In this episode of TSO we are privileged to hear from Petty Officer Bart Valle and his experience flying in the middle of Hurricane Harvey.

When Hurricane Harvey a Category 4 hurricane made landfall on Texas and Louisiana in August 2017, Bart Valle and the USCG were called into action. Harvey released more precipitation than any other tropical cyclone in U.S. History. Making landfall on three separate occasions, Harvey dumped as much as 52 inches of rain on Texas and Louisiana.

Bart and his crew deployed ahead of Harvey’s landfall to make ready for the task at hand. They  took off flying into Hurricane Harvey at its peak, battling 45 knot winds, visibilities of less than 1/4 mile, low ceilings, and torrential rains. To make matters more difficult they were flying in an unfamiliar, challenging urban landscape, dodging power lines and tall tress.  Bart along with his crew were instrumental in the rescue of 102 souls. We hope you enjoy our conversation with Bart on this episode.

Music Written and Recorded by Brad Hill

For more information about joining the United States Coast Guard visit https://www.uscg.mil/Join/