Most Americans don't hesitate to show respect and honor to a member of the Army, Navy, Air Force or Marines, but did you know that members of the U.S. Coast Guard both serve overseas and save lives here at home? They are the fifth member of the U.S. Armed Forces, and as such, deserve our respect and honor - especially as boaters who one day may have serious cause to thank them.
I'm a former Coastie and for my job here at About.com, I read the Coast Guard news blog faithfully. Reading about the crew of Air Station Honolulu Barbers Point in Hawaii who lost their lives in a helicopter crash, I am deeply saddened and empathize with their family.
As mariners, let's remember the young men and women of the Coast Guard who have forfeited their lives to save others, and who will brave harsh conditions to rescue any person in danger on the high seas should we need it. And if you see a member of the Coast Guard, say a personal thank you. While I hope you will never need their assistance, if you do, they will be the first to put themselves in harm's way.
Comments
Few people are aware that Coast Guard people are serving in Iraq and Afghanistan (2) alongside the other services. One Coastie has lost his life in Iraq. So thanks for getting the word out.
I am USCG retired.
My daughter served in Guantanamo Bay immediately after 9-11. At the time, she was a single mother of a 3 year old and 18 month old. She had less than 5 days notification that she was being called to active duty. Her children were whisked out of their home in Seattle and into ours in the Midwest within four days. My daughter spent eight months away from her children. Men and women of the Coast Guard sacrifice much to ensure that we are protected. We owe them our respect and our gratitude.