The JDF Coast Guard (JDF CG) swung into overdrive on Thursday August 28, 2008 in the wake of Tropical Storm Gustav. As HQ JDF stepped up the Amber Phases, JDF CG increased its intensity and action. On the morning of the storm, HMJS CAGWAY was alive with activities as personnel concluded preparations for the expected tropical storm. Preparations included securing buildings and all small boats.

Officers and soldiers worked tirelessly to remove all small boats from the water and secure them on the quarter deck with cables, ropes and wires. It was important that this be done to prevent damage and loss.

Securing all buildings at HMJS CAGWAY was in full gear as small teams were deployed across the base to batten up windows and doors and secure other vulnerable areas.

While teams moved sensitive equipment and electronics into secure buildings the steady rhythm of hammers could be heard across the base as personnel raced against time to secure each building. Masts and antennae that could sustain damages from strong winds were lowered and properly stored away.
HMJ Ships MIDDLESEX and SURREY were refueled and additional rations reserved onboard in anticipation of going to sea. Engineering and all other departments onboard did their checks to ensure that both ships were ready in all respects for the storm. Fortunately, they were prepared as HMJS MIDDLESEX and SURREY had their jobs cut out for them when they were used to evacuate persons from Pedro and Morant Cays (offshore fishing areas).

As the Tropical Storm neared Jamaica and rain poured, reports were received from Stations Port Morant and Port Antonio that they were being pummeled by rain and lashed by strong winds. That afternoon, the Jamaica Public Service (JPS) and the National Water Commission (NWC) discontinued their services to the bases.

When Amber Phase Four (the blow phase) was declared by HQ JDF, HMJS CAGWAY was receiving its share of the assault. The rains and winds indicated that Tropical Storm Gustav intended to leave an indelible mark on the JDF CG. Firmly rooted trees and plants when subjected to the Tropical Storm winds, appeared to be mere straws.

Branches that failed to endure the assault fell helplessly from trees. All across the base and in vulnerable buildings new swimming pools emerged as Tropical Strom Gustav dumped buckets of rain on the base. Wellingtons and rain coats were the standard dress for personnel brave enough to venture outside.

The sea state was at its highest as huge waves crashed onto the jetty and onto the roadway adding to the knee high water accumulated on the base. Thankfully, the assault was not prolonged and Tropical Strom Gustav moved on. The damage done is a reminder Mother Nature is indeed temperamental. Tropical Strom Gustav’s passage is an indication of how well-oiled the machine, that is JDF Coast Guard, really is and we are always ready and prepared to weather the storm.