Debra Chambers Rake Buchanan

LCDR Debra Chambers Rake Buchanan, USCGR passed away over the weekend of March 1, 2008 in Tacoma, Washington. Debra joined the Coast Guard in 1976 as a Seaman Recruit, served on active duty until 1982 and got out as a BM1. She stayed in the USCGR while attending California Maritime Academy and upon graduation accepted a comission in the USNR as an Ensign and then transferred to the Coast Guard Reserve. For several years she sailed as a Merchant Marine Deck officer. She subseqently got her law degree and practiced law in Washington State. She continued to serve in the Coast Guard Reserve until the late 1990s. As a retired BOSN 4 who sailed with her several times on the Polar Star recalled, I thought she was next to Invincible.. Her accomplishments intimidated most men, and she never ran from a challenge. She was an amazing combination of a fine lady, a great shipmate and a good officer. She knew how to play hard and how to work hard and will be missed by all who knew her. Rest in peace, sis.

03/07/08 Submitted by: Alton Mckey

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