Rescue squad shares rescue operation with squadron

By  Diane Woods

Recently the North Myrtle Beach Rescue Squad Water Rescue Team was invited by North Strand Sail and Power Squadron, part of America’s Boating Club, to share details of their water rescue operations.  Greg Richardson, a Boat Captain, shared how the water rescue team conducts operations on the inlets, Intracoastal Waterway and Atlantic Ocean. He explained that their amphibious boat “Merlin Bellamy aka Merlin” is a three vehicle that goes 7 miles per hour over the roadway, then over the sand when the boat reaches the water, wheels go up, motor goes down and off they go. Daniel McGinnis, Boat Captain, shared that they are also rescue swimmers and the team trains monthly. Chaplain/Safety Officer Diane Woods explained that there are three main missions of the Squad: “First, we run two ALS- Advanced Life support Ambulances, Water Rescue and CPR Training and public education. All of our funding comes from the citizens of our community, grants and donations.”

Michael Waugh, Team Leader, thanked Cdr. John Cattuna, SN and LT/C Doug Thomas for their hospitality.  Cdr. Cattuna presented the North Myrtle Beach Rescue Squad with a special flag, called a “Burgee.” A Burgee Flag distinguishes which boating club the watercraft belongs to. The team was so proud to accept this special gift.

For more information about the North Myrtle Beach Rescue Squad visit: www.nmbrescue.com. For North Strand Sail and Power Squadron email abcnorthstrand@gmail.com.