Cadet training ships have changed considerably over the years, and the training vessel currently being operated by the Texas Maritime Academy in the United States, the 1,472gt General Rudder, reflects this. Built in 1984 as USNS Contender, a Navy antisubmarine vessel, the ship uses diesel-electric drive and carries no cargo-handling gear.
Graduates of the Academy are more likely to find employment on research ships or offshore supply vessels than US-flag cargo carriers, particularly along the Gulf of Mexico. Named for General Earl Rudder, who led US Army Rangers during World War II’s D-Day landings, the training ship accommodates 50 cadets. JS
