Cadet
Let's introduce Wladislaw. It is not difficult to read his status and profession. The anchor on the cap and embroidered distinguishing marks on the uniform tell us that he is a low ranked marine officer. Perhaps the costume is too big and sloppy for a young body, but even the youngest members of the military are uplifted by impressive decorations. The red band around the arm is a temporary extra, just there for the occasion.
We are welcomed aboard the MIR, a Russian tall ship that sails the seven seas. With more than thirty other vessels from all over the world it is docked for a few days in Scheveningen's fishing harbor. The Sail Festival attracts a huge crowd, but early in the evening the excitement is quieting down.
Wladislaw willingly strikes a pose in the gangboard of his ship, perhaps seeking more confidence at the railing, but his smile is open and genuine. He is proud to be there.
"Yes, I am a cadet," he agrees, "in training to climb the ladder."
How long will it take to become a steersman or even a captain?
"Oh," he hesitates, "ten years...?"
In his early twenties that perspective is simply too far beyond the horizon. Tomorrow he will sail again, climbing the ropes, standing at the wheel. Tomorrow is another day.
This is #39 in my 100 strangers assignment. Check out the 100 strangers website to see more pictures and people working on the same assignment.
Cadet
Let's introduce Wladislaw. It is not difficult to read his status and profession. The anchor on the cap and embroidered distinguishing marks on the uniform tell us that he is a low ranked marine officer. Perhaps the costume is too big and sloppy for a young body, but even the youngest members of the military are uplifted by impressive decorations. The red band around the arm is a temporary extra, just there for the occasion.
We are welcomed aboard the MIR, a Russian tall ship that sails the seven seas. With more than thirty other vessels from all over the world it is docked for a few days in Scheveningen's fishing harbor. The Sail Festival attracts a huge crowd, but early in the evening the excitement is quieting down.
Wladislaw willingly strikes a pose in the gangboard of his ship, perhaps seeking more confidence at the railing, but his smile is open and genuine. He is proud to be there.
"Yes, I am a cadet," he agrees, "in training to climb the ladder."
How long will it take to become a steersman or even a captain?
"Oh," he hesitates, "ten years...?"
In his early twenties that perspective is simply too far beyond the horizon. Tomorrow he will sail again, climbing the ropes, standing at the wheel. Tomorrow is another day.
This is #39 in my 100 strangers assignment. Check out the 100 strangers website to see more pictures and people working on the same assignment.