When the Coast Guard Cutter POLAR STAR left its Seattle homeport on November 26, bound for its annual trip to Antarctica, it was outfitted with all new fitness and exercise equipment, courtesy of the Coast Guard Foundation’s Shipmate Fund.
Earlier this year, we put out a call for support for the 43-year-old ship’s crew. Our generous supporters responded strongly, with more than $18,000 in donations destined for the Polar Star’s morale and fitness fund. The last remaining heavy icebreaker in the Coast Guard’s fleet, this ship, and her crew, accomplish some of the most critical work in the service in some of the most extreme weather and sea conditions.
Now, as they journey to Antarctica in support of Operation Deep Freeze, the crew can work out in a safe, updated gym space featuring new weight benches, barbells, kettlebells and bumpers. A dozen new spin bikes for the ship’s onboard gym will provide important cardio exercise for the crew.
Updated fitness equipment is critical to supporting the crew’s physical fitness and morale during their long deployments to the North Pole and Antarctica, and everywhere in between. With new gear, those on board can maintain strong physical and mental health.
The Coast Guard Foundation Shipmate Fund supports morale, wellness and recreation initiatives for Coast Guard units all across the country. In a typical year, this support totals more than $600,000, shared among more than 150 units.
Read more at the Coast Guard Foundation
