Gary Jones and Bob Heinz from Flotilla 11-8 meet members of The USCG St. Paul Marine Safety Detachment while patrolling the Mississippi River near Red Wing, MN.
First-Time Crewmembers Meet Regular Coast Guard Patrol
By Caryl and Gary Jones - U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary. Photos by Caryl Jones.
The day dawned with warm, clear sunshine, and the drive down to Red Wing was uneventful. We boarded Nomad at 0900, and coxswain Bob Heinz gave us the pre-departure briefing. Our first task was to cast off and stow the fenders and lines. Paul Moen (a very experienced crew member) and Jan Heinz had this task down to a science.
We had graduated from the Boat Crew Academy on June 14th. Our first reaction was WHEW, we passed! But now the real fun was beginning.... Read more.
Upcoming Boater Education Opportunities
The spring 2011 Coast Guard Auxiliary boating safety courses are now complete. Classes will be offered again in spring 2010. Click here for course descriptions. For further questions, or if you would like to be notified when new classes are scheduled, please email info@flotilla11-08.org.
Upcoming Vessel Safety Check Days
The spring and summer 2011 schedule of Vessel Safety Check Days is available. Click here for more information on Vessel Safety Checks. Click here for upcoming vessel safety check dates. For further questions or, if you would like to request a vessel safety check, please email info@flotilla11-08.org.
File a Float Plan Before You Go
It is always a good idea to leave a float plan with a friend or neighbor before you go out on the water. If something happens that prevents your safe return, your friend or neighbor can contact emergency services with detailed information about you and your boat that can help rescuers save your life. Click here to download a float plan form.