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In October of 2006, while on a planned visit to Boston, the British frigate HMS Chatham decided, for obvious reasons, to stop and pay a visit to the seaside town of Chatham, Massachusetts. The town had been abuzz for weeks with the impending arrival.
However, because the frigate drew too much water, it was impossible for it to get over the bar at the mouth of Chatham Harbor, and the ship had to anchor outside of the harbor. So, the captain and senior officers were brought to the Chatham Coast Guard station by the HMS Chatham’s Royal Navy Lynx helicopter.
At that time, I was serving in the Coast Guard Auxiliary at Station Chatham and I climbed the lighthouse stairs to take photos from the catwalk of the lantern of the helicopter’s arrival as well as other photos later of the day’s event.
The Sector brass, station complement, Chatham Town selectmen, local Sea Scouts, and the public were all on hand to greet the Royal Navy from the HMS Chatham. Speeches were made by both sides, ceremonial plaques were exchanged, and everyone chatted with the British guests. It was a day that will be remembered by all who were there.
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