On the afternoon of June 25, the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary Safeboat 277594 responded to a boat fire about 2.5 miles south of Homer Spit. Fortunately a Good Samaritan mariner, John Halverson and family, were in the area and immediately rescued three adults and two children from the burning boat without anyone getting wet, nor were any injuries sustained.

As an auxiliarist representing the Homer Flotilla of the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary of Alaska, I want to express our deepest gratitude and appreciation for such an unselfish act by the Halversons in a somewhat desperate situation. It is this type of willingness to assist other boaters that contributes to Kachemak Bay's record of minimal loss of life and property due to boating accidents and breakdowns.

We experience many such heroic acts of other boaters such as towing disabled vessels, making emergency radio calls or just standing by while repairs are made. Our thanks to all of you who act as Good Samaritans and are willing to give of your time and energy to help make this a safe and fun boating area.

The auxiliary isn't always available for immediate response, and we appreciate all the assistance we can get. The Homer Flotilla of the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary is composed of about 22 fairly active members, many of whom have fulltime jobs. Homer has a new Safeboat that can get us on scene quite rapidly, but it often takes considerable time to gather crew and get under way. This is a service that is offered at no charge to the community.

Our flotilla is relatively small by comparison to other state flotillas, and we are always looking for new members who love being on the water, helping others, enjoying good fellowship and want to make our waters as safe as possible for all boaters.

We encourage anyone interested in more information about our organization to attend our monthly meetings. Or contact me at 235-6398.

Sandy Mazen, commander

Homer USCG Auxiliary Flotilla