On September 14, 2002 Ship 243 was underway with 2 very important missions to complete:
The First was to provide additional event resources as a safety boat during Sail For America. As pledged in the Sea Scout Promise, we are always prepared to guard against water accidents and to render aid to those in need.
The Second was to participate in the parade of ships and carry a set of special commemorative flags into New York Harbor. Those flags carried the names of victims of the attack on the World Trade Center. Paying tribute to these individuals was a privilege on its own, but it was even more poignant for our crew as these 9 victims were fellow Scouters.
Scouter - "A person who gives of their time freely to help build young men & women into adults".
We will not forget:
- John Ueitzhoeffer
- Fredrick Rimmele
- Harry Glen
- Gregory Milanowyczc
- John Chiporai
- Ian Schnider
- Lt. Cmdr Patrick Murphy
- Alexander Napion
- Richard Perlman.
The Patriots' Path Council, (BSA) made sure the flags were personally delivered to the nine families immediately after the parade. More than 3,000 flags were so honored and given in remembrance by the organizers of Sail For America.
What a spectacular day - it couldn't have gone better! The turnout was superb, the scene was moving, both visually and spiritually, and all the boats were brought safely back to harbor without incident.
Bravo Zulu to all who participated in this wonderful memorial.
Sail for America Safety Boat Flag on the masthead
Ship 243 Crew for Sail for America
Photographs by William May - Copyright 2002
Footnote:
This event was of such importance that the Patroits' Path Council (BSA) www,ppbsa.org included it in the annual report to the National Council and the Nation.
Excerpt from Annual Report 2002 - 151 KB
Complete Annual Report 2002 - 1040 KB
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