Blackthorn Memorial

On 28 January 1980 the USCGC Blackthorn WLB-391 involved in a collision, went down just outside of the entrance to Tampa Bay. This disaster caused the Coast Guard family to loose valued members of its crew who are now remembered each year with a memorial service near the site of the collision.

A C-130 from Air Station Clearwater passes overhead during the service.

The Color Guard from Group Saint Petersburg march past the crowd comprised of members of the Coast Guard family, including Active, Reserve, Auxiliary, family members of those that went down, and survivors. Civic groups and members of the press also attend.

 
In January 1997, Captain Greg Sutton, Commander of Group Saint Petersburg, was the guest speaker. He told the story of how this unfortunate accident helped to strengthen the safety program in the Coast Guard.

And Navy Chaplain Wes Sloat performed the services to remember those who went down with the Blackthorn.