Bon voyage to West Seattle Water Taxi crew hero

(May 2011 photo, courtesy of Roger)
That was the scene near Seacrest last May when the West Seattle Water Taxi crew rescued a diver in distress (WSB coverage here). The whole crew was honored as heroes in a special ceremony weeks later (WSB coverage here), but in particular, Aaron Barnett was hailed for quick work in getting into the water to help the diver.

Today was Aaron’s last day with the Water Taxi service, we are told by two WSB’ers who ride the Water Taxi, including Paul Swortz – who took the recent photo of Aaron you see at right. Both Paul and another WSB’er, Tim, e-mailed to say that Aaron got a warm sendoff, including donuts and coffee this morning, special announcements this afternoon. We missed the chance to try to catch an interview with Aaron, but Tim says he’s going back to school. Good luck, Aaron!

sunset March 22, 2012 (7:41 pm)

I thought that it was Aaron who brought the doughnuts for everyone.
His friendliness always made an already-fun Water Taxi ride even better. Good luck to him!

Lorelee March 22, 2012 (9:15 pm)

Dang. We missed him today as my son and I had to drive in. He had a ton of experience working on the water and it showed. We were lucky to have him and will miss you, Aaron!

Mark K March 23, 2012 (8:17 am)

Dang, I missed saying goodbye to Aaron as well. I’ll miss seeing him on the boat.

Aaron – if you happen to be reading this, good luck in your future endeavors. You’ll be missed!

Aaron March 23, 2012 (12:00 pm)

Aw shucks! Thank you all for yesterday’s warm sendoff and kind words. In addition ro the fantastic crew I have the honor of working with (Frank and Neal) who are 100% pro the passengers (YOU)have made this a great job. I have made some great freinds and will always look back on this time in my life with fondness.

I am taking a position at University of Washington Sea Grant which is an extension of the work I did in graduate school — pollution pevention from vessels and other maritime safety topics. I can honestly say that all of you who have been loyal riders have a hand in this new path for me — THANK YOU!

And don’t forget to be nice to Frank….

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