“America’s tall ship” finds safe haven from storm in Gravesend Bay, N.Y. (MEDIA AVAILABILITY)

Feb. 6, 2010

NEW YORK – The crew of the Coast Guard’s Barque Eagle found safe haven in Gravesend Bay, N.Y., to escape the storm expected to dump heavy snow on the East Coast Friday night.

The Eagle was bound for Baltimore for a dry dock period when the command decided it was best to find refuge rather than become beset by heavy weather.

“The Eagle is anchoring to minimize our exposure to the large winter storm impacting the mid-Atlantic region Friday night and Saturday,” said Lt. Chris Nolan, the Eagle’s navigator and operations officer. “Our paramount concern is the safety of our crew and rather than continue on our voyage, we feel it’s best to be safe, rather than sorry.”

The Coast Guard is urging mariners to use extreme caution if they must venture out into the storm.

“We’re taking this opportunity to inspect our safety equipment, tie down any loose gear, and seek a harbor of refuge from the high winds,” Noland said. “We highly recommend that mariners do the same.”

The Eagle, homeported in New London, Conn., is the only tall ship still employed by the U.S. military. Its primary mission is for training cadets and officer candidates. For more information on the Coast Guard’s Barque Eagle, visit: http://www.uscg.mil/datasheet/wixtrain.asp

Editor’s Note: The crew of the Eagle is available for phone interviews with the media. Interested media should contact Coast Guard Public Affairs at (212) 668-7114.

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