T&T: Strange goings on at the locks in Seattle

[Scott Bulger]

Fun thing about being moored at the locks, and I do mean at the locks, you
get to see all the craziness leading to Seafair, our regional boating event.
Hydroplane races and the Blue Angels flying above Lake Washington on a sunny
weekend in August means anything that floats will be there. 

 

Today two U.S. Navy patrol boats entered the large lock.  What was odd was
they were full of armed troops, in full body armor with 4 .50cal's mounted
and ammo belts in the breech.  These guys were capable of going hot in
seconds.  I've never seen that kind of readiness before, kind of chilling.
What struck me as odd was the age of the crew.  Most of the guys were in
their late 30's or 40's, one guy was easily 50.  I don't know if they were
reserve forces, but none the less they were intimidating.  I can only
imagine what it was like to be in the lock with one of them rafted up to me.
I think I'd say "hey, do you mind pointing that .50 someplace else?  

 

Anyway, great boating weekend in Seattle, it's going to be quite a show!  

 

Scott Bulger, Alanui, N40II, Seattle WA