Forks Washington on the Olympic Peninsula

Earlier this month the Quileute tribe officially welcomed the whales with a Return of the Whales Ceremony. This ceremony was revived about four years ago, and the whales seem to appreciate it, several times they have actually shown up during the ceremony. This traditional event welcomes the gray whale migration but Orcas have also gotten in to the act. Whale watching trips are being offered but even from the beach it is possible to get a glimpse of these amazing creatures.

February 11th is the 14th anniversary of 44 foot Coast Guard Motor Lifeboat #44363 capsizing in La Push. Three crewmen perished in an attempt to rescue a man and woman from a capsized sailboat. Killed in the accident were Seaman Clinton Miniken of Snohomish, Petty Officer 2nd Class David Bosley of San Mateo, CA and Petty Officer 3rd Class Matthew Schlimme of Whitewater, Mo. Seaman Apprentice Benjamin Wingo of Bremerton, WA survived. It's not necessary to look as far as the Middle East to find heros. Thank you, USCG. We salute and revere you!