Sometimes all the REALLY important issues facing us as Arabian Horse enthusiasts, JUST DON'T MATTER. CG-6505 was a HH-65 Dolphin helicopter with four souls aboard. Its primary mission was Search and Rescue. As rescuers, we in the Coast Guard, acknowledge that sometimes no one is coming.

From the Commandant of the United States Coast Guard.

To the Men and Women of the United States Coast Guard:

This "All Hands" updates the status of the tragic loss of CG-6505 last week. Three of the four flight crew were recovered without vital signs and one remains missing. Coast Guard, Navy, Air Force, Hawaii Air National Guard as well as local fire and police assets conducted an exhaustive search over the past four days. Regretfully, we have not located our missing pilot, Commander Thomas Nelson, the Executive Officer of Air Station Barbers Point. The search has been suspended and his family has been notified.

Commander Nelson, Lieutenant Commander Andrew Wischmeier, Aviation Survival Technician First Class David Skimin, and Aviation Maintenance Technician Second Class Joshua Nichols made the ultimate sacrifice while serving their country. They leave a legacy of dedication, courage and commitment to their Nation and humanity. We will honor the crew of CG-6505 by continuing to perform operations safely and effectively.

Commander (Select) Dimitri "Del" Delgado, USCG

I am so sorry for the loss. I lost some friends in a medical helicopter accident. They were returning from a burn center transport and the pilot went along a river, for who knows why , and hit a power line. These brave souls had saved my Grandfather's life just months earlier. I feel for the loved ones left behind.
Our ranch is in an area that gets frequent training flights from the local Naval Air Station. They scare the heck out of me frequently flying so low but I know it is neccessary for training. I just pray every time they come over that they stay ABOVE the trees and power lines!
Gina

You are so right - some times horse things just don't really matter. If this doesn't hit home to everyone - human life is more valuable than anything else. This helps lessen my anger right now with the entire Arabian horse industry. Thank you for this.

My heart goes out to the families of these brave souls. Puts things into perspective in one big hurry!

So very sorry - my condolences sent

So true Del. I'm so sorry for the loss of those wonderful men. I do keep all of our service men and women in my prayers everynight. They, along with thier families give up so much to keep us safe and secure here at home. Bless them all.

Wow, you are so right about our horses being an escape.

My condolences for the friends and families of those that were lost.

Sending prayer for the friends and families.

God Bless you all.

Deepest Condolences,

Julie

So sorry for the loss, and my condolences to all who knew the people....