Coast Guard Seaman Geddy T. Ladd, son of Laura J. and John R. Ladd of Spring Branch, Texas, recently graduated from the U.S.

Coast Guard Recruit Training Center in Cape May, N. J.

During the eight-week training program, Ladd completed a vigorous training curriculum consisting of academics and practical instruction on water safety and survival, military customs and courtesies, seamanship skills, first aid, fire fighting and marksmanship. A major emphasis is also placed on physical fitness, health and wellness.

Ladd and other recruits also received instruction on the Coast Guard's core values -- honor, respect and devotion to duty -- and how to apply them in their military performance and personal conduct. Ladd will join

36, 000 other men and women who comprise Coast Guard's force.

Men and women train together from the first day in the Coast Guard just as they do aboard ships and shore units throughout the world. To reinforce the team concept, Ladd, and other recruits were trained in preventing sexual harassment, drug and alcohol awareness, civil rights training, and the basics of the work-life balance, as well as total quality management.

Ladd is a 2006 graduate of Smithson Valley High School of Spring Branch, Texas.