MARINE SALVAGE AND RESCUE
From conversations we've had and a few we've overheard, it seems that marine salvage has been vilified. "They profit from the misfortunes of boaters & sailors." And, "I hope the storm brings you some work but not too much." These are the statements heard in whispers & make me hope you will consider the following...

We, marine salvors, provide help to those in need, in unsafe & unfortunate circumstances, and in peril. This is much like a policeman, fireman or doctor. These professionals do not revel in the unfortunate incidents that they face yet they profit from them. Just because they are paid for their services does not remove the altruism with which they perform them. Policeman don't hope for more crime. Doctors don't hope for more cancer. Firemen don't hope for more arsonists. But, they are at the ready because they know crime, cancer & arsonists exist.

Allow me to go one step further... Imagine a fireman who must purchase his own fire truck, hoses & medical equipment so that he may properly respond to the emergencies of others. Now, imagine that same fireman is not "on salary" but must collect his fees from the same people he has just assisted. That is the reality of marine rescue & salvage.

Also, consider the boat owners themselves. Are they "unfortunate victims" because they left a seacock open, forgot to plug a thru hull, or ran their vessel up on a reef?  Are they "unfortunate victims" when they leave their boat unattended for weeks, months & sometimes years? Many of us don't fall into this group & are conscientious boaters, cruisers etc. that sometimes fall victim to the perils of the sea. Regardless of instance, how can your helper be labeled an opportunist or profiteer?

Lastly, and most insulting, are those that believe that anyone can do the job of a salvor. We question the home owner in Southern California who, in the face of a firestorm, stands on his/her roof with a garden hose. Yet it seems reasonable that anyone with a boat and an air mattress can rescue/salvage? Worse, consider those who attempt to borrow the proper equipment and believe they're qualified to operate it. "Officer can I borrow your badge & gun so that i can arrest that criminal?" All this & we haven't even touched upon the issues of legalities & insurance, nor will we.

So, all we ask is that you consider the profession of marine rescue & salvage not as flock of vultures waiting for the kill, but servicemen willing to help pick up the pieces when things start breaking.