Scoop’s Views

The U.S. Coast Guard units in and around the Gulf Coast are certainly earning high praise from the news media, from over 40 people who have been rescued this morning, and leaders in various areas impacted by Hurricane Ike.

Now, at 2:32 p.m., with Hurricane Ike at a category 2 with 105 mph winds, many are surprised the Coast Guard is still doing rescues, as a notice, according to some, had been issued earlier saying rescues would end hours ago. They haven’t, and there are at least two people alive — at least — who were rescued in this extended mission.

A big hand to the U.S. Coast Guard members involved in all aspects of these rescues, most of whom are putting their own lives in harms way, to rescue people — many of whom are just now having an “ohno” minute. What’s an “ohno” minute. It’s when you say, “OH, NO! I can’t get out!”

Let’s all keep the brave men and women of the U.S. Coast Guard, as well as the other armed forces, Reserve forces, and National Guard troops, all of whom will likely be deployed to the area after Hurricane Ike makes landfall. May the troops all be safe from harm and accomplish their missions successfully.

As I prepare to publish this post, breaking news on several news stations is that the U.S. Coast Guard and the U.S. Air Force have launched several helicopters, and at least two Osprey’s are involved in the operation, as well, to rescue 22 crew members of a freighter that’s lost its power.

The freighter is a 584-foot Cyprus-flagged freighter named the Antalina.

Reports are that rescue jumpers are aboard at least two of the choppers, and are ready — and willing — to jump into a chopping ocean, if needed, to rescue these 22 people on the freighter.

For those people who will be stuck in their location – a location previously (and still) under mandatory evacuation orders – and finding themselves trapped – are being told to write their names and Social Security numbers on their forearms. This will help in identifying bodies found floating or in homes after the hurricane passes. It’s not a pleasant thought, but the time has now passed for passage to be made to safety.

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