BREEZE

LEADERSHIP UPDATES

& UPDATES

BRIDGE NOTES

This has been a busy couple of months for John Holmes, DCOS, and me. NACON 2022 was held at the Rosen Center, Orlando, in August. The excitement in the air was evident as we all gathered for the first national conference since 2019. National elections were held, awards were given out, and formal dinner and a fun night aside, it was something to behold. Did I mention we even had a wedding with our very own Dr. Poole presiding?

We want to thank our outgoing National Commodore (NACO), Commodore (COMO) Malewski, and offer him our best wishes as he moves into the role of the Immediate Past NACO. We also want to welcome aboard our new National Executive Committee (NEXCOM) leadership, COMO Gus Formato, NACO, COMO Mary Kirkwood, Vice National Commodore (VNACO), COMO Allen Fredd, Deputy National Commodore Atlantic East Area (DNACO-LANT-E) and Mission Support, COMO Patrick Feighery, Deputy National Commodore Atlantic West Area (DNACO-LANT-W) and Operations, COMO Tiney Singler, Deputy National Commodore Pacific Area (DNACO-PACAREA) and Recreational Boating Safety (RBS), and COMO Linda Merryman, Information Technology and Planning. Congratulations to all, and we look forward to supporting you.

D-TRAIN 2022 was a go! Yes, it had been a long time since we were all able to meet, but we Welcomed Back each one of you! I want to take this opportunity to thank all of the training instructors for a job well done! The variety of classes that were held was outstanding, and I appreciate all the hard work and dedication that went into making them successful for our members. A special thanks to Bob Fabich and Terry Barth for all their assistance!

Commodore Pat McMenamin, D7

This year, we also had elections for District Commodore, District Chief of Staff, and District Captains. This is an exciting time for our members as we charge ahead into the future. Our new bridge will consist of John Holmes, District 7 Commodore(e), Martin Goodwin, District Chief of Staff(e), Doug Armstrong, DCAPT-E(e), Jim Parker, DCAPT-N(e), and Daniel Helou, DCAPT-W(e). I will now move into the role of Immediate Past Commodore.

We were also able to share our D-TRAIN space with the District 7 active duty as they held their Management Committee event. This allowed members an opportunity to meet and become acquainted with our district leadership, including Captain (CAPT) Tina Peña, Coast Guard District 7’s Chief of Staff, and her husband James, who is also an Auxiliarist. CAPT Nicolette Vaughan, our new D7 Chief of Prevention was also on hand. Chief Director of Auxiliary (CHDIRAUX), CAPT Troy Glendye was our featured speaker during Friday’s business meeting. Friday evening’s formal event featured RADM Brendan McPherson as our Keynote Speaker. I want to thank the various Sector Commanders, Air Station Commanders, Auxiliary Liaisons (AUXLOs), Command Master Chief (CMC) Zimmer, and other active-duty members who were present for their continued service to the Coast Guard and support for the Auxiliary.

Once more, the support you continue to give to the Coast Guard and the Auxiliary is outstanding. There is a reason that District Seven continues to lead to pack. It is you, our members! Just remember one thing, the Super Sensational Seventh District Auxiliary is where opportunities don’t just happen. We create them!

Semper Paratus

STAFF BRIEFINGS

NACON finally came!!! I attended meetings and saw many good friends and fellow District Chiefs of Staff (DCOS) and District Commodores (DCO). Tie that in with completing the two-year Auxiliary Senior Officers Course (ASOC) class and it was a very productive week. I even managed to be one of the “Top Guns” in the ASOC class, which means my overall score was the maximum achievable of 1,400 points.

Our ASOC class consisted of DCOS staff from across the country, and directors from our Auxiliary national staff. The inclusion of directors in the ASOC course was done for the very first time and was an extraordinary success. The opportunity to interact with each other and develop a deeper understanding of the day-to-day responsibilities that each of us faces in our Auxiliary careers was enlightening.

Our D-TRAIN in September was an extraordinary success, and I am honored beyond words to be elected as your new D7 Commodore. It was a great training opportunity and a fun-filled event with multiple District 7 elections, fun nights, and our formal dinner. The management committee meeting for the Coast Guard was held simultaneously and added a wonderful opportunity to meet and interact with our USCG family.

The resilience of our leadership and members during this past year is a testament to your courage, creativity, and desire to serve our various missions in Recreational Boating Safety and Operations. I am at a loss for words and unsure how you did such great work this past year with all of our challenges. Our daily missions of watchstanding, Public Education, Vessel Examinations, and Program Visits are the foundation of our service. We now provide clergy support, culinary assistance, border support, and cybersecurity.

I believe our future is unlimited, and we now add skills routinely based on requests from the USCG to go beyond our normal mission sets. We have begun to renew our commitment to fellowship, and I hope that we find ways to reengage with each other soon and return to our Changes of Watch ceremonies and our face-to-face meetings (safely, of course). This past year our members have constantly shown their ability to adapt and move forward. My pledge to each of you is that by working together, we will continue to do precisely that.

John W Holmes, DCOS District Commodore (elect)

John Holmes, District Chief of Staff, D7

ORLANDO, Fla.—Admiral Linda Fagan, Commandant of the Coast Guard, administers the Oath of Office to the Auxiliary National Bridge. USCG Auxiliary photograph

On Friday, August 19, elections were held at the Auxiliary National Convention in Orlando, Florida.

The National Leadership team for the 2022-2024 term was elected by the Auxiliary National Bridge. Our leaders for this coming term are:

National Commodore (NACO) - COMO Gus Formato

Vice National Commodore (VNACO) - COMO Mary Kirkwood

Deputy National Commodore - Atlantic Area East, Marine Safety (DNACO-MS) - COMO Allen Fredd

Deputy National Commodore - Atlantic Area West, Response & Prevention (DNACO-RP)COMO Patrick Feighery

Deputy National Commodore - Pacific Area, Recreational Boating Safety (DNACO-RBS)COMO Tiney Singler

Deputy National Commodore - Information Technology & Planning (DNACO-ITP) - COMO Linda Merryman

Terms of office will begin November 1, 2022.

Congratulations and best wishes to our new National Bridge team!

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District 7 Winners

Coast Guard Auxiliary Public A

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The ties that bind us: A Wedding at the Auxiliary National Conference

By Diane Riggan, ADSO-PA (SECMIA)

When was the last time you attended an Auxiliary conference? Maybe it was your district or National Conference? Do you remember anything special about it? Maybe you remember seeing friends, attending seminars, or the awards presented. In my 17 years of attending conferences, I learned that I can still be surprised.

You never know whom you will meet or what you will see at these conferences. On one occasion penguins walked into the formal dinner at the 7th District conference in South Florida without skipping a beat. Rear Admiral Steve Branham (ret), then District 7 Commander, United States Coast Guard, introduced the cute flightless birds.

This year there were no penguins at the National Conference in Orlando, Florida, although something unique happened: a wedding. Yes, that is right, a wedding. As Auxiliary and active-duty members mingled in the reception area quietly off to one side, National Commodore Alex Malewski and National Commodore-elect Gus Formato stood along with a small gathering. Soon everyone in attendance quieted down as they found themselves guests at the wedding of Auxiliary member Robert Fabich and his longtime partner, Alexis Pawlick.

The official wedding party included Auxiliary chaplain Reverend Philip Poole as officiant; witnesses were Commodore Gary Barth and his wife Mrs. Terry Barth, executive assistant to the National Commodore. “Ring-bearers” were Commodores Malewski and Formato and Admiral Linda Fagan, Commandant of the U.S. Coast Guard, was the guest of honor. Admiral Fagan is the first female to wear four stars and to command the Coast Guard in its

ORLANDO, Fla.—Mr. Robert Fabich Sr.and his bride, Ms. Alexis Pawlick-Fabich at the National Conference Aug. 20 in Orlando. USCG Auxiliary photo by Robin Priestly

more than 100-year history.

Commodore Malewski told those in attendance, “This is not going to be a regular thing. Only when there has been no national conference in three years due to a worldwide pandemic. If we see that again, then we will talk.”

Much coordination was required between the Chief Directors Office at Coast Guard Headquarters, the Auxiliary National Commodore, and Vice National Commodore as

ORLANDO, Fla. —Waiting for dinner to be served at the National Conference August 20. From left are Terry Barth, Robert Fabich Sr., Alexis Pawlick, and Commodore Gary Barth. USCG Auxiliary photoby R. Michael Stringer

well as the staff for the Commandant of the U.S. Coast Guard. The responsibility for making all that communication work fell to Mrs. Terry Barth who said, “Commodore Malewski supported the idea. He thought something nice should be part of this conference as we have not gathered in years.”

The groom, Mr. Robert Fabich Sr., joined the Auxiliary in 2009, and his list of accomplishments is quite lengthy. In 2019 he was named District 7 Auxiliarist of the Year. Currently, he serves as the Aide to National Commodore Alex Malewski and the Aide to Gary Barth, Deputy National Commodore for Recreational Boating Safety.

The bride, Ms. Alexis Pawlick is very accomplished in her own right. While she has her full-time job as a professor of English at South University, she also is a USA Today and New York Times bestselling author with 31 published books. Many Auxiliary members in District 7 know Mrs. Fabich from assisting Bob in past years with the District 7 store. Alexis and Bob have embraced the task of transporting, setting up, and managing the store at the conferences.

Auxiliary and Coast Guard members from every district in the nation come together at a National Conference. While the wedding added a little sparkle to this year’s conference, the focus is on Coast Guard and Auxiliary business and training. We trust our members will not plan personal ceremonies and events at future conferences. Ω

SECTOR MIAMI HOLDS TRAINING CONFERENCE (S-TRAIN)

By R. Michael Stringer, District Staff Officer-Publications, D7

The District 7 Eastern Regions, the first-ever gathering for all USCG Auxiliarists within Sector Miami, was held on August 6-7, 2022. The weekend’s schedule had sessions for all Auxiliarists, regardless if they just got their member number or received their hourglass for the Sustained Auxiliary Service Award. Plus, there was a U.S. Coast Guard Base Miami Beach tour, an opportunity to meet Active-Duty personnel, and lots of fellowship and food. The CG Exchange was open Saturday from 7:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Every division in Sector Miami expressed gratitude to Jeff Barnes, Auxiliary Sector Coordinator, Sector Miami (ASC-SECMIA), Julie Bouchard, Nichole Betterson, and Jane Sabbagh for doing the hard work to make S-TRAIN a reality.

CG STATION MIAMI BEACH

Leaving the Martin County area by car at zero dark 30 for the one-hundred-mile drive south to Miami, there is plenty of time to think about what was in store for the next two days. Being part of this “first time” Sector Miami Training Conference (S-TRAIN) is accompanied by a certain air of excitement.

Every Auxiliarist attending S-TRAIN is in the same boat in that this is new ground to cover, and the CG Station Miami Beach is a new base to experience. The site maps distributed at registration were accurate, parking was simple, and the dining hall was easy to find. Coffee and pastries satisfied those who didn’t stop for breakfast, and there was plenty of conversation, fellowship, and laughter as the golden light of the morning sun filled the spacious dining hall.

ALL HANDS-ORIENTATION

Jeff Barnes, ASC-SECMIA, welcomed Auxiliarists from Divisions 3, 5, and 6 and thanked everyone for taking the time to attend this training weekend. Visitors from more than 50 miles away were offered berthing at the station, and food was available thanks to the Auxiliary culinary assistants.

The first order of business was a tour of the base. The group meandered toward the docks for a close look at a 45-foot Response Boat-Medium. PO3 Kelly, USCG, stood squarely on the boat’s deck and, with that booming “Petty Officer’s voice,” addressed the tour group explaining some of the finer points of this craft. It was an interesting sight

MIAMI BEACH, Fla.— Coast Guard Station Miami Beach. USCG Auxiliary photo by Sheryl O’Neil, Flotilla 59, Stuart

MIAMI BEACH, Fla.—Jeff Barnes, Auxiliary Sector Coordinator, Sector Miami (ASC-SECMIA) opens the ‘All Hands’ orientation at the first Sector Miami, S-TRAIN in District 7. USCG Auxiliary photo by R. Michael Stringer.

Sector Miami S-Train

watching 45 Auxiliarists following one another along the deck of a 45-foot boat. That’s a sight you won’t see every day. During the base tour, there is plenty of time to network with fellow Auxiliarists, known only through emails or phone calls. An idle conversation often transitioned to a meaningful new relationship. The group then walked briskly to the administration building for familiarization with the classrooms and then back to the dining hall to meet BOSN4 Hailie Browne, District 7 USCG Director of Auxiliary (DIRAUX) Operations Training Officer (OTO).

On schedule, BOSN Browne took the microphone and welcomed the group to Station Miami Beach. His personality became apparent through his words, and everyone had the feeling they knew this man personally. The major takeaway from BOSN Browne’s talk was the gratitude the U.S. Coast Guard has for the USCG Auxiliary’s dedication to duty and their cheerful, willing support. “With your help in our various mission sets, active-duty personnel are freed up to perform other critical missions. Your participation is an asset to the Coast Guard. Every CG Station in District 7 can utilize Auxiliarists in several mission areas, like telecommunications for watchstanding or in the galley as culinary assistants, not to mention Auxiliary aviation, which supports many of our marine observation missions (MOM) and search and rescue (SAR) missions. I want you to know that we, on the Director of Auxiliary (DIRAUX) staff, are available to work out any logistical issues that may crop up, so feel free to shoot me an email or pick up the phone. We are here to make the system work.”

TRAINING COURSES (Day One)

The first block of three training classes began at 9:45 a.m. The Auxiliary and You, Uniform/ Protocol, and Introduction to District 7 Communications Program. The professional demeanor of the instructors for each of these classes engaged every student. Several of the Auxiliary missions were covered thoroughly and with precision. The second block of morning classes began around 11:00 a.m.:

AUXDATA II Tips and Tricks, Recreational Boating Safety Resources, and Finance 101. Once again, the instructors captivated the

MIAMI BEACH, Fla.—PO3 Kelly, USCG, discusses the capabilities of the 45-foot Response Boat-Medium to Auxiliarists attending S-TRAIN. USCG Auxiliary photos by R. Michael Stringer.

MIAMI BEACH, Fla.—Recreational Boating Safety (RBS) Resources training class with Scott Szczepaniak, RBS Civilian Employee of the Coast Guard. USCG Auxiliary photo by R. Michael Stringer

MIAMI BEACH, Fla.—Veteran Auxiliarists prepare notes for the Career Fair. From left, Aviator, Fred Ross (Flotilla 69, Opalocka) and Rick Braswell, Auxiliary Chaplains Service (Flotilla 38, Plantation). USCG Auxiliary photo by R. Michael Stringer.

Miami S-Train

students with their knowledge of the material and the ability to engage.

CAREER FAIR (Day One)

At noon, everyone assembled in the dining hall for a Career Fair. Each Auxiliary mission set was represented by experienced Auxiliarists prepared to share their knowledge and expertise. Browsing the table displays, talking with the experts, and evesdropping on conversations about Incident Command Management or Vessel Examinations piqued the interest of even the seasoned Auxiliarist. The Culinary Assistants (CA), Auxiliary Aviation (AUXAIR), and Auxiliary Chaplains Support (ACS) programs shed new light on areas previously not considered. There was a wealth of knowledge and

MIAMI BEACH, Fla.—Career Fair experts (on the right) discuss Auxiliary mission sets with attendees at S-TRAIN. USCG Auxiliary photos by R. Michael Stringer.

grab a bite before muster time. Once again, there was plenty of time for fellowship before the day’s work began and the morning sun came streaming through the eastern windows brightening the day. By now, new acquaintances felt like longtime friends, and conversation was easy. The hard work done to make S-TRAIN a reality had paid off.

CAREER FAIR

Sunday’s Career Fair is more intense. If you sat at a table and asked a question, you got the answer and understood the process. Every Auxiliarist who staffed a table display was an expert in that field. These men and women were recruiters in their areas of expertise.

information at this Career Fair, and sharing that knowledge was a personal goal of each mentor present.

LUNCH

Auxiliary Culinary Assistants prepared a barbecue lunch at the station’s Tiki Hut outside the dining hall. Relaxing with friends or new acquaintances over a meal had its own merits. It was a great morning of learning accompanied by fellowship and the next day had the promise of more.

DAY TWO

At 7 a.m., there was coffee and pastries for early arrivals, at least for those who didn’t

MIAMI BEACH, Fla.—Lunch is prepared and served by Auxiliary Culinary Assistants at the Tiki Hut. USCG Auxiliary photo by R. Michael Stringer.

MIAMI BEACH, Fla.—Edward Dickson, a culinary assistant from Flotilla 61, Homestead, gives members a tour of the Station Miami Beach galley. USCG Auxiliary photo by R. Michael Stringer.

TRAINING COURSES (Day Two)

On the second day, I was uniquely able to audit all the classes. Each instructor was personable and engaging, and I watched them captivate the classroom with their knowledge of the subject. There are only so many photographs one can take of a classroom, so I had time to roam the halls and watch the various training techniques.

After monitoring the first three morning classes, I returned to the dining hall. The event coordinators were chatting about how to improve the process for next year’s S-TRAIN. My attention was drawn to the galley. Ed Dickson (Flotilla 61, Homestead) was taking the culinary assistant class through the galley, “We call this the back of the house,” he explained. Watching Ed talk these students through the steps involved in becoming a culinary assistant was beyond impressive. His explanation of the responsibility and liability of a culinary assistant was eye-opening. It reminded me of the depth of knowledge required to become boat crew qualified. There was so much to know and remember that one must be serious before embarking on this path. There were six classes on the second day, and all six instructors positively impacted everyone attending.

PAY OFF

We had the honor of meeting CAPT Christopher Cederholm, U.S. Coast Guard Sector Commander, and listening to him speak. “Some people are walking the earth today because of what the Auxiliary does, so thank you for giving your time, your facilities, and your blood, sweat, and tears.” He mentioned some of the more traditional missions, like doing recreational boating safety while underway and boating safety classes. “If you are interested in those things, please keep doing them. We are doing some new things with the Auxiliary- the Auxiliary Chaplains Support (ACS) program, the Auxiliary Culinary Assistant program, and some of the marine safety prevention work. There are so many opportunities, so find your niche and keep doing that.”

CAPT Cederholm touched on some long-range plans for Sector Miami. Because 54% of Sector mission sets are Broward County and north, and 46% of the mission sets are around Miami, a study is in place to determine the feasibility of moving the station to Port Everglades and renaming it “Sector Southeast Florida.” Miami is growing, but all other places are growing even faster, and this gap will only increase in time. “For the short term (within three months), we will send a dozen or so folks north, so they don’t have to drive and lose that time. Longer-term (within 10 years), we’re looking at moving Sector off this island and up to Broward County.” The study will determine if the Sector remains in Miami with a significant detachment at Port Everglades or move the Sector north and keep a considerable detachment here. The Miami Beach facility is vulnerable to hurricanes and has its own set of problems.

“Please be safe in whatever you are doing. Safety is everything. Hopefully, you are fulfilled with what you are doing with the Auxiliary, so have fun whatever you do. “Thank you.” Ω

MIAMI BEACH, Fla.—CAPT Christopher Cederholm, Commander, U.S. Coast Guard Sector Miami, addresses Auxiliarists attending S-TRAIN. USCG Auxiliary photos by R. Michael Stringer.

Sector

MIAMI BEACH, Fla.—BOSN4 Hailie Browne, District 7 Operations Training Officer, encourages Auxiliarists to continue doing the work to support the U.S. Coast Guard.

From the District Office of Diversity & Inclusion

Developing a Culture of Passion around Diversity & Inclusion

Submitted by Tom Bamford, District Directorate Chief-Logistics

Welcome to the Diversity and Inclusion department of the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary, Seventh District. Join us as we embark on a journey to refine our Diversity and Inclusion objectives at all district levels. The operational plan calls on each member, regardless of position, to identify unintended disincentives to recruiting and retention at all levels and to work to eliminate them through a process of training and mentoring. The top priority is to make the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary “The Volunteer Organization of Choice” in the United States. We must now sharpen our focus and pinpoint district needs and requirements for a successful Diversity and Inclusion Plan.

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The Seventh District program will be measured by how well our leadership can identify and capitalize on our members’ talents, finding the best in everyone. We must work to ensure that trust is at the foundation of each of our initiatives. Our members must know where the lines are drawn and what is acceptable and unacceptable behavior toward other members. We must use training at all levels to build an inclusive environment, promoting diversity of thoughts, ideas, and competencies. We must also be certain that each member knows their role in Diversity, Inclusion, and Equity and how it ties to the missions of the Auxiliary. This will enable us to work on building high-performance teams and empower us to mission readiness and excellence.

As the largest of the Auxiliary districts, the more than four thousand (4,000) men and women of the United States Coast Guard Auxiliary Seventh District are dedicated to assisting the boating public and supporting Coast Guard units in their mission areas. Seventh District’s geographical area includes the states of South Carolina, Georgia, nearly all of Florida, the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, and the United States Virgin Islands.

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We proudly volunteer our time and resources to support six Coast Guard Sectors, four Coast Guard Air Stations, 20 Coast Guard small boat stations, and eight Coast Guard Aids to Navigation Teams.

Let’s review our core ethical principles:

HONESTY - Be truthful, straightforward, sincere, and candid. Do not mislead or deceive.

INTEGRITY - Live by principles and show the courage of your convictions. Stand behind your beliefs and put principle over expediency. Walk the talk.

COMMITMENT - Keep your promises, be reliable, take action, and accept responsibility.

LOYALTY – Be faithful, and supportive, adhere to accepted policies, and pledge allegiance.

FAIRNESS - Strive to be equitable, be open-minded to people and ideas, recognize and overcome prejudice, and do not discriminate on an improper basis.

COMPASSION - Be considerate, kind, caring, charitable, and unselfish.

RESPECT - Be courteous, deferential, and tolerant of policies and procedures, individuals, and groups. Appreciate the freedom, dignity, and rights of others.

CIVIC - Willingly perform assignments and a fair share of the work. Abide by rules and laws; participate.

PURSUIT OF EXCELLENCE - Identify deficiencies. Do your best at all times, take pride in your work, and always strive to improve.

ACCOUNTABILITY - Consider consequences and accept responsibility for actions and inactions; do not shift blame or make excuses. Correct errors and misunderstandings.

Developing a Culture of Passion around Diversity & Inclusion continued

The core elements of diversity that a person cannot change are birthplace, ethnicity, race, and gender. The elements of diversity a person can change include language, religion, beliefs, educational level, profession, some cultural aspects, etc.

In understanding diversity and inclusion, it is important to realize that diversity’s call for treating people as equal does not mean treating them as if they were similar. People are equal in their right to dignity and respect, but they are not equal in their abilities, nor should we mistakenly think that they are similar. Effective diversity training will help Auxiliarists become more open to differences in general and more skilled in handling problematic diversity issues.

THE U.S. COAST GUARD’S VISION FOR DIVERSITY & INCLUSION

The Coast Guard will be distinguished as the “Service of Choice” within the federal government for recruiting, retaining, and sustaining a ready, diverse, and highly skilled workforce.

THE U.S. COAST GUARD AUXILIARY’s VISION FOR DIVERSITY & INCLUSION

The Coast Guard Auxiliary will be recognized as the “Volunteer Organization of Choice” for American citizens interested in promoting recreational boating safety, security of America’s waterways, and improved methods of educating the boating public. We will recruit, retain, train and deploy a ready, diverse, and highly skilled volunteer workforce to contribute to Coast Guard Auxiliary mission success. Ω

ACTIVE DUTY ★ RESERVE ★ CIVILIAN ★AUXILIARY

Background: Royalty free to use from m Unsplash. com. Illustration by Dorothy Riley

View from the Deckplate

DIVISION 15

CRYSTAL RIVER, Fla. – Flotilla 15-1, Crystal River, participated in the Operation Dry Water 2022 campaign July 2-4. Operation Dry Water is the national weekend of amplified recreational boater outreach, education, and coordinated enforcement surrounding boating under the influence.

Larry Taylor, Flotilla 15-1, Crystal River Staff Officer -Public Affairs, takes a breath between visitors at the information display at West Marine in Crystal River. The Public Affairs event held July 2-4 emphasized “Operation Dry Water,” or boating under the influence, and offered vessel safety checks, information on upcoming safe boating courses, and other safe boating information. Photo by Mandy Taylor

ORLANDO, Fla.—Commodore Alex Malewski, National Commodore (right), presents David Rockwell an Auxiliary Commandant Letter of Commendation on Aug. 19 at the National Conference (NACON) in Orlando. Rockwell, a member of Flotilla 72, St. Petersburg, serves as the current Auxiliary Sector Coordinator Sector St. Petersburg.

The award commended Rockwell’s contributions to the Auxiliary Augmentation and Communications program, leadership of the Coast Guard Auxiliary Communications, and U.S. Government Shared Resources High-Frequency Radio Program. Rockwell’s efforts achieved unprecedented levels of Auxiliary participation in these programs. USCG Auxiliary photograph.

DIVISION 7

View from the Deckplate

DIVISION 14

JACKSONVILLE, Fla.— On May 3, 2022, Phil Tallon received the President of the United States Lifetime Achievement Award for his work in the USCG Auxiliary. At the first in-person meeting of Flotilla 14-2, Arlington, in over a year, Scott Thomas, Flotilla Commander had the honor of presenting this award to Phil.

The President’s Lifetime Achievement Award is accompanied by a challenge coin and a letter from the White House acknowledging the hard work and dedication to duty in service to this country. Phil Tallon is known for his continued vessel safety checks and his passion in recruiting for the U.S. Coast Guard Academy. USCG Auxiliary photo by Donna Thomas.

DIVISION 5

SANDSPRIT PARK, STUART, Fla.—Eight Flotilla 59, Stuart, members arrived at Sandsprit Park Saturday, July 23, 2022, with family and friends to participate in the 15th Annual Treasure Coast Waterway Cleanup.

Debris in waterways, such as discarded fishing lines and hooks, plastic six-pack holders, and plastic bags, is dangerous to manatees and other wildlife. Since 2008, the annual Treasure Coast Waterway Cleanup has removed 95.5 tons of trash from the waterways of the Treasure Coast!

Left: Back row from left, Peter Pisano, Dawn Muller, Robert Hess, Tom Hanna, Sheryl O’Neil, and Wayne Johnson. Front row from left, Hank Cushard and Sally Stringer pose for a group photo in front of the flotilla. Right: Hank Cushard and Dawn Muller pick up debris along a path. USCG Auxiliary photos by R. Michael Stringer

Amber Porter: Auxiliary Member Makes a Leap of Faith.

By Daniel Helou, Division Commander 7

(Reprinted with revisions from INTERCOM, Fall Issue 2022, “From the Helm” )

The Impala, a member of the antelope family, can jump up to ten feet and thirty feet in length. It’s an incredible feat and undoubtedly essential to its survival in the African wild. Yet, at many impala enclosures in zoos, you’ll find that the animals are kept in place by a wall that’s merely three feet tall. How can such a low wall contain these athletic animals? It works because impalas will never jump unless they can see where they’ll land. The wall keeps the impalas inside the enclosure because they can’t see what’s on the other side. As humans, we’re not all that different. We want to know the outcome of a situation before we move forward.

SARASOTA, Fla.—Amber Porter from Flotilla 72, St. Petersburg, Jun. 28, aboard the Auxiliary facility “Niche II” from Division 8 during the visit of Captain Troy P. Glendye, Chief Director to Station Cortez. Photo by Auxiliarist George Papabeis, Flotilla 74, Brandon.

Amber Porter, a member of Flotilla 72, St. Petersburg, has successfully completed her summer internship with the United States Coast Guard Auxiliary University Program (AUP). The program’s mission is to provide a continuous resource of well-trained viable officer candidates who can develop into career officers in the United States Coast Guard or similar service agencies without the commitment of an ROTC Program.

Two years ago, Russ Gasdia, Branch Assistant, New Unit Development, Auxiliary University Program (AUP), reached out to John Kline, Staff Officer-Diversity, and Daniel Helou, then Staff Officer-Human Resources Division 7 with the challenge of launching the AUP program in partnership with the University of South Florida. They began preparations - then came the COVID shutdown. Once the students were back on campus, face to face, our first new member with an eye toward a career in the Coast Guard emerged. Doug Colwell, National Division Chief, Recruiting,

interviewed Amber Porter, a University of Tampa student, and referred her to George Bartuska, former Flotilla Commander of Flotilla 79, Tampa, and Daniel Helou. Soon after came the offer of an internship at Sector/Station St. Petersburg. Amber transferred to Flotilla 72, St. Petersburg.

Russ Gasdia continued to walk Porter through step by step, so it was a TEAM effort, but make no mistake – Porter did the work and shone brightly for the Auxiliary, the University Program, and the US Coast Guard. Porter “jumped,” not knowing where she’d land. Read with pride her accomplishments to date: Porter completed the Auxiliary University Program Internship. In addition to being a University of Tampa rising Senior, Auxiliary Porter earned the Pollution Responder qualification and four other pollution and Incident Command System qualifications. She completed the drone Performance Qualification Standard, organized an underway search and rescue drone training, and demonstration event for 12 children of fallen Veterans, and coordinated a 9/11 memorial stair climb event. Amber’s qualifications include:

Completing over 32 training courses (including Advanced Medic Training)

Weather Operations

Unmanned Aircraft Systems Drone Pilot

Pollution Responder

Marine Safety Specialist

Logistics Officer on many community-involved projects

Aided in logistical efforts for environmental protection

Promoted new recruitment as Flotilla Staff Officer-Human Resources Flotilla 72 for both the Auxiliary and active-duty sides.

Achieved Senior Cadet Status in the Auxiliary University Program (with intentions of graduating from the program with distinction)

Named National Staff Division Leader and is planning to apply to Officer Candidate School upon graduation.

Auxiliarist Porter, we thank you for being an outstanding member of our Coast Guard workforce and volunteering your time and efforts to complete vital Incident Command System qualifications, along with your valuable contributions to the community. Ω

Top left: ST. PETERSBURG, Fla.— Amber Porter, Flotilla 72, St. Petersburg, assists in Coast Guard and Auxiliary recruiting efforts on Mar. 3 at the University of South Florida career day fair. Auxiliary photo by Dorothy Riley

Top middle:TAMPA BAY, Fla.—Amber Porter in the cockpit of a C-130 Hercules. USCG photograph

Top right: GULFPORT, Fla.—Amber Porter flying a drone with the Coast Guard Pollution Response team at Flotilla 7-16, Gulfport. USCG Auxiliary photograph by Howard Bush, Gulfport flotilla.

The United States Coast Guard Auxiliary University Program (AUP) mission is to provide a continuous resource of well-trained viable officer candidates who can develop into career officers in the United States Coast Guard or similar service agency without the commitment of an ROTC Program.

The United States Coast Guard has an ever-increasing need for officer candidates not only for Surface and Air Operations but for Environmental Protection, Marine Science, Legal, Marine Safety, Engineering, Facilities Management, Humanitarian Assistance, and Homeland Security. These are just a few career paths for successful AUP program graduates.

The AUP offers college students multiple levels of training, culminating with an Active-Duty Coast Guard Internship placement program and AUP graduation status once the program courses are completed per the AUP Program of Study (link). AUP draws its leadership philosophy from the active-duty Coast Guard and Coast Guard Auxiliary.Ω

The U.S. Coast Guard Inclusive Leadership Excellence and Diversity Program in District 7.

By Tom Bamford, District Directorate Chief-Logistics

The U.S. Coast Guard Inclusive Leadership Excellence, and Diversity (ILEAD) program for District 7 is now active. The ILEAD program initiative was developed by the Commandant for both the Active Duty and the Auxiliary.

This is an anonymous method by which information is passed directly to the Commandant. This means we all have a “seat at the table.” The information passed affords our organizations the opportunity to become stronger and more efficient.

The D7 ILEAD opportunity is for any member to share ideas from best practices, present issues, and express the need for assistance. This support initiative is available via a very simple submission form process.

There are multiple methods to access information about the D7 ILEAD program, multiple ways to access resource materials for D7 member training, a brochure, and a submission form instructions flyer.

The links to the D7 ILEAD submission web page can be accessed via the District 7 website:

There is a link at the bottom right of the main page – “D7 USCG ILEAD Program.”

• On the upper left of the main page access can be made under the staff listings –“Diversity and Inclusion” department page via the link at the bottom of the department page – “D7 ILEAD Program.”

• Main page on the upper right side, both the links to the HR Corner and to Members Only have access to the D7 ILEAD program. Resource materials are also listed in the HR Corner at the bottom of the category list.

• On the Members Only page the D7 ILEAD program link is shown in the menu list.

NOTE: This link and the other links go to the main D7 ILEAD submission page which is in the MEMBER ZONE and can only be accessed via the members’ sign-in credentials for security.

Once on the main D7 ILEAD page, the program information is shown.

Included are:

• D7 training and instruction materials, the brochure, and the submission form information flyer.

• The submission information flyer pdf has links and a QR code that take the user directly to the D7 ILEAD Member Zone page.

• The QR code gives mobile users the opportunity to access the submission process.

At the bottom of the page is the link to open the submission form. Provide the simple information requested and click on the submit button at the bottom of the page.

All submissions are totally ANONYMOUS!! There is a provision on the form that provides an opportunity for a member to request they be contacted.

Once the submission is made the member will receive a confirmation notice that the submission was received. All information is reviewed, and the appropriate personnel are notified.

Think of this opportunity as a “Digital Suggestion Box.”

The D7 ILEAD program provides every member regardless of their role or tenure, the opportunity to help grow the organization in many ways.

District 7 has what is known as the Leadership Diversity Advisory Council (LDAC) comprised of individuals from both the Active Duty at the Sector District levels and the Auxiliary since we will be interfacing with each other.

The D7 ILEAD Auxiliary’s primary administrative contacts are the following:

• Faron Petteys

• Ramiro Antorcha

• Louise Damon

• Tom Bamford

A very special thank you to those members who provided their time and offered contributions to ensure the success of the D7 ILEAD program for all members.

For further information or instruction, please contact unit leadership in your division or flotilla. We ask that this announcement be given the widest distribution possible. Ω

Permission to Come Aboard!

By Ramiro Antorcha, Flotilla 17-6, Central Brevard

Conducting vessel examinations is different for all members of the Auxiliary and is influenced by geography, personality, attitude, and commitment. This is one couple’s experience conducting vessel examinations.

Tracy and I have been in the United States Coast Guard Auxiliary for four years, and we value the fellowship and guidance we have received from many. One is the ability to be a Program Visitor and Vessel Examiner.

Being a Program Visitor enables you to interact with many people who are water enthusiasts who may not be aware of the new happenings. The interaction we have with non-boaters is also rewarding. Since we are constantly recruiting, they ask questions like: Are you retired? Do we get paid? We respond that some are retired, but Tracy and I work Monday through Friday 8 a.m.-6 p.m. and our compensation is the acknowledgment that we are ensuring everyone is properly equipped to be safe on the water. (We do receive recognition such as military ribbons and certificates.

We have business cards and are always advocating… “You can be one of us. We do everything the Coast Guard does, EXCEPT law enforcement.” If they are interested in more information, they send us a request via e-mail message, or they can go to our website

“Thank you for your service.” This is a statement Tracy and I hear many times.

On a recent visit to one of our Marine Partners, Port Canaveral Yacht Club, Dennis Manibusan, Fleet Captain, organized a Vessel Safety Check day among their tenants.

Being a Vessel Examiner was a plus as we were able to serve his clients. Permission to come aboard, Tracy and I made that request seven times.

We also examined their dinghies. We tell members, “Contact us, and we will help you acquire both Vessel Examiner and Program Visitor certifications.” Ω.

Top: PORT CANAVERAL, Fla.—Vessel Examiner Tracy Antorcha waits with fleet captain Dennis Manibusan to check the first boat with their dinghy July 13 at the Port Canaveral Yacht Club.

Mid-page: Tracy Antorcha checks the condition of the required safety equipment.

Right: Tracy gets some help completing the Vessel Examination forms. USCG Auxiliary photos by Ramiro Antorcha

Spreading the Joy of Paddlesports: Auxiliarist Charles Hayes Teaches Paddlesports One Member at a Time.

By Dorothy Riley (Reprinted from INTERCOM, fall 2022, the newsletter for Division 7 Tampa Bay)

For Charles ‘Chuck” Hayes, spending a weekend across the state from his home to teach paddlesports is not an uncommon thing to do.

A member of Flotilla 14-2, Arlington (in the Jacksonville area), Hayes spent the weekend of May 21 in Tampa Bay teaching Clark Pittman from Flotilla 74, Brandon, how to safely operate a kayak. That date also coincided with the opening of National Safe Boating Week, so Hayes participated in Flotilla 74’s activities.

Hayes retired from the Navy after twenty years. An engineer, he specialized in on-the-water propulsion systems in everything from canoes to cruisers. But, before he joined the Navy, young Chuck Hayes was a member of the Boy Scouts who, at the age of 13, was a camp counselor-in-training working towards his scout badge in water sports. The badge included every water-related sport, from swimming to canoe.

Between Navy duties and family, Hayes spent little time with paddlesports until after retirement. Hayes joined the Auxiliary in 2006. Beginning in 2015, he put his American Canoe Association Level II Kayak training to use within the budding Auxiliary Paddle Craft (AUXPAD) program, teaching paddlecraft safety to both Auxiliary members and recreational boaters. One can hear Hayes’ passion for paddlesports and safety when he talks about the AUXPAD program. Additionally, Hayes is an Instructor for Auxiliary Recreational Boating Safety Public Education programs and teaches ‘Boat America’ in his flotilla.

The need for paddlecraft safety is growing, primarily due to COVID. Paddlesports are an ideal activity for people to get outdoors while still maintaining a safe social distance. Hayes reports that about 21% of all boating fatalities are paddlecraft accidents and that the three top reasons are 1.) not wearing a lifejacket or wearing it incorrectly, 2.) lack of training in paddlecraft operation and safety, and 3.) inattentiveness to surroundings (situational awareness).

RIVERVIEW, Fla.—Charles Hayes, a member of Flotilla 14-2, Arlington, prepares to leave Williams Park in Riverview, Fla. May 22, 2022. Hayes was in the Tampa Bay area to teach Clark Pittman, a member of Flotilla 74, Brandon, how to safely operate a kayak and participated in Flotilla 74’s National Safe Boating Week activities. United States Coast Guard Auxiliary photo by Dorothy Riley

Hayes has trained approximately 50 Auxiliary members in paddlesport operation and safety. District 7 has twelve certified AUXPAD operators and three AUXPAD qualified instructors. AUXPAD Qualifiers (AQ) must have achieved at least Level II kayak instructor certification from the American Canoe Association as well as being First Aid and CPR certified. Ω

ro r un n u d d: : P ho to b y U. U S. S C a oa o t st G a ua u rd d r ’s B oa o ti n g S af et y Di i vi v si on o

Did I Get Credit for That Course?

By John Robbins, Assistant District Staff Officer-Information Systems-Reports

If you have taken a course to meet an Auxiliary requirement, either in a classroom, online, or at a C-School, how do you ensure it is entered in your record in AUXDATA II? I frequently get complaints from members because they have completed a course, but they don’t know how to find it in AUXDATA II, or they know where to look, but it doesn’t show up in their records. Here is all the information you need to solve those problems.

Where is the record?

Every course you take that applies to the Auxiliary should be recorded in your member record. To look at that part of your record, you must log in to AUXDATA II and open your member record. There is an existing instruction that shows you how to do that. Go to the AUXDATA II How-To page and open the file called “Member Information - How to Access and Update in AUXDATA II May 2022.” You can click on this link to go directly to the file: https://drive.google.com/file/d/19v1-7CMu_nCzs8nzh8FoByMfqutffg7/ view

Once you are in your member record, go to the RELATED tab and scroll down until you see a section for Member Tasks. The section title will have a number next to it (One to six or six) showing the number of tasks in your record. If there are more than six, click on the title or the View All button at the lower right of the section to open a full list. You can sort the field by Task Type or Activity Date by clicking on the header for that column. Click on it again

to o reversethe e sorrt order If you are

to reverse the sort order. If you are looking for recent tasks, sort by Activity Date with the latest date at the top.

If a Course Is Missing

If you took the course in a classroom, you should have received a completion certificate. If you took the course through the Auxiliary National Testing Center (NTC) or the Auxiliary Online Classroom (also known as MOODLE), it might show up in your AuxDirectory record, where you can download and print a copy of the certificate. If you took a course through the Federal Emergency Management Agency Emergency Management Institute or another agency, you should have received a completion certificate for the course.

You can submit a course for entry to your record via the D7 Help Desk at https://helpdesk. uscga-district-7.org/. Courses taken in NTC, AUXLMS, or MOODLE should get entered automatically but it can take a while. If the course shows up in AuxDirectory but not AUXDATA, wait at least three weeks before submitting a

get Credit for That Course?

copy of the certificate to the help desk. Do not submit self-attestations for workshops or AUXCT courses to the help desk. Your IS officer should enter those.

New Certifications and Removal of REYR/ REWK

If you completed all the requirements for a status level change (for example, to IQ or BQ) or a new certification, or you completed the requirements to get a REYR or REWK removed from a competency, AUXDATA does not automatically make the desired change of status. Have your Flotilla Commander (FC), Flotilla Staff Officer- Member Training (FSO-MT), or Flotilla Staff OfficerInformation Services (FSO-IS) submit a help desk ticket. If it is for a new competency, be sure you provide a copy of your Performance Qualification Standard (PQS) and/or your letter of designation, if required. Whoever submits the help desk ticket should first confirm that you meet all the requirements of the new competency or remove the REYR/REWK from an existing competency. If the new competency requires an annual workshop that workshop must be completed and entered in AUXDATA before

submitting the help desk ticket.

Save Time and Help the Help Desk Staff

When you submit something to the help desk for entry, only include one step in a ticket. Who the ticket is sent to depends on the topic you select at the beginning of the help desk process and what you put in the subject field, and that person may not be able to do more than one thing. For example, if someone is REYR for a competency because they are REYR for AUXCT, submit a ticket to get the REYR removed from AUXCT. When that ticket is completed and that REYR is removed submit another ticket to

remove the REYR from the competency. You can use the topic Recertification (REYR – FC/ FSO-IS/MT) for both tickets and put what the REYR is for (AUXCT or specific competency), and they will be routed to the correct person.

If you still have questions, your IS officer should be able to help. Ω

Intentional Leadership: Are you an intentional leader?

By Martin S. Goodwin, DCAPT-N, DCOS(e)

“Some are born leaders, some achieve leadership, and some have leadership thrust upon them. Which of these are you?”

This quote, I believe, elegantly sums up leadership in the Auxiliary. Some of our members are natural leaders, while others develop leadership skills and aspire to lead our different Auxiliary units. And sometimes, members are cast into leadership roles because of a sense of duty, a dedication to our missions and activities, or a sense of responsibility to their unit members, or perhaps to the unit itself.

Wherever you are on this leadership spectrum, the interesting thing about the Auxiliary is that we are all considered leaders, whether by our members, the organizations with which we interact, or the recreational boating community. Whether you currently hold a leadership role, aspire to a leadership role within the Auxiliary, or are happily contributing your time and talents in support of some of our many programs, you are a leader.

Let me say that again. You are a leader.

Operating in a leadership capacity can be disorienting, particularly if you haven’t had leadership

experience. This is where the concept and practices of intentional leadership can help. Intentional leadership focuses on the attitudes and behaviors that allow you to engage your team in purposeful, rewarding activities that further your goals and missions. It facilitates increased synchronicity between plans, actions, and outcomes and fosters effective leadership and followership. It is, quite simply, leading with intent.

So, how can you become (or become more of) an intentional leader? The following concepts and practices can help you develop your intentional leadership skills.

Develop a Vision – Whether for yourself or your unit, developing a vision unifies your actions and the actions of others. It drives performance. It establishes the primary purpose, the meaning, for your efforts. Our members participate in Auxiliary activities for a variety of reasons. The benefit of developing a unifying vision is that it creates a common purpose for participation and performance. It transforms the many reasons our members participate in our programs and activities into a single objective that helps drive engagement. Crafting a unifying vision is not difficult. Your uni-

Photo by Alex FewingsUnsplash, free-to-use

fying vision should describe the purpose of your efforts yet be generic enough to appeal to the majority of your members. Some effective vision statements are: “To be the most valued resource for recreational boating safety in our community” or “To serve as the Center of Excellence for vessel safety checks and recreational boater education.” Once you develop a unifying vision, you have created a sense of purpose that will appeal to most, if not all, of your members. This sense of purpose will help drive performance.

Create Goals and Track Performance – Goals define the desired end result of implementing your unifying vision. Goals may be quantified (increasing the number of program visits or member training hours over the previous year) or qualified (increasing outreach to other organizations, such as the Power Squadron, or to local boating clubs or civic leaders). No matter what the type, the importance of establishing goals cannot be overstated. Goals define your performance targets and help you measure the impact of your efforts. Consistently tracking your performance against your goals helps you identify strengths and weaknesses and provides you with the information you need to make the adjustments that may be necessary to optimize performance.

Plan, Organize, and Act – Intentional leaders understand the importance of planning and organizing, and then putting objectives into action. These are the key expectations that your members have of you, and the expectations of members and leaders are what helps determine outcomes. There are many organizational and planning tools available to you. The Auxiliary Manual, your unit’s standing rules, procedures guides, and many other resources exist to assist you in charting a clear path forward for yourself and your unit. You also have the support available to act on your objectives. You may seek the counsel of past unit commanders, members up your chain of leadership, or other mentors. The key here is not just to plan, organize, and act, but to plan, organize, and act in service of your unifying vision and unit goals. In other words, to plan, organize, and act with intent.

Instill Meaning, Value, and Purpose – Meaning is the significance of an idea or action. Value is the quality that renders something desirable. Purpose

is the desired result or objective. Approaching leadership in this way and in this order transforms the focus of your unit from an outside-in perspective (what do we do, how do we do it, and why do we do it) to an inside-out perspective (why > how > what). This type of transformation is an important aspect of motivating your members to action and engagement. It also determines how your unit is perceived by outsiders. Intentional leadership consists of creating and communicating meaning, which establishes value, which instills a sense of purpose, which then influences and motivates others toward achieving goals. When you establish meaning, value, and purpose, your position within the organization and the communities you serve then becomes crystal clear.

These are some of the basic underlying concepts and practices of intentional leadership. There is much more information available, more than can be covered in a single magazine article. To help foster leadership development within District 7, we have established an online series of informative sessions known as the Leadership Academy. These sessions are scheduled to start later this year and are specifically designed for incoming elected and appointed leaders at all levels. These Leadership Academy sessions expand on the duties and responsibilities of flotilla, division, and district leaders by exploring the skills and behaviors that promote successful leadership within an Auxiliary unit. Specifically, these sessions build on the tasks of leadership and administration to help leaders gain a greater perspective of their influence in guiding unit activities, managing the forces that influence unit morale and motivation, and establishing and promoting a culture of excellence. These sessions are especially useful for leaders who are interested in building their leadership skills, participating in a forum to share knowledge and mentorship, and learning how to optimize their Auxiliary unit’s overall performance. A detailed announcement concerning Leadership Academy session dates will be sent soon. Ω

National Awards

ORLANDO, Fla.—Division Commanders (or their stand-ins) line the front of the room for the presentation of the NACO Diversity awards presented during the District 7 annual business meeting at D-Train Sept. 19. From left are Aracelis Mass, Division 1; Kerry Eakins, Division 2; Marc Brody, Division 3; Walter Franek, Division 4; Sean Hart, Division 5; Marcelo Freire, Division 6; Daniel Helou, Division 7; Murray Price, Division 8; David Schwartz, Division 9; Hal Blaisdell, Division 10; Stephan Bielawski, Division 11; William Hayes, Division 12; Harry Tipper, Division 14; Linda Jones, Division 15; Tony Wong, Division 17. USCG Auxiliary photo by R. Michael Stringer

NACO 3 STAR DIVERSITY AWARD. District 7 received 66 awards this year. Division 1 3 awards Division 2 7 awards 100% Division 3 6 awards 100% Division 4 2 awards Division 5 5 awards Division 6 1 award Division 7 2 awards Division 8 2 awards Division 9 7 awards Division 10 5 awards 100% Division 11 4 awards Division 12 6 awards Division 13 2 awards Division 14 2 awards Division 15 5 awards 100% Division 17 6 awards 100%

NACO 3 STAR EXCELLENCE in CORE TRAINING AWARD is given to flotillas who have achieved at least 90% completion of all nine Auxiliary Core Training (AUXCT) courses and are current in their AUXCT qualifications. Flotilla 21, Augusta 100% Flotilla 44, Daytona Beach Flotilla 17-10, Osceola

NACO GROWTH AWARD is given to Auxiliarists who recruit five new members into the Auxiliary who have obtained IQ or BQ status. The following members received awards this year. Larry Cole, FL 25, Hartwell Lake Miguel Minervini, FL 38, Plantation Ellmore Thorne, FL 39, Dania Beach Jack Neve, FL 43, Lake County Walter Franek, FL 48, New Smyrna Thierry Pauquet-de-Villejust, FL 6-11, Miami Rollin Shouse, FL 78, St. Pete Beach Gilbert Thomas, FL 77, PolkCounty Robert Curto, FL 99, Cape Haze

MARINE RETAILERS ASSOCIATIONS BEST FLOTILLA IN VESSEL EXAMINATIONS AWARD: First Place: FL 13-8, Upper Keys Florida, with 2,375 VSCs

MARINE RETAILERS ASSOCIATION BEST FLOTILLA IN MARINE DEALER VISITATION AWARD: Second Place: FL 12-4, Grand Strand South Carolina, with 3,217 Program Visits

NATIONAL BOATING FEDERATION BEST FLOTILLA IN PUBLIC EDUCATION AWARD: Second Place: FL 67, Coral Gables Florida, with 549 Students

National Awards

National Public Affairs Awards:

1st Place Flotilla Newsletter - “Crossroads Currents,” Robert Stringer, FL 59, Stuart

1st Place Flotilla Public Affairs Event, “NSBW Event”, FL 59, Stuart, Hank Cushard, Diane Riggan, Robert Stringer, and Wilson Riggan

Photography - “Public Education”, Robert Stringer, FL 59, Stuart

Photography - “Vessel Safety Check”, Ellen Deleo, FL 96, Wiggins Pass

Photography - “Public Affairs”, Ellen Deleo, FL 96, Wiggins Pass

Additionally, Division Commanders were given the CENTURY CLUB AWARDS FOR VESSEL SAFETY CHECKS/PARTNER VISITS.

COMMODORE WILLIAM MANSFIELD PERPETUAL TROPHY to the flotilla that has the Most Recreational Boating Safety Hours in 2021 (Note: This is not part of the Commodore’s Cup Award ensemble.) Flotilla 59, Stuart, FL

CASEY PURVIS AND ROBERT FULLER AVIATION AWARDS OF EXCELLENCE awarded to the Aircraft Commander and Crew/Observer who have accumulated the most flight hours in a calendar year. Pilot hours must be non-mishap hours; Air Crew/ Observer hours are the total hours by an air crew member while serving as an Air Observer. The awards honor the memory of Auxiliary aviation program members Casey E. Purvis and Robert S. Fuller who lost their lives on 1 February 2001 while flying a training mission with the Coast Guard. Both Auxiliarists made great contributions to the program in terms of time and dedication.

For Aircraft Commander: Ronald Kaplan, FL 69 Air Crew: Tom Powers, FL 69

, Opalocka

ORLANDO, Fla.- Sept. 16 at D-Train, COMO Pat McMenamin presents Claude Bullock, IPDCDR 13, first place in the “Marine Retailers Associations Best Flotilla in Vessel Examinations Award” won by Flotilla 13-8, Upper Keys with 2,375 Vessel Safety Checks in 2021. The flotilla also earned the National RBS award for this feat. To COMO McMenamin’s left is the District 7 Director of Auxiliary, CDR Navin L. Griffin (DIRAUX). To Bullock’s right is CAPT Troy P. Glendye Chief Director of the Auxiliary. On the podium behind them are John Holmes, DCOS, and COMO Gary Barth, IPDCO. USCG Auxiliary photo by R. Michael Stringer

ORLANDO, Fla.- Sept. 16 at D-Train, COMO Pat McMenamin presents William Hayes, DCDR 12 ,second place in the “Marine Retailers Associations Best Flotilla in Vessel Examinations Award” won by Flotilla 12-4, Grand Strand South with 3,217 Partner Visits in 2021. To COMO McMenamin’s left is the District 7 Director of Auxiliary, CDR Navin L. Griffin (DIRAUX). To Bullock’s right is CAPT Troy P. Glendye Chief Director of the Auxiliary. On the podium behind them are John Holmes, DCOS, and COMO Gary Barth, IPDCO. USCG Auxiliary photo by R. Michael Stringer

District 7 Awards

COMMODORE’S CUP AWARDS. This series of awards is presented to the winning/most improved flotilla and division in each of our six core activities, measured as an improvement in 2021 as compared to 2020. These are Seventh Coast Guard District Auxiliary Awards.

MOST IMPROVED FLOTILLA 2021: PROGRAM VISITATION Flotilla 12-4, Central Grand Strand, S.C.

MOST IMPROVED FLOTILLA 2021: OPERATIONS Flotilla 13-8, Upper Keys, Fla.

MOST IMPROVED FLOTILLA 2021: VESSEL EXAMINATIONS Flotilla 39, Dania Beach, Fla.

MOST IMPROVED FLOTILLA 2021: MEMBER TRAINING Flotilla 96, Wiggins Pass

BEST PERFORMING FLOTILLA 2021: NET MEMBERSHIP GROWTH Flotilla 6-11, Miami, Fla.

MOST IMPROVED FLOTILLA 2021: PUBLIC EDUCATION Flotilla 38, Plantation, Fla.

MOST IMPROVED DIVISION 2021: PROGRAM VISITATION Division 3, Ft. Lauderdale

MOST IMPROVED DIVISION 2021: OPERATIONS Division 15

MOST IMPROVED DIVISION 2021: PUBLIC EDUCATION Division 3

MOST IMPROVED DIVISION 2021: VESSEL EXAMINAGTIONS Division 13

MOST IMPROVED DIVISION 2021: MEMBER TRAINING Division 9

MOST IMPROVED DIVISION 2021: MEMBERSHIP GROWTH Division 13 Division 1

COMMODORE’S CUP AWARD: BEST FLOTILLA OF THE YEAR 2021★ Flotilla 25, Lake Hartwell, Ga.

COMMODORE’S CUP AWARD: BEST DIVISION OF THE YEAR 2021★ Division 13

ERNEST T. AND ANNE FRUHNER AWARD OF EXCELLENCE IN PUBLIC EDUCATION 2021 presented annually to the two flotillas with the greatest National Association of State Boating Law Administrators (NASBLA) graduates reported in AUXDATA for the previous year. The two winning flotillas each receive $1,000 in public education materials or equipment of their choice to enhance their public education programs.

Flotilla 67 Coral Gables, FL Flotilla 38, Plantation, FL

District 7 Awards

NATIONAL SAFE BOATING WEEK AWARD: BEST FLOTILLA NSBW Program 2021 Flotilla 25, Hartwell Lake, Ga.

NATIONAL SAFE BOATING WEEK AWARD: BEST DIVISION NSBW Program 2021 Division 9

BEST DISTRICT PUBLICATION 2021

1st Place – “Breeze,” Robert Stringer, Editor

2nd Place – “D7 Connection,” Angela Pomaro

BEST DIVISION PUBLICATION 2021

1st Place – Division 7, “Intercom,” Dorothy Riley, Editor

2nd Place – Division 11, “Chip Log,” Karen Miller, Editor

3rd Place – Division 2, “Baggy Wrinkle,” Skip Yost, Editor

BEST FLOTILLA PUBLICATION 2021

1st Place – FL 59, Stuart, “Crossroads Currents,” Robert Stringer, Editor

2nd Place – FL 38,Plantation, “Message Bearer,” Haitham Bassouny, Editor

3rd Place – FL 98, Charlotte Harbor “Harbor Light,” Virginia Bryant, Editor

2021 DONALD L. FRASCH INSPIRATIONAL LEADERSHIP AWARD R. Greg Hendricks, FL 17-6 Central Brevard

Mr. Hendricks was also the national winner of the COMO CHARLES S. GREANOFF AWARD – 2021. This award recognizes the most exemplary performance by a Flotilla Commander during the calendar year. Only those Flotilla Commanders who demonstrated sustained, exceptional standards of proficiency and conduct, and whose appearance and bearing were consistently impeccable, shall be considered for nomination. This award parallels other Coast Guard Inspirational Leadership Awards: the Captain John G. Whitherspoon Inspirational Leadership Award for active duty and Reserve officers, the George R. Putnam Inspirational Leadership Award for civilians, and the MCPO Angela M. McShan Inspirational Leadership Award for active duty or Reserve Chief Petty Officers (E-7).

2021 AUXILIARIST OF THE YEAR

Reverend Richard L. Braswell, FL 38, Plantation

2021 MARY E. LARSEN EXCELLENCE IN EDUCATION AWARD

George S. Peek, FL 17-6, Central Brevard

Mr. Peek was also the winner of the COMMODORE DANIEL MAXIM AWARD FOR EXCELLENCE IN EDUCATION

The Commodore Daniel Maxim Award for Excellence in Education was established to motivate and inspire the entire Instructor cadre to reach beyond the comfortable or ordinary to achieve the extraordinary. Some of the goals of the Award are to increase the diversity of courses offered by flotillas and additional numbers of classes offered; to improve Public Education and Member Training Instructor effectiveness and performance; to improve mentorship of newer or lesser experienced Instructors; to develop new and innovative teaching methods and techniques, and to develop new and innovative teaching aids. Ω

D-Train: Members Meet for Training and Fellowship.

By Dorothy Riley, Staff Officer-Publications Division

“I smiled so much that my cheeks hurt!” That was how one member at “Fun Night” described the joy of seeing old friends and colleagues again at D-Train.

After a two-year hiatus due to COVID, District 7 held D-Train 2022, District 7 Board Meeting and Training, Sept. 13 - 18, 2022, at the Florida Hotel and Conference Center in Orlando.

Friday afternoon’s District 7 Board Meeting comprised addresses by Auxiliary leaders and Coast Guard guests, elections for district officers, and the presentation of numerous awards to units and members. The ceremony for sending off members who died the previous year was touching. The Coast Guard Pipe Band members played “Amazing Grace” as they exited the room, allowing the sounds to fade into the distance.

Coast Guard guests included Capt. Troy P. Glendye, Chief Director of the Auxiliary and Coast Guard Office Boating Safety; Capt. Tina J. Pena, Commander, Air Station Borinquen; Cmdr. Navin L. Griffin, Director of Auxiliary District 7; and BOSN4 Hailie Browne, Operations Training Officer District 7. Capt. Glendye pointed out that during the pandemic, we lost approximately 2,000 members. Opportunities to serve our Coast Guard partners have expanded, making recruiting a vital mission.

John Holmes, District Chief of Staff (DCOS), was elected District Commodore 7. Martin Goodwin, DCAPT-North, will serve as DCOS beginning in 2023. The new District Captains are Daniel Helou, DCAPT-West; Doug Armstrong, DCAPT-East; and James Parker, DCAPT-North. (Awards presented during the District 7 Board Meeting are listed on other pages.)

Information tables lined the main corridor. Auxiliary specialists scheduled workshops all day Saturday and Sunday morning. Topics

encompassed the Auxiliary Information System and Auxiliary Data, Communications, issues relevant to Recreational Boating Safety Partner Visits and Vessel Safety Checks, leadership topics, aviation and operational matters, Public Affairs, and Publications, to name just a few. In addition, the district materials store was open to the members. The best part, however, was seeing old friends and familiar faces.

Rear Admiral Brendan McPherson, Commander, Seventh Coast Guard District, delivered the keynote address at Friday night’s Commodore’s Banquet. The frocking of the new district officers was the evening’s highlight. The dinner included more award presentations. Saturday night’s “Fun Night” featured a wonderful dinner, dancing to a live band, and lots of laughter.

Attendance was down from pre-pandemic events. Many members were reluctant to attend group events. With Florida having the sixth highest COVID infection rate in the nation, district leaders took plenty of precautions, including requiring members to be vaccinated against the virus or presenting a negative COVID test. Face masks were made available to all members at registration.

Members who did attend had a wonderful time and look forward to D-Train in 2023. Ω

ORLANDO, Fla.- District 7 Training Conference Sept. 13-18, 2022. Facing page top: Display tables on the mezzanine behind the Commodore’s welcome sign.

Mid-page: Daniel Jacquish from Flotilla 51, The Palm Beaches, relaxes over a morning coffee before the business meeting.

Bottom: Diane Riggan and R. Michael Stringer, members of Flotilla 59, Stuart, on Friday morning before the District 7 business meeting.

This page, top: BOSN4 Hailie Browne, Operations Training Officer, District 7, United States Coast Guard, and COMO Pat McMenamin, District 7 during a meeting break.

Mid-page: Rear Admiral Brendan McPherson, Commander, Seventh Coast Guard District, poses with the visiting contingent from the Caribbean regions before the Commodore’s Banquet.

Bottom: COMO Pat McMenamin (right) and Maria Holmes frock John Holmes during the Commodore’s Banquet. United States Coast Guard Auxiliary photographs by R. Michael Stringer

ORLANDO, Fla.- District 7 Training Conference Sept. 13-18, 2022.

Top left: The Coast Guard and Coast Guard Auxiliary combined color guard present the standards before the start of the business meeting. United States Coast Guard Auxiliary photo by Karen Miller

Top right: Members of the Coast Guard Pipe Band play a poignant version of “Amazing Grace” in honor of the members of District 7 who passed this past year.

Bottom left: COMO Pat McMenamin and John Holmes, District Chief of Staff share a moment after the elections held during the business meeting.

Bottom right: “Fun Night” included cheerful table decorations, a band, and dancing. (Wish we had a picture of that Conga line!) United States Coast Guard Auxiliary photographs by R. Michael Stringer.

Dunedin Purple Heart Ceremony

Rob Bonnem, Flotilla 11-10, Dunedin, Commander

On August 7th, members of Flotilla 11-10, Dunedin, participated in the annual Purple Heart ceremony. This was the 10th consecutive year that the Dunedin flotilla has attended. It is an honor to be asked by the city to participate. Members don their Tropical Blue uniforms and usually have front-row seats for the event. They always get a respectable turnout.

Dunedin was designated as Florida’s first Purple Heart City by the Military Order of the Purple Heart in 2006. The event is held at Purple Heart Park, which is located in downtown Dunedin. A monument sits in the center of the park in recognition of those who have earned the military tribute by their bravery and sacrifice.

Other organizations that participated included the Pinellas County Sheriffs, who provided a helicopter flyover to start the event. The sheriffs also send an honor guard to hold a 21-gun salute. Dunedin High School sends its Reserve Officer Training Corps (ROTC) to carry and present the colors of the branches of armed forces and the American flag. City, county, and state representatives speak and there is always a local Purple Heart recipient giving the keynote speech.

Flotilla 11-10, Dunedin, always looks forward to August 7th. It is on their flotilla calendar in pen. Ω

DUNEDIN, Fla.- Members of Flotilla 11-1, Dunedin’ attend an annual Purple Heart ceremony Aug. 7, at Purple Heart Park in downtown Dunedin. From left are Walter Murray, Allen Leimbach, Rob Bonnem, Jim Ryder, Buddy Casale, and Jon Nichols.

Below left: The Purple Heart Monument in the center of the park in Dunedin.

Below right: Pinellas County Sheriffs hold a 21-gun salute in honor of Purple Heart recipients. The Purple Heart is a military decoration awarded in the name of the President to those wounded or killed while serving. United States Coast Guard Auxiliary photos by Chelsea Miller.

Help from CGMA is within reach. WHO HELPS THE HELPERS? WE DO.

DONATE

In the time of a major disaster, such as a hurricane, the Coast Guard community can count on Coast Guard Mutual Assistance (CGMA) as a trusted and reliable resource, ready to provide emergency assistance for evacuation and cash needed to meet basic living expenses such as food, shelter, and clothing. We understand that recovery takes time. CGMA’s loan to grant conversion process helps Coast Guard members return to their homes with the financial resources needed to replace essentials such as food and appliances and commence repairs. Contact your local CGMA Representative to apply for assistance. Hurricane Ian reminds us that no matter how well we prepare, we cannot avoid all emergencies. Many Coast Guardians and Auxiliary members need assistance. Please donate to help our shipmates. To donate, click the “Donate” button above or go to: https://secure.qgiv.com/for/cgma/

Hurricane Ian Coverage

Ian devastated vast sections of Florida, Georgia, and the Carolinas. What the winds did not pound, the storm surge destroyed. Ian impacted our members, our facilities, and our Coast Guard partners.

Tell us your stories. Tell us the “who, what, where, and when.” Smartphones take great photos. Let us memorialize not the storm, but our ability to withstand and memorialize our spirit. Email your photos and stories to dso.pb.d7@gmail.com by December 1. Don’t wait. Send it today!