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ISAR 2003 By Mel Borofsky, BC-ADG, Editor, SITREP
Thursday, September 25, 2003 Today started out in typical Newfoundland fashion, rainy with considerable fog. The plans for today called for some familiarization helicopter rides in the morning followed by a search and rescue exercise (SAREX) performed for our benefit by the Canadian Coast Guard and Coast Guard Auxiliary. Though the weather outside was threatening, the atmosphere in the lobby was light and cheerful. In groups of two and threes contestants from both countries started showing up at the registration desk. Old acquaintances were renewed and memories of ISARs past were shared. The iffyness of the weather had the schedule makers doing flip flops, but just before the window for these activities closed, the rain stopped and the fog started to lift. A quick ride to St. John’s airport was followed two separate helicopter familiarization rides. Breathtaking scenery as the sites for the next two days of completion were pointed out. It was back to the hotel for a quick change of clothes and then a jaunt over to the St. John’s Canadian Coast Guard Base. Those assembled were briefed on the missions of the Canadian Coast Guard and the Auxiliary. The relationship between the two organizations is as closely knit as the relationship between the US Coast Guard and its Auxiliary. Though their membership numbers may be considerably smaller in quantity, their efforts in life saving skills are great and their life saving statistics are impressive. To bear out the skills that they possess the Canadian Coast Guard, aided by their Auxiliary, presented an on the water exhibition of their SAR techniques. Their precision bore out their obvious high degree of training. In yesterday’s article the USCG Auxiliary District teams were listed. Following is a list of the competitors representing the various regions of the Canadian Coast Guard Auxiliary. Newfoundland and Labrador Maritimes Quebec Central and Arctic Pacific Team Canada |
