The Quilters of Canyon Lake honored veteran Art Femister with a handmade patriotic quilt in recognition of his military service. The quilt was presented during the August meeting of the Canyon Lake POA Board of Directors.
With the permission of his parents, Femister joined the Coast Guard at the age of 17. He turned 18 while in boot camp at Cape May, New Jersey.
After boot camp, Femister was transferred to Petaluma, California, where he trained as a radioman for six months. After training, Femester was promoted to the rank of E-4 Petty Officer Third Class. He was later promoted to the rank of E-5 Petty Officer Second Class and was transferred to his first assignment, the Coast Guard Cutter Venturous, a 210-foot search and rescue vessel stationed at Base Terminal Island in San Pedro, California.
During the next two years aboard the Venturous, Femister performed a variety of tasks such as search and rescue missions for vessels off the coast or lost at sea.
Other missions involved patrols off the coasts of Oregon, Washington, and Alaska to enforce the then 12-mile exclusive U.S. fishing zone and multi-unit law enforcement patrols. Less dramatic missions included escorting of the Annual Newport Beach to Ensenada International Yacht Race.
After his service, Femister continued to serve his community for 25 years by volunteering with the Los Angeles Police Department and the Riverside and San Bernardino Sheriff’s Offices.
Femister and his wife, Jill, have been residents of Canyon Lake for about 10 years, after relocating from Corona, where they lived for 25 years.
The Canyon Lake Quilters’ heartfelt gesture serves as a reminder of the community’s appreciation for its veterans. Femister’s service and dedication are a testament to his unwavering commitment to his country and his community.
The mission of the Quilters of Canyon Lake is to honor and thank local veterans and active duty service members for their service by presenting them with handmade patriotic quilts. The recipients are chosen by nominations and through free raffles during major community events. To nominate a veteran or active duty service member to receive a patriotic quilt, contact Ronda McCord at 714-609-0581.
