Like the CCSO, the NPD has a long history of marine operations. In the early 60's, the boats were supplied by Outboard Marine Corporation (OMC), who had a test facility on the bay, just down from the NPD headquarters. The vessels were models OMC wanted to test and they figured the PD could put miles on them under all conditions. And we did.
OMC was a generous outfit. If you knew who to ask, you could buy boats, lawnmowers, and motor scooters--OMC owned Lawn Boy and Cushman--that had been lightly tested, for pennies on the dollar.
OMC was a generous outfit. If you knew who to ask, you could buy boats, lawnmowers, and motor scooters--OMC owned Lawn Boy and Cushman--that had been lightly tested, for pennies on the dollar.
An additional benefit to the officers was that we were encouraged to use the boats for private excursions, family outings and the like. All that was required was that we paid for the gas. Most were reluctant to borrow them, knowing it's takes experience to pilot a boat and even pro's could get into trouble. Once a Game Commission officer ran over the legs of swimmers near the pier. . .it was alleged.
After OMC, other builders donated watercraft to the NPD. The photo above shows Chief Paul Rebel and a sleek boat built and donated by Chincoteague Boat Builders.
Photo by Chester Keene
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