Today’s Northumberland Gets Close-Up Look at Search and Rescue Training on Lake Ontario
Today’s Northumberland got a rare look at the precision training members of the Canadian Coast Guard and members of CFB Trenton practice on Lake Ontario.
On Friday, July 7, 2023, the 47-foot Coast Guard cutter Cape Rescue with crew members Commanding Officer Jordan Stewart, Engineering Officer Sean Pero and Rescue Specialists David VanGoolen and Yvan Breton headed out onto Lake Ontario to meet up with members from CFB Trenton along with two SARTECS (Search and Rescue Technicians).
The exercise involved lowering and hoisting the two SARTECS from the stern of the vessel.
The Cape Rescue heads into the wind on a specific course and speed, then the Griffin helicopter comes up and matching the speed and course then slowly lowers a SARTEC onto a very small area at the back of the ship.
The Commanding Officer of the Cape Rescue never takes his eyes off of the course heading even though the helicopter is just a few metres above the antennas of the ship.
Team work and communications by both the Cape Rescue and the helicopter crew is essential.
CFB Trenton (usually 424 Squadron) regularly practices with members of the Canadian Coast Guard based in Cobourg.
Editors Note: Today’s Northumberland would very much like to thank the crew of the Cape Rescue for allowing a rare look at their training. Canadians should be proud and confident in both the Canadian Coast Guard and the Canadian military (424 Squadron)
Author: Pete Fisher
Has been a photojournalist for over 30-years and have been honoured to win numerous awards for photography and writing over the years. Best selling author for the book Highway of Heroes - True Patriot Love