Shipmates,
The events in Nome on Monday concluded with a potluck dinner at the local gymnasium. It was a wonderful evening, highlighted by the King Island Eskimo Dancers who performed several dances. The group includes all ages and performs a variety of dances to the accompaniment of native drummers and songs and chants. In the last dance everyone was invited to join and I am sure there is video somewhere of me out there on the dance floor coming soon.
We were overwhelmed with the attendance by the local community and the recognition of the importance of the Coast Guard to the history of Alaska. The gym is lined with pictures of the Revenue Cutters that served in Alaska after it became a U.S. possession. Each table contained place mats with pictures of the cutters and the cuttermen who first came to Alaska. There were also pictures of the Coast Guard Life Saving Station established in Nome after the Gold Rush. I have never been anywhere in my travels where the local community was able to speak in great detail of the life of Mike Healy and his importance to Alaska and our Coast Guard ... they can in Nome! His name is honored here.
The meal was awesome with the local cooks preparing Sliver Salmon, King Crab, Halibut, and BBQ Chicken.
We cannot thank Mayor Denise Michels and her staff enough for this evening and we pass on our gratitude to the citizens of Nome who made us feel so much at home.
ADM A
