Civil Air Patrol and Coast Guard Auxiliary to do joint operations

Reported here, an example of synergy between two auxiliary forces:

Civil Air Patrol's Raleigh-Wake Composite Squadron and members of the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary met recently at Raleigh-Durham International Airport to discuss future joint training missions, beginning with the first such operation May 19.

For a number of years the Raleigh-Wake squadron has flown Sundown Patrols of the area lakes beginning Memorial Day and continuing through the Labor Day Weekend. The patrols' purpose is to attempt to spot boaters who may be experiencing difficulty or distress, then relay information to local authorities.

This year, several upcoming weekends will include coordination with the Coast Guard Auxiliary and will be conducted during peak activity hours as well as at sundown.

Capt. Dion Viventi, Raleigh-Wake squadron commander, said the patrols have provided an excellent training medium for CAP aircrews and ground support personnel.

Now, "by coordinating this activity with the Coast Guard Auxiliary, assistance to boaters in distress will be expedited," Viventi said.

Capt. Victor Lewis, the squadron's emergency services officer, said flights will be launched from Raleigh-Durham International about 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. May 19.

"One Coast Guard Auxiliary member will fly with each aircrew, and CAP members will join the Coast Guard flotilla on the lakes," Lewis said.

Capt. Tim Tessin, squadron communications officer, said CAP aircraft radios are capable of communicating with the Coast Guard Auxiliary's boats.

Great idea. Well done!