MILITARY SPOTLIGHT: U.S. COAST GUARDSMAN ERIN HEMINOKEKY

Erin Heminokeky

We at Keys Weekly want to honor the men and women serving in our local military installations. With help and advice from our community members in the armed forces, we’re proud to present our Military Spotlight.

ERIN HEMINOKEKY
U.S. COAST GUARD | PETTY OFFICER SECOND CLASS 

Why did you join the military? To travel.

How many years have you been in the military? 8 years 

Had you ever been to the Florida Keys or Key West before your current assignment? I had had a few trips to Key West in the past. 

Did you choose Key West or were you assigned here?  I absolutely chose Key West.

What were your first thoughts when hearing you were coming to the Keys? Key lime pie and a sick tan.

Hobbies? Hitting the beach after work. 

Favorite things to do?  Drinking good espresso and eating good food. 

Have you ever attended Fantasy Fest and if so what were your initial thoughts?  Yep. Lots of body paint. 

What do you like most about the Keys?  That every day feels like a weekend. 

What do you like most about your assignment? Teaching the crew practical damage control and going out to sea. 

What would you change about living here in Key West if you had the power to do so?  I wish COVID was no longer a thing. Duval Street would be much more fun. 

Any advice to give other military seeking assignment here? Don’t feed the iguanas. 
What do you like most about living here?  Every day feels like a vacation.