A post event assessment will make good reading once the political fallout joins the mud. In this situation the Coast Guard was able to respond quickly because A. There were considerable resources allready in place with aviation,ship and small boat units integrated with this vital shipping area. B. the Coast Guard's unique mission mandate has created a multi tasking structure able to respond rapidly. I read the total CG helicopter missions flown and the people evacuated and translated that into the logistical measure of coffeecups. Senator Proxmire , famous for his Golden Fleece awards just passed away. I remember when our issue coffee was reduced in quality as a result <img src="/images/graemlins/mad.gif" alt="" /> Like a famous confederate cavalry commander said, " just get there the firstest with the mostest."