“Overwhelming” Gratitude After Oct. 3rd’s Boating Accident

To the Editor,

It has been a difficult time on the south side of Cape Ann this first week of October. 

The boating tragic accident in Manchester on October 3rd is a harsh reminder that boating, while bringing great pleasure, is inherently filled with risk.  When rescuers arrive on scene all too often it begins with a search before it is a rescue.

As the Manchester Harbormaster I would like to take a moment to express my gratitude to all who assisted the Town of Manchester’s Police, Fire and Harbor Departments in the hours and days following the accident.  Words are inadequate but will have to serve.

When Manchester arrived on scene it became clear that more help was needed.  The response was overwhelming.  Beverly, Essex, Salem, Marblehead, and Gloucester all sent multiple vessels and crews to search.  My apologies if I have missed anyone.  To all of you and your larger communities, please accept the utmost thanks from the Town of Manchester and the Manchester Harbor Department.

In addition, I extend thanks to Crocker’s Boat Yard for assisting in recovery of the stricken vessel and Manchester Marine for opening their fuel dock after hours so the search could continue.  To the Manchester Police and Fire Departments, you continue to exemplify what public safety departments in a community can do when we choose to work together.

Thanks also to the United States Coast Guard the Massachusetts Environmental Police and State Police. Northeastern Massachusetts Law Enforcement Council, Beverly and

Manchester Police and Fire drones also were on scene to assist.

In my fifteen years as Harbormaster in Manchester the neighboring harbormasters have never failed to respond to any call for help no matter the location.  You can always expect to look up from the emergency you were dealt with and see another harbormaster ready, willing and able to lend a hand.  I hope to offer personal thanks to each of the responders

who were out searching off Manchester on October 3rd, you all deserve public thanks, but you are too many to list here.  Your communities are fortunate to have such dedicated first responders.

I am proud to be counted among you all.  With greatest respect and sincerity,

Bion Pike

Manchester Harbormaster