boards 315 Appendix T: Unmanned Aircraft Systems (Drones) Policy 317 

4

Chapter 1: Regimental Organization 

1-100 General 2 1-200 Selection and Appointment of Cadet Officers 2 1-300 Acceptance of Cadet Officers 4 1-400 Cadet Officer Positions – First Class 4 1-500 Cadet Officer Duties and Responsibilities – Regimental Staff 8 1-600 Cadet Officer Duties and Responsibilities – Battalion Staff 15 1-700 Cadet Officer Duties and Responsibilities – Company Staff 19 

1-800 Seventh Company: The Regimental Band, Honor Guard, and Drill Team Company 22 

1-900 Maritime Cadet Officers Duties and Responsibilities 26 1-1000 Student Government Association Officer Duties and Responsibilities 28 

5

Regimental Organization 

1-100 General 

101 The organization of Massachusetts Maritime Academy’s Regiment of Cadets consists of the necessary command and staff officers to administer the Regiment, two battalions, and seven companies, including Honor Guard and Band. The First Battalion shall be composed of companies 1, 3, 5, and 7. The second Battalion shall be composed of companies 2, 4, and 6. Each company shall be composed of a command element and four platoons. The administration of the Regiment of Cadets follows traditional lines. The First-Class cadets are charged with these duties and are granted the privileges normally associated with seniority. In the performance of these duties, the Cadet Officers exercise authority and assume responsibilities as they relate to command, maintenance of discipline, and the routine of military drills. 

A. To carry out these duties as well as indoctrination and training in the exercise of responsibility within the Regiment, the Commandant shall appoint Cadet 

Officers. 

B. Cadet Officers will be responsible for the following: 

1. The planning and implementation of cadet training and inspection 

2. The development of underclass Cadet Officers by the assignment of 

responsibility 

3. Inspection of personnel, living spaces, and cleaning stations in their areas. 

1-200 Selection and Appointment of Cadet Officers 

201 The selection of Cadet Officers for appointment within the Regimental organization will be made according to the following criteria: 

A. The Cadet Officer candidate’s performance record within the Regiment of Cadets B. The Cadet Officer candidate’s academic performance record. 

C. The Cadet Officer candidate’s extra-curricular performance record to include: athletics, band / honor guard, intramurals, and community service. 

2

D. The Cadet Officer must be in good academic standing and timely progress toward graduation. 

E. The Cadet Officer candidate must be registered as a dorm student (not a regimental commuter). 

F. The Cadet Officer must complete all leadership training and development as required by the Cadet Training Standard Operating Procedure. 

G. Selection for Regimental or Company Leadership positions will not solely rest on whether a cadet will be available for Freshman Orientation or not. On the contrary, a cadet who in good faith is unable to attend Orientation due to military commitments, commercial shipping, cooperative, internship, etc. will not be automatically excluded from these positions. The overriding criteria should be whether or not the cadet in question is the best possible cadet for the position. If a cadet is deemed to be the most qualified candidate for a leadership position but is unable to attend Orientation due to a previous commitment, their selection for a Regimental or Company Leadership position will not be denied. 

H. The President of the Academy reserves all rights to confirm or deny all candidates selected for Cadet Officer positions. 

202 The following sources are used to evaluate Cadet Officer Candidates in the above areas including but not limited to: 

A. Interviews 

B. Written evaluation 

C. Written recommendations 

D. Academic records 

E. Awards and honors received and/or achieved 

F. Discipline Record (To include suspension and/or dismissal) 

G. Class Status 

H. Physical Fitness Test* 

*All Cadet Officers who are to participate in Orientation are to pass the Massachusetts Maritime Academy Physical Fitness test. 

3

203 The Deputy Commandant, working with a joint Selection Committee made up of MMA Professional Staff and other Regimental Leaders is responsible for the fair, standardized, efficient, and thorough selection of incoming cadet officers. Collaborating with the Regimental Commander, the Deputy Commandant will administer a plan for leadership training, applications, interviews, and selections that mimic current industry best practices. This plan must be approved by the Commandant of Cadets or their designee. 

204 One interview process will take place in front of the Selection Committee, with the Deputy Commandant acting as the Board Chair. Positions will be chosen based on the most qualified, not on what Company a cadet currently resides in. Selected candidates may be required to shift to a different company to assume their new leadership role.  For instance, a BN1 position will require the cadet live in or move to a BN1 Company. The Vice President of Student Services and Commandant of Cadets will review and approve the recommended slate before meeting with the Admiral for final review. Once these positions have been approved and accepted, the process will be replicated at the company level. to include the outgoing and incoming Company Commanders and Executive Officers. The Commandant of Cadets has the final say.  

1-300 Acceptance of Cadet Officers 

301 Cadet Officers will take the following oath during the Change of Command ceremony, at which time they assume the responsibilities of their offices: 

“I, _______________________ having been appointed in the Regiment of Cadets, Massachusetts Maritime Academy, accept that appointment and do solemnly swear (or affirm) that I will support and fulfill the regulations, policies and orders of the President, Massachusetts Maritime Academy and all other officers to whom the President delegates authority for such orders, policies and regulations.” 

1-400 Cadet Officer Positions – First Class 

401 The following positions have been designated for First Class Cadet Officers. Descriptions of the sleeve markings and collar devices appropriate for each position are also included. Note, the President ultimately approves all Senior Cadet Officer positions. The Master of the Training Ship, the Commandant of Cadets, and the Deputy Commandant of Cadets reserve the right to relieve a cadet officer of their responsibilities for cause if warranted. 

 

4

 

5

 

6

 

7

 

1-500 Cadet Officer Duties and Responsibilities – Regimental Staff 501 Regimental Commander (RC) 

The Regimental Commander is the senior cadet at the Academy and commands the Regiment. In the exercise of command functions, they shall carry out the policies of the President and Board of Trustees and endeavor to maintain the Regiment of Cadets in the highest possible state of efficiency. The duties of the Regimental Commander include but are not limited to the following: 

A. Working directly with the Commandant of 

Cadets, the organization and supervision of 

the Regiment in all matters of discipline, 

military knowledge, and supply, and the 

coordination of the daily routine. 

B. Issuing Regimental Orders and Memoranda 

as necessary to implement policy decisions 

made by the President or Commandant of 

Cadets. Close liaison with the Commandant 

of Cadets in this regard is essential to prevent 

conflict or misunderstanding. 

C. Serving as the Regimental Commander 

comes with duties of responsibility for the 

administration, training, discipline, and 

morale of the Regiment of Cadets and will 

hold Battalion and Company Commanders 

equally responsible. 

D. Serving as the Regimental Commander, the 

cadet will be an ex-officio member of the 

Student Government Association. The 

Regimental Commander or their designee 

will represent the Regiment of Cadets at all 

meetings. 

8

E. Serving as the Regimental Commander will 

grant duty to serve on Class I boards and 

Aptitude Review Boards. 

F. Represent the Academy at Open Houses and 

other functions as directed. 

G. Working directly with the Commandant of 

Cadets (or their designee) and the Director of 

Orientation to develop, plan, coordinate, and 

execute the Cadet Candidate Orientation 

Programs (fall and spring) including 

Pre-Orientation Cadre Training. 

502 Regimental Executive Officer (RXO) 

The Regimental Executive Officer, as second in command of the Regiment of Cadets, is responsible for the overall operations of the Regiment. They must maintain constant communications with Academy, Regimental, Battalion, and Company staff to effectively manage daily operations within the Regiment. The Regimental Executive Officer is tasked with upholding Academy customs and traditions and enforcing all standards outlined in the Regimental Manual. The duties of the Regimental Executive Officer include, but are not limited to, the following: 

A. The Regimental Executive Officer is 

responsible for the training, discipline, and 

military knowledge of the Regiment. In 

matters of discipline, they will work closely 

with the Deputy Commandant of Cadets. 

B. The Regimental Executive Officer will 

provide access to the “staff” function of the 

Regiment. They will supervise the 

administration of the Regimental system and 

the activities of the Regimental Staff. 

C. They will implement all duties of the 

Regimental Commander in the Regimental 

Commander’s absence or inability to perform 

assigned duties. 

9

D. They will serve on the Honor Board 

Committee with the SGA President. Note that 

it is the Regimental Executive Officer’s 

responsibility to conduct the Honor Board 

investigation. 

E. They will serve on Class I and Aptitude 

Review Boards in the absence of the 

Regimental Commander. 

F. The Regimental Executive Officer will 

coordinate with the Regimental Intramural 

Officer to coordinate and run the Academy’s 

Remedial Physical Training Program. 

503 Regimental Adjutant (RADJ) 

A. All cadet watch functions will fall under the 

supervision of the Regimental Adjutant. 

B. The Regimental Adjutant will be responsible 

for the administrative functioning of the 

Regiment of Cadets. 

C. The Regimental Adjutant will also serve in 

the ceremonial roles assigned to that officer 

in the chapter dealing with Military Drill and 

Ceremonies. 

504 Regimental Operations Officer (ROPS) 

The Regimental Operations Officer is the senior cadet officer responsible for the administration and implementation of the Cadet Discipline System. The Regimental Operations Officer will: 

A. Be responsible for the administrative setup of 

the Class II mast. 

B. Record the minutes of all the Class II mast 

boards. 

C. Supervise the implementation of the 

discipline system for restriction and extra 

duty. 

10

D. Record demerits in the Academy discipline 

system. 

E. Issue weekly restriction reports to the 

Academy Discipline Officer. 

F. Identify cadets who warrant warning and/or 

probation letters. 

G. Ensure all Class III mast boards are 

completed weekly. 

H. Communicate with Battalion Executive 

Officers frequently and delegate 

responsibilities to them as deemed necessary. 

505 Regimental Training and Retention Officer (RTRO) 

A. The Regimental TRO is the senior cadet 

officer responsible for the administration and 

implementation of the Academy's Training 

and Retention program. 

B. The Regimental TRO reports to the 

Commandant of Cadets and the Regimental 

Commander. The Regimental TRO will 

supervise Battalion and Company TROs. 

C. The Regimental TRO is the student liaison 

for Health Services, Admissions, and the 

Academic Resource Center. 

D. The duties of the Regimental TRO include, 

but are not limited to the following: 

1. Monitor the overall growth and 

mental health of cadets within the 

Regiment, especially 4/C cadets 

2. Tracking retention data 

3. Author the Regimental Red Flag 

Report during the Cadet Candidate 

Orientation Program 

11

4. Coordinating regimental study hours 

5. Supporting Admissions with Open 

Houses, tours, and tele-counseling 

program 

6. Organize and lead the MAPS 

Program 

7. Coordinates Library Watch 

506 Regimental Marine Science, Safety and Environmental Protection (MSSEP) Operations Officer 

A. The Regimental MSEP/MSSP Operations 

Officer and their staff will ensure that the 

following procedures are followed: 

1. Proper use of cleaning solutions and 

chemicals, and disposal of 

containers, 

2. Identification of hazardous materials 

on campus and aboard ship, 

3. Dissemination and use of Material 

Safety Data Sheets, 

4. Proper wearing of protective gear 

and clothing 

B. The Regimental MSSEP Operations Officer 

reports directly to the Regimental 

Commander and, as a staff officer, will assist 

as directed in Regimental activities such as 

orientation, inspections, watches, etc. 

C. The Regimental MSSEP Operations Officer 

will ensure Regiment-wide compliance with 

all Recycling and Smoking Policies. The 

Regimental MSEP/MSSP Operations Officer 

will work closely with the Academy’s Health 

and Safety Officer. 

12

D. Additionally, the Regimental MSSEP 

Operations Officer may be assigned 

additional duties to support Winter Term 

programs. 

507 Regimental Facilities Engineering (FENV) Operations Officer 

A. The Regimental Facilities Operations Officer 

will be responsible for the overall condition 

of the dormitories and cadet public spaces, 

including all study lounges, computer 

facilities, laundry rooms, the mailroom, the 

Cadet Information Center, and the Fantail. 

B. The Regimental FENV Operations Officer 

reports directly to the Regimental 

Commander and, as a staff officer, will assist 

as directed in Regimental activities such as 

orientation, inspections, watches, etc. 

C. The Regimental Facilities Operations Officer 

will utilize the company Damage Control 

Officers to coordinate all reports of damage 

and maintenance items in the dormitory 

complex and initiate requests to the Dorm 

Maintenance Supervisor for 

replacement/repair of equipment. 

D. The Regimental Facilities Operations Officer 

will be responsible for supply and property 

matters within the Regiment of Cadets and 

will work closely with the Commandant of 

Cadets, the Academy’s Health and Safety 

Officer, and the Maintenance Department to 

carry out these responsibilities. 

E. The Regimental Facilities Engineering 

Officer will assist Career Services with the 

management of the FENV cooperative 

13

program and may be assigned additional 

duties to support the Winter Term programs. 

508 Regimental International Maritime Business (IMBU) Operations Officer 

A. The International Maritime Business (IMBU) 

Operations Officer is the senior cadet officer 

responsible for the International Maritime 

Business major. 

B. The Regimental IMBU Operations Officer 

reports directly to the Regimental 

Commander and, as a staff officer, will assist 

as directed in Regimental activities such as 

orientation, inspections, watches, etc. 

C. They are specifically responsible for the 

coordination of activities regarding the major 

throughout the year as designated by the 

Chairperson of the major and the office of the 

Commandant of Cadets through the 

Regimental Commander. 

D. Additionally, the Regimental IMBU 

Operations Officer may be assigned 

additional duties to support the Winter Term 

programs. 

509 Regimental Emergency Management and Homeland Security (EMHS) Operations Officer 

A. The Regimental Emergency Management and 

Homeland Security (EMHS) Operations 

Officer will be responsible for the 

organization, administration, and supervision 

of a practical and effective safety program 

that will ensure the prevention of and, when 

necessary, proper response to emergencies. 

B. The Regimental EMHS Operations Officer 

reports directly to the Regimental 

14

Commander and, as a staff officer, will assist 

as directed in Regimental activities such as 

orientation, inspections, watches, etc. 

C. The Regimental EMHS Operations Officer 

will ensure that all new freshmen are enrolled 

in the Emergency Notification System. The 

EMHS Operations Officer will work closely 

with Public Safety and the Environmental, 

Health, and Safety Office to ensure 

regimental compliance with the program. 

They will also work closely with Academy 

staff in support of campus Emergency 

Management exercises and drills. 

D. The Regimental EMHS Operations Officer 

will constantly review security procedures 

and report all violations as necessary. They 

will assess potential breaches to security, 

such as outside doors, cadet room doors, and 

other such hazards. 

E. Additionally, the Regimental EMHS 

Operations Officer may be assigned 

additional duties to support the Winter Term 

programs. 

510 Regimental Energy Systems Engineering (ESEN) Operations Officer 511 Regimental Global Engagement Officer (RGEO) 

The Regimental Global Engagement Officer is the senior Cadet Officer responsible for securing community service opportunities and recording all of the cadet volunteer hours at the Academy. The RGEO reports to and is selected by The Captain Paul Cuffe Global Institute. The duties of the Regimental Global Engagement Officer include but are not limited to the following: 

A. Oversees Battalion Global Engagement 

Officers (BGEOs) and the reporting structure 

for engagement-related senior positions, 

including the SGA Officer, Student Trustee, 

Community Service Officer, and Intramurals 

15

Officer, ensuring accountability and 

consistent execution across the chain of 

command. 

B. Works with the Global Institute and 

Commandant’s Department to support 

programs related to global learning, 

intercultural awareness, and international 

student engagement. 

C. Serves as the regimental point of contact for 

Global Citizenship initiatives during 

meetings, official events, and interactions 

with campus partners. 

D. Assists in organizing & promoting events, 

briefings, and activities that expose cadets to 

global perspectives and international 

opportunities. 

E. Identifies trends or concerns affecting cadets 

and communicates relevant insights to 

regimental staff to improve participation, 

engagement, and overall effectiveness of 

initiatives. 

512 Regimental Intramural Officer (RIMO) 

The Regimental Intramural Officer is the senior Cadet Officer responsible for the Intramural Program at the Academy. The Regimental Intramural Officer reports directly to the Regimental Commander and, as a staff officer, will assist as directed in Regimental activities such as orientation, inspections, watches, etc. The duties of the Regimental Intramural Program Officer include but are not limited to the following: 

A. Meet with Company Intramural Officers 

(IMOs), Athletics Department, and the 

Commandant’s representatives periodically to 

plan and coordinate events. Establish and 

post an intramural annual calendar for the 

Academic Year. 

16

B. Post and announce events and their results 

through the dorm’s PA system, posters, 

electronic monitors, Intramural bulletin 

board, and digital signage. Maintain the 

Intramural bulletin board with event brackets 

and pictures. 

C. Develop a “by Name referee/official 

schedule” and assign scoreboard operators for 

all indoor events. Use Company IMOs and 

work-study students when applicable. 

D. Coordinate with the Athletic Department’s 

equipment manager to ensure equipment 

needed is serviceable and readily available 

for scheduled events. 

E. With the support and approval of the 

Commandant’s Office and Athletics, develop 

an incentive/award system for participants to 

increase participation and Spirit de Corp 

among the Regiment. 

F. Coordinate with the yearbook committee 

members to take pictures at the different 

events. 

G. Coordinates the “Remedial Personal Fitness 

Test” 

513 Regimental Community Service Officer (RCSO) 

The Regimental Community Service Officer is the senior Cadet Officer responsible for securing community service opportunities and recording all of the cadet volunteer hours at the Academy. The Regimental Community Service Officer reports directly to the Regimental Commander and, as a staff officer, will assist as directed in Regimental activities such as orientation, inspections, watches, etc. The duties of the Regimental Community Service Officer include but are not limited to the following: 

A. Find and coordinate community service 

opportunities for cadets 

17

B. Protect the best interests of cadets while they 

are at events 

C. Ensure cadet leadership is present at all 

events 

D. Relay community service events to the cadets 

via email, website, phone app and word of 

mouth. 

E. Update the community service webpage 

F. Update the “civic engagement” wall and 

digital signage in Harrington 

G. Accurately log and track all community 

service hours 

H. Maintain accountability of all volunteer 

coordinator assistants (VCAs) 

1-600 Cadet Officer Duties and Responsibilities – Battalion Staff 601 Battalion Commander (BC) 

The Battalion Commander is a senior cadet at the Academy and commands half of the Regiment. In the exercise of command functions, they shall carry out the policies of the President and Board of Trustees and endeavor to maintain the Battalion in the highest possible state of efficiency. The duties of the Battalion Commander include but are not limited to the following: 

A. Working directly with the Regimental 

Commander and Battalion Officer, in all 

matters of discipline, Academy knowledge, 

and supply and the oversight/coordination of 

the daily routine. 

B. Enforcing Regimental Orders and 

Memoranda as necessary to implement policy 

decisions made by the President or 

Commandant of Cadets. Close liaison with 

the Battalion Officer and Regimental 

18

Commander in this regard is essential to 

prevent conflict or misunderstanding. 

C. Serving as the Battalion Commander comes 

with duties of responsibility for the 

administration, training, discipline, and 

morale of the Regiment and will hold 

Company Commanders equally responsible. 

D. Represent the Academy at Open Houses and 

other functions as directed. 

E. Serving as the senior person of contact to the 

Academy Bookstore, assisting in the 

coordination of all uniform distribution 

evolutions. 

F. Serving as the mediator for Company 

Commanders/Company staff and Regimental 

staff, maintaining strong relationships and 

strong lines of communication. 

G. Working closely with the Regimental 

Commander and Regimental Executive 

Officer to develop, plan, coordinate, and 

execute the Cadet Candidate Orientation 

Program. 

602 Battalion Executive Officer (BXO) 

A. Must be ready to take command of the 

battalion at moment’s notice 

B. Ensure that the Battalion Commander has all 

the necessary information needed to issue 

orders. 

C. In charge of the discipline and good order of 

the battalion 

1. Attend all class II mast hearings at 

the discretion of the Regimental 

Operations Officer 

19

2. Assist the Regimental Operations 

Officer with all disciplinary duties. 

3. Assist in the coordination of 

restriction and extra duty. 

4. Ensure the Company Executive 

Officers are properly operating class 

III mast hearings. 

D. Responsible for the appearance of the 

Battalion 

1. Ensure consistency among 

companies at morning formation 

2. Ensure the company staff of each 

company is setting a good example 

with grooming standards and 

uniforms. 

3. Work closely with the Battalion 

Adjutant on accountability at 

morning formation 

E. Meet with and update Battalion Officers 

F. Perform weekly inspections as assigned by 

the Regimental Adjutant. 

G. Attend Pre-Orientation/Orientation during the 

month of August to assist Company and 

Regimental Staff with assigned/requested 

tasks. 

H. Regularly meet with company staff to discuss 

and inform cadet cadre of necessary 

information concerning the Regiment of 

Cadets. 

603 Battalion Training and Retention Officer (BTRO) 

20

A. Coordinate with the Regimental Training and 

Retention Officer (RTRO) and assist with 

MAPS. 

B. Attend Pre-Orientation/Orientation and assist 

company/regimental TROs as needed. 

C. Filter and write red flag reports from your 

respective Battalion while communicating 

with the RTRO. 

D. Overall responsibility for training and 

retention within the BTRO’s respective 

companies under the supervision of the 

Company Officer. 

E. Assist with planning and coordinating: 

1. Tours for visitors/prospective 

students 

2. Shadow student visits 

3. Open Houses/Accepted Students 

Days 

4. Library watches 

5. Sunday Night Series 

F. Attend regimental inspections assigned by the 

Regimental Adjutant. 

G. Regularly meet with company staff to discuss 

and inform cadet cadre of necessary 

information concerning the Regiment of 

Cadets. 

604 Battalion Adjutant (BADJ) 

A. Oversee and enforce the work of respective 

company adjutants. It will be the 

responsibility of the BADJ to hold company 

adjutants accountable. 

21

B. Assist the Regimental Adjutant with holiday 

watch bills and overall accountability. 

C. In the event of the absence of a company 

adjutant, fill in and ensure all watches are 

properly covered/stood. 

D. Completion of any additional task from the 

Battalion Commander, Battalion Executive 

Officer in support of battalion operations. 

E. Perform weekly inspections as assigned by 

the Regimental Adjutant. 

F. Attend Pre-Orientation/Orientation during the 

month of August to assist Company and 

Regimental Staff with assigned/requested 

tasks. 

G. Regularly meet with company staff to discuss 

and inform cadet cadre of necessary 

information concerning the Regiment of 

Cadets. 

605 Battalion Guidon Bearer (3/C) 

The Battalion Guidon Bearer (one for each battalion) is a sophomore cadet at the Academy who represents the spirit and pride of a battalion by bearing its guidon at all Regimental ceremonies and functions. The Battalion Guidon Bearer is selected by the incoming battalion staff and reports directly to the Battalion Commander. The Battalion Guidon Bearer is the regimental representation of third-class cadets and must always uphold the standards and traditions of the Academy to the highest level. The Battalion Guidon Bearer is permitted to wear a chevron insignia with one specialty mark (rating) on their right collar and garrison cover. The duties of the Battalion Guidon Bearer include but are not limited to, the following: 

A. Bear the battalion’s guidon at all regimental 

functions and ceremonies as necessary 

including morning formation, Orientation 

Graduation, Fourth Class Recognition, and 

Change of Command. 

22

B. Maintain the appearance and condition of the 

guidon at all times 

C. Assist the battalion staff in the daily 

operations of the battalion, offering an 

underclass perspective to the battalion staff. 

D. Serve as an Orientation Assistant: 

1. Report directly to the Director of 

Orientation and the Regimental 

Commander 

2. Provide logistical support to cadre 

and Academy staff including, but not 

limited to: water and food 

distribution, training room 

preparation, pond preparation, and 

transportation 

3. Take pictures and maintain the 

online Orientation Blog 

4. As requested, interface with outside 

vendors i.e., firefighting academy, 

laundromat, PT gear distributor, 

photographer/videographer 

5. Assist Regimental Intramural Officer 

prepping fields/gym/pool for 

scheduled events E. Participate in 

any special projects at the discretion 

of the Battalion Commander. 

1-700 Cadet Officer Duties and Responsibilities – Company Staff 701 Company Commander (CC) 

The Company Commander shall implement and carry out the policies of the Regiment and the Academy as established by the President, Commandant of Cadets, and the Regimental Commander. The duties of the Company Commander include the following: 

23

A. The Company Commander is responsible for 

the proper organization and administration of 

the Company with particular emphasis on 

matters of assignment. 

B. The Company Commander is responsible for 

the overall appearance of the company and 

will insist that the high standards established 

for the Regiment of Cadets are upheld. They 

will ensure that daily inspections of platoons 

and common spaces are conducted. 

C. They will ensure communication throughout 

the company employing meetings, bulletin 

boards, etc. 

D. They will supervise the activities of the 

Company in the Admiral’s Award 

Competition during Orientation. 

E. The Company Commander will ensure that a 

1/C cadet officer is present during the duty 

day for their Company. 

702 Company Executive Officer (CXO) 

A. The Company Executive Officer is second in 

command of the company and is the assistant 

to the Company Commander. In the absence 

of the Company Commander, they will 

perform the duties of the Company 

Commander and will maintain company 

policy. 

B. They will ensure that all staff functions in the 

company are carried out properly. C. They 

will collaborate with the Company Officer to 

oversee Class III mast boards. 

703 Company Adjutant (CADJ) 

24

The Company Adjutant is the cadet officer assigned in each company to establish and administer the watchbills. The Adjutant must do the following: 

A. They will prepare and post all watch bills. All 

watchbills are to be posted as per the 

procedures outlined in Chapter 2, The Orders 

to the Cadet Watch. 

B. They will ensure that all watch 

responsibilities are carried out. 

C. They will ensure a muster is taken of those on 

watch before or on the day of. 

704 Platoon Leader (PL) 

A. Each Company shall assign four Platoon 

Leaders whose primary responsibilities are to 

utilize effective leadership techniques in 

promoting efficient operation and fair 

administration of their platoon. 

B. The Platoon Leader is responsible for the 

overall appearance, discipline, and 

performance of the personnel within their 

platoon as well as for the overall order of 

their living quarters. Platoon Leaders are 

responsible for the following: 

1. Maintaining order while in formation 

2. Verifying the accuracy of musters 

3. Maintaining order within the 

dormitory 

4. Inspecting platoons daily 

5. Thoroughly investigating incidents 

of dormitory damage 

C. They will ensure that company spaces and 

areas are kept clean and free of trash and 

other hazardous materials. 

25

D. They will ensure that the Cleaning Station 

Watch bill is posted and that the duties are 

carried out. 

E. Each of the three Platoon Leaders may also 

be assigned the duties of the Company 

Disciplinary Officer, the Company Adjutant, 

and the Company Damage Control Officer. 

705 Company Training and Retention Officer (CTRO) 

Each Company shall have assigned one Training and Retention Officer whose primary responsibility is the administration and leadership of the student retention and recruitment program. This position reports to the Company Officer and to the Dean of Enrollment Management. 

A. The Training and Retention Officer will 

supervise the Training and Retention squad 

leader. The Training and Retention Officer is 

responsible for the following: 

1. Coordinating the Company Study 

Hours Program 

2. Coordinates Library Watch 

706 Squad Leader (SL) 

A. Each platoon shall have assigned Squad 

Leaders who will be responsible for 

providing a positive example in instilling 

high standards of appearance and 

performance. As the backbone of the 

organization, the Squad Leader must be 

thoroughly familiar with all members of the 

platoon and must maintain an accurate 

accountability of their whereabouts and 

actions. All Squad Leaders will be 2/C 

cadets. 

26

B. Squad Leaders are also charged with 

maintaining discipline of the personnel within 

their squads. In this endeavour they will do 

the following: 

1. Ensure compliance with Academy 

regulations and directives as well as 

company and regimental policies. 

2. Conduct inspections of personnel 

and their living quarters. 

3. Ensure accuracy of musters and 

oversee underclass sign-ins. 

4. Report damage of quarters to the 

Platoon Leader. 

5. Squad Leaders may have additional 

duties as assigned. Duties may 

include, but are not limited to: 

a. Damage Control Officer (DCO) – Reports to the Company Commander and is responsible for the implementation of cleaning stations including the 

creation of a weekly cleaning bill for freshmen and Squad Leaders. 

b. Volunteer Coordinator Assistant (VCA) – Reports to the Regimental 

Community Service Officer and tracks all hours of community service for cadets within the company 

c. Training & Retention Assistant (TRA) – Reports to the Company TRO and is responsible for the mental health, wellbeing, and academic success of 

their subordinates, usually 4/c cadets. 

d. Assistant Disciplinary Officer (ADO) – Reports to the Company Executive Officer and assists in the implementation of the Company Class III mast 

system. 

707 Petty Officer (PO) 

A. Petty Officers are third class cadets who are 

in training and are actively pursuing a 

leadership position and may be assigned as 

needed. 

27

1. Any cadet at the end of the fall 

sophomore semester who is 

designated as suspended or on 

probation for the following semester 

will not be allowed to be considered 

for squad leader status for the next 

fall. 

2. Any cadet who is expected to obtain junior status by the following fall 

semester is eligible for Petty Officer 

and Squad Leader consideration that 

spring. 

3. Any cadet who has obtained 101 

demerits or more in the last 12 

months cannot be considered for 

squad leader status. 

4. Any cadet who is on conduct 

probation cannot be considered for 

squad leader status. 

5. Any cadet applying for squad leader status in spring of their sophomore 

year must demonstrate as part of the 

application process that they can 

achieve junior status by resent 

definition prior to the August 

orientation commencing in the fall. 

The application must be approved by 

the registrar prior to being forwarded 

to the Commandant’s office or 

selection consideration. 

B. The Petty Officer program must be administered in accordance with the Cadet Training Standard Operating Procedure. 

28

1-800 Seventh Company: The Regimental Band, Honor Guard, and Drill Team Company 

801 Seventh Company, the Regimental Band, Honor Guard and Drill Team Company, will provide all musical, military honors, drill and ceremony support for Academy and other public functions. Seventh Company will be commanded by the Seventh Company Commander, who will be assisted by the Seventh Company Executive Officer, the Regimental Honor Guard Operations Officer, the Regimental Band Operations Officer and the Drill Team Operations Officer. 

802 Seventh Company Commander 

The Seventh Company Commander will implement and shall carry out the policies of the Regiment and the Academy as established by the President, Commandant of Cadets and the Regimental Commander and perform all other duties enumerated in paragraph 1-701 above. Additionally, the Seventh Company Commander will: 

A. Assist the Seventh Company Officer in 

co-coordinating all movements of the 

Regimental Band, Honor Guard and Drill 

Team. This may include but is not limited to, 

orchestrating Seventh Company travel 

logistics and performance schedule, 

personnel inspections before performances 

and enforcement of uniform standard. 

B. The Seventh Company Commander will 

ensure that practice schedules are published 

and that the schedule is smoothly executed. 

They will ensure effective communication 

throughout the company by means of 

meetings, bulletin boards, electronic 

messaging and contact via cellular phone. 

C. The Seventh Company Commander will 

assist the Seventh Company Officer in 

maintaining an accurate inventory of 

equipment and a repair/replacement schedule. 

D. The Seventh Company Commander is the 

direct liaison to the Regimental Commander 

and their staff on issues of drill and ceremony 

29

and Seventh Company functional support 

requests for service to the regiment of cadets. 

803 Seventh Company Executive Officer 

A. The Seventh Company Executive Officer is 

second in command of the Company and is 

assistant to the Company Commander. In the 

absence of the Company Commander, they 

will perform the duties of the Company 

Commander and will maintain company 

policy. 

B. They will ensure all staff functions in the 

company are carried out properly. 

C. They will ensure an accurate muster of all 

personnel daily following morning formation 

and provide a copy to the Seventh Company 

Officer. 

D. They, along with the fourth-class Platoon 

Commander will be responsible for the 

assignment of cadet quarters within the 

Seventh Company dormitory. 

804 Regimental Honor Guard Operations Officer 

A. The Regimental Honor Guard Operations 

Officer is the executive administrative officer 

of the Regimental Honor Guard. They are the 

senior cadet in the Regimental Honor Guard 

and commands that unit under the command 

of the Seventh Company Commander. The 

Seventh Company Commander and Honor 

Guard Operations Officers have the power to 

appoint Honor Guard staff officers (squad 

leaders) and/or NCOs (petty officers). 

B. Their primary duty is to ensure the Honor 

Guard is outstanding in its appearance and 

performance. 

30

C. The Honor Guard Operations Officer along 

with the Honor Guard staff officers (squad 

leaders) and/or NCOs (petty officers) will 

personally make a sight inventory of all 

weapons and other equipment at least once a 

semester and will submit a signed inventory 

report to the Seventh Company Officer upon 

completion of this inventory. 

D. They will ensure all weaponry is properly 

stored, secured, and ammunition usage is 

properly logged. 

E. They will work with the Drill Team 

Operations Officers to ensure the Honor 

Guard and Drill Team practice schedules, 

events and performances are effectively 

communicated and published and the 

schedule is smoothly executed. 

805 Regimental Honor Guard Assistant Operations Officer 

A. The Honor Guard Assistant Operations 

Officer is to be a subordinate of the 

Regimental Honor Guard Honor Guard 

Operations Officer. They assist in the daily 

logistical operations of the Regimental Honor 

Guard. This may include but is not limited to, 

taking muster at morning formation (events), 

appointing and training the cadet event 

operators (PIC). 

B. They may serve at the request or absence of 

the Honor Guard Operations Officer as the 

Honor Guard ranking, commanding officer 

for ceremonies, parades, and formations. 

C. They will maintain a database for Honor 

Guard events and personnel participation. 

806 Regimental Drill Team Operations Officer 

31

A. The Regimental Drill Team Operations 

Officer is the executive administrative officer 

of the Regimental Drill Team. They are the 

senior cadet in the Regimental Drill Team 

and commands the unit under the command 

of the Seventh Company Commander. The 

Seventh Company Commander and the Drill 

Team Operations Officer have the power to 

appoint Drill Team Operations Staff Officers 

(squad leaders) and NCOs (petty officers). 

B. Their primary duty is to ensure the Drill 

Team is outstanding in its appearance and 

performance. 

C. The Drill Team Operations Officer along with 

the Drill Team staff officers (squad leaders) 

and/or NCOs (petty officers) will personally 

make a sight inventory of all weapons and 

other equipment at least once a semester and 

will submit a signed inventory report to the 

Seventh Company Commander upon 

completion of this inventory. 

D. They will ensure all weaponry is properly 

stored, secured and usage is properly logged. 

E. They will work with the Honor Guard 

Operations Officer to create practice 

schedules, events and performances are 

effectively communicated/published and the 

schedule is smoothly executed. 

807 Regimental Drill Team Assistant Operations Officer 

A. The Regimental Drill Team Assistant 

Operations Officer is to be a subordinate of 

the Regimental Drill Team Operations 

Officer. They assist in the daily logistical 

operations of the Regimental Drill Team. 

This may include, but is not limited to, taking 

muster at morning formations (events) 

32

appointing and training the cadet event 

operators (PIC). 

B. They may serve, at the request or absence of 

the Drill Team Operations Officer, as the 

Drill Team’s ranking, commanding officer for 

ceremonies, parades, and formations. 

C. They will maintain a database for Drill Team 

events and personnel participation. 

808 Regimental Band Operations Officer 

A. The Regimental Band Officer is the executive 

administrative officer of the Regimental 

Band. They are the senior cadet in the 

Regimental Band and commands the band 

under the leadership of the Seventh Company 

Commander and the Seventh Company 

Officer. 

B. They will ensure all members using Academy 

instruments execute proper custody receipts 

assuring the accountability of the equipment 

and that the instruments are maintained in the 

proper condition. They along with band staff 

officers, Drum Major, squad leaders and or 

NCOs (petty officers) will be responsible for 

making a sight inventory of all instruments 

and other equipment at least once a month 

and will submit a signed copy of the 

inventory report to the Seventh Company 

Officer. 

C. Will be responsible for the maintenance of 

the academy music library, keeping the music 

filed properly and having the music available 

and in good order. 

33

D. They will ensure the practice schedule for 

events and performances of all musical 

ensembles are effectively communicated and 

published. 

E. They may serve as field band conductor or 

drum major. 

809 Regimental Assistant Band Operations Officer (Drum Major) 

A. Serve as the face of the Band and functions as 

the principal conductor/field commander 

B. The Assistant Regimental Band Operations 

Officer is to be a subordinate of the 

Regimental Band Operations Officer. They 

assist in the daily logistical operations of the 

Regimental Band, which may include but is 

not limited to, taking muster at morning 

formation, appointing, and training cadet 

event operators (PIC). 

C. They may serve, at the request or absence of 

the Band Operations Officer, as the Band’s 

ranking commander for ceremonies, parades, 

and formations. 

D. They will establish a daily bugler’s duty 

rotation for “Reveille,” “Morning Calls” and 

“TAPS.” 

E. They will maintain a database for musical 

events and personnel participation. 

1-900 Maritime Cadet Officers Duties and Responsibilities 901 Regimental Training Ship Commander (RTSC) 

The Regimental Training Ship Commander shall carry out policies of the Regiment as pertaining to shipboard operations, both alongside and seagoing, as established by the President and the Master. The duties will include, but are not limited to, the following: 

34

A. The Regimental Training Ship Commander is 

responsible for the proper organization and 

administration of the Sea Term Maritime 

Cadet Officers and those cadets living aboard 

and embarked for activation.  

B. The Regimental Training Ship Commander 

shall assist the Master and Commandant of 

Cadets in all matters pertaining to cadet 

discipline, military bearing, supply, and 

coordination of the daily routine. 

C. The Regimental Training Ship Commander 

shall attend the Master’s department-head 

meetings and interact as appropriate. The 

Regimental Training Ship Commander will 

also disseminate information to the senior 

Maritime Cadet Officers during daily 

meetings. 

902 Cadet Chief Mate and Cadet Chief Engineer (CCM and CCE) 

A. The Cadet Chief Mate and Cadet Chief 

Engineer shall be considered the senior most 

cadets aboard the vessel subordinate to the 

Regimental Training Ship Commander. 

B. The Cadet Chief Mate and Cadet Chief 

Engineer shall coordinate the daily routine as 

promulgated by the Master and Commandant 

of Cadets and shall support all initiatives 

deemed appropriate by the Regimental 

Training Ship Commander in the 

administration of cadet discipline and 

military bearing. 

C. The Cadet Chief Mate and Cadet Chief 

Engineer are the senior most cadets within 

their major fields of study and shall 

coordinate the duties of the maritime cadet 

officers within their department, as per the 

35

direction or the Chief Mate or the Chief 

Engineer. 

D. The Cadet Chief Mate and Cadet Chief 

Engineer shall coordinate the assignment of 

maintenance and watch duties with the Chief 

Mate, Chief Engineers, and the training 

coordinators of their majors. 

E. The Cadet Chief Mate and Cadet Chief 

Engineer shall attend the daily briefings as 

directed by the Regimental Training Ship 

Commander. 

903 Shipboard Maritime Cadet Officers (Rates) 

A. All Cadet Second Mates/Assistants, Third 

Mates/Assistants, and Assistant Operations 

officers shall support the discipline and 

military bearing as directed by the 

Regimental Training Ship Commander. 

B. All Cadet Second Mates/Assistants, Third 

Mates/Assistants, and Assistant Operations 

officers shall report to the appropriate ship’s 

department head to which they are assigned 

and assist them with the duties that are 

required within their major or ship’s 

department. 

C. All Cadet Second Mates/Assistants, Third 

Mates/Assistants, and Assistant Operations 

officers shall supervise the underclass cadets 

as assigned to them, instilling within them an 

understanding of ship safety, discipline, and 

knowledge. 

904 All Maritime Cadet Officers are required to participate in the Summer Orientation, Orientation Mini Cruise, and Annual Sea Term. 

36

1-1000 Student Government Association Officer Duties and Responsibilities 

1001 The duties and responsibilities of all Student Government Association (SGA) elected officers are as written in the SGA Bylaws. A copy of the SGA by-laws is available on the Google drive. 

Figure 1.1: Sea Term Chain of Command 

37

Figure 1.2: Regimental Chain of Command 

38

Chapter 2: Orders to the Cadet 

Watch/Emergency Procedures 

2-100 General 31 2-200 General Instructions to All Watch standers 38 2-300 Duties of the Regimental Staff Duty Officer 40 2-400 Duties of the Cadet Officer of the Watch Dormitory (COWD) 42 2-500 Duties of the Cadet Quartermaster of the Watch (CQOW) 44 2-600 Duties of the Cadet Messenger (MGRA/MGRB) 47 2-700 Duties of the Cadet Officer of the Watch Shipboard (COWS) 47 2-800 Emergency Procedures – Dormitory Complex 48 2-900 Figures 49 

39

Orders to the Cadet Watch/Emergency Procedures 

2-100 General 

101 Authority 

In accordance with the authority contained in General Order 87 of the Merchant Marine Act, which requires that state maritime academies organize cadets into a disciplined system, cadets are assigned watch responsibilities. These Orders to the Cadet Watch specify their duties and responsibilities. 

102 Mission 

Watch keeping, one of the oldest traditions of the sea, is integral to the concept of developing industry leaders. Watch keeping provides practical experience in the importance of responsibility, the hierarchy of authority, the need to follow the chain of command, greater attention to detail, and the sense of accomplishment that comes with the successful completion of a watch. Every cadet will graduate knowing the lessons of watch keeping, which will enable them to lead a structured organization, operate a ship, and possess the alertness and preparedness required when managing a team. 

103 Watch Keeping Creed 

As a cadet of Massachusetts Maritime Academy, I will stand watches as assigned aboard and ashore, and will report to my station physically and mentally prepared to stand my watch to the best of my ability, will dutifully carry out the responsibilities of the watch with due diligence and vigilance, will follow all orders given by officers and cadets of senior responsibility, and will never permit a cadet to assume the watch who is not prepared to relieve the watch. 

104 Objectives of the Cadet Watch System 

A. To gain experience in the administration of 

authority and responsibility, 

B. To develop qualities of reliability, leadership, 

competence, tact, adaptability, loyalty and 

sense of duty, which are necessary for a 

successful career in any industry, 

40

C. To assist in the administration of the daily 

routine of the Regiment of Cadets. 

D. To aid in safeguarding the personnel and 

property of the Academy and of the Regiment 

of Cadets. 

E. E. To meet cadet licensing requirements. 

105 Organization of the Cadet Watch 

A. Rotation 

1. The Cadet Watch will utilize the 

Company organization within the 

Regiment of Cadets. The system will 

operate on a daily rotation basis, one 

Company being designated as the 

Duty Company for a period 

extending from 0800 on one day 

until 0800 on the following day. 

2. Weekend watch responsibility will 

be assigned to one company. The 

watch will commence at 0800 on 

Friday and continue until 0800 on 

Monday. 

3. Holiday watches will cover the entire 

holiday as reflected in the Holiday 

watch bill. 

4. Any Holiday that falls on one day 

during the week will commence at 

0800. 

B. Participation 

1. Participation in the Cadet Watch 

System is mandatory for all cadets. 

2. Certain cadets’ ability to participate 

in the program may be curtailed by 

their obligations to the Regiment, 

41

Athletics, Band, Honor Guard, or 

International Student Exchange 

Program. 

a. All cadets are required to check the watch bills and report any errors or omissions to the company adjutant. 

b. Regiment 

i. First class cadets of the rank of four bars or greater are relieved of their responsibility to stand billeted watches, unless deemed necessary by the Commandant of Cadets and Regimental Adjutant. 

ii. First class cadets of the rank of four bars or greater are responsible for the oversight of all dormitory and shipboard watches and instructing watchstanders in their responsibilities, thereby ensuring the smooth operation of the Cadet Watchstanding System. 

iii. All cadets of the rank of three bars or lower will be assigned billeted watches within the Company to which they are assigned. 

3. Athletics 

a. Athletes on the roster of Varsity teams stand normal weekly watches. A varsity athlete is required to notify their company adjutant, at the beginning of each semester that they are on a varsity roster. (Appendix N) 

b. Adjutants should not assign athletes on the roster of in-season Varsity teams to watch during their practice times. 

c. Due to weekend athletic commitment, athletes on the roster of in-season Varsity teams will not be assigned weekend watches during the period of their regular season. 

4. Seventh Company (Band and Honor 

Guard) 

a. All Band and Honor Guard cadets stand normal weekly watches. 

b. Due to their weekend commitments, Seventh Company cadets will be assigned to only one weekend watch per semester at the time of the greatest convenience as deemed by the company command. 

5. Regimental Commuters 

42

a. Regimental Commuters are required to stand weekly and weekend watches with the company to which they are assigned. 

6. International Student Exchange 

Program 

a. Cadets accepted into the program for the spring semester only can stand normal weekday watches. However, cadets will be exempted from weekend watch duty. 

7. Military Obligation 

a. Cadets with military obligations such as weekend drill or scheduled duties shall report such obligation at the start of each semester to the Company Adjutants so that they are not scheduled for watch on the specified date. This shall be backed by official orders from their Commanding Officer which shall be given to the Watch Officer or Adjutant. They will be required to stand Academy Watches on nights/weekends when they are not fulfilling a military obligation. 

8. Emergency Response Personnel 

a. Cadets that are serving as first responders in state or private organizations (Fire, Police or EMT) shall identify this obligation to the Company Adjutant at the beginning of each semester. They must try to get someone to cover the shift in order to be exempt from standing Academy Watches on their assigned night of duty at the previously stated organization. A copy of the schedule or official letter from their supervisor stating they are in fact scheduled for duty shall be delivered to the Watch Officer or Adjutant. They will be required to stand Academy Watches on nights they are not on duty elsewhere. 

C. Adjutants 

1. Regimental Adjutant 

a. The Regimental Adjutant is responsible for the overall operation and supervision of the Cadet Watch System and is assisted by all seven Company Adjutants. 

b. The Regimental Adjutant is responsible for overseeing the assignment of watches throughout the Regiment, posting all watchbills, communicating and copying all watchbills to the training ship, and ensuring that accurate 

43

muster sheets are available at all times and at 0700 at CIC for Morning Formation. 

c. The Regimental Adjutant networks with the STCW Coordinator to ensure that cadets fulfill their watchstanding responsibilities for graduation and license requirements. 

d. The Regimental Adjutant assigns Holiday Watches, conducts the Formal Posting of Holiday Watches and is responsible for approval of Change-of-Watch forms for Holiday watches. Holiday Watches will be posted next to the ASDO office on the 00 deck of Second Company. 

e. The Regimental Adjutant is responsible for instructing the Fourth Class in watchstanding during the Orientation period. 

f. The Regimental Adjutant is responsible for STCW class musters during the Orientation period. 

2. Battalion Adjutants 

a. The Battalion Adjutant oversees and enforces work of respective company adjutants. It will be the responsibility of the BADJ to hold company adjutants accountable. 

b. The Battalion Adjutant will assist the Regimental Adjutant with holiday watch bills and overall accountability. 

c. In the event of absence of a company adjutant, the Battalion Adjutant will fill in and ensure all watches are properly covered/stood. 

d. The Battalion Adjutant will assist the Regimental Adjutant with Orientation and all matters pertaining to watchstanding instruction for the Fourth Class. 

3. Company Adjutants 

a. The Company Adjutant is responsible for the fair and equitable assignment of watches within that Adjutant’s company and for approving any changes-of watch. All watchbills will be submitted to the Company Commander and Company Officer for approval and posted in the duty company at least three weeks in advance of the company’s duty day. 

b. The Company Adjutant is responsible for maintaining accurate company muster sheets and keeping in season Varsity sports rosters. 

44

c. The Company Adjutant conducts the Formal Posting of the Watch on the company’s duty day by 0700 outside the ASDO office, located on the 00 deck of Second Company. 

d. The Company Adjutant is responsible for submitting draft and final watchbills to the Regimental Adjutant. 

D. Watchbills 

1. Weekly Watches 

a. Watchbills for the Duty Company will be prepared by the Company Adjutant, submitted to the Company Commander, and approved by the Company Officer. After final approval, watchbills will be submitted to the Regimental Adjutant. 

b. Draft watchbills (Revision: 0) will be posted at least three weeks in advance. Final Watchbills (Revision: Final) will be posted by the Wednesday of the week before the watch is assumed. No Change-of-Watch forms will be approved after the Final Watchbill has been posted. 

c. The Regimental Adjutant will post the final watch bills on the Wednesday of the week before the watch is assumed. Watchbills should be posted at CIC, on the training vessel and in the ASDO’s office. The bills will encompass the entire week and will detail all the watches assigned for that period. 

d. Adjutants will keep careful records of how many and which watches each cadet stands. It is the responsibility of the Company Adjutants to ensure that the watchstanding responsibility is shared equally and fairly throughout the company. 

2. Weekend Watches 

a. Company Adjutants will ascertain how many weekend watches each cadet must stand during the semester and will post weekend watch sign-ups during the first week of each semester. 

b. Cadets may sign-up for the watches on a first come, first served basis. If a cadet fails to take the initiative to sign up by the deadline, that cadet will be assigned a watch and will have the responsibility to stand that watch regardless of personal plans. Once a cadet has committed themselves to a watch, they are responsible for standing that watch. 

45

3. Change of Watch 

a. If a cadet has an unavoidable conflict with an assigned watch, the cadet may find a replacement and submit a Change-of-Watch form to the Company Adjutant and Company Officer. 

b. Absolutely no changes will be made to the watch bill (other than for emergency) once the watch bill has been posted on Wednesday before the week of the assigned watch (Revision: Final). 

c. Exchanging watches for money is not authorized under any circumstances. It is a Class II violation of Regimental Regulations (205-c-3h) 

E. Class Attendance 

1. Only two watch standers per day, 

1/C or 2/C, will potentially 

experience a conflict between class 

and watch. Additionally, some 

cadets with night classes may have a 

conflict between class and watch. 

2. Watch normally takes precedence 

over class. Cadets are responsible, 

however, for informing their 

professors of their planned absence 

in a timely fashion. Cadets are 

further responsible for the material 

covered during the class period. 

3. Cadets may be excused from watch 

in order to take an examination. 

Cadets must inform the Chief Mate 

during the day and the ASDO during 

the evening that they request to be 

excused for the purpose of taking an 

examination. 

F. Change of Command 

1. Following the Change of Command 

Ceremony, graduating 1/C cadets are 

46

relieved of their watch-standing 

responsibilities. 

2. Non-graduating 1/C and 2/C will 

stand 1/C watches (RSDO, COWS 

and CEOW). 

3. All 2/C and 3/C watches will be 

stood by 3/C cadets. 

106 Watch Structure 

A. Regimental Staff Duty Officer (RSDO) – The 

RSDO will be responsible for the overall 

execution of the dormitory and shipboard 

watches for the 24-hour period of their watch. 

The Cadet Officer of the Watch Dormitory, 

the Cadet Officer of the Watch Shipboard and 

Cadet Engine Officer of the Watch report to 

the RSDO. 

B. Cadet Officer of the Watch Dormitory 

(COWD) – The COWD is responsible for 

enforcing the rules and regulations of the 

Academy and for the execution of the watch 

during their watch period. The COWD is also 

responsible for maintaining the logbook. The 

Cadet Quartermaster and Messengers will 

report to the COWD. 

C. Cadet Quartermaster of the Watch (CQOW) – 

The CQOW is responsible for 

communications, including pipes, telephone, 

and radio, in the dormitory complex. The 

CQOW is also responsible for greeting 

visitors to the dormitory complex. The 

CQOW reports to the COWD. 

D. Messenger (MGRA/MGRB) – The primary 

duty of the Messenger is to make a thorough 

fire and security watch and to assist where 

47

needed. The Messengers report to the 

COWD. 

E. Cadet Officer of the Watch Shipboard (COWS) – the COWS is responsible for the overall security and safety of the training ship and waterfront. The COWS reports to the RSDO. 

F. Cadet Boatswain’s Mate of the Watch (CBMW) – The CBMW will be responsible for making rounds of the training vessel and waterfront. The CBMW will report to the COWS. 

G. Cadet Junior Officer of the Watch (CJOW) – The CJOW is responsible for monitoring traffic, radios and the fire detection system aboard the training vessel. The CJOW reports to the COWS. 

H. Cadet Security Roving Watch (CSRW A/CSRW B) – The messengers are 

responsible for making fire and security rounds of the training ship (DETEX rounds). The messengers report to the COWS 

(shipboard). 

I. Cadet Engineer of the Watch (CEOW) – The responsibility of the CEOW is to monitor all systems and machinery in the Engine Room. The CEOW reports to the Chief and/or Duty Engineer, the RSDO and the ASDO. 

J. Cadet Assistant Engineer of the Watch (CAEW) – The CAEW’s main responsibility is to assist the CEOW in monitoring the systems in the engine room. The CAEW reports directly to the CEOW. 

K. Cadet Oiler of the Watch (COIL) – The duty of the Cadet Oiler is to assist the CEOW, as 

48

necessary. The Cadet Oiler reports to the 

CEOW. 

L. Cadet Wiper of the Watch (CWIP) – The 

Cadet Wiper maintains cleanliness in the 

Engine Room. The Cadet Wiper reports 

directly to the CEOW. 

2-200 General Instructions to All Watch standers 

201 General 

A. Formal Posting of the Watch 

1. There will be a Formal Muster of the 

Watch each day at 0700 in a location 

to be designated by the Adjutant of 

the Duty Company. 

2. All watch standers for the day will 

muster in the Uniform of the Day 

with combination cover or the 

appropriate uniform. Shipboard 

watch standers must also bring a 

flashlight, jack-knife, hard hat and 

safety equipment, if needed. 

3. The purpose of the Formal Posting of 

the Watch is to conduct an 

accountability muster and a personal 

appearance inspection of all watch 

standers. Final instructions to the 

watch may be passed on at this time 

by the Adjutants. 

B. Assumption/Relief of Watch 

1. All cadets will familiarize 

themselves with the Emergency and 

Security Procedures as well as the 

“Orders to the Cadet Watch” before 

assuming the post. 

49

2. The RSDO will take muster, inspect all watch standers to ensure that 

uniform standards are met, and pass 

on any relevant information. 

3. After the watch is mustered and 

inspected, the shipboard watch 

standers will report to the training 

ship as a team and relieve the watch. 

4. The senior watch stander will make a signed log entry upon assuming the 

post and will list all cadets standing 

watch. 

C. Cadets shall not engage in any activity that will detract from their duties, such as 

engaging in unofficial conversations on cell phones, reading periodicals, books or other materials, or watching movies. Cadets shall not bring any laptops, homework, textbooks, 

or other reading material to their watch location. 

D. When off watch, all watch standers will remain on Academy grounds unless 

authorized by the ASDO to leave the campus. 

E. The only person authorized to excuse a cadet from their watch responsibilities is the Commandant of Cadets, Deputy 

Commandant of Cadets, or the ASDO. 

F. Watch standers are responsible for the enforcement of all appropriate Academy Regulations and Directives. All orders received by a cadet from a cadet on duty are to be considered official and are to be obeyed accordingly. 

50

2-300 Duties of the Regimental Staff Duty Officer 

301 General 

A. Cadet Officers of the rank of 3 bars and 

below and 1/C cadets (Fall Semester) and 1/C 

or 2/C cadets (after Change of Command) 

will be assigned duty as the Regimental Staff 

Duty Officer (RSDO). 

B. The uniform for the RSDO will be the 

Uniform of the Day with combination cover. 

C. The Regimental Staff Duty Officer (RSDO) 

is the representative of the on-duty ASDO 

and is responsible to them for the supervision 

of the cadet watch in the performance of their 

duties as prescribed in the Orders to the 

Cadet Watch and for the safety of the cadet 

dormitory complex. 

302 Assumption of Duty 

A. The on-coming/off-going RSDOs and the 

on-coming/off-going ASDO will meet in the 

ASDO Office (00 deck of 2^ndCompany) at 

0700 for briefing. Each relieving RSDO shall 

request permission of the ASDO prior to 

relieving the watch. 

B. The RSDO must report to the on-coming 

ASDO at 1530 or immediately after their last 

class in the ASDO’s office. 

C. The RSDO may request permission from the 

ASDO to attend classes and varsity athletic 

practice and games. The ASDO should be 

kept informed as to the RSDOs location at all 

times. 

51

303 Cadet Watch List 

The RSDO is responsible for monitoring the cadet watch assignments for their duty period. If there is a problem concerning absent watch standers, they shall notify the ASDO immediately. 

304 Watch Responsibilities 

A. The RSDO shall ensure that all branches of 

the Cadet Watch are properly executing 

standard procedures. They shall visit all 

branches of the watch during the day to 

verify this. 

B. The RSDO shall be responsible to the ASDO 

for the proper carrying out of colors, honors, 

and formations. They will ensure the muster 

boards are up to date and delivered to the 

COOW for processing. 

C. The RSDO shall muster all restricted cadets 

during liberty hours. They will personally 

account for all cadets on administrative or 

conduct restriction at CIC. 

D. The RSDO will maintain control of visitors 

present in the dormitory complex, ensuring 

the compliance with pertinent regulations 

regarding hours and authorized areas as per 

the Visitors Policy (Section 6-300). 

E. The RSDO shall act as necessary to maintain 

order in the dormitories. They will make 

frequent tours of the dormitories to ensure 

compliance with these regulations. 

F. The RSDO shall advise the training vessel’s 

COWS and the Academy Staff Duty Officer 

(ASDO) of any emergency in the Cadet 

Dormitory complex, or of any change in 

cadet activities that will affect other divisions 

or departments, or the cadet routine. The 

52

RSDO shall contact the ASDO if ever in 

doubt of action to be taken in any situation. 

G. Morning Colors shall be held promptly at 

0730 and Evening Colors is at sunset. The 

RSDO shall supervise and shall attend 

Morning Colors and take muster on the patio 

for those cadets who are excused from 

marching. The muster sheets must be passed 

to the ASDO immediately after Morning 

Formation. 

H. When enforcing the Regulations for the 

Regiment of Cadets, the RSDO shall interpret 

the spirit as well as the letter of the 

regulations. Discretion shall serve as the 

guide in situations not covered herein. 

Unusual occurrences shall be brought to the 

attention of the ASDO. 

I. The duties of the RSDO will include, but are 

not limited, to the following: 

 

53

2-400 Duties of the Cadet Officer of the Watch Dormitory (COWD) 401 General 

A. Cadets of the Second Class (Fall and Spring 

Semesters) will stand as the Cadet Officer of 

the Watch Dormitory (COWD). 

B. Cadets standing COWD may be EM, IMBU, 

& MSSEP. 

C. The uniform for the COWD will be the 

Uniform of the Day with a combination  

cover. 

402 Assuming of Duty 

The relieving COWD shall request permission of the Regimental Staff Duty Officer (RSDO) prior to relieving the watch. 

403 General Responsibilities 

A. The COWD is the direct representative of the 

RSDO. The COWD shall be responsible to 

the RSDO for enforcement of regulations and 

conduct of all cadet activities scheduled for 

the period of their watch. 

B. They shall remain at the assigned office 

during the period of the watch except when 

watch duties require their presence elsewhere. 

When leaving the post, the RSDO shall be 

advised. In the absence of the RSDO, only 

the most urgent business shall take the 

COWD away from the duty post. If this 

should occur, they must notify the RSDO of 

the circumstances. 

C. The COWD shall ensure that only authorized 

personnel are in the CIC area. 

D. The COWD shall be responsible for the 

cleanliness of the spaces assigned. 

54

404 Logbook Entries 

A. The COWD is responsible for keeping the 

Watch Logbook. 

1. Each day should begin a new page 

with a heading including the 

weekday, date and year in military 

format. 

2. All times will be recorded using the 

24-hour clock, which extends from 

0001-2400. All times should include 

four digits (e.g. 8 a.m. = 0800). 

3. All routine business (e.g. assumption 

of the watch, rounds, pipes), as well 

as unusual events (e.g., fire alarms) 

should be recorded. A start time and 

a finish time of each event should be 

recorded (e.g., “2000-4/c Smith 

commences fire rounds. 2041-4/c 

Smith completes fire rounds. 

Reported a charged fire hose on 03 

deck, 6th Company. RSDO 

notified.”). 

4. The COWD should sign the final 

entry of their watch. 

B. The COWD is responsible for keeping the 

Visitor Log. 

1. The Visitor Log should contain the 

following information: 

2. Visitor’s name, name of the cadet 

being visited, time checked in, time 

checked out, and type of ID 

collected. A visitor pass should be 

issued. 

405 Communication Procedures 

55

A. The Public Address System 

1. The COWD is responsible for the 

use of the public address system, 

which will be used only for 

emergencies or announcements of 

the general type that cannot be 

handled by regular means and must 

be approved by the ASDO. 

2. The COWD will be responsible for ensuring that pipes are properly 

authorized and made according to 

the established protocol. 

B. Telephone Procedure 

1. They will ensure that telephones are used for official business only. Any 

calls not local must be logged in the 

RSDO’s log and reported to the 

Commandant of Cadets. 

2. The COWD will ensure that the 

telephone is answered in a 

professional manner at all times 

(“Massachusetts Maritime Academy, 

Cadet _______ speaking. May I help 

you?”). 

3. The COWD will ensure that the 

telephone is checked for messages 

and that any messages will be 

delivered in a timely fashion. 

4. The COWD will ensure that 

messages taken are accurate, 

documented in the logbook and 

passed to the person for whom they 

are intended as soon as possible. 

56

C. Radio Communications 

1. The COWD is responsible for 

receiving and making any call using 

the CIC radio. 

2. Radio checks will be done at the start 

of every watch to the ASDO, Public 

Safety, Quarter Deck, and the RSDO. 

2-500 Duties of the Cadet Quartermaster of the Watch (CQOW) 501 General 

A. Cadets of the Third Class (Fall and Spring 

Semesters) will stand as the Cadet 

Quartermaster of the Watch (CQOW). 

B. Cadets standing CQOW may be EM, IMB or 

MSSP. 

C. The uniform for the CQOW will be the 

Uniform of the Day with a combination  

cover. 

D. The CQOW will be responsible to the RSDO 

and the COWD for greeting visitors to the 

Dormitory Cadet Information Center (CIC) 

and for communications including making 

pipes and answering the phone. 

502 Communications 

A. Telephone Procedures 

1. The CQOW will receive incoming 

telephone calls and other 

communications directed to the 

dormitory CIC area. All incoming 

calls will be answered in a courteous 

and military manner in the following 

fashion: “Massachusetts Maritime 

57

Academy, Cadet Third Class 

speaking. How may I help you?” 

2. Politely explain to persons desiring to talk with an individual cadet that a message will be delivered to the 

cadet concerned and they will return 

the call but that the cadet may not be 

summoned to the telephone. 

3. Record incoming telephone 

messages accurately and should 

document the following information: 

name of the cadet, the cadet’s room 

number, the nature of the call, who 

the call was from, the time and date 

of the call, who took the message 

and log the message in the logbook. 

4. Deliver all messages to the room of the intended recipient, cadet, or 

officer as soon as possible. It will be 

the responsibility of the Cadet 

Quartermaster to record the address 

and the message accurately. They 

will record the date/time and the 

identity of the caller, verify the 

correct room number of the cadet, 

and sign the bottom of the message 

legibly to denote who received the 

call. The CQOW will forward the 

message to the COWD and then 

advise the COWD of the message 

and the identity of the cadet. The 

COWD will be responsible for the 

delivery of the message using the 

available Messenger of the Watch. 

5. The CQOW will be responsible for the security of the telephone in the 

dormitory CIC area. This phone is 

58

for official use only. No personal 

calls are to be made or received on 

this extension. Incoming calls for 

cadets will be serviced in the 

following fashion: determine the 

number where the caller can be 

reached, hang up, and then deliver 

the message to the cadet called as per 

the procedure described above. 

6. In the event of emergency calls, 

where unusual circumstances are 

involved, or any time you are in 

doubt about the proper course of 

action, advise the ASDO and the 

RSDO and await their decision. Any 

messages that are of an emergency 

nature must be so indicated so that 

prompt delivery can be attempted. 

7. After Academy business hours, the 

telephone in the dormitory CIC area 

receives all incoming calls 

originating from outside the 

Academy. 

a. The Cadet Quartermaster will answer all calls received in a courteous manner, recording the appropriate information and advising the RSDO or COWD of the same. 

b. Any call of an official nature, i.e., regarding any aspect of the Academy program or department, will be logged in the log along with all pertinent information: time, party calling, party called and message, if any. 

c. Transferring Calls: An incoming caller may ask to be transferred to another extension. 

i. On the phone screen, press the transfer button. 

ii. Dial the extension number to whom the call is being transferred. 

iii. Press the transfer button again. 

B. The Public Address System 

59

1. The COWD is responsible for the 

use of the public address system, 

which will be used only for 

emergencies or announcements of 

the general type that cannot be 

handled by regular means as 

approved by the ASDO 

2. During the academic day 

(0700-1600), announcements of all 

but a genuine emergency nature will 

be made only on the hour at 0700, 

1100, 1200, and 1300. No 

announcements will be made at other 

times. 

3. Manner of Making Announcements 

a. Requests for announcements from faculty members, cadets, etc., shall be written out, signed and dated by the requester and approved by the ASDO. 

b. Announcing, “piping,” or calling for an individual cadet for personal reasons, i.e. telephone call, convenience of another cadet, etc., will not be made unless it is a genuine emergency. Cadet messengers will take a written note to the cadet’s room. 

c. Announcements will be made using the following terminology: 

i. The phrase “Now Hear This” will be used once before any announcement to alert everyone in the area to the forthcoming message. When a series of announcements is to be made, this phrase need not be repeated for each one. 

ii. Once finished with announcements, CIC will repeat the announcements in case someone did not hear or misunderstood the first time. Do not say the phrase “I say again.” 

iii. When reference is made to an individual cadet, they should be referred to in the following manner: “Cadet Second Class”. 

d. Departure from this procedure set forth herein may be made when the circumstances require. These should be minimal, however, and care must be taken that use of the system does not fall into the category of convenience. 

60

2-600 Duties of the Cadet Messenger (MGRA/MGRB) 

601 General 

A. Cadets of the Fourth Class (fall and spring 

terms) will stand as the Messenger 

(MGRA/MGRB) 

B. Cadets standing MGRA/MGRB may be of 

any major. 

C. The uniform for the Messenger duty shall be 

the uniform of the day with high-pressure 

cover. 

602 Assumption of Duty 

Messengers should report to CIC 30 minutes before the scheduled time of their duty to request permission from the COWD to relieve the watch. 

603 General Responsibilities 

A. Messengers will be used for watch functions 

only. They will not be used for unofficial 

purposes or personal needs. 

B. The Messengers will make rounds in the 

dorms as assigned by the COWD. They will 

be alert to report any disorders, such as fires, 

electrical or plumbing malfunctions, 

vandalism of any nature by anyone, 

unauthorized persons in the dormitories, any 

attempts at breaking and entering, thefts, etc. 

Any incidents of this nature will be reported 

immediately to the COWD, the RSDO, and / 

or the ASDO. 

C. The Messengers will route all messages, 

notes, letters, official papers, etc. as directed 

61

by the COWD. While on duty, the proper 

request to enter an upper-class room is, 

“Messenger, Sir/Ma’am, Permission to enter, 

Sir/Ma’am.” 

D. In unusual circumstances when the COWD or 

the CQOW are absent, the Messenger shall 

answer all phone calls in the proper manner. 

2-700 Duties of the Cadet Officer of the Watch Shipboard (COWS) 701 General 

ALL SHIPBOARD WATCH STANDERS MUST REFER TO SHIP STANDING ORDERS ON THE QUARTERDECK AND IN THE ENGINE ROOM. 

2-800 Emergency Procedures – Dormitory Complex 

801 General 

A. The purpose of this section is to direct 

watchstanders to the appropriate document 

that delineates responsibility and procedures 

to prevent fires and other emergencies and to 

prepare them to respond to these conditions 

should an emergency arise. 

B. Laws and Regulations of the Commonwealth 

of Massachusetts prescribe certain minimal 

standards and procedures that are 

incorporated in these regulations. 

C. In the event of an emergency, immediately 

notify the ASDO and Public Safety, then 

begin to act as outlined in the emergency and 

security procedures in the “Red” binder 

entitled “Emergency Preparedness Guide.” 

Continue to follow the guide until the ASDO 

and Public Safety arrive. 

802 Alternate Communications Center 

62

In the event an Alternate Communications Center must be set up (due to a fire in the dormitory complex, bomb threat, etc.), the Quartermaster will use the call forwarding function of the telephone system to transfer the incoming calls to the Public Safety Office in the Bresnahan Hall (508.830.5238) and will have the watch relocated to that office. For call forwarding at CIC, depress *2#, then Ext. 5238, and hang up. To reverse the procedure back to CIC, depress #2# and hang up. 

63

2-900 Weekday Watch Bill Sample 

64

2-1000 Weekend Watch Bill Sample 

65

Chapter 3: Rules and Regulations 

3-100 Authority and Rationale for Regulations and Standards 52 3-200 Regulations and Standards 52 3-300 Description of Penalties 86 

66

Rules and Regulations 

3-100 Authority and Rationale for Regulations and Standards 101 General Order No. 87 

A. Under Public Law 96-453 (the “Maritime 

Education and Training Act of 1980”), the 

Academy stipulates in writing that it will 

comply with certain regulations and 

minimum standards in the operation of the 

school. These regulations and minimum 

standards are contained in Maritime 

Administration General Order No. 87. 

B. Regulations and Standards for the Regiment 

of Cadets of the Massachusetts Maritime 

Academy are administrative, not adversarial 

or judicial in the legal sense. 

3-200 Regulations and Standards 

Preamble 

Honor, integrity, loyalty to superiors, and adherence to the traditions of the Massachusetts Maritime Academy are fundamental characteristics and attributes of a successful Merchant Marine Officer and career professional. The discipline program is intended to be remedial and educational rather than legalistic and punitive. The rules are designed to promote positive behavioral changes that permits cadets to show a renewed willingness to adhere to the Academy’s regulations and to accept personal responsibility for the misconduct. Each cadet, regardless of field of study or career path, will strive to conduct themselves in a manner reflecting the highest standards of honesty, integrity and maturity. 

201 Authorization 

A. The President is the only officer authorized to 

assign punishment to a cadet or to delegate 

this authority to any other faculty or 

administrative officer. A ship’s officer, 

67

member of the Academy faculty, 

administrator, or a cadet shall not prescribe 

any form of punishment for infractions of 

discipline unless such authority has been 

delegated by the President. 

B. The Commandant of Cadets and Deputy 

Commandant is authorized to award 

administrative restrictions to a cadet or cadets 

for actions associated with serious violations 

of the Regulations when deemed appropriate. 

C. FERPA authorizes disclosure of any Federal, 

State, local law, or MMA policies governing 

the use or possession of alcohol or a 

controlled substance to parents/guardians.  

MMA maintains a student’s conduct record 

as belonging to the student. However, in 

certain circumstances regarding drug, 

alcohol, or otherwise serious conduct 

allegations, parental notification may be 

made. 

202 These regulations do not limit the discretionary authority of the President to take immediate action to suspend any cadet(s) for violations of these regulations or for other breaches of good order and discipline when, in the President’s judgment and discretion, the situation requires urgent attention. 

A. In any case of cadet misconduct in which a 

cadet’s own safety or the safety of others may 

be jeopardized by a cadet’s continued 

presence aboard the training ship, the Master 

of the training ship is delegated the authority 

to exercise independent judgment and 

discretion as to whether a cadet should be 

suspended immediately and removed from 

the training ship. In a case where a cadet has 

been removed from the training ship, a 

hearing conducted in accordance with the 

procedure specified in Article 209-C will be 

conducted as soon as practicable. 

68

B. Should it become necessary to suspend a cadet from the Academy and to remove them from the training ship in a foreign country, the Master of the training ship shall make the necessary arrangements with the appropriate consular officials of the United States to ensure that the cadet’s rights as an American citizen are protected and that arrangements have been made for the cadet’s travel to a location as close to the cadet’s home state as travel arrangements permit. Should it become necessary to suspend a cadet from the 

Academy and remove them from the training ship when the ship is in a continental 

American port, the Master of the training ship shall ensure that arrangements have been made for the cadet’s travel close to the cadet’s home. All expenses incurred in complying with this paragraph shall be the responsibility of the cadet, and the Commonwealth of Massachusetts shall be reimbursed within 60 days. 

C. Should it become necessary to suspend or remove a cadet from the dormitory and the Academy for misconduct in which the cadet’s own safety, or the safety of others may be jeopardized, the President of the Academy may authorize the cadet’s removal from campus. Prior to the Academy President deciding to remove a cadet from the 

Academy grounds, dorms, classes, etc., the cadet will be given the opportunity to meet with the Academy President. In addition, if a cadet voluntarily abandons their 

responsibilities with the regiment and / or academic responsibility, the cadet will be administratively removed and considered “dismissed” by the Academy for 

abandonment. 

69

D. In the case of misconduct in which a cadet’s 

own safety or the safety of others may be 

jeopardized while on commercial ship, 

cooperative learning, experiential learning, or 

internship, the President of the Academy may 

authorize the cadet’s removal. In a case 

where a cadet has been removed, an 

investigation will be conducted in accordance 

with Section 205. The cadet will be billed for 

all charges incurred for such removal. 

203 Cadets charged with or convicted of a civil or criminal offense outside the Academy may be subject to these regulations. Any cadet charged or convicted of a criminal offense outside of the academy must self-report to the Commandant’s Office. Failure to do so may result in disciplinary action. 

204 Types and Classifications of Deficiencies 

A. General 

1. Deficiencies are classified in Article 

205 of these regulations on the basis 

of the seriousness of the acts and/or 

omissions that constitute the 

punishable offense. These 

classifications are provided for 

general guidance only. In the case of 

the act or omission of any cadet, the 

circumstances that surround that 

specific act or omission at the time 

of its occurrence will be considered, 

and any deficiencies may be 

re-classified as a Class I, Class II, or 

Class III offense based on the 

circumstances surrounding that 

specific act or omission and at the 

discretion of the Commandant of 

Cadets. 

2. Ignorance of these regulations, or 

any other regulations that are 

70

applicable to cadets or of any orders 

that may be issued periodically, will 

not excuse the commission of an 

offense. Every cadet is required to be 

familiar with all applicable 

regulations and orders, and it will be 

presumed that any such ignorance is 

the result of the cadet’s own neglect 

unless they can show evidence to the 

contrary. 

3. Cadets are expected to exercise good judgment in cases not covered by 

regulations or orders or in cases in 

which orders are obviously illegal or 

otherwise inappropriate. Should a 

cadet disregard an order on the 

grounds that they judge it 

inappropriate, they do so at their own risk and may be found guilty of an 

offense if the order in question later 

is held to have been given properly. 

A cadet’s exercise of poor judgment 

is not itself an offense under these 

regulations, but where the exercise of such judgment leads to the 

commission of an offense by the 

cadet or by others to whom these 

regulations apply, the cadet will be 

charged accordingly. 

4. These regulations apply at all times to every cadet when the cadet is 

under the jurisdiction of the 

Academy. 

5. Whenever any cadet is found guilty of repeating an offense for which 

they have been found guilty at least 

once before, the penalty imposed for 

71

any such subsequent offense 

ordinarily will be greater than that 

imposed for the prior offense. 

B. Table of Authorized Punishments 

1. The following table shows the 

authorized awards for the various 

levels of punishment. Each cadet will 

be awarded demerits and restriction 

days for a guilty misconduct. 

Awarded restriction days will 

amount to approximately a quarter of 

the demerits assigned for each 

offense. 

2. The Commandant or Deputy 

Commandant may suspend or revoke 

cadet automobile privileges (without 

refund) for three class III’s or two 

class II’s of the same offense within 

an academic year. 

CLASS III CLASS II 

Demerits 10 100 

Restriction (days) 3 15 

3. The demerit recommendations above 

serve as suggestions and should be 

applied with discretion. 

205 Specific Conduct Offenses 

A. Attempts to commit an offense 

1. An attempt is an act performed, 

beyond mere preparation and 

thought, with the intent to commit a 

conduct offense. Failure to 

successfully commit the offense still 

constitutes an attempt amounting to 

more than mere preparation and 

72

intending, though failing, to affect 

the commission of the offense. 

2. Attempts should be charged the same 

as the intended offense. The 

maximum punishment is the same as 

for the intended offense. 

3. A person who intends to commit an 

offense, then voluntarily abandons 

the undertaking, is not guilty of the 

offense. A person whose undertaking 

is terminated by unforeseen 

circumstances is guilty of an offense. 

B. Regulations, Orders, Instructions 

1. Disobedience to orders and 

regulations is more serious than a 

mistake in judgment. Orders are 

given with the expectation of 

compliance both in spirit and in 

letter. 

2. Offenses: 

 

3. The demerit recommendations above 

serve as suggestions and should be 

applied with discretion. 

73

4. If any of the above listed offenses 

are specifically described by another 

delinquency code, that delinquency 

code should be used. Demerit 

recommendations listed above are 

just that, a recommendation. 

C. Duty/Watch 

1. Considerations in determining 

correct awards for offenses involving 

duty should include the nature of the 

duty, the cadet’s position, and 

whether the delinquencies resulted 

from laxness, carelessness or 

negligence. 

2. Failing to assume a responsibility, 

evading a regulation, permitting 

other cadets under one’s command or 

control to evade responsibility or 

regulations, and overlooking or 

failing to report breaches of 

regulations are all offenses that 

indicate poor motivation and a low 

concept of duty. 

3. Offenses: 

 

74

 

4. If any of the above listed offenses 

are specifically described by another 

delinquency code, that delinquency 

code should be used. Demerit 

recommendations listed above are 

just that, a recommendation. 

D. Standards of Behavior 

1. Standards of decorum and conduct 

expected of ladies and gentlemen, as 

well as professionals, are also 

expected of cadets. These include 

actions or words that would bring 

discredit upon the Academy when 

the individual is identifiable as a 

member of the Massachusetts 

Maritime Academy. 

2. Offenses: 

 

75

 

76