Tag Archives: Service

How the U.S. Fishing Fleet Served the Navy and Coast Guard in WWII

In the early days of World War II, demand skyrocketed for vessels to fill the needs of the U.S. sea services. The Coast Guard was no exception as they competed with the U.S. Navy and U.S. Army for new construction as well as privately owned ships. Facing a high demand for vessels, the service turned to the U.S. fishing industry as a source for its cutters. These emergency acquisitions included East Coast trawlers, whalers from both coasts, and East Coast menhaden fishing vessels, such as the Emergency Manning vessel Dow (WYP 353). During World War I and World War II, the menhaden fishing fleet became a ready reserve for the Navy and Coast Guard. Both services needed small, shallow draft vessels for coastal convoy escort, mine planting, minesweeping, and anti-submarine net tending duty. Many of these vessels were purchased or leased, while others were loaned to naval forces by fishing businesses as their contribution to the war effort. >click to read< 18:28

David S. Oakes has set sail for his final port.

1394468_656424637735296_964145650_nSouth Thomaston — David S. “Oakesey” Oakes, 46, a true captain and hero, died doing what he loved, off the shores of Cape Ann in Massachusetts, after saving his son-in-law Jason’s life, Friday Oct. 25, 2013. Born in Rockland, Aug. 31, 1967, he was the son of Bernard “Sonny” Jr. and Elizabeth Scott Oakes. Educated locally, he was a 1986 graduate of Rockland District High School. David has set sail for his final port, and his passing leaves those he loved battered by the waves, but hopeful for the calm waters of peaceful memories. more here, calling hours and service information. 12:11