Ed first came to Alaska in 1973 on the Coast Guard Cutter BOUTWELL when it sailed from Boston to Juneau to patrol Alaska waters. After thirty- three years of service he retired as Chief of Marine Safety for the Coast Guard’s Alaska District to establish the non-profit Marine Exchange of Alaska (MXAK). Over the following 20 years MXAK built and operated an extensive AIS (Automatic Identification System) vessel tracking system and weather station network at over 130 locations in Alaska to aid maritime safety. Recognizing lighthouses have aided maritime safety for years, MXAK also installed AIS and weather stations at seven Alaska lighthouses, including Eldred Rock. Upon seeing Eldred Rock’s deteriorating condition during a kayak trip in 2008, he allocated over $100,000 of Marine Exchange finances and resources to help renovate the lighthouse for the public’s enjoyment. Ed has on numerous occasions transported supplies and volunteers to Eldred Rock on Marine Exchange’s landing craft CLEAT and has expended many calories working on the lighthouse grounds. Having visited many lighthouses during his 50+ year maritime career, Eldred Rock is his favorite and he’s committed to helping preserve this national treasure.
Captain Ed Page, U.S. Coast Guard (Retired), President (Term: Jan-Dec 2024)
