USCG Station Fire Island

• Strategic Location: USCG Station Fire Island is located on the western end of Fire Island, New York, guarding the entrance to the Great South Bay and the southern shore of Long Island. • Established in 1849: The original Fire Island Lighthouse and lifesaving station were established in 1849, making the area a longstanding site of maritime safety operations. • Rooted in Lifesaving Service: The station traces its heritage to the U.S. Life-Saving Service, which merged into the Coast Guard in 1915. The lifesavers were known as "surfmen" for their daring rescues in rough seas. • Role in the SS Savannah Rescue (1918): The crew from Fire Island played a key role in rescuing passengers from the SS Savannah, which ran aground during a storm. • Prohibition Era Patrols: During the 1920s and 1930s, the station was involved in intercepting rum runners smuggling alcohol into New York during Prohibition. • WWII Coastal Defense: The station was heavily involved in coastal patrols during World War II, watching for German U-boats and enemy activities near New York Harbor. • Modern Search and Rescue Operations: The station conducts hundreds of search and rescue missions yearly, protecting mariners, swimmers, and boaters in the busy waters off Long Island. • Hurricane Response: USCG Station Fire Island has played a crucial role in disaster response, including during Hurricane Sandy in 2012 when it assisted with evacuations, search and rescue, and maritime safety. • Environmental Protection Missions: Besides search and rescue, the station is also tasked with enforcing environmental regulations and protecting the sensitive ecosystems of Fire Island and the Great South Bay. • Community Engagement: The station regularly participates in public safety events, educational programs, and Open House days, fostering strong ties with the local community.