CHATHAM, Mass. - During a decommissioning ceremony here, Friday, May 8, 2009, the crew at Coast Guard Station Chatham were among a tent full of guests who said goodbye to the last 44-foot rescue boat in service, turning a page in maritime search and rescue history.
The 44-foot motor-life boat, one of nearly 100 of its kind built, began its service on March 25, 1963. The now retired boat will make its final voyage to New London, Conn., where it will be displayed at the Coast Guard Museum. Its replacement, a new 42-foot Special Purpose Near Shore Lifeboat, was delivered to the station on July 2, 2008. (U.S. Coast Guard video/ Petty Officer 2nd Class Luke Pinneo)
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