Coast Guard reservist Brian Blethen of Boothbay has been down in New York since November 15 after Hurricane Sandy devastated the area.

Over the next few weeks, as Blethen continues to help, this paper will share periodic updates, directly from him.

“I reported to United States Coast Guard Sector New York on Staten Island on November 15, which is where I live in the dormitory on base,” Blethen said. “This part of Staten Island has restored its power while much of the island is still without (power). 

“My trade in the Coast Guard is a machinery technician, and that is why I was sent to help with relief efforts.

“I am part of a five-person team that is providing temporary infrastructure support to Coast Guard bases that have been affected by the storm. 

“We supply temporary electricity, heat, water and sewage removal. We maintain generators, heaters, temporary office and lodging trailers, and we are doing some light construction as well.

“The Coast Guard base we have provided most of our support to thus far is the Aids to Navigation Team base in Bayonne, N.J. This base is also the homeport to seven Coast Guard ships and several smaller search and rescue boats,” Blethen said.

Do you know of someone helping in our community? Send tips to editorkburnham@boothbayregister.com.

Katrina Clark can be reached at 207-633-4620 or katrinaclark@boothbayregister.com. Follow her on Twitter: @BBRegisterClark or on Facebook at www.facebook.com/BBRegisterKatrinaClark.