This Day in Coast Guard History – Feb. 12

1802-Revenue Marine had a total of 38 commissioned officers in service: 9 captains, 10 first mates, 9 second mates and 10 third mates.

1983-The 605-foot collier Marine Electric capsized and sank off Virginia during a gale.  Three of the 34 crewmen on board were rescued by Coast Guard and Navy assets.  This sinking and consequent loss of life contributed to the establishment of a permanent rescue swimmer program for the Coast Guard.

1986- Rains began in northern California that lasted for a week, causing severe flooding.  Coast Guard units participated in rescue and relief operations.

1997- Three of four crewmembers of MLB-44363 out of the Quillayute River Motor Lifeboat Station were lost in the line of duty when they responded to a distress call from the sailing vessel Gale Runner.  They were BM2 David A. Bosley, MK3 Matthew E. Schlimme, and SN Clinton P. Miniken.

(Source: USCG Historian’s Office)