Is anyone here in a flotilla that operates Coast Guard facilities or has taken on a retired Coast Guard or other military vessel for patrols?
Does anyone know what is involved in getting one or the criteria that has to be met?
I love the idea of having a facility that was built for work rather than recreation that could be set on standby and crewed by the local flotillas. Most of our OPFACS are small boats with the larger ones being trawlers or sailboats that are designed for recreation rather than rescue or work in rough seas.
My idea was to get an interested group and form an ownership. But I wasn't sure where to go from there.
I believe the CGAUX Association can get surplus government boats and equipment for "free," subject to certain conditions.
You as a private citizen can buy surplus boats and equipment through auctions at GSA Auctions or Government Liquidations - Google them to find the websites.
I know the CG has provided boats to certain flotillas, but this is the exception, not the rule.
Our station loaned an old 21' RHI to a flotilla two years ago and they are still using it and keeping it in top shape. We did put a new 150 on it last year for them. What is so funny is that there was absolutely no paperwork done since we merely "loaned" it to them on a temporary basis. It was not a "who you know" deal. The flotilla that ended up with it earned it many times over by helping out our station on a 24/7 basis....rain or shine. And....we did replace the blue light with a red and amber one but we did leave them the siren to play with.
What first inspire dme to look into it was the story of how a Flotilla ended up with Patrolman Henry A. Walburger.
They seem to be running it now like the RNLI runs their boats. They started a non-profit foundation and apparently took donations of equipment and money from foundation members and outside donors.
I know the RNLI is by a large margin supported by charity.
