We got an inside look at what it’s like on the first day for new freshmen, known as "Swabs," at the United States Coast Guard Academy in New London, Connecticut. Day one marks the beginning of "Swab Summer," a challenging seven-week basic training program all future cadets are required to complete. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, all swabs entered a 14-day restriction-of-movement period, known as ROM. According to the Academy’s superintendent, all 271 swabs tested negative for COVID-19. Their training officially began on day 15, which included a physical fitness exam, haircuts, sailing lessons, and drill practice on the Academy’s Parade Field. Training is overseen by the Cadre, a group of juniors tasked with leading the swabs through the seven-week program.
