Foundation Funds New Gym For Coast Guard Station Sand Key
Coast Guard Station Sand Key is the fourth largest unit in the Coast Guard’s Seventh District, keeping watch of over 2,000 square miles off the Florida coast. The Coast Guard members at this base are known as the Guardians of the Gulf and respond to 300 search and rescue cases per year.
With these responsibilities it’s vital all at Station Sand Key remain in top physical shape. Through the Foundation’s Shipmate Fund priorities list the crew requested their gym be refurbished, and thanks to generous local supporters Tom and Muffet Harmon they have an entire new gym, which includes matting, two new weightlifting machines, exercise bike, rowing machine, and a complete 3-tier dumbbell set and rack.
In the station’s Shipmate Fund request to the Foundation they told us of their ‘dire need’ of new equipment. With this upgrade, those members stationed at Sand Key, local Coast Guard Reserve, and multiple emergency service agencies who share the base will now have the opportunity to use the up-to-date gym seven days a week.
Our men and women, and their families sacrifice so much on a daily basis to ensure our Nation’s borders and waterways are kept safe,” said Capt Gregory D. Case, Commander of Sector St. Petersburg, in a letter to the Foundation. “The equipment provided boosted their morale and allows them the opportunity to work out and ensure they are taking care of themselves in the best way possible.
Every year the Foundation’s Shipmate Fund receives requests directly from Coast Guard members and provides performance-enhancing equipment to keep them ready for their demanding jobs, recreation equipment to enjoy family time, technology to help with on-the-job learning, and in many cases, such as this, it gives our Coast Guard members the chance to bond and build positive relationships with local partners.
Capt Case added: “Your kindness and support of the personnel attached to Station Sand Key directly affects the unit’s morale and effectiveness, and ultimately our service to the public. The work you do for all the Coast Guard family is vital and immensely appreciated by the crew of Station Sand Key!”
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