Black Hawk over Cruz Bay
Some morning excitement in Cruz Bay when a Black Hawk helicopter hovered around for awhile.
Capt. Tom Larson from Sadie Sea sent out the alert to islanders.
“Do not be alarmed when there is a U.S. Marine Corp Black Hawk helicopter hovering around Stevens Cay with Marines repelling out the sides.”
“This is not an invasion, but the Marines are helping the U.S. Coast Guard in placing a new light tower on Stevens Cay with a new high intensity LED flashing light.”
Ruth Cam caught the helicopter, though even Ruth admits it’s not riveting video. At least enjoy the blue water!
March 2nd, 2013 09:41
I heard those Marines were repelling down to pick up a to-go order of Skinny Legs potato chips…
We have vacationed near Pensacola which has a large Naval base and have been on the beach watching the Navy and Coast Guard practice open-sea rescue with the sailors jumping out of the helicopters into the water, make heir rescue, then do it again, and again, and again… am so thankful they’re on our side!
March 3rd, 2013 06:23
there were actually TWO Black Hawk helicopters used, a Coast Guard inflatable, and the Coast Guard Buoy Tender. Begs the question, “how many Coasties does it take to change a light bulb?”
March 3rd, 2013 17:03
I was sitting on Frank Bay that morning, my last morning on island and was wondering “What is going on out there ?” Now I know…thanks for keeping us informed.
March 3rd, 2013 21:59
Hi Josh
This was a multi agency operation involving the 55ft buoy tender from Puerto Rico that spent the night moored in Cruz Bay Creek after their generator blew apart and stayed here to compete their mission to upgrade the lights on Stevens Cay and the Brothers. They had no showers or power to the boat while they stayed in St John The U.S Marines flew in the new towers below their Black Hawks to Stevens Cay and the Bothers and if one just takes a few seconds to check out the intensity of the the new LED lights you have to say there is a huge improvement in the intensity of these lights and this was a major upgrade ensuring mariners have a much better view of these lights.