My 25 year career in the U.S. Coast Guard included extensive experience in search and rescue of victims of martime mishaps, particularly in cold-water environments.  For the latter half of my service, I was the Coast Guard's subject matter expert in sea-survival, hypothermia and drowning.  In addition to my research and publications in the areas of hypothermia and protective equipment (i.e., PFDs, liferafts, immersion suits, etc.), I was an invited participant to the World Congress on Drowning.  I have testified in both Federal and state courts on cases involving drowning in swimming pools, lakes, other fresh water environments and in salt water environments.