By MC2 Marcus L. Stanley
NPASE Detachment Southeast

Family and friends of Sailors aboard the guided-missile frigate USS Samuel B. Roberts (FFG 58) were invited aboard for a "family day cruise" June 12. 

The cruise allows family and friends the chance to spend time at sea aboard their Sailors' ship observing what they do while underway and deployed.

"This is a great opportunity for family and friends to spend time with their Sailors before we deploy here soon," said Cmdr. Erica Hoffman, commanding officer of Samuel B. Roberts. "Many ships don't get the operational time to do things like this, and it helps give family and friends a picture in their head when their Sailor talks about where they work and what they do."

As "Sammy B" got underway, Hoffman announced Quartermaster 1st Class Santos Oyoque and Boatswain's Mate 2nd Class Rio Ray were meritoriously advanced through the command advancement program (CAP), which became the highlight of the day at sea.

"This is amazing," said Oyoque. "I'm just thankful for all the people who helped me along the way. Even though, I'm the one that got capped, it's definitely because of the great people I work with. They're the ones that make me shine."

Participants spent the afternoon touring the ship, enjoying a steel beach picnic, and taking part in activities unique to a Navy warship. 

"It's been a great day at sea," said Ensign Cliff Rhoten. "Being able to do things like this really helps while we're away. Though it doesn't take away the burden of being without your loved one, it gives a lot of insight about what goes on while we're deployed."