Tuesday, November 20, 2018

USCG Completes its Supplemental Alaska Coverage

By Karen Robes Meeks

The US Coast Guard recently wrapped up its supplemental coverage of Northern Alaska with the closure of its Forward Operating location in Kotzebue. The 14-member Air Station Kodiak aircrews were stationed in Kotzebue since the beginning of July to help during the busiest period of maritime activity in Alaska’s more remote parts.

They flew a total of 330 flight hours aboard two MH-60 Jayhawk helicopters including more than 75 search-and-rescue hours that saved or helped eight people, according to the Coast Guard.

"As America's interest in our Arctic Region continues to grow, the Coast Guard is committed to fulfilling our missions and supporting remote communities in this strategically valuable area," said Cmdr. Adam Merrill, the Air Station Kodiak Operations Officer. "Air Station Kodiak aircrews provided search and rescue, community relations presence, aids-to-navigation support and interagency cooperation to monitor marine wildlife stocks throughout this year's deployment season."