Watch a Coast Guard crew airlift a beached buoy

Who knew that those floating markers that frame boundaries for boaters and swimmers could wind up on the sand?

They have no moving parts, but even buoys need some occasional repairs. And even though they float, they're super-heavy when they're not on the job.

This video illustrates what's needed to take it into the shop. The Coast Guard stationed in Atlantic City sent a chopper crew to carry the buoy from Fortescue to the USCG Traning Center in Cape May. Okay, it isn't as dramatic as a rescue at sea, but it looks like a usefull drill for the real thing.

You'll notice that the helicopter prop creates quite a sandstorm, hovering low over the beach.

Innovative videography by CPO Nick Ameen and Petty Officer Third Class David Micallef give you several angles, including a buoy's-eye view. Neat!