P a ge 28 t opside V olume 79 , I s s u e 2
The US Coast Guard Aviation Memorial
by COMO Joseph Giannattasio photographs by Auxiliarist Jim McKeever
Located in the heart of Northeastern North Carolina is a quaint , coastal town with plenty of southern charm that is home to United States Coast Guard Base Elizabeth City . The base provides a wide variety of mission support units , including Air Station Elizabeth City . In the Northwest section of the base there is a charming little chapel called Wings of Faith Aviation Memorial Chapel . It was dedicated along with the memorial wall outside to be a continual tribute to Coast Guard and Auxiliary aviators who made the ultimate sacrifice while serving in Coast Guard Aviation . The US Coast Guard Aviation Memorial is a cenotaph monument ( no one is buried here ) with these words :
“ Dedicated to the Air Crews that did not return .”
Among the names inscribed are 15 Coast Guard Auxiliary aviators who have ‘ logged their last flight ’ since 1984 . Auxiliary Aviation ( AUXAIR ) is an Auxiliary operational program . General aviation aircraft and civilian pilots assisted the Coast Guard Auxiliary ‘ informally ’ during World War II . In September 1945 Congress passed a law that allowed owners of aircraft eligibility for membership in the Auxiliary . When flying for AUXAIR under orders , qualified Auxiliary air crews , while assigned to duty , are considered to be Coast Guard air crew ; and Auxiliary aircraft , while assigned to authorized duty , are deemed to be Coast Guard aircraft .
Originally unveiled in 2000 , the memorial was unfortunately destroyed by Hurricane Isabel in September 2003 . After being repaired , the memorial was re-dedicated on October 26 , 2004 . CAPT Rod Ansley , Commanding Officer of Air Station E-City unveiled the Memorial during the rededication . The memorial is a fitting tribute the Active Duty , Reserve , and Auxiliary men and women who have given their lives in service to our nation while serving in Coast Guard Aviation .
If you are ever in the area , avail yourself of the opportunity to stop by this distinguished Memorial . Stop and reflect . Take just a moment to bask in the Coast Guard ’ s pride and testimony for all that you as a member of the Auxiliary do on a daily basis , and for those who have led the way for us . Enjoy , reflect and carry on .
The Coast Guard Aviation Memorial at Coast Guard Base Elizabeth City .
Coast Guard Auxiliary photos by Jim McKeever .