How 60 Minutes reported from the "Graveyard of the Pacific"

Summary

In this episode of 60 Minutes, a team explores the treacherous search and rescue missions conducted by an elite Coast Guard unit in the Columbia River's turbulent waters, known as the graveyard of the Pacific. Viewers witness the intense training involved in handling extreme conditions and learn about the innovative buoyancy features of the lifeboats that enable them to recover from capsizing. Chief Kelly, the lead instructor, shares his calming perspective amidst chaos, emphasizing the thrill and fulfillment he experiences while navigating the challenging waves, providing a unique insight into the resilience and dedication of Coast Guard surfmen.

Takeaways

• 🚤 The Coast Guard operates in the 'graveyard of the Pacific,' a dangerous area at the mouth of the Columbia River.
• 🌊 The collision of the Columbia River and Pacific Ocean creates tumultuous waves, posing challenges for search and rescue missions.
• 🧑‍✈️ Elite Coast Guard surfmen undergo rigorous training to prepare for the treacherous conditions in this inlet.
• ❄️ A dry suit is essential for preventing hypothermia during operations in cold water, as demonstrated by the segment.
• 🛥️ Coast Guard lifeboats are designed for high buoyancy, enabling them to perform 360-degree rollovers and right themselves after capsizing.
• ⏱️ The lifeboats can reorient themselves underwater within 8 to 12 seconds, ensuring the crew's safety during turbulent conditions.
• ⚓ The technique known as 'squaring up' involves charging directly into oncoming waves to maintain control of the vessel.
• 😊 Chief Kelly finds calmness and exhilaration while navigating rough waters, feeling uplifted by the experience.
• 🌟 The Coast Guard's work is vital for ensuring safety in perilous maritime environments, requiring skill and bravery.
• 🎥 The segment provides a firsthand look at the intense realities and rewarding nature of Coast Guard operations.

Q & A

What is the significance of the area referred to as the 'graveyard of the Pacific'?

The 'graveyard of the Pacific' refers to the treacherous waters at the mouth of the Columbia River where powerful ocean waves collide with river currents, creating chaotic and dangerous conditions for navigation.

What type of training do the Coast Guard surfmen undergo?

Coast Guard surfmen train in challenging environments, including the 'graveyard of the Pacific,' to prepare for search and rescue missions and to handle unpredictable and hazardous water conditions.

How does the dry suit contribute to the safety of those training in cold waters?

The dry suit helps keep the body warm and prevents hypothermia by ensuring that the wearer remains dry, even when immersed in cold water for extended periods.

What happens to the lifeboat during a rollover, and how is it designed to handle such situations?

The lifeboat is designed to be buoyant and can right itself after rolling over, allowing the crew to continue their operations. It can submerge underwater for 8 to 12 seconds and then violently reorient itself.

What is the purpose of the safety clips used during the training exercise?

The safety clips are used to secure the crew in place during potential rollovers, ensuring they remain safe and can hold their breath while the boat is upside down.

What did Chief Kelly compare the buoyancy of the lifeboat to?

Chief Kelly compared the buoyancy of the lifeboat to a football in water, explaining how it can be pushed down and then will rise back up due to its design.

How does Chief Kelly feel about working in such stressful conditions?

Chief Kelly expressed that he feels calmer and more relaxed when navigating through the chaotic waves, finding joy and a sense of fulfillment in the adrenaline of the experience.

What was the initial experience of the narrator while testing the dry suit?

The narrator experienced freezing hands and discomfort while testing the dry suit in the cold Columbia River, but found the suit kept their body relatively warm.

How does the crew prepare to handle incoming waves during operations?

The crew prepares by 'squaring up' to the waves, meaning they charge into the wave head-on to navigate safely through it, experiencing a dramatic rise and fall as they ride the wave.

What is the overall emotional response of the Coast Guard crew while conducting their missions?

The Coast Guard crew, including Chief Kelly, reports feeling exhilarated and happy during their missions, describing the experience as uplifting and a way to escape personal or work-related stress.