LAPUSH — More than 250 people turned out Wednesday to celebrate the U.S. Coast Guard presence and dedication to the West End.
About 25 guardsmen from Station Quillayute River were recognized during the four-hour Coast Guard Appreciation Day ceremony at the A-Ka-Lat Center.
“We are overwhelmed by the outpouring of gratitude displayed today,” said Senior Chief Boatswain’s Mate David Meyrick, skipper of the station. “In my 22 years in the Coast Guard, I have never felt as welcomed as I do here.”
Celebration-goers recounted tales of Coast Guard heroism during what were often emotional testimonials thanking the Coast Guard.
“I am a longtime resident of Forks, but that may not have happened if it wasn’t for the Coast Guard rescuing me,” said Russ Thomas, 81.
Thomas spoke about a day 40 years ago when he and a friend became lost near Destruction Island during poor weather.
And Quileute tribal member Frank Ward thanked the Coast Guard for trying to rescue his brother who died in a boating incident in February 1997.
Ward said the tribe considers guardsmen members and is appreciative of their efforts.
“You serve a valuable role in protecting our community,” Forks Mayor Nedra Reed added. “We hope you will be here for years to come.”
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The rest of this story appears in the Thursday Peninsula Daily News Clallam County edition. Click on “Subscribe” to get the PDN delivered to your home or office.
