[amsat-bb] Re: W6FOG

[Rob Goodson]

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 at 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.
>
> Craig
> N6RSX
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