Mathews Coast Guard Auxiliary Flotilla 66 was very busy on Saturday, June 29, performing the group’s primary mission of boating safety. Two auxiliary vessels provided safety zone support at the Islander Regatta around Gwynn’s Island, eliminating any possible intrusion from nearby vessels that might have endangered the participants. The nine-mile event, with over 100 paddlers on canoes, kayaks, and paddle boards participating, circumnavigated one of Virginia’s few inhabited islands. Additionally, flotilla members manned booths at both the race and at the Gwynn’s Island Festival where boating safety information and material was distributed free of charge. For more information about joining the Coast Guard Auxiliary, availability of boat safety courses, or for a free boat safety inspection, contact Jim Gierlak at jegierlak@gmail.com. Above, an auxiliary vessel performs a safety patrol at the Islander Regatta.
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