| What is correct etiquette when someone hands you | | | | I am keenly aware that this is true, because what |
| a bloody Ziploc bag containing an ear, sideburn and | | | | these actors were imitating, I have made my career. |
| the better part of skin from a neck and jaw? What | | | | My name is Reese Boxwell. I have responded to |
| are the right words to soothe the only survivor of a | | | | at-sea and inland emergencies for two decades. |
| capsized vessel of five? How many people have | | | | Having been jerked, pulled, bent, and battered while |
| drowned because they had no way to communicate | | | | doing a job that I truly love has caused irreversible |
| or signal? Would I recognize any of the hundreds of | | | | physical damage. I now face retirement. I can live |
| people I plucked from sewage-laden water and from | | | | with the chronic pain, but the emotional baggage is |
| rooftops during Hurricane Katrina? Would they | | | | proving harder to cope with. |
| recognize me? | | | | As an outlet, I have created a website that I hope |
| Leave it to Hollywood to glorify an occupation that | | | | will save lives. I have made it my life's mission to |
| the majority of the world knows little or nothing | | | | continue to educate the public and provide simple |
| about. Kevin Costner and Ashton Kutcher may have | | | | "grass roots" information and tools needed before, |
| rapt the imaginations of millions, but there is a side of | | | | during and after emergencies. People do not have to |
| being a USCG Helicopter Rescue Swimmer that even | | | | die due to lack of preparedness! Log on to and |
| the best actors cannot portray. Even the most | | | | prepare yourself, your family and your friends. Help |
| accomplished actor would find it impossible to muster | | | | those trying to help you. |
| the emotional strength needed to face situations and | | | | Thank you and God Bless. |
| answer the questions these humble heroes face daily. | | | | |