Greenland Memorial Wreath Presentation Ceremony
The Coast Guard Tug Association mustered at Bertholf Plaza to honor and commemorate the men and ships who were a vital part of our nations defense during WW2 in the Greenland Theater of operation. We shall never forget their great sacrifices. As master of ceremony, Sandy Schwaab introduced LCDR Byron Willeford, XO of the International Ice Patrol (IIP), who addressed the group.
Followed by CAPT. Bob Desh, Former CO of the IIP spoke of the great contributions made by the CG in the Greenland Patrol and reminded us all of the importance to always remember those that served in the Greenland Patrol.
CGTA Member Ken Black who served during WW2 was called to present the wreath, accompanied by Capt. Bob Desh. As the wreath was presented a Bugler sounded "Taps", followed by a lone CG Piper playing Amazing Grace on the bagpipes.
Atop the Greenland Memorial was a framed picture of the CGC Manitou which represented the three WYTMs that served in the Greenland Theater. The other two we the CGC Arundel and CGC Raritan.
This was a deeply moving ceremony .
Presentation given by Capt. Robert Desh, USCG at Greenland Patrol Memorial Ceremony.
“Forgotten
now and little honored then, but still they’ll never have to wonder if
they’re men.”
“Steel
deck plates glistened as if chrome-plated.
Handrail rods and stanchions glow as polished silver with a
watchmaker’s finish.
All
brass has been made to gleam like gold.
Paintwork appeared to have been washed down hourly.
There was no dust whatsoever.
In only one obscure area was the single copper pipe fitting that
defied being sealed tight.
It
dripped one drop of oil every one minute and forty-seven seconds.
To catch the drips, there was a highly polished solid copper,
hand-made pan.”
“As
I entered this sanctum sanctorum, I was instructed to remove my shoes
and put on a pair of rubber soled sneakers.
After my tour, I hastened to put on my shoes and leave the
premises.
Had I not seen the
engine room with my own eyes, no one could have convinced me that such a
spectacle could exist…I hurry back to the ugly duckling Nanok.”
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