Last night our Search and Rescue efforts became our own. This time it hit closer to home as I personally knew and served with one of them who had been killed. AST1 Dave Skimin and I started our early Coast Guard Aircrew careers together at Air Station Barbers Point, Hawaii. We both reported there as young E-4's. Myself, AMT1 Charlie Sharp, and Dave worked line crew when first reported for duty. Dave was always into projects and loved the water. On the mid shift, we were known as the Motley Crew. I remember when Baywatch Hawaii was being filmed and the scene called for a female lifeguard to free fall out of the helo. Dave volunteered and had to wear a wig! On mids we both washed HC-130 flap and wheel wells. The crazy days of taking the cushman to new levels! When I heard the news last night, my gut instinct knew it was him or Charlie. If you read my previous post this morning, Daves initials are D.S. He was one of the best Rescue Swimmers I have served with.
This one is a bit tough for me and tomorrow I plan on riding my bike out to the airsta and stop near the rescue swimmer shop and remember Dave...
Here's Dave doing what he loved best... Making surfboards.
Ben, I'm very sorry to hear about the loss of your friends. Incredible video tribute you posted and I'm sure it reflects what your friends loving doing - putting themselves in harms way so that others may survive. I'm hear for you if you need anything, Jeff
ReplyDeleteBen, very sad to hear about the loss of your friends and our thoughts go out to their families.
ReplyDeleteBen, sorry to hear about your buddy. Great video tribute and nice way to help remember.
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