1 minute read
“Permission to Come Aboard!”
from BREEZE
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.
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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 fl eet captain Dennis Manibusan to check the fi rst 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
