On Tuesday night, Selectmen approved a retired Coast Guard veteran to serve as the town’s assistant harbormaster.

On the recommendation of Harbormaster Michael Cormier, Peter Bourgault will assist the department this summer, which has become increasingly busy.

Bourgault, a Wareham resident, served the Coast Guard for 20 years and brings a vast knowledge of Buzzards Bay. According to Cormier, “He would be a tremendous asset to my department.”

Selectmen were impressed with Bourgault’s credentials.

“As much time as I spend out there, I’d like to know that someone is out there qualified to come to my aid,” Chair Stephen Cushing said.

Selectman Jon Henry, also a military veteran, said Bourgault would bring a useful skill set to the Harbormaster’s department.