Slowing down a bit with the season ending. In May Flotilla 96 had patrols out for seven days with a total of 13 facilities. Most days our watchstanders were monitoring at least two vessels. Once we had three vessels out. Missions were primarily safety patrols and training, although ATON verification is a continuing project.
Thanks to our radio watchstanders on duty for May: Shuster, LeFevre, Harris, Arnal, Morrison and Tyson. Some are doing double duty by working with new trainees in the radio room, and their efforts are appreciated.
The evening TCO training classes continued with some intense scenario-based drills for responding to distress and non-distress calls.
Participants are learning that practice drills help improve their skills as watchstanders. We have also started "training the trainer", allowing those who will be mentoring new trainees to gain experience in the role of instructor.
And Wiggins Pass Mobile One has hit the road! Our mobile communications trailer was road-tested and radio-checked this weekend and we were heard "5 by 5, loud & clear" all the way to Station Fort Myers Beach. Thanks to assistance from my mechanically inclined son, Charles, the generator was fired up, antennas were raised and radios were hooked up in preparation for hurricane season. Besides emergency functions, we hope to use the trailer as a more visible presence for vessel safety exams, program visitation and promoting our safe boating programs. The trailer will be going through some refurbishing and updating soon. We'll keep you posted on our progress.
