Coast Guard Auxiliary Reports
Pre-launch, above, and the big splash below.
The Coast Guard made a big splash in Panama City on Friday with the christening and launch of its new offshore patrol cutter (OPC), the Argus.
Numerous guests and dignitaries were on hand to witness the huge vessel as it transitioned from sitting on land to floating in the bay. One of those guests included the sponsor of the ship, retired U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) Captain Beverly Kelley. Captain Kelley became the first woman to command a Coast Guard vessel in 1979 with her command of the 95-foot patrol boat Cape Newagen.
The Argus will not only be making history with its 360-foot size and advanced technologies, but it is named for the historic Revenue Cutter Argus which began its service for the newly formed United States of America in 1791.
To witness this momentous event, attendees were both on shore and watched from their boats, jet skis, and even kayaks in the bay. USCG and USCG Auxiliary vessels, including members from Flotilla 12, were patrolling the perimeter to keep boaters at a safe distance. During this time, boaters who were employees from Eastern Shipbuilding Group proudly stated, “I helped build that.”
The Argus definitely made a big splash with its entry into the water for the first time. The waves that followed pointed out why it was good to keep vessels at a distance for their safety.
If you would like to learn more about vessel safety checks, please contact Steve Hults, Staff Officer for Vessel Examinations at steve.hults@uscgaux.net.
Please contact us for more information about our safe boating classes or learning more about getting involved in the Auxiliary, check out our website at www.uscgaux.net follow us on FaceBook @ Apalachee Bay Flotilla 12 or contact our Flotilla Commander Phil Hill at pnkkhill2000@yahoo.com.
Please contact us to learn more about getting involved in the Auxiliary, check out our website at www.uscgaux.net follow us on FaceBook @ Apalachee Bay Flotilla 12 or contact our Flotilla Commander Phil Hill at pnkkhill2000@yahoo.com
The Coast Guard Auxiliary is the uniformed civilian volunteer component of the U.S. Coast Guard and supports the Coast Guard in nearly all mission areas. The Auxiliary was created by Congress in 1939. For more information, please visit www.cgaux.org.