Saturday, June 4, 2022
Jake was truly a great person and friend. I was assigned in August to a patrol boat in Cape May but unable to bring my with me at that time. I was alone and missing my family while waiting for housing to open up, so that we might be reunited again soon. Soon turned out to be December 23. I was able to secure a temporary home just before Christmas while waiting for our permanent house to be available. My family, wife and three small children, arrived that evening to a small two bedroom bungalow. There was only room for a small plastic tree a shipmate had loaned me, on top of the tv. Thankful that my family had made the journey from western PA safely that day, the wife and I came to the realization, we had forgotten to get the kids any toys for Christmas, just a day away. We had just finished supper, when we heard a series of knocks at the door. Puzzled as to who might be at the door, since I had told no one about our temporary living arrangements, nor the location. As we opened the door, there stood Santa’s elf (Suzie) and Santa (Jake) with a bag full of toys for our children. Somehow as Jake alway did, found out my predicament and acted with compassion and made my children's Christmas that year. For the longest time, the kids believed there was a Santa Claus, because he came personally to our house. I had never met Jake before this time. It took me some time to find out who Santa was that night. He kept his identity hidden well. I finally met Jake properly, when he showed up to my boat in a CG uniform, with orders to be assigned to our Reserve component with another Reservist and great guy whom has also passed, Joe Hutto. That began the long friendship through the years since. I relished his stories and insights on many matters of life in and out of the Coast Guard. Jake carried his knowledge and humor to the CG Base as a Historian and mentor to all the new recruits. Jake, you’ll be missed by many, but especially by our family…. Jake, “You are relieved, We have the watch and all the memories that go along with your long and faithful life.” God speed, smooth sailing and may the wind and sun always be at your back….. ….PS Say hello to Joe for us too!!!
