JUNEAU, Alaska, Mar. 26, 2004 - Aids to Navigation Team Sitka services navigational aids with the assistance of an Air Station Sitka helicopter crew, because the aids are located in isolated areas not easily accessible or too dangerous to approach by boat. The vast area of Southeast Alaska makes ANT Sitka a fast and reliable source for discrepancy response. The crew and gear is lowered to the aid While ANT Sitka crewmembers attend to discrepancies or routine maintenance, the Air Station crews performother missions (law enforcement, search and rescue etc.) until the ANT crew is ready for pick up. The ATON crew carries a survival kit packed in a pump can for emergency situations and are prepared to stay overnight should the weather or other factors prevent a recovery from the aid. Although a dangerous job, the ANT and Air Station work closely together to ensure the safety of both crews, and light the way for mariners. U.S. Coast Guard photo by Petty Officer Colleen Johnson, ANT Sitka
Subscribe
