Public Invited to See Coast Guard at Work

The U.S. Coast Guard will offer the public a peek at its operations Saturday during Team Coast Guard Day at Channel Islands Harbor.

The festival, from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m., will showcase the Coast Guard and the Auxiliary (reserves) equipment and services.

Coast Guard vessels, including Point Carrew, the Channel Islands Harbor’s home-based, 82-foot cutter, will be on display and available for public examination at the Pacific Corinthian Yacht Club, 2600 South Harbor Blvd.

Visitors can also take advantage of classes and workshops on boating and sailing skills, and personal watercraft safety, beginning at 10 a.m.

As a demonstration of the Coast Guard’s important community services, a simulated helicopter search-and-rescue mission will take place at 11 a.m., during which a Dolphin HH-65 helicopter will rescue a “drowning” victim.

Immediately following the simulation, a parade of 18 or more vessels will travel twice around the Channel Islands Harbor turning basin. Adorned with Coast Guard flags and banners, the boats will include several owned by individuals who volunteer them for emergency Coast Guard use.

Though the parade will be visible from numerous points around the harbor, Staff Officer Scott Smith recommends the dock near the Whale’s Tail Restaurant, 3950 Bluefin Circle.