NOME, Aug. 6, 2017 —
Welcome back, loyal readers! HEALY is finishing up her first science mission, Arctic West Sumer (AWS) 1701 and temporarily heading south. After a busy few weeks at sea, HEALY’s crew is looking forward to a few days of rest back in Seward, AK before we begin our second science mission, AWS-1702.
During AWS-1701, HEALY tested oil skimmer technology in open and ice covered waters; tested autonomous surface, underwater and aerial vehicles; tested an electrically powered shore transfer craft; tested a passive millimeter wave camera; deployed NOAA moorings; and conducted conductivity, temperature, and depth (CTD) measurements. The embarked joint Coast Guard and Navy dive team conducted a total of 18 dives from the cutter and cutter small boat. Additionally, HEALY supported the F/V DESTINATION investigation by surveying the wreck site, using the dive team’s ROV to collect video confirmation of the vessel, and recovering a crab pot from the sea floor as evidence.
Since returning to the Arctic, many new articles of “red gear” adorn the new Blue Noses—the title earned by sailors crossing the Arctic Circle and proving their seaworthiness to Davey Jones and King Boreas Rex. Those who proved themselves were authorized to don the coveted red hat worn by icebreaking Arctic sailors. Congratulations to the new Honorable Blue Noses!
While transiting through the Bering Strait, HEALY embarked a new media team comprised of a reporter and photographer from Defense Media Activity. They arrived via HH-60 during flight operations with Forward Operating Location Kotzebue, AK. This operation not only facilitated the transfer of passengers, but also served as a training opportunity for many new shipmates to qualify in numerous flight quarters positions.
While underway Thursday, HEALY recognized two new Permanent Cuttermen, CS2 David Buck and ET2 Jonathan Gibbs. The designation of Cutterman is held in high regard throughout the Coast Guard. The Permanent Cutterman Insignia represents the personal fulfillment of the professional training and sea service associated with a seagoing Coast Guard career. Permanent Cuttermen are authorized to wear their silver (enlisted) or gold (officer) pins on their uniforms for the duration of their Coast Guard career. The ceremony began with a “Cuttermen’s Call,” a gathering of all Permanent Cuttermen onboard HEALY, after which the crew was called to muster and congratulate the new inductees. Congratulations CS2 and ET2!
HEALY spent Saturday and Sunday night “on the hook,” anchored just outside of Nome, AK. While at anchor, the Mayor of Nome, and local tribal representatives were welcomed aboard HEALY to tour the vessel and have lunch with the Captain and Executive Officer. Many crewmembers were able to go ashore and experience the city of Nome for a few hours. A big thank you to those crewmembers who volunteered to stand duty or be part of the boat crew transporting crewmembers to and from shore!
Stay tuned for another update on HEALY’s Arctic West Summer 2017 mission next week!
Very respectfully,
ENS Samuel Wood
Assistant Public Affairs Officer
USCGC HEALY (WAGB 20)
For more information about CGC HEALY, please visit:
http://www.icefloe.net