The Coast Guard’s 50th anniversary celebration will be coming to the islands this summer.The Coast Guard has a 4,500 employees, 116 vessels and 22 helicopters, including Haida Gwaii’s own Sandspit Station, which has operated since 2004.Jan. 26-the anniversary day- was marked by Coast Guard staff, said Sandspit Coast Guard Officer In Charge Peter Visser, “the stations and ships celebrated with a cake cutting , they all had their own little ceremony”. The Sandspit Coast Guard will be continuing celebrations with booths at Logger Sport’s day in Sandspit and at Hospital Days in Queen Charlotte in the summer.”We’re proud to be involved with the community. The Coast Guard has a long a distinguished history,” said O.I.C. Visser, “and we look forward to celebrating the 50th anniversary with the people of Haida Gwaii in the coming months.”Keith Ashfield, Minister of Fisheries and Oceans said, “Whether it is to support Canada’s vital commercial fishing industry, maritime transportation, shipping, or the country’s millions of recreational boaters, our brave men and women are always there and ready to serve. After 50 years of dedicated service, the Canadian Coast Guard is truly a symbol of sovereignty, safety and security.”
