[Broad Bill]

I remember post 911 we were moving very slowly outside the markers along the south side of the pier. Wanted to see the contour on the fish finder. Clearly at least 25 ft outside the markers. Out of no where, zodiac with 50 cal mounted on the bow or whatever it is was on us. Said we were too close to the markers. We were heading in a westerly direction towards land running parallel to the markers and I remember the guy running the boat said "You're too close to the markers. Immediately turn to your port and move away. That's your left in case you don't know what side your port is".

I understand the stress these guys must be under but at the same time if you're outside the markers no one should have a machine gun pointed at their head. Eventually there's going to be an accident and someone's going to get hurt. After that encounter, I made sure to steer well clear otherwise your going to be stopped and God forbid ticketed which I imagine wouldn't be cheap. In the world we live in today, I can only imagine what's stored at Earle so steer clear would be my advice, these guys aren't f&$@#!g around.