Rescue swimmer drops from low hover

While brain storming the possibilities of getting the “biggest bang for our buck,” for National Safe Boating Week, the Flotilla 71 staff conceived a plan for a large public event to be held at the Corpus Christi’s downtown city marina.

After first securing the support of Division 7 Captain Roy Pell and marina director, Peter Davidson, the staff, in order to have the widest public appeal, invited the participation of other water recreation organizations.  These included Texas Parks and Wildlife Dept., Division of Coastal Fisheries and the U.S. Weather Service, Corpus Christi.  All were both excited to be able to present their messages to the public.  Of course, vessel safety checks and getting the boating safely message to the public was the highest priority for our flotilla.  This aspect was efficiently handled by Auxiliarists John Dickerson, Cindy Vail, Clayton Poenisch and Paul Hale.

John Dickerson, FSO-VE explains vessel inspection to boater.

Recognizing that our greatest visible asset is the Coast Guard, I contacted Captain Lincoln Stroh, USCG, Deputy Sector Corpus Christi Commander, regarding the possibility of having an 87’ Cutter for public tour and a demonstration of helicopter/rescue swimmer operations in the city marina.  Captain Stroh was enthusiastically supportive of our plan.  Sector Auxiliary Liaison, CWO Tim Malcolm assisted in securing the services of the Cutter “Manatee,” the helicopter/swimmer demonstration, and other support throughout the sector.

To further entice public attendance, Dan King, Past Commander of Flotilla 71, received a donation of Weiner schnitzels for the public and Brett Venters, Flotilla Operations Officer, received a donation of soft drinks to distribute to the attendees.  In addition Auxiliarist Clayton obtained free T-shirt coupons and discount coupons for safety equipment from West Marine.

On the morning of the event, Auxiliarist Karen Jones was interviewed on a radio talk show to promote the event.  Meanwhile, James Chambers, Vice Flotilla Commander, and I used my vessel facility, the “Miss C,” to take depth soundings in the marina to determine the best location for the helicopter/swimmer drop.  We conveyed that information to pilot, Lt. Jeff Henderson, USCG.

Vessel inspection filmed by TV

The helicopter/swimmer demonstration was carried out flawlessly and breathtakingly before a large crowd.  The Cutter “Manatee” was a big public pleaser, with people touring the vessel throughout the day.

Due to mechanical problems, the helicopter was an hour late on scene leaving three TV news teams on scene for more than two hours.  The extra time was used to interview and tape stories about vessel safety, inspection, and equipment, including the wearing of personal flotation devices (life jackets), etc.

-SK