Editor, Gazette-Journal:

I have always admired the toughness of folks who make their living working on the water. This began as a young boy observing my grandfather Paul Dudley. He was a gentle man but tough. Years on the water were evident on his face from the tanned weathered look. He passed way too soon after hurricane Hazel felled a tree on him on the home place on Timberneck Creek. Folks say he was one of the best oystermen and fishermen of his day.

I always had a respect for the water. When I reflect on the loss of these two young men last weekend, I’m sure that was also the case. They seemed quite experienced and probably learned a lot from their parents and other family members.

This tragic accident goes to show how hard a job our working watermen and women have. It also explains why fewer people take up the trade. I’m quite saddened by this and my thoughts and prayers are with the families of these young men. They were just doing their job and dealing with the e...