Orange Papa, Orange Papa, Orange Papa

Hi,

On the last blog I signed off with the comment that we were headed to a security drill.  We in fact did.  It seemed well thought out suggesting that we should make sure all balcony lights were turned off and our drapes drawn as we pass through these waters at night.  The crew has been thoroughly briefed on its responsibilities and we have brought armed guards on board for a few days.  Somali pirates seem to like expensive cargo in small ships, not cruise lines.

The briefing went on to say if we heard the code words “Orange Papa,” we should move away from the windows to the center of the ship and if we were in our cabins we should evacuate them and make our way to the hall.  In either case we should lie down in case the captain had to make quick turning evasive moves. 

I love the way people name military-type operations.  I’m just imagining a few of them sitting around a table after deciding what to do asking, “What shall we call it?”

“How about, Operation Pirate?”

“No, that's too long and cumbersome.”

“How about just using just the initials O.P.?”

“Great, let’s put a military spin on it and called it “Orange Papa”.  That way it will be easy to say, effective - and at the same time honor the President of the United States.”

All’s fine here.  I’ll post soon regarding Oman.  We turned the corner, are now in the Gulf of Aden and headed toward Red Sea. 

Later.  


P.S,  We get the news on board and are well aware of what's happening in Syria.