Coast Guard Station Portage Holds Open House

As Lake Superior plays such an important role in the lives of Upper Peninsula residents, folks were given a rare opportunity to take a closer look and get to know a little bit more about the US Coast Guard over the weekend.

Coast Guard Station Portage welcomed civilians to stop by the facility and meet the men and women who protect our waterways on Saturday.

Officers were on hand to show off their vessels and sharing general information on boating.

Executive Petty Officer Jason Swain said the event gives community members a chance to get to know the agency and its staff.

“We’d like to show everybody who we are and let them get to know us. We’ll show them what we do, talk about boating safety, show them the boats and stuff that their tax dollars help upkeep,” said Swain.

A main attraction and item of curiosity were two 47’ Motor Lifeboats that visitors were able to explore and get a better understanding of the inner workings and components of the high tech machinery that’s used in search and rescue operations as well as maritime patrol.

Swain said, “They usually ask the fun questions like how fast do the boats go? What are their capabilities? Are those the boats that roll over? And which the 47’s do.”

In addition to questions about the equipment, other questions that officers are commonly asked included “What am I required to have on my boat? What should I do when I go out? We’ll talk about stuff like that. Well answer any questions in regards to boating safety or our recommendations as far as making a long trip or short one for that matter,” said Swain.

The day featured many displays and activities along with officers providing information about how to join the Coast Guard and some of the duties and responsibilities.