In this documentary series, we spoke with Richard Bates, Capt. USCG (Ret). Bates was the Helicopter Interdiction Tactical Squadron (HITRON) platform manager for Coast Guard headquarters aviation forces during the transition from the Augusta MH-68 to the MH-65 Dolphin. Playing an instrumental part in standing up the HITRON safety program, he was the recipient of the Captain Marion “Gus” Shrode Flight Safety Award and an instructor pilot during his time as a HITRON line pilot from 2000-2003. Bates also managed the HITRON program at the area level as chief of aviation forces for Atlantic Area.