de N2RAG W6FOG Update; Neil and parrot are fine after the 1 1/2 inch mooring line snapped during the recent storm (along with 3 other boats) in the San Luis Obispo, CA anchorage. The "CommCenter" (W6FOG's Boat) ran aground fortunately, on sandy beach and recovery is possible at this point. The divers report only 2 feet of water internal to the ship and all hazardous substances have been removed (oil, fuel) for the recovery effort. The state of the on board electronics is unknown at this point, as is the general condition of the ship. The day before harbor patrol complemented Neil on his mooring and commented that they never seen such a stout line used. Clearly the violence of the storm proved too much, despite his 12 years of experience, was a unforeseeable outcome.
Neil was adamant that you get word of this, as he was truly quite concerned you, fellow members of the radio fraternity, would be concerned about his status. Especially those that checked in with him daily. His best to you all, and he is well.
Also, due to the nature of the adventure so far, and the not inconsiderable costs in both dollars and spirit, it is unlikely that the trip will continue this season. The boat will require refitting out, the supply's are damaged or compromised, and numerous expenses will have to be covered. On a personal note, and having known Neil for years, I know that the personal costs to him have been large, though not overwhelming, and he is determined to complete this journey at some time with all of you along. It has never been about someone moving a boat from point A to B, and sometimes keying up. He purposefully set out to make this a "radio" journey for us all, the Ham Community, he that deeply benefits from, and admires. A spotless 12 year career of seafaring preceded this trip - now he needs to refit and learn from the recent trip. I know Neil would want to say it a bit differently, but in the next hour he will find out if his "house" and belongings are salvageable, if he still has radios that function, food and clothing. A very different place than anyone could have imagined that bright day he sailed out of the Golden Gate. He's a bit of a ham hero to me, clearly going way beyond the normal for us. Thanks Neil, Best of luck OM, and I'll hear you soon again on the birds!
N2RAG R.Goodson 415.874.5559
On Sun, Dec 13, 2009 at 10:45 AM, D. Craig Fox DFox@rwglaw.com wrote:
Neal requested that the following info be posted. Neal reports that his boat took on water and was damaged. [I assume this was while anchored.] Apparently his radios were damaged as well, but Neal and parrot are fine.
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