>>>The Coast Guard ( SOP) is grossly underfunded. <<<<br><br>Too true, especially since many members are in harms way more often than traditional branches of the military (not meant to be slight to any serviceman).<br><br>The lack of funding has played out here in Chicago recently. When Glenview Naval Air Station closed, the Coast Guard only had funding for crews out of Grand Haven, MI, across the lake. I believe it's about 45 minute to an hour flight each way. This while Chicago and Milwaukee to the north have the highest density. Recently, they did receive funding for a helocopter stationed on the west side of the lake, near Waukegan I believe.<br><br>>>>find out who will be out there and say hello. It's amazing how even a cursory familiarity with each other can better prepare both parties for potential problems.<<<<br><br>Excellent advice.<br><br><br><br><br><br>Willie Vannerson<br>McHenry, IL