WELCOME ABOARD
Cutter Address
Commanding Officer
USCGC SPENCER (WMEC-905)
4000 Coast Guard Boulevard
Portsmouth, VA 23703-2199
Phone: (757) 483-8784
Base Security: (757) 646-8586
Where to report:
When reporting for duty, arrive in the uniform of the day. If the cutter is underway, report to Base Portsmouth. The Officer of the Day will process your paperwork. Ask the base security guard for directions when you arrive at the front gate to Base.
Flying Into Norfolk:
There are a number of means of transportation available from Norfolk International Airport. The rideshare station is outside of baggage claim carousel 5 and across the crosswalk.
Driving to Base Portsmouth
From Interstate 64, take the exit for 164 towards Portsmouth, Norfolk. Take the Cedar Lane exit and turn to the left. Immediately after crossing over the highway, turn right onto Coast Guard Boulevard and continue approximately 1.2 miles to the front gate of Base Portsmouth.
Tidewater Area:
The Tidewater area of Virginia is rich with family living that boasts a very active military community. The Tidewater area is comprised of the cities of Portsmouth, Norfolk, Suffolk, Chesapeake, Hampton Roads and Virginia Beach. The area offers a myriad of communities ranging in style from classic colonial to ultra-modern. It additionally boasts a wide selection of family services, outstanding medical facilities, and opportunities for higher education from institutions such as Old Dominion University, Hampton University, and Tidewater Community College.
Commanding Officer Welcome Aboard Message:
For many sailors reporting aboard, their tour aboard Spencer is another opportunity to return to a cherished assignment at sea. For those new to sea duty or who have never had the opportunity to serve aboard a deep-water vessel, there are many adventures awaiting you. Life aboard a ship can seem isolated, but you will find an opportunity to share a fellowship with your shipmates who also seek the same adventure and success in completing Coast Guard missions at sea. When you report aboard, you can expect to begin your initial qualifications. We are our own fire department and hospital, every crew member plays a vital role in damage control onboard and you will receive training for Basic Damage Control when first reporting. Through this training you will become confident in your ability to stand together with your shipmates to ensure the safety of the ship. You will also begin watch station qualification training for both your inport and underway watch stations. Specific watch station qualifications will vary according to your rate and rank, the Unit Training Officer will review these requirements with you during your check-in process. The average time it will take to complete your basic qualifications will range between four to six months. Once you complete your basic qualifications, you will have the opportunity to, and are strongly encouraged to pursue additional qualifications onboard. These other qualifications can include Boarding Officer (BO), Boarding Team Member (BTM), Small Boat Crewman and Engineer, flight deck crew, cutter rescue swimmer, and many more. Shipboard life is not all work and studying, though. After normal working hours, or during holiday routine, you are free to pursue other hobbies that can include fishing on the fantail, playing an instrument or working out in the cutter’s gym. Many crewmembers also enjoy just kicking back and watching a movie, playing board games, or simply hanging out with their shipmates. Shipboard life is challenging and demanding, but you will find that it is an experience that you’ll remember and share with others for the rest of your life.
The best time to contact your sponsor will vary depending on whether Spencer is inport or underway. While inport, Spencer’s crew can best be contacted between the hours of 0700 and 1300. When reporting aboard, the appropriate uniform is either the tropical blue or service dress blue uniform (depending on the time of the year). If your scheduled arrival occurs while Spencer is underway, you will report to Base Portsmouth and we will further coordinate your travel to meet the ship at the next available opportunity.
We look forward to your arrival!