08/22/2026
This morning and late afternoon, members of the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary Flotilla 15-10, based at Lake Hopatcong, conducted a patrol and paddle craft exercise focused on maintaining operational readiness, navigation skills, and recreational boating safety.
Throughout the day, both vessels remained in radio communication while our vessel, Guardian, was underway with our Auxiliary members. During the patrol, members continued to sharpen their boating and navigation skills by practicing how to plot positions on nautical charts and applying the 60-D-ST formula, a navigation memory aid used to solve speed, time, and distance calculations.
Later in the afternoon, Auxiliary members conducted a Man Overboard Drill, practicing safe and strategic techniques for assisting a person back aboard a vessel following an emergency in the water. Training like this helps ensure our members remain prepared to respond safely and effectively on the water.
Our very own Margaret Gering was also out on her paddle craft, engaging with fellow paddlers and boaters throughout the day. Margaret’s kayak patrol was specifically to remind paddlers of importance of safety, in particular of PFD wear. Also, to encourage boaters to be mindful of paddlers and to avoid creating wakes that might put them at risk of capsizing.
As we wrapped up another successful day on Lake Hopatcong, the crew of U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary Flotilla 15-10 would like to wish everyone a safe and enjoyable conclusion to the summer boating season.
Interested in joining our Flotilla?
We welcome those interested in volunteering and serving their community through boating safety, public education, and support of the U.S. Coast Guard mission.
📧 [email protected]
đź“… Meetings: Second Wednesday of each month at 7:00 PM
đź“Ť Lake Hopatcong Senior Center
32 Lakeside Blvd, Hopatcong, NJ 07843
We hope to see you on the water—and perhaps at an upcoming meeting!
