FROM THE DISTRICT 7 BRIDGE
Tom Bamford, District Captain-West (Con nued from page 15) So let us come to the table without complaining and ask our leaders to query the USCG on ways to support their needs. Let us not talk about what we cannot do; instead, what it is we can do. Almost every day I hear some comments by an individual indicating, “I did not join just to sit around, and since there is nothing to do, I am not sure I will stay.” Obviously, the op on is theirs to choose for determining what value the member brings to the organiza on. No ma er who we are, no ma er our age, no ma er where we come from or what we do, every member of the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary brings value to our communi es, the Coast Guard and our na on. We must bring our collec ve energy together and be determined that nothing will cause our ship to broach. Just because the storm clouds of a pandemic are on our beam, we will steady the course together. You can look up broach; it is a nau cal term.
one another up and check on each other, including our service members and families. When all is said and done concerning the hazards and seriousness of the mes we face, you will feel great personal sa sfac on that you were there to support missions, which will afford new opportuni es requiring our skills, talents and commitment. Be proud of who you are. Be proud of the contribu ons you offer to our unique organiza on and be proud of the na on you serve. We are the “Volunteer Service Organiza on of Choice.” We are the United States Coast Guard Auxiliary. There will be a me when you will look back and know, without a doubt, the contribu ons offered made a difference in the lives of those individuals we serve. There will also be a me when and where we all will be able to “Splice the Main Brace.” Another nau cal term. “The sea will grant each man new hope…as sleep brings dreams of home.”~ Christopher Columbus Ω
We will get through these mes. As it is said, “It is always darkest before the dawn.” We need to hold
Martin S. Goodwin, District Captain-North (e) It is 6:30 on a Saturday morning as I get into my car and prepare to drive to a popular boat ramp about 45 minutes away. I’m going there to meet up with another vessel examiner and set up a vessel safety check station. It’s a beautiful summer day, the type of day that entices boaters to put off whatever other plans they’ve had and spend the day on the water. I know there will be a lot of activity at the ramp, and we’ll be quite busy conducting vessel safety checks. Alone with my thoughts as I Every Vessel Safety Check is an opportunity to educate boaters. When indrive to the ramp, I begin to specting equipment, make sure you know which items have been recalled or have expired. Safety First. (USCG Auxiliary photo from flicker) wonder about the role that I play, the role that the Auxil(Con nued on page 17) iary as a whole plays, in promoting boating safety. I’m 16
BREEZE
Issue 2 2020
Newsletter for District 7 USCG Auxiliary
