THE COAST GUARD SAYS GOODBYE TO ONE OF ITS OWN: Former Coast Guardsman and lighthouse keeper honored

Story by Auxiliarist Edwin Greenfield, Station Lake Worth Inlet

Chief William Coats Jr.
Bill Coats said it many times, never really knowing when it would happen. He never doubted that when he crossed over the bar, the Coast Guard would be there to bid farewell to one of their own. Chief Engineman Walter L. Coats Jr., (ret.) was piped ashore for the last time Aug. 6 at a ceremony conducted at the Royal Palm Memorial Gardens close to his home for many years, in Jupiter, Fla. He was laid to rest surrounded by his living siblings, children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. His legacy of love was evidenced by their attendance including a host of friends from times past.

 

Coats joined the Coast Guard at the age of 18 and spent the next twenty years serving, first learning and then honing his skills until he hit the top of his calling, Chief Engineman. Over the years, he saw service aboard numerous Coast Guard cutters and bases, even a short stay with the U.S. Navy during the WWII years.

 

Coats’ proudest times of service, as recounted by his family, were the years when he was based at the lighthouse at Jupiter, Fl., from January 1953 to January 1955. His skill kept that famous and importantly useful beacon in first class condition. Following his service at Jupiter Light, he spent the next two years aboard Coast Guard lightships, his skill put to highest and best use. After retirement in 1959, Coats went to work for Pratt and Whitney where he retired after 22 years.

 

The service for the retired Chief was solemn and dignified, offering a gift warmth and patriotism to all present. A member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars organization proudly delivered his eulogy.

 

William Lee Coats Jr., typical American, were he looking down from above would’ve been greatly pleased to see the two smartly uniformed Coast Guardsmen on either side of his casket, slowly render a proper salute. The ceremony closed with the time-honored ritual of folding the flag for the presentation to his daughter. And thusly, the Commandant of the Coast Guard offered his country’s thanks and respect for Coats’ service to his country.

 

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