BREEZE, District 7

Gasparilla Pirate Gasparilla Pirate Invasion

DISTRICT BRIDGE

District Commodore (DCO)

Commodore John Holmes

District Chief of Staff (DCOS)

Martin Goodwin

Director of Auxiliary (DIRAUX)

Commander Navin Griffin

District Captains (DCAPT)

Doug Armstrong (East)

James Parker (North)

Daniel Helou (West)

Immediate Past District Commodore (IPDCO)

Commodore Pat McMenamin

DISTRICT DIRECTORATE CHIEFS

Logistics .................................. Anthony Novellino

Prevention ........................................ Hal Blaisdell

Response............................................ Jack Miller

DISTRICT STAFF OFFICERS

Aviation (AV) .....................................Wilson Riggan

Culinary Assistant (CA) .................. Patrick McAlvey

Communications (CM) Mark Gaisford

Communication Services (CS) ............ Chris Haarer

Diversity (DV) ............................. Carolina Filgueiras

Emergency Management (EM)............... Efrain Sora

Finance (FN) ...................................... Donna Miller

Human Resources (HR) Angela Pomaro

Information Services (IS) ................... .Sue Hastings

Legal/Parliamentarian (LP) ....... J. Michael Williams

Materials (MA) ........................................ Jon Hunt

Marine Safety (MS) ...................... Mark Wronowski

Member Training (MT) ....................... David Patlak

Navigations Systems (NS) ............... Faron Petteys

Operations (OP) Bob Dicicco

Public Affairs (PA) ............................. Hank Cushard

Publications (PB) ...................... R. Michael Stringer

Public Education (PE) ........................ George Peek

Program Visitor (PV) .................... Patrick McGowan

Scout (AS) .Monique Wong

State Liaison (SLO) ................................ Anda Ray

Secretary/Records (SR) ..................... Julie Bouchard

Vessel Examinations (VE) ......... Patricia McGowan

DISTRICT AIDES

Awards (D-AA-DAC) ....................... David Scott

Letters (LT) ............................ Donna Saunders

Special Projects (SP) ................. Chris Haarer

Special Projects (SP) ............... Robert Fabich Sr.

Statistics (ST) ............ COMO Robert Weskerna

Conference Coordinator (CC) .... Jim Nickels

Lay Leader (LL) ............................ Phillip Poole

Safety Officer (D-AD-Safety) ............... .Sean Hart

Civil Rights (AUX-CRC) .James Stokes

SECTOR COORDINATORS

Charleston (CHA). ...................... .Bruce Lindsey

Jacksonville (JAX) ................. Gregory Hendricks

Key West (KW) .....................................Ed Pratt

Miami (MIA). ............................... .Jeffrey Barnes

San Juan (SJ) ................Ramses Rodriguez-Diaz

St. Petersburg (SP).....................David Rockwell

DIVISION COMMANDERS

Division 1 ................................. Kenneth Vargas

Division 2 ................................. Chuck Keleman

Division 3....................................... .Marc Brody

Division 4.................................... Walter Franek

Division 5 .................................Louis Townsend

Division 6 .Michael Okeefe

Division 7 . ................................... Dean Hoskin

Division 8 . .................................. Murray Price

Division 9 ................................... Ronald Jelliff

Division 10 ................................ Charles Leroux

Division 11. .................................. Harvey Prior

Division 12 . ........................ ....... William Hayes

Division 13 .................................. Patty Zuluaga

Division 14 ................................ Harry Tipper

Division 15 .............................. Patrick Steward

Division 16 ................................. Adam Shapiro

Division 17 ............................... Anthony Wong

FUTURE ISSUES OF BREEZE

Photos, stories, and updates are always welcome. Please send all submissions to DSO-PB for review via email to dso.pb.d7@gmail.com

DEADLINE FOR NEXT ISSUE: June 10, 2023

Breeze Editor: R. Michael Stringer

NOTES BRIDGE

recently celebrated the well-deserved retirement of CWO4 Hailie Browne. We greatly benefited from his dedicated service as Operations Training Officer for the USCG Auxiliary District 7 and we will miss him. Unfortunately, his replacement will not be aboard until July of this year. CDR Navin L. Griffin and his staff will assimilate those duties formerly assigned to CWO Browne. The replacement delay can impact how quickly the process of completing things can take, so please be aware of this transition.

The Coast Guard has been tasked with many challenging missions and has stretched its personnel resources to extraordinary limits to fulfill these critical missions. The needs of the Auxiliary are a high priority. Any delay in staffing at our D7 DIRAUX office is partly related to the need for personnel resources throughout these mission areas that also protect our nation and the coastal regions.

COMO John Holmes, D7

Today at my house, we have 19-knot winds, so staying at the dock! This is a typical example of common-sense risk assessment. The wealth of excellent training we all benefit from as members of the United States Coast Guard Auxiliary (USCGAUX) impacts our daily routine unquestionably. Safety is an essential consideration in all of our Auxiliary activities. Our district now has a District Aide who focuses soley on safety concerns and shares common-sense messages routinely with our members. Our Aide to the District Commodore-Safety (D-AD) is Sean Patrick Hart, and as the months move forward, he will highlight valuable safety ideas.

The United States Coast Guard Auxiliary is a unique organization; our diverse and highly talented members are the foundation of our current and future success. A leadership culture based on our core values of Honor, Respect, and Devotion to Duty is key to that foundation. Our duty to each other mandates that we interact in concert with these essential core values. On the infrequent occasions (that come to my attention) where we interact with each other disregarding these core values creates a negative culture that is very difficult to overcome and destructive to morale and motivation. Honor, Respect, and Devotion to Duty are words every Auxiliarist should know and live by.

Our District 7 Director of Auxiliary (DIRAUX) office

This year, we will hold our District Training Conference (DTRAIN) in Orlando, Florida, from Sept. 19-24. We anticipate funding from our DIRAUX office to provide USCG orders for District Captains, Division Commanders, Division Vice Commanders, Auxiliary Sector Coordinators, and a cadre of District Staff Officers. Our District 7 website will contain all information needed once the training and C-School schedules are complete. The use of E2 solutions for USCG orders is required. If you are not already enrolled in E2 Solutions, contact Martin Goodwin, District 7 Chief of Staff.

Also in 2023, we will see several command changes, including a new D7 DIRAUX Commander and a new Coast Guard District Commander. The USCGAUX has been requested to assist at these events scheduled in June or July. Once we have final plans, they will be shared immediately with our team in that area of responsibility.

The pending uniform issue regarding the current operational dress uniform (ODU) supplier no longer making this uniform is challenging. The alternative work uniform (AWU) is a very good solution and

(Continued on page 6)

STAFF BRIEFINGS

On a recent Saturday, Auxiliarist John Gilbarty, from Flotilla 13-8, Upper Keys, was participating as part of a telecommunications operations team supporting the Buccaneer Blast youth sailing regatta in Key Largo, Florida. As part of this event, Auxiliarists, including John Gilbarty, performed vessel safety checks for vessels participating in the regatta. During these checks, Auxiliarists provided safety whistles to all who needed them. As the day wore on and different regatta events were conducted, the weather started to change, with winds increasing to 25 knots and heavy squalls moving through the area. Several vessels were still on the water during the severe weather, and many capsized and had to be rescued and returned to the safety of the shore.

The next day, Auxiliarist Gilbarty was back at the event when a young teenager and his parent approached him. The teenager pointed to Auxiliarist Gilbarty and told his parent, “That’s the man who gave me the whistle yesterday.” The boy’s parent looked up at Auxiliarist Gilbarty and said, “Sir, you saved my son’s life! You gave him one of these whistles when you were checking his boat. Yesterday during the storm, his boat rolled over on top of him and trapped him in the rigging. He yelled, but it wasn’t until he blew the whistle that you gave him that a boat heard him and came to free him. You saved my son’s life, and we’ll always be connected.”

A couple of weeks later, along Florida’s Space Coast, members of Division 17 are gathering at different waterside locations to survey the local horseshoe crab population. This effort includes locating horseshoe crabs, measuring them, determining their sex, and fitting them with tracking devices to study their distribution in local waters and migration habits. The crabs are then released back into the wild.

The Auxiliarists participating in these surveys support partner agencies by serving as citizen scientists. Throughout the year, these Auxiliarists also performed weekly water testing of the Indian

River and Banana River lagoons, provided data for the River Watch Program, and transported sick and injured sea turtles to healing centers under permit with the Florida Fish and Wildlife Commission as part of the inter-organizational Sea Turtle Stranding Team. Several agencies, including the University of Florida’s Sea Grant program, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Commission, the US Fish and Wildlife Service, and non-government organizations such as the Marine Resources Council, rely on these Auxiliarists to monitor the area’s marine natural resources. Through their efforts, these environmental stewards help protect marine life and conserve the delicate marine ecosystem.

These events highlight our fundamental purpose – we help save lives and protect the maritime environment. When you take a moment and think about what we do – whether it’s performing Recreational Boating Safety activities (vessel safety checks, public education classes, marine dealer visits, and public outreach), participating in environmental stewardship activities, conducting air and surface patrols, or providing augmentation to the Coast Guard as watchstanders, interpreters, chaplains, culinary assistants, and the many other roles we fill – you come to the realization that what we do serves our greater purpose. Every activity we perform supports our fundamental goal to help save lives and protect the marine environment.

(Continued on page 6)

Martin Goodwin, DCOS, D7

Bridge Notes-COMO John Holmes (Continued from page 4)

very comfortable one. We have some flotillas and divisions with a supply of used ODUs that might be shared. The idea is to have all units that have used, good, and serviceable ODUs send an inventory to a specific point of contact (to be determined). That inventory would be posted on a USCGAUX website and updated regularly. We need to work on this idea and implement it immediately.

The first few months as your D7 Commodore have shown me just how remarkable our members are. We are moving forward and serving the USCG and the boating public nonstop and in a manner that all of us should be proud of. Thanks to all of the D7 members for all you do every day.

Right: COMO John Holmes presents CWO4 Hailie Browne a parting gift upon his retirement as Operations Training Officer for the USCG Auxiliary District 7. The Commodore presented the gift at the Coast Guard District 7 offices in Miami. USCG Auxiliary photograph.

Essentially, what we do is driven by why we do it. Many of us can readily explain what we do. Whether we’re describing our activities that support recreational boating safety, efforts that augment the Coast Guard mission, or tasks that enable our organization to maintain its functions and programs, it’s usually quite easy to convey what we do in the Auxiliary. The bigger challenge is explaining why we pursue these tasks and activities. From this perspective – focusing on the why more than the what - I visualize our path forward.

Emphasizing why we do what we do can help transform our focus from What > How > Why to a more sustainable Why > How > What approach. So, why is this important? What are the benefits of transforming our focus? When we emphasize why we conduct our activities over what we perform, we create a single, sustainable, unifying idea that all members of a flotilla, division, program area, or team can embrace and make their own. Sustainable ideas inspire action. A unifying idea can be anything if it accurately captures our why. One of the best whys that I’ve experienced was expressed by Jack Miller, our District Directorate

Chief for Response. As he was explaining what he does in the Auxiliary, he was asked why he volunteers his time. His simple yet profound response was, “To save lives.” This simple idea is what drives his motivation and service in the Auxiliary. What idea motivates your activities in the Auxiliary, and how can you expand that idea to include other members?

Developing and promoting a sustainable idea, a grand unifying vision, serves to refocus our efforts toward meaningful and valuable outcomes simply because the idea itself imbues our activities with meaning, from which we derive value and achieve a purpose. As demonstrated by Auxiliarist John Gilbarty and the citizen scientists in Division 17, it is why we conduct our activities that provide the greatest meaning. What we do only serves to reinforce that meaning.

A greater emphasis on a sustainable idea, focusing on why we do what we do, will provide the needed clarity that will enable us to chart our path forward in 2023 and beyond. Ω

Staff Briefings-Martin Goodwin (Continued from page 5)

District 7News

District 7 Conducts Annual Publication Contest

7 Publication Contest

CONTEST RULES:

•Units must have successfully published three newsletters per division, four per flotilla or other D7 publications throughout the contest period.

• Each entry must be identified with the name of the editor and the division/flotilla or other entity.

•The judging of these publications shall be conducted by a committee consisting of the District Staff OfficerPublications who shall serve as chairperson, and a minimum of four additional Auxiliarists

knowledgeable in the field of journalism (Public Affairs or Publications officers).

•Entries will be judged using the standards contained in the current USCG Auxiliary Publication Manual.

•Only newsletters published between May 1, 2022, and April 30, 2023, are eligible.

Send your best three issues to R. Michael Stringer, District Staff Officer-Publications at (dso.pb.d7@ gmail.com) no later than May 1, 2023.

Consideration of content is given to:

•Articles about Auxiliary members, flotillas, or divisions.

•Recognition of flotillamember achievements or awards.

•Member training items.

•Announcements of upcoming fl otilla, division, and district activities.

•Articles of interest by and about our members.

District 7 publication officers are encouraged to also submit their newsletters to the National Public Affairs Publication Contest. Click here for rules: http://wow. uscgaux.info/content.php?unit=ADEPT&category=contest-rule

All unit newsle ers invited to participate in the 2022-2023 District

Gasparilla Pirate Invasion:

Tampa Surrenders to Jose Gaspar and His Pirate Krewes Again!

By Dorothy Riley

JOSE GASPAR approaches the Tampa Convention Center, where the mayor of Tampa will surrender the keys to the city. USCG Auxiliar y photo by Dorothy Riley

The Gasparilla Boat Parade has a long history in Tampa, Florida. It is one of the oldest and most wellknown events in the Tampa Bay area and has been held annually since the early 1900s.

The boat parade is held on the last Saturday in January and is followed by a series of other events, including a pirate invasion and a music festival. This year, the invasion and subsequent parade were held on January 28. The parade is named after the legendary pirate José Gaspar, also known as Gasparilla, and inspired by the pirate’s legendary raids on the west coast of Florida. The parade is traditionally led by the José Gasparilla, a pirate ship (barge) that is the festival’s centerpiece. The Gasparilla events attract thousands of visitors each year.

Many pirate ‘krewe’ ships and hundreds of recreational vessels accompany the Gasparilla up the channel. Boaters often adhere to the pirate theme in dress and consume quantities of alcohol. For this reason, the Coast Guard and law enforcement from all over the state assist in peacekeeping, preventing collisions, and keeping recreational vessels from crossing the Gasparilla’s path.

The Auxiliary plays a significant role. In past years, Auxiliary facilities from all divisions under Sector St. Petersburg provided safety zones for manatees sighted in or near the parade route. This year, Auxiliary facilities from Divisions 7 and 8 assisted in keeping boaters safe in the channel.

Before the start of this year’s Gasparilla Pirate Invasion, Flotilla 74, Brandon’s facility, Miss Daisy, had the distinction of transporting VIPs. Before the start of the parade, Miss Daisy, under the command of coxswain Dean Bell, provided transport to RADM Brendan McPherson, Commander, Coast Guard District 7; CAPT Michael Kahle, Sector St Petersburg Commanding Officer and Captain of the Port; and CDR Shawn Lansing, Deputy Commander, Sector St Petersburg, from the Coast Guard facility on Davis Island to the Incident Command Post near Hooker’s Point. RADM McPherson wanted to meet with the Coast Guard team supporting the event. Coxswain Bell returned these dignitaries to Davis Islands before the parade began so they could join in the Coast Guard morale event. Each year Sector arranges a party for Coast Guard members and their families so they can safely view the water parade.

Serving aboard Miss Daisy were Dean Bell, Flotilla 79, Tampa, coxswain; George Papabeis, Flotilla 74, Brandon; Dennis Smith, Flotilla 77, Polk County, crew; Steve Williams, Flotilla 74, Brandon, trainee; and Miguel Marquez, Flotilla 79, Tampa, trainees.

Three additional Auxiliary facilities assisted in the (Continued on page 10)

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(Gasparilla-Continued from page 9)

Gasparilla Pirate Invasion. First from Division 7 was Sue-Sea-Q, Tony Novellino, coxswain, Charles Lambeth, crew, both from Flotilla 78, St. Pete Beach, Tracy Adkins, from Flotilla 72, St. Petersburg, crew, and Jeff Agrall from Flotilla 78, St. Pete Beach, trainee. The second vessel was Duty Calls, Dean Hoskin, coxswain; Gordon Hornby, crew; Jack Lee, trainee, all from Flotilla 72, St. Petersburg, and Anne-Marie Woolsey from Flotilla 78 St. Pete Beach, crew. The fourth vessel was Idlewild from Division 8 with Walter Jennings, Flotilla 86, Venice, coxswain; Tom Mooney, also from Flotilla 86, crew; and Tom Alvord, Flotilla 81, Manatee, crew.

One of the most important missions carried out by the Auxiliary was radio watchstanding. The Auxiliary team at the Unified Command Post consisted of Dave Rockwell, Auxiliary Sector Coordinator, acting as Auxiliary Branch Director, and the Auxiliary Communications Group (AUXCOM) led by Howard Bush, Flotilla 7-16, Gulfport. Hal Chase, Flotilla 72, St. Petersburg, and Chris Anderson, FL 7-16, Gulfport. Bush adapted

one of Sector’s Rescue 21 Go-kits to serve as the control radio station. This eliminated the expense of moving a communications trailer.

Flotilla 75, Apollo Beach’s Ruskin Radio provided transit guard and backup communications led by Elliott Seda, Flotilla 75. Telecommunications Operators assisting were Ray Langley, Judy Clapp, Don Hebert, and Larry Binder. Jim Keene assisted in trainee status. All are members of Flotilla 75, Apollo Beach.

The Gasparilla festival was created by the society editor of the Tampa Tribune in partnership with civic and social leaders in the Tampa Bay area. The event was so popular that the Tampa leaders agreed to organize the parade annually. The first mock pirate invasion by the “Ye Mystic Krewe of Gasparilla” was in May 1904, when the pirates arrived on horseback. The mock invasions continued on horseback and by automobile until 1911, the first year that the pirate

(Continued on page 11)

From left: Dennis Smith, Flotilla 77, Polk County, Auxiliary; CAPT Michael Kahle, Sector St Petersburg Commanding Officer and Captain of the Port; CDR Shawn Lansing, Deputy Commander, Sector St Petersburg; RADM Brendan McPherson, Commander, Coast Guard District 7; Dean Bell, Flotilla 79, Tampa, Auxiliary, coxswain; Steve Williams, Flotilla 74, Brandon, Auxiliary, trainee; Miguel Marquez, Flotilla 79, Tampa, trainee aboard Miss Daisy. USCG Auxiliary photo by George Papabeis

(Gasparilla-Continued from page 10)

krewes invaded by boat.

Until 1988, the Gasparilla Pirate Festival was celebrated on the first Monday in February. In 1988, organizers moved the event to Saturday, and in 2002, to the last Saturday in January. A family-friendly children’s parade and fireworks are typically held a week before the boat parade. Also on the annual calendar is the Gasparilla Festival of the Arts, which showcases more than 233 of the world’s most talented artists who “turn Julian B. Lane Riverfront Park into a museum. Sporting events, music festivals, and formal krewe balls occur before and after the main event.

After the Jose Gaspar and crew land at the Tampa Convention Center and take the key to the city from Tampa’s mayor, they march through the city to Ybor. The four-and-a-half-hour parade is viewed by over 300,000 citizens and includes over 50 krewes and 100 floats. Two weeks later, the Knights of Sant’Yago Illuminated night parade serves as the outgoing event for the pirate krewes.

Until after the September 11 attacks, a US Navy ship volunteered to be “attacked” by small boats of the “Ybor City Navy,” who attacked the defender by throwing stale Cuban bread and water hoses. This occurred about two weeks before the Parade of Pirates. The US Navy returned “fire” with their water hoses. Eventually, it surrendered to the Alcalde of Ybor City, who, as the story goes, was hired by Jose Gaspar to clear resistance to his impending pirate attack. After the “battle,” the navy sailors were treated to an evening on the town. This event began in 1956 and was held about two weeks before the Parade of Pirates. While the ‘defense’ was temporarily discontinued after the September 11 attacks, it has been held most years since, with the museum ship SS American Victory standing in for the US Navy.

The Gasparilla parade is the third-largest parade in the nation and is worth seeing at least once. Ahoy, me mateys! Come see us! Ω

Photos from top: Tom Mooney, Flotilla 86, Venice, on board the vessel Idlewild, watches the pirate ship Jose Gaspar and its attendant fleet as it heads up Seddon Chanel into downtown Tampa. USCG Auxiliary photo by Walter Jennings

Ray Langley and Elliott Seda, members of Flotilla 75, Apollo Beach, are two of the Telecommunications Operators who staffed Ruskin Radio during Gasparilla. Langley updated the whiteboard while Seda operated the radio. United States Coast Guard Auxiliary photo provided by Elliott Seda

The Auxiliary facility Sue Sea Q, Tony Novellino, coxswain, Charles Lambeth, crew, both from Flotilla 78, St. Pete Beach; and Tracy Adkins, from Flotilla 72, St. Petersburg crew, and Jeff Agrall from Flotilla 78, St. Pete Beach, trainee, patrol Seddon channel during the 2023 Gasparilla boat parade. The USCGC Diamondback is visible behind them. USCG Auxiliary photo by George Papabeis

Howard Bush, Auxiliary Communications lead, sets up one of Sector St. Petersburg’s Rescue 21 Go-kits at the Hillsborough County Sherriff’s Office Marine Unit on Seddon Channel. USCG Auxiliary photo by Chris Anderson (Both Bush and Anderson are members of Flotilla 7-16, Gulfport.)

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Ready Set Go: National Safe Boating Week is May 20-26, 2023

By: Diane Riggan, USCG Auxiliary D7 National Safe Boating Week Chair

What is the first thing you think about when you hear National Safe Boating Week (NSBW) is only weeks away? Most of us think, “we need a committee” or “we need to plan an event for that week.” Where both of those are commendable and necessary, NSBW is bigger than that.

NSBW is a subset of the recreational boating safety mission. We are reminded that National Safe Boating Week is a media event and is a year-long marketing effort for all recreational boating organizations. The National Safe Boating Council supports this event and all recreational boating safety activities all year long.

Their webpage, safeboatingcampaign.com, is a valuable resource. In addition to statistics and accident rates, they provide brand marketing guidelines. We must conform to certain parameters when we use their Wear It logo. Should you need help designing graphics for your NSBW campaign or for promoting safe boating anytime, check out their graphics department to assist you. If you are designing a flyer or need a public service announcement, they have that available for FREE. If

you need wording for a proclamation, refer to their webpage (safeboatingcampaign.com) for a sample proclamation. Do not forget that the USCG Auxiliary also has a Graphics division that can assist you. You can find them by going to the cgaux.org webpage and looking for Creative Services. You may need a form to submit requests; if so, route the completed form for graphics, cartoons, etc., to Hank Cushard, District Staff Officer-Public Affairs (DSO-PA), for District 7. If it is an idea with a broader reach, for example, an Auxiliary wide promotion, you will need a Branch Chief or above to review the request.

Another web resource for timely information is uscgboating.org. The U.S. Coast Guard Office of Boating Safety provides this page. Anything on this page is for public consumption. You can incorporate statistics and articles regarding new laws and regulations along with safety tips for all vessel operators right from the source.

Now that you have a plan and direction, now what?

Well, in District 7, a National Safe Boating Week Chair is appointed by the District Commodore. That Auxiliarist works thru the division commanders requesting information from all flotillas each year. The division commanders ask for summaries or bullet points from their flotillas for that information to be forwarded to the district chair before 25 April each year.

Your National Safe Boating Week Chair in District 7 for 2023-2024 is Diane Riggan. If you have questions about how to plan your boating safety campaign or your NSBW events, please get in touch with her at driggan070@gmail.com

(Continued on page 13)

National Safe Boating Council

(Continued from page 12)

For 365 days a year, all around the Seventh U.S. Coast Guard District, we teach boating safety, we do vessel examinations, and we share our boating safety message with our community. This year promote NSBW earlier by:

•Incorporating the #WearIt! message on social media, flyers, posters, or handouts you pass along

•Finding a community event to be part of that shares our message of boating safety

•Contacting your local ocean rescue or lifeguards and asking if they can put on a demonstration to show the value of lifejackets

•Hosting an open house, teaching special safety courses and seminars, going to watersports parks for lifejacket demos, having fun with rain gutter races – be creative.

Please remember to write your planning report for your division commander and submit it by early April. They need to forward your NSBW division information to Mrs. Riggan no later than April 25th.

Happy planning! Ω

Refer to Auxiliary (Manual COMDTINST M16790. 1G) Chapter 2 Missions and Programs

Wear Your Life Jacket at Work Day

We encourage all boaters to participate in Wear Your Life Jacket at Work Day on May 19, 2023, the day before National Safe Boating Week. No matter where boaters are working, they can join in the fun by wearing their life jacket and posting creative pictures on social media for a chance to win a prize. This is a great way to encourage others to boat responsibly.

How to Participate

Boaters share a picture of themselves wearing a life jacket at work (or home) on social media along with the hashtag #wearyourlifejacketatworkday and tag @boatingcampaign (Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram).

Don’ t use social media? Email photos to out-

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Above- There are only two exemptions when it comes to having a kill switch on board a recreational vessel: If your main helm is in an enclosed cabin, the law doesn’t require a kill switch. The other exemption is for those recreational boats over 26 feet that are not required to have one. Images: National Safe Boating Council

reach@safeboatingcouncil.org.

Chance to Win a Prize

Winners will be chosen randomly throughout the day to receive boating swag from the Safe Boating Campaign, such as t-shirts, dry bags, first aid kits, stickers, and more. Ω

2023 Frogman Swim Division 7 Facility Miss Daisy Assists in Annual Event.

By George Papabeis, Flotilla 74, Brandon

Miss Daisy’s mission started with a 5:30 AM dockside muster at Salty Sol Park (aka Gandy boat ramp). Because of the low air and water temps, Mustang survival suits were issued to the crew consisting of coxswain Dean Bell, Flotilla 79, Tampa (not shown); Joe Silva, Flotilla 75, Apollo Beach; Miguel Anibal Marquez-Reines, Flotilla 79, Tampa; Charles Lambeth and Joe Primosch, Flotilla 78, St. Pete Beach; George Papabeis Flotilla 74, Brandon (not shown); and trainee Steve Williams, Flotilla 74, Brandon. Photo by George Papabeis

The U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary facility Miss Daisy and its crew assisted in the 2023 Frogman Swim. The Miss Daisy crew consisted of coxswain Dean Bell and boat crew members Joe Silva, Miguel Anibal Marquez-Reines, Charles Lambeth, Joe Primosch, George Papabeis, and trainee Steve Williams.

The 3.4-mile endurance swim is an annual fundraiser for the Navy Seal Foundation. The event had layers of support on land and water from law enforcement, first responders, wave runners, jet skis, and kayaks with two aid stations on either side of

the swim route in Old Tampa Bay.

Miss Daisy’s mission started with a 5:30 AM dockside muster at Salty Sol Park (aka Gandy boat ramp). Because of the low air and water temps, Mustang survival suits were issued to the crew and coxswain. The air temperatures saw frost in certain areas of Tampa Bay overnight, but by start time, the air temperature reached a balmy 48° F, with water temperatures at 62° F. The first task assigned to

(Continued on Page 15)

(Continued from page 14)

Miss Daisy was to escort a group of jet skis and wave runners from the boat ramp across the bay to the event start. Among the onshore festivities was a very impressive pinpoint parachute drop on a small strip of sand in the deployment area.

Approximately 170 swimmers deployed in six separate waves. Each swimmer had a designated kayak escort. The first wave started at 8:30 AM, with each following wave at 10-minute intervals. The first wave consisted of a unique “deployment.” Swimmers wore body armor and towed a pack, simulating conditions that special forces might encounter in the field.

Early on, the crew of the Miss Daisy noticed a kayak whose operator had a concerned look on her face. She had lost her swimmer. We had one of the wave runner operators call in the incident by radio, and Miss Daisy ran a parallel course to the swimmers while the crew kept a lookout for the “orphaned” swimmer. Fortunately, as previously stated, there was an overabundance of support craft. A few swimmers were picked up by wave runners and were taken aboard support vessels when they could not continue. The Miss Daisy tracked forward and back along the line of swimmers half a dozen times.

As the end of the line was past the halfway mark, we were informed by a kayak operator that a swimmer was in distress. This was confirmed by a kayak operator holding her paddle in the vertical position, a recognized distress signal. The swimmer had developed bad cramps in his legs. He was taken on board and taken to the finish line at American Legion Post 138, where he could receive medical treatment if needed.

The crew of the Miss Daisy exercised caution while transiting the narrow channel due to shallow waters on either side. After disembarking the swimmer into capable hands, the crew of the Miss Daisy came upon an orphaned swimmer who informed us that she had lost her kayak escort. A quick check of her participation number revealed that she was the

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swimmer who had separated from her kayak escort earlier. At 11 AM, any swimmers still in the water were picked up by support craft since this was the official end time of the race. The Miss Daisy made a leisurely transit back to the dock, whereupon her crew debriefed and disbanded. Ω

Coxswain Dean Bell at the helm of the Coast Guard facility Miss Daisy during the 2023 Frogman Swim held January 15. Miss Daisy escorted a flotilla of support jet skis from the Salty Sol (Gandy) boat ramp to the area where the swimmers were deployed.

A swimmer wearing body armor and towing a pack is surrounded by escort vessels in the 2023 Tampa Bay Frogman Swim in Tampa Bay. USCG Auxiliary photos by George Papabeis

Jack G. Miller, District Directorate Chief

The three teams I oversee are Auxiliary Air (AUXAIR), Surface Operations, and Communications. That means we have three District Staff Officers instead of many like the Prevention Directorate. This permits us to rotate teams in our Zoom meetings. All AUXAIR Assistant District Staff Officers (ADSOs) were invited to our first meeting. Communications ADSOs will be invited to our second Zoom meeting, and Surface ADSOs will be invited to our third meeting. You might ask why. All three teams are large, and good communication among all the mov ers and shakers in Response is essential to helping achieve the goals of District 7 as set out by COMO John Holmes, Martin Goodwin, and the rest of our District Captains.

ideas this year, and some are out of this world!

hird . Yo Y u ask All three re and mmunication all the mov-

The March meeting will include all the Surface Operations ADSOs. The number of lives they have saved is astounding! Some of their members have been involved with the Auxiliary and Coast Guard for as long as I have. March will be 20 years for me. Their challenges this year include new requirements for our up-and-coming new crew members and coxswains. I am sure that our coxswains and crew training team will be up to the challenges of new requirements.

y know, the Au A xi x l-

As you probably know, the Auxiliary is not as large as we once were. We want to grow back more vital than ever. I want to mention something about our air team and District Staff Officers: Wow, what a team! The experience and ability of the men and women I met are amazing! I have flown with AUXAIR before, and the Coast Guard is very lucky to have their support!

Our next meeting includes the Communications team from all of District 7. I have listened to some of their

As most of you know, District 7 will get a new Director of Auxiliary and a new Operations Training Officer this summer. We look forward to working with them and helping them come up to speed with the largest District in the United States Coast Guard Auxiliary! Ω

Photo illustrations using USCG Auxiliary photographs of John Landon, AUXAIR; Surface Operations by Jill Bazeley, and David Rockwell, Communications.

Anthony Novellino, District Directorate Chief

The 2023 Logistic team has gotten off to a great start in post-pandemic 2023.

As the District Staff Officers busily wrapped up the details and activities of 2022, they took no break launching into the new year. Some staff officers are new or returning to their posts, and others continue to steer us forward from the activities of 2022. I am proud to say District 7 has a great set of staff officers leading us into post-pandemic 2023.

What’s happening already? Our Public Affairs department led the Coast Guard and Auxiliary recruitment in a video with the Coast Guard recruiting office (see the video at https:vimeo. com/791826586 website)

Our Diversity team relaunched the NACO 3-star award for 2023 to surpass 2022’s 80% district-wide award statistic. They also initiated the “Diversity and Inclusion Moment” with the first narratives on “Poverty” and “Human Trafficking in our Communities.” I witnessed division and flotilla lead officers presenting this articles into their meeting with excellent audience engagement.

Our Communication Services team has started modernizing our D7 website and Facebook page. We are looking forward to some innovative improvements.

Information Services has been busy understanding

and implementing our new 2023 mandatory workshops and input to our system for our members’ Vessel Examiner, Operations, Telecommunications Operator, and Team Coordination Training completions. They are training each other in preparation to train the members in our District—lots of “heavy lifting” for this tireless, dedicated team.

With the shortage of Auxiliary uniforms, our Materials team is working on a program to recycle used uniforms through our website links.

Culinary Assistants were already deployed on the water at 14 sector and station galleys, and requests from Sector Key West and Station Islamorada for Auxiliary Culinary Assistant support.

On the Human Resources (HR) front, we started our first month with over 30 new membership inquiries, and webinars took place for the HR staff focusing on recruitment and training.

And finally, our Publications department is working to grow our District’s flotilla and division newsletters to recognize all your hard work and efforts, you, the members of the USCG Auxiliary District 7…1,400+ members strong and growing.

These folks make the backbone of our Logistics Directorate. Our directorate teams work seamlessly with our systems and recognize, reward, and publish all the great things the District 7 members do for the U.S. Coast Guard, our communities, and our nation. Bravo Zulu team. Great start to 2023! Ω

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https:vimeo.com/791826586website

2023 Bassmaster Elite Series Presents Opportunity to Make Sport Fishing Safer

By Charles Truthan

Sport Fish

Febru-

kickkoff fre h sh-

The 2023 Bassmaster Elite Series began on February 16th and ended on February 19th with a kickoff event held at Lake Okeechobee, the largest freshwater lake in the United States, located in Division 5’s local region. As the highest level of professional bass fishing tournaments, the Bassmaster Elite Series drew over 100 qualified boats to compete in this exciting event.

On Thursday, February 16, 2023, Division 5 dispatched three flotillas to Lake Okeechobee to conduct vessel safety checks (VSC) on boats participating in the contest. In addition to Division 5, Divisions 7, 8, 9, and 17 also had vessel examiners present to conduct VSCs. Auxiliarists in safety hazard vests were responsi-

ble for traffic control as incoming boats were guided into position. By noon, examiners had completed safety checks on 57 boats and awarded 44 decals, ensuring that these vessels met the safety requirements necessary for participating in the event.

The coordinator for the Vessel Safety Check Blitz for the 2023 Bassmaster Elite Series, Charles Truthan from Flotilla 99, Cape Haze, decided to designate the private property parking lot as a personal flotation device (PFD) free zone. In consideration of the Florida heat, it was also decided that the Operational Dress Uniform (ODU) blouse would be optional for Auxiliarists.

Above: Vessel Examiners attend a morning briefing before they begin examining the vessels participating in the 2023 Bassmaster Elite Series held at Lake Okeechobee February 16-19.

Page 19 top: Henry Cushard and David Meier from Flotilla 59, Stuart, check off the Vessel Examination Form 7012 during the Bassmaster Elite Series.

Page 19 Mid-page: Gregory Lawson, a Vessel Examiner from Flotilla 72, St Petersburg, conducts a Vessel Examination at the Lake Okeechobee event. All USCG Auxiliary photographs by R. Michael Stringer

2023 Bassmaster Elite Series Participants

Vessel Examiners

Flotilla 56, Vero Beach and Sebastian

Thomas G. McCarty

Flotilla 58, Ft. Pierce

Dawn Fowler

Karl G. Hontz

Sean Patrick Hart

Robert Wannagot

Peter Dombkowski

Flotilla 59, Stuart

David B. Meier

Gary Bowerman

Gerard A Perry

Henry W. Cushard Ill

Marcus K. Kiriakow

Raymond V. Preiksatis

Flotilla 72, St. Petersburg

Greggory M. Lawson

Flotilla 87, Englewood

Jerry W. Powell

Flotilla 94, Franklin Lock

Donna Hornsby

Flotilla 99, Cape Haze

Ellen Marie Fitzpatrick

Flotilla 17-6, Central Brevard

Louis Pernice

Ralph Gregory Hendricks

Woodrow Peterson Ill

Flotilla 17-10, Osceola

Anthony I Wong

Flotilla 31, D92

Thomas James Chiappone

Administrative

Flotilla 99, Cape Haze

Charles Truthan

Joyce Truthan

Anne Brengle

Flotilla 51, The Pal Beaches

Louis Townsend

Flotilla 17-6, Central Brevard

Coleen Seitter

Flotilla 56, Vero Beach and Sebastian

Darrell L. Williams

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Donna Hornsby, Flotilla 94, Franklin Lock, holds up the ‘coveted prize’ for passing the Vessel Examination at the 2023 Bassmaster Elite Series at Lake Okeechobee. (R. Michael Stringer)

Deck The Chairs is a Jacksonville Beach community event designed to create new ways to interact and inspire young minds. It is in its tenth annual season at the Jacksonville Beach City Pavilion and adjacent grounds. Organizations and other entities donate $800-$900 to decorate the Jacksonville Beaches’ eight-foot-high lifeguard chairs.

Each organization decorates a chair based on a theme of its choosing. The chairs are lit with festive lights and other materials and are on public display from Thanksgiving to New Year’s Day. Funds raised support various charities within the community.

Elizabeth Filippelli, Flotilla Vice Commander, 144, Jacksonville Beach, proposed that the flotilla participates in the 2022 Deck the Chairs (DTC) at the flotilla’s April 4, 2022 meeting.

They had to follow strict rules set by the organiz-

ers, including no screws, holes, or any modifications made to the chair. The organizers made 120 VAC power available to participants if they wanted to use it.

COMO Jacobs happened to travel to Connecticut, where a relative presented him a scale model of a Sikorsky helicopter used by the U. S. Coast Guard (CG) nicknamed the Jayhawk. The flotilla ‘build’ team agreed to use a 1:10 scale Jayhawk helicopter for their display resulting in an approximately 5-foot-long Jayhawk to promote the Coast Guard, the Coast Guard Auxiliary, and boating safety.

COMO Jacobs modeled the helicopter’s fuselage from wood and extruded polystyrene to an exact scale. After building the shell, COMO Jacobs turned the model over to Frank Samperisi, who, after research, used epoxy resin and fiberglass cloth, avoiding polyester resin that would have

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By Commodore Kenneth Jacobs, Mark J Vitry, and Frank Samperisi

Photo

(Continued from page 20)

melted the extruded polystyrene.

In keeping with a claim of using >95% repurposed building materials, an aluminum frying pan was used to form the hub for the main rotor and an old ceiling fan assembly for the blades. Using photos of an actual Jayhawk, running lights were embedded into the aircraft fuselage, using LEDs with Fresnel lenses, rechargeable batteries, and small solar power panels. Salvaged LED lights were rigged to solar panels to provide dusk-to-dawn lighting for our U.S. flag and CG ensign.

The installation phase began on November 17, 2022. Frank Samperisi and Mark Vitry (Flotilla Commander) went to our site, 22, and placed the two-inch diameter, 9-foot-tall pipe behind the chair and secured it vertically with rope tied to the chair and a small stake in the ground to stabilize the bottom of the pipe. Using rope instead of the conventional plastic cable ties was in keeping with our eco-friendly theme.

like a wind vane The display was now starting to take shape.

Solar-powered lights were now attached, and some solar-powered spots were also placed to point at the fuselage –attempts to add a photocell switch to the separate chair 12-volt electric circuit with solar charger were unsuccessful.

The five salvaged LED flashlights that successfully underwent 24-hour bench testing could not be tested with the solar charger prior to installation; the 12-volt battery was not being charged, so the flashlights were removed from the display.

Previous page: Elizabeth Filippelli, COMO Kenneth Jacobs, Heath Brockwell, and Judy Davis (behind Filippelli), members of Flotilla 14-4, Jacksonville Beach, create a scale model of the Jayhawk on graph paper. USCG Auxiliary photograph by Frank Sampersi

Previous page below: Rear view of he completed display lit up with predominantly solar lights, Auxiliary signage, and boating safety literature. USCG Auxiliary photo

Frank obtained a loaned 12 Volt deep cycle battery, and the next day, Dan Tardona, Bill Hurlburt, Frank and Mark secured the battery on the chair seat. They elevated the helicopter with a short transition pipe into the larger support pipe. The main rotor was attached to the fuselage, and the rear rotor was installed. The rotors had attack angles and were free to rotate with the wind. The shafts were lubricated with silicon grease to reduce friction. The helicopter rotated on the pipe

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Additional solar flood lights were installed to illuminate a scaled U. S. Flag as well-as the Auxiliary ensign that were attached to swivels on PVC pipe that was used as a flagpole tied to the chair. No plastic cable ties were used for any of the installations.

A specially made outdoor banner identifying the display as created by the U. S. Coast Guard Auxiliary Flotilla 14-4, Jacksonville Beach, with an image of an Auxiliarist in operational dress uniform (ODU) wearing a life jacket along with safe boating signage was added.

The limited solar lights were not enough to properly light the display; thus, they reluctantly abandoned the concept of 100% off-grid display lighting and added some 120 VAC spot and string lights. The helicopter solar running and flag lights functioned flawlessly throughout the display

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Above: Dan Tardona and Heath Brockwell stand watch beside the Flotilla 14-4, Jacksonville Beach, exhibit at the 2022 Deck the Chairs event on Jacksonville Beach. USCG Auxiliary photo

period. Recreational Boating Safety literature and brochures were placed in pockets and made available to the public as they viewed the exhibit.

Bill Hulbert, Elizabeth, Dan, Heath, Mike Christnacht, and Mark regularly visited the exhibit to ensure that the lights were still working, the model was secure, and that the brochures were adequate. They answered questions from spectators, including many children. Rain, cold, and fog were frequent visitors to their display so it needed constant attention.

Dan, Mark, Frank, and Bill started the disassembly process of our DTC display. They took special efforts to leave the chair and grounds as pristine as they had found them and to ensure that all those flotilla members who had donated items to the display received them back. The flotilla will keep the Jayhawk model in a secure place for use at other events throughout the year.

• COMO Kenneth Jacobs

• COMO Rick Saunders

• Judy Davis

• Frank Samperisi

• Elizabeth Filippelli

• Marina Quinn

• Bill Hurlburt

• Kevin Holbrooks

• Andy Koenig

• Gary Moore

• Ted Alesch

• Marion Banquer

• Heath Brockwell

• Dan Tardona

• Robert Biscardi

• Mark Vitry

• Michael Christnacht

Flotilla 14-4, Jacksonville Beach, Deck the Chairs team:

Bill Hurlbert and a member hidden by the signage provide maintenance to the exhibit after a rain . USCG Auxiliary photo by Mark Vitry

Left: Elizabeth Filippelli installs the lights during the building phase. USCG Auxiliary photo by Mark Vitry

Members pose for one last shot before taking down the display. They are from left, Mark Vitry, Frank Samperisi, Andy Koenig,COMO Kenneth Jacobs, and Heath Brockwell. USCG Auxiliary photo by Marion Linda

Some Things Are More Fun at Night!

C-130 Drop

Training

Article and photo by Valerie Fernandes

Many boat crew members’ favorite mission is assisting the Coast Guard with practicing drops from the mighty C-130 Hercules aircraft, better known as “C-130 drop training.”

On Feb. 22, 2023, at approximately 4:30 p.m., the Auxiliary vessel Sue-Sea-Q, owned by Tony Novellino, departed our dock at Harborside in South Pasadena. The evening’s crew consisted of Tony Novellino, Charles Lambeth, Valerie Fernandes (the author), all from Flotilla 78, St. Pete Beach,and two active-duty Coast Guard members from Coast Guard Air Station Clearwater. We were en route to pre-determined coordinates in the Gulf of Mexico to assist the Coast Guard with C-130 drop training.

The drop zone for safety equipment and rescue supplies was approximately 5 miles offshore west of the North Channel, also known as Pass-a-Grille Channel. The active duty members were on board to assist in the retrieval of the rescue supplies dropped by the C-130 crew.

Our safety boat, Duty Calls, with Dean Hoskin as coxswain, accompanied the Sue-Sea-Q. In addition to Dean Hoskin, the crew aboard included Tony Hooper, both from Flotilla 72, St. Petersburg; Samy Hanna, from Flotilla 78, St. Pete Beach; and Bill Ackerman, from Flotilla 7-16, Gulfport.

This was my first nighttime C-130 drop training. Drop training is my favorite type of patrol, except for actually rescuing or assisting boaters in distress. Our experienced crew has participated in many daytime drops, in many kinds of sea states, over the years.

Our vessel simulated a vessel in distress that the C-130 would respond to assist. Our mission was to recover all the rescue supplies that were

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dropped with the assistance of our active-duty Coast Guard crew members. The supplies were in bags connected by a fairly thin line, then attached to a parachute. Before deploying the bags, the C-130 crew dropped several flares to use as a target before dropping the equipment. At night it was much more challenging to locate the thin lines that connected the dropped equipment, so our crew

utilized several spotlights to find the lines. We had to ensure we did not drive over any lines that would entangle our props.

Even though the bags had small glow sticks attached, it wasn’t easy to see them in the rough seas that night, 2.5 to 3 feet at close intervals. After bringing them aboard, the Coast Guard active duty members detached the bags from the lines and rolled the lines on three spools they had brought from the Air Station. The C-130 executed two drops that night, the first containing five bags, the second containing four bags and a drum containing a dewatering device.

Although the seas were rough and the night was long, C-130 drops are still my favorite type of patrol. Ω

View from the Deck plat e View from the Deckplate

DIVISION 7

U.S. Congresswoman Anna Luna was a guest at the Madeira Beach location of Flotilla 78, St. Pete Beach, on Feb. 13. Congresswoman Luna informed the flotilla members that she represented the Thirteenth Congressional district in her first term in Congress. Luna talked about her passion for supporting the Bay Pines VA hospital, their desperate need to hire more nursing and support staff, and her passion for supporting clean water and keeping our bays and waterways clean and healthy.

Left: Congresswoman Anna Luna holds up a Division 7 challenge coin presented to her by the members. To her right are Tony Novellino, District Directorate Chief-Logistics and Dean Hoskin, Division 7 Commander. United States Coast Guard Auxiliary photo. Submitted by Anthony Novellino

DIVISION 13

A VSC and a Small Gift Save a Life

Submitted by John Gilbarty, Flotilla 13-8, Upper Keys

Photo: Contestants brave the wind and foul weather during the Buckaneer Blast in Key Largo on Feb. 4, 2023. USCG Auxiliary photo

On Saturday, February 4, 2023, Flotilla 13-8, Upper Keys, participated in the telecommunications operations team for the Buccaneer Blast at the Key Largo Sailing Club located at Rowell’s Waterfront Park, Key Largo. Our team also examined the vessels participating in the various sailing races. We inspected the boat’s bladders, bailers, life jackets, and whistles, which we provided when needed.

The weather was severe, with winds of 15 to 25 knots, and as the winds picked up in the afternoon, the gusts were as high as 40 knots. Many vessels needed assistance or rescue, and some returned before the end of the race. Many vessels capsized.

On Sunday, February 5, we continued the vessel Examinations when someone approached John Gilbarty and said, “Sir, you saved my son’s life. You gave him one of these whistles. Yesterday, his boat rolled over on top of him, trapping him in the rigging. He yelled, but it was not until he blew the whistle that you gave him that a boat came to free him. You saved my son’s life, and we will always be indebted to you.”

Yes, Vessel Safety Checks can make a difference! Ω

View from the Deck plat e View from the Deckplate DIVISION 17

Anthony Wong, Division Commander, approved a Public Affairs event at the Orlando Wetlands Festival scheduled on February 18, 2023. Tracy Antorcha, Flotilla Staff Office-Public Affairs (FSO-PA), and Ramiro Antorcha, Division Staff Officer-Public Affairs (SO-PA), organized the event to raise awareness about environmental issues in the area. Marlene and Paul Thompson of Flotilla 17-6, Central Brevard, generously volunteered their time and supplied bags and coloring books for the children.

The Orlando Wetlands Festival has been promoting community awareness of the Orlando Wetlands Park and the importance of Florida’s ecological and water resources since 2001. Through various educational programs, guided hikes, wildlife tours, and hands-on activities, the festival has engaged thousands of visitors each year in the vital work of wetland conservation.

Admission to Orlando Wetlands Park is always free. Visitors of all ages are welcome to explore the park’s scenic trails, observe its diverse wildlife, and learn about wetland conservation through their educational programs. Ω

Above: Ramiro Antorcha and Tracy Antorcha, members of Flotilla 17-9, North Brevard, pet an alligator at the Orlando Wetlands Festival on February 18.

Top right: Smart phones can save paper! A map at the festival encourages attendees to photograph the sign for guests to find their way around in the park.

Mid page: Ramiro and Tracy Antorcha at the display table which encourages recruiting and Vessel Safety Checks.

Bottom right: Anthony Wong, Division 17 Commander, talks to a fair attendee about Vessel Safet Checks, and yes, his bike! USCG Auxiliary photos provided by Ramiro and Tracy Antorcha.

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View from the Deckplate DIVISION 5

Wreaths Across America

Members of Flotilla 59, Stuart, participated in the Wreaths Across America ceremony held on Dec. 17 at Fernhill Memorial Gardens and Mausoleum in Stuart, Florida.

Wreaths Across America, a non-profit group, was founded in 2007. Since then, the event has expanded to all 50 states to lay wreaths at veterans’ cemeteries to remember our fallen heroes, honor those who serve, and teach our children about the sacrifices veterans and their families made.

Every wreath used by Wreaths Across America is purchased with donated money from the for-profit company that started it, Worcester Wreath. The relationship between the company and the nonprofit isn’t hidden. It’s easy to find on both the Worcester Wreath site and the Wreaths Across America site. This in no way diminishes the meaning of the sacrifices made by our veterans.

Participants shown are from left: Dawn Muller, Gary Bowerman, Jerry Perry, Wayne Johnson, Patricia Kalinowski, Sheryl O’Neil, Robert Hess, and Marcus Kiriakow. Ω

USCG Auxiliary photos by Robert Kalinowski

View from the Deck plat e View from the Deckplate

DIVISION 3

Operation Vigilant Sentry Task Force: Auxiliary Interpreter Corps Offers Critical Assistance

Carolina Filgueiras, District Staff Officer-Diversity and member of Flotilla 36, Boca Raton, volunteered her time and skills from Jan. 1-17, 2023, aboard the USCGC Mohawk to assist the U.S. Coast Guard during an Operation Vigilant Sentry (OVS) mission. Filgueiras is a member of the Auxiliary Interpreter Corps whose skills are frequently sought after by the Coast Guard.

Filgueiras provided critical translation skills and facilitated communication and understanding between the Coast Guard and nearly 300 migrants. Her translation abilities successfully defused three critical incidents, highlighting the importance of having skilled and capable translators on such missions. Their communication abilities can help prevent misunderstandings and make a significant difference in challenging situations.

In addition to her important role as a Spanish translator during the Operation Vigilant Sentry mission, Auxiliarist Filgueiras also assisted with other tasks, such as helping in the galley and cleanup. This shows her willingness to go above and beyond in her volunteer work and to help wherever needed.

Operations Vigilant Sentry is a Homeland Security Task Force – Southeast established in 2003. This interagency task force comprises resources and assets from the U.S. Coast Guard, the departments of Homeland Security, State, Defense, Health and Human Services, and those from state and local agencies. These agencies provide the organizational framework to monitor migration trends to detect and respond to maritime mass migration. Ω

Carolina Filgueiras (white hair wearing mask) aboard the USCGC Mohawk, using her translation skills, assists the Coast Guard in completing forms. Faces of all migrants are blurred to protect their privacy. USCG photograph.

Operation Southwest Border Support:

By Joe Rice Johnson III

The USCG Auxiliary (via the Department of Homeland Security) provides surge staffing support for the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) operations at the Immigration Processing Center just outside Eagle Pass, Texas. Over the summer months and into the fall of 2022, approximately 250 Auxiliarists from various locations volunteered their time to support the mission.

I was one of them and was the only member from Division 7. After completing an application for security vetting purposes, I was advised, in Sept., of my selection for the period of Nov. 8-23, 2022. This period was the last two weeks of the CBP support mission, as all Auxiliary support to CBP ended on Nov. 23. That is not to say another opportunity in Eagle Pass will not materialize later.

On Saturday, Nov. 8, I departed Tampa International. I arrived at San Antonio International later that day, where I was met by the team leader for the twoand-one-half-hour drive to Laughlin Air Force Base. Remarkably, the route took me through downtown Uvalde and the school shooting memorial is still there in the center of town. Laughlin AFB is the largest pilot training base in the U.S. Air Force, and on weekdays, the airfield sees more takeoffs and landings than any other airport in the country. I was lucky to be there during graduation and met a few families staying in the same base hotel, Laughlin Manor.

The next morning, Nov. 9, I was up at 4 a.m. and met two other Auxiliarists (all of us in Operational Dress Uniform) in the Laughlin Manor lobby at 5 a.m. for

the forty-minute drive to the Migrant Processing Facility. I knew I was headed into something big when about 15 miles from our destination, the horizon glow from the lights surrounding the 153,000 squarefoot soft-sided facility was clearly visible, only to become more lucent on closer approach.

The facility has a medical facility, culinary operations, berthing for migrants, massive rooms for individual processing, bio-metric processing, storage areas, and security cameras everywhere. For all practical purposes, this is a small quasi-military outpost.

Upon arrival and after additional security clearance, I entered the facility and went to the workstation. I stopped first to attend muster. Some of you have likely heard the phrase with regard to muster … “If you’re not early, you’re late.” It’s a true statement. CBP officials led the muster and gave shift operation updates, incidents, concerns, etc. Then it was time to go to work on my shift- 6 a.m. to 2 p.m. While I am no stranger to hard work, I will acknowledge this was the most physically demanding work I’d done in a long time.

The work consisted of emptying bins full of bagged and numerically tagged personal belongings of the migrants and placing those items on corresponding shelves for pickup later (usually three days) after the migrants were fully processed. The determination

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Joe Rice Johnson III, a member of Flotilla 78, St. Pete Beach with Benjamine “Carry” Huffman, Executive Assistant Commissioner, U.S. Customs and Border Protection- a west Texas native and true CBP professional. Photos provided by Joe Rice Johnson III

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was to either stay for their next USA destination or be deported according to Title 42 requirements. The work was constant, and we rarely took a break for more than 15-20 minutes. The effort required to process the personal belongings of 750 - 1,000 non-citizens during an eight-hour shift did not allow much time for sustained respite. Processing operations continued 24/7.

A non-citizen’s personal bag may often contain only a rosary and/or a Bible, sometimes only a cellphone. Some contained only a purse or wallet, and others would have a backpack containing all the clothing they owned. Occasionally, a child flotation device would be attached to a backpack, which was evidence of the danger of drowning. Crossing the Rio Grande is treacherous at the best of times.

At the beginning of my tour, it was difficult not to feel compassion for those migrants. Some had small children with them. Others traveled in pairs or alone. All of them were being ushered through a CBP tightly controlled and heavily secured process, which was their welcome to the USA.

After the third day of work, while compassion was still present, the sheer work requirements left little room for any human emotions except those required of my Auxiliary colleagues to focus on the task at hand. At the end of the eight-hour shift, I made the forty-minute drive back to Laughlin AFB (this time in daylight) and took in the scenery along the way.

the bank of the Rio Grande. Looking across, I saw the huge numbers of non-citizens preparing to cross the river.

I had a long discussion with one of the Texas National Guard members deployed at that site. To say the least, his extended and descriptive comments regarding his responsibilities were sobering, and the loaded carbine he was carrying added emphasis to what he conveyed to me.

I also went to Normandy, Texas, about midway from the processing facility and Laughlin AFB. It’s a wide spot off the main highway (population 50 or 60) near a shallow area of the Rio Grande, where clearly more and more non-citizens were choosing to cross. This one saw increased encounters like all the Rio Grande border crossing sector sites. The irony in the name of the town, Normandy, was not lost on me.

“I saw more of these vehicles than you can imagine. On leaving the sector for the return trip to San Antonio International, there is a mandatory vehicle checkpoint operated by the CBP.” —Joe Rice Johnson III

At the end of what was a strenuous ten-hour day, it was indeed a pleasure to arrive back at Laughlin AFB, go through security, visit the commissary, grab something to eat from their well-stocked deli, watch the U.S. Air Force pilot trainers take off and land, take a shower and fall asleep.

Any of you who have been to that part of Texas know what the landscape is like. Scrub brush, cactus, and dried-up creek beds punctuated by CBP vehicles doing their work to apprehend those non-citizens who choose to forego the legal path. The landscape is softened only by the occasional glimpse of grazing Longhorns, a well-kept sheep pasture, and several pecan groves. On another day after my shift, I went into Eagle Pass to the Official Border Crossing location and found my way below the bridge to stand on

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Customs and Border Protection leadership and staff were appreciative of the Auxiliary and sad to see that support terminated. If I heard it once, I heard it many, many times … “You guys are top-notch with a superior work ethic and take tremendous pride in your work.” I met with the Operational Commander on several occasions, and he also supported the Auxiliary participation.

It was an eye-opening experience. Emotionally humbling, culturally challenging, and physically demanding. I was fortunate to represent my district, division, and flotilla. Would I do it again? In a heartbeat. Ω

James Parker, District Captain North My Vision for 2023

As the newly elected District Captain North, I’d first like to thank everyone who had faith and confidence in my ascending to this role. I have some big shoes to fill as our 2023 District Commodore John Holmes, and Martin Goodwin, our District Chief of Staff, sat in this seat before me. In this brief article, I’d like to describe my vision for where we should strive to be by the end of 2023.

First: The Coast Guard and Auxiliary leadership have issued guidelines that manage the pandemic risk yet allow our members and units to resume meetings, training, Public Affairs, Vessel Exams, Program Visits, and Public Education missions in face-to-face settings. There might be some members with chronic health issues, or for whatever reason, might still want to avoid a group setting. We should respect their decision and encourage them to continue activities remotely wherever possible. But, for everyone else, it’s time to re-engage and start to meet in person again.

Second: For the first time since most of us have joined the Auxiliary, the membership in D7 is below 4,000 members. So, our second initiative is recruiting. We need to find new members from new

ethnicities and skill sets. The Commandant of the Coast Guard, Admiral Fagan, in her comments at her Change of Command stated, “Tomorrow looks different. So will we.”

Her words hold for the Auxiliary as well. New mission areas, such as cyber, space launch support, construction, chaplains, and health services, give new opportunities to recruit from our communities. Expanding roles in some of our existing mission areas, such as marine safety and environmental protection, telecommunications, culinary services, recreational boating safety, and emergency management, will also play into enhancing our members’ ability to find their passion and be true force multipliers to our active duty and work sideby-side with them at the stations and in the field.

Every member needs to be a recruiter and assist in identifying quality, motivated recruits to join us and help maintain the Auxiliary’s sustainability and capability. We also need to assist the active-duty Coast Guard in recruiting. The Auxiliary University Program and the Academy Admissions Program and assisting the local recruiters in contacting

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potential recruits are other areas we need to get more involved.

Third: Re-emphasis on our “Job One – Recreational Boating Safety.” All the expanding mission sets and capabilities described above are essential and increase our usefulness and assistance to active duty. But our real reason for existence and primary responsibility are the areas of Public Education, Vessel Exams, and Program Visits. The boating public we meet in these activities is also a resource for membership recruiting. This public interaction has had a material impact on the safety of recreational boaters. That is proved by looking at the safety statistics of the last three years when we were significantly curtailed from performing these tasks. Boat sales and boating were up almost 50% in that period, but so were the accidents, casualties, and property loss. We need to reinvigorate our efforts to return to presenting our education and safety programs to the public.

Of course, we can’t do any of this without training, qualification, and member certification. This is our next priority in advancing our mission effectiveness. The Auxiliary will do this through member training. Our training and qualification must begin to reflect the same knowledge and level if we are to be truly a force multiplier. The units must implement and continue coaching and mentoring their members. The route through the Auxiliary “career path” is not necessarily straightforward. New members especially need some help and guidance on navigating the various mandatory courses. In addition, we should pursue the participation of the senior members to attend leadership training and get familiar with the

expectations and requirements of higher levels of office at C-Schools, the District 7 Leadership Academy, and annual workshops. As members gain experience, they should also seek the Operational Auxiliarist (AUXOP) and boat forces qualifications.

A major tenet of membership has been fellowship and social. We should work hard to meet our duty and challenges, but it should also be fun for the members. Meals before or after missions, field trips to various venues such as museums, theatres, and skills competitions must be put back into the process to develop camaraderie and relationships critical to an all-volunteer organization like ours. Inviting our active-duty counterparts to these events would also be of benefit to help build the “One-Team” concept and for the active duty to get to know our members outside of the regular duty hours.

Finally, leaders should make every effort to recognize our members with awards and recognition for their actions and accomplishments. Awards are the only “pay” our members receive, and our members should be rewarded as often as possible. There are templates and job aids to help write the awards and an entire committee to assist with the process. Unit leaders should ensure that this is accomplished.

That concludes my summary of the vision we need to emphasize in 2023. We are back, and we need to get back to work. We also need to ensure the relevancy and sustainability of the Auxiliary as our missions and membership evolve. Anyone with ideas on how we can do things better and more efficiently or a new initiative we can pursue should bring it up the Chain of Leadership and Management. Ω

“Tomorrow looks different. So will we.”

— Admiral Linda Fagan, Commandant of the Coast Guard

Photo page 30: Hunting Island Light, Hunting Island, S.C. by Dennis Derringer, Unsplash

Auxiliarists Converge on Florida’s East Central Coast for Exercise AUXHERON

By Louis Pernice

On Feb. 25, 2023, over 30 Auxiliarists from multiple flotillas and divisions converged at Kelly Park, Merritt Island, Florida, for Exercise AUXHERON. Participants included an Auxiliary air aircraft, four surface facilities, and two transportable marine very high frequency (VHF) radios. For additional support, a High-Frequency radio established longrange communications between Auxiliary stations in Sectors Jacksonville and Miami that reached beyond VHF line-of-sight limitations.

Jack G. Miller, District Directorate Chief-Response, hailed the complex operational exercise as a great success for the Auxiliary’s Seventh District Response Team. He stated, “A great day in the skies, on land, and the water for the Seventh District Auxiliary! All three branches of the Response Directorate were involved in a very challenging exercise on Saturday. The Response Team successfully demonstrated a ‘live’ search and rescue (SAR) simulated response while providing training for Auxiliary Telecommunications Operators (TCO), and air and surface crews. “I believe it was the most challenging exercise in over 10 years. The event required excellent navigation and superior communication. The USCG Station Commander and the Auxiliary Liaison from Port Canaveral were observers onboard two Auxiliary surface facilities. The USCG Station Commander said that he wanted to incorporate the station in the next exercise. The person in charge, Lou Pernice, Flotilla 16-6, Central Brevard, did an incredible job planning and executing the exercise.”

The overall mission plan consisted of four search and rescue units (SRUs) coordinating with an Auxiliary aircraft supported by a ground-to-air Auxiliary Communications Unit (ACU) to investigate simulated reports of vessels in distress. The ACU used scripted scenario injects to task AUXAIR C8157 to search an area of the Banana River between the SR520 & SR528 Causeways to inves-

Midpage above: Auxiliary vessel Guardian displayed the optional air-surface recognition banner during Operation AUXHERON. From left: Dennis Freiheit, Joe Walsh, Jack Miller (at helm) and Mike Rogers. USCG Auxiliary photo by Jill Bazeley.

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tigate an anonymous report of an alleged capsized yellow kayak with possible persons in the water

Auxiliarist Howard Bigelow makes an entry on the Operation AUXHERON communications log. USCG Auxiliary photo by Jill Bazeley.

AUXAIR C8157 p Gary Mason flie AUXHERON sea photo by Jill Baz

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(PIW). The ACU relayed the Lake Placid Airport (LKP) coordinates to the SRUs, which were given different scenarios and individually dispatched to find the kayak, ‘Target 1.’ Once on scene, additional scripted injects were used to present each boat crew with different circumstances as they progressed through the scenario. The four scenarios included multiple PIWs (Victim 1 and Victim 2) with simulated symptoms of hypothermia, heart attack, blunt trauma, rib fractures, knocked overboard, head injury, brief loss of consciousness, anterograde amnesia, and flare residue burns. SRU crews had to assess the situation and determine an effective course of action for their scenario, including the use of the SAR and medical evacuation/medical practitioner (MEDEVAC/MEDICO) check sheets. Coxswains also engaged in scripted consultations with an Auxiliary physician roleplaying as a “Coast Guard flight surgeon.” Scenarios also included a scripted inject for a transfer vessel to remove Victim 1 from the scenario, allowing the active SRU to continue searching for a second PIW (Victim 2). At the conclusion of the scenario, the active SRU reset the targets and relieved another SRU standing by at a safety overwatch position. The SAR evolutions were repeated until all SRUs completed their scenarios and were returned to base at the staging area. The exercise took a total of only 4½ hours to complete.

For this exercise, a new, very low profile, floating rescue manikin was used, barely visible on the water’s surface. It required crews to maintain

sharp lookouts and perform several legs of the expanding square search to find. The PIW was repositioned at different coordinates prior to the commencement of each SAR evolution.

While the searches were underway, the TCOs at the command post communicated with Sector Jacksonville and Sector Miami via high frequency (HF). Auxiliary Communications played a key role in this exercise. The message traffic was non-stop from beginning to end. Auxiliary TCO watchstanders at the Command Post were constantly in contact with air and surface facilities receiving and passing traffic back and forth, obtaining ops normal reports, and coordinating searches. They also worked HF links between Sector Jacksonville and Sector Miami.

Greg Hendricks, Auxiliary Sector Coordinator, Sector Jacksonville, stressed the importance of live simulation exercises. “On the water is where we need to train. When you leave that dock, that’s when everything needs to click. All your systems need to be ready,” said Hendricks.

Roger Bonnett, Assistant District Staff Officer-Communications, pointed out how well the three Response Directorate components could collaborate and perform their different missions to attain a common goal. “I was glad to have the opportunity to participate in AUXHERON. The response group’s different parts played a role in the exercise. The exercise was well-planned and executed extremely well. It gave each area of the response team the opportunity to test their skills in a possible real-life SAR incident. We should use AUXHERON as a boilerplate to expand this type of training throughout the Sector and District,” stated Bonnett.

By the end of the day, all the exercise objectives were met. Everybody had a fun, action-packed day while gaining valuable operational experience. The value of pre-event planning using the standardized Incident Command System (ICS) model was emphasized and validated during the execution of AUXHERON. The ICS framework can be used to plan any Auxiliary mission and should be adopted as standard operating procedure moving forward. Through this and future exercises, we strive to improve our ability to effectively provide direct support to the U.S. Coast Guard during critical maritime incidents. Ω

piloted by Auxiliary member s above the Operation arch area. USCG Auxiliary zeley.

Shadowing Station Tybee ANT Crew

By Susan Moore, Flotilla 10-11, Hilton Head/Bluffton

Susan Moore, Flotilla Staff Officer-Navigation Systems, and Barry Woods, Flotilla Commander, Flotilla 10-11, Hilton Head-Bluffton, received an invitation from BMC John E. Veit, Officer In Charge, aids to navigation team (ANT) Station Tybee, to shadow his ANT on an aids to navigation inspection patrol. The objective was to observe and discuss how the ANT team inspects aids to navigation, such as day beacons and buoys, including testing the light characteristics during daylight.

The coordinated patrol helped us broaden the lines of communication between the ANT team and the Auxiliary Flotilla 10-11 and establish a communication pathway to achieve the private aids to navigation inspection goals for the year. Ω

Top left: FN Jakob Burkett, BM2 Benjamin Jensen, members of the USCG aids to navigation team, Susan Moore, and Barry Woods, Commander, Flotilla 10-11 Hilton Head/Bluffton stand in a vessel under an aid to navigation.

Top right: Susan Moore, Flotilla Staff Officer-Navigation Systems 10-11, Hilton Head/ Bluffton, BM2 Benjamin Jensen, Executive Petty Officer, Aids to Navigation Team Tybee; Barry Woods, Flotilla Commander, Bob Moore Flotilla 10-11. Behind them are FN Jakob Burkett, FN, and George, Dix III of the USCG ANT Team, Station Tybee.

Left: FN Jakob Burkett, a member of the Station Tybee aids to navigation team, changes a light on a lighted day beacon.

Right: FN Jakob Burkett, BM2 Benjamin Jensen, and FN George Dix III, members of the Station Tybee aids to navigation team, explained their roles and functions to the members of Flotilla 10-11, Hilton Head/Buffton. With the reduction in personnel, the Coast Guard will rely more on the Auxiliary to verify private aids to navigation. Auxiliary photos provided by Bob Moore.

Leveraging Connections For Coast Guard Recruiting Awareness

By Chris Juall, Flotilla 84, Sarasota

Late in 2022, I was watching a live stream on YouTube of NACON in Orlando. While watching Admiral Fagan give her presentation, I heard her say that the Coast Guard hadn’t filled a bus to Cape May in almost two years. That shocked me. But it also motivated me.

In late January, I sat down for an interview with a Go Coast Guard Tampa Bay recruiter. The interview aimed to expand recruiting awareness for the Coast Guard Active Duty and Reserves. Why was it advantageous for me to do this? Because of my access to an incredible marketing channel and the likelihood that I could help the Coast Guard with recruiting.

In addition to my social media pages, my affiliation with a highly popular Instagram account called “The Qualified Captain” allows me to promote the Coast Guard and the Auxiliary to many people. My primary role with the page is to promote recreational boating safety as a non-Auxiliarist. However, I also promote the Auxiliary from time to time.

For those who don’t know, “The Qualified Captain” (TQC) showcases endless boating mishaps and foolishness that will leave you speechless. And the sad thing (or the good thing for us as boating safety educators) is there’s no shortage of content!

A couple of years ago, I approached the site’s founder, Aaron Stasiak, to try and help turn a negative into a positive and use the boating “incidents” as learning tools. Today, we’re making a significant impact, so TQC has received several boating safety awards. The

most recent comes from the SeaTow Foundation.

As of this article, “The Qualified Captain” has over 990,000 followers and is the most influential boating page on the planet. Comparatively, the U.S. Coast Guard IG page (“USCG”) has 750,000 followers, the Coast Guard recruiting IG page (“GoCoastGuard”) has 110,000 followers, and the Auxiliary (“uscgaux”) has 10,000 followers.

Because of this, I organized an interview with the local recruiting office in my area. I selected OS1 Angie Stephenson as my subject expert. OS1 Stephenson is a recruiter whom I met at a previous recruiting event with Coast Guard Station Cortez. I thought her knowledge and personality would be great for an interview so I scheduled it.

The interview took place overlooking the boat basin at Sector St. Petersburg, and I enlisted the help of fellow (and trusted) Auxiliarist George Papabeis to handle the filming. The result was great. In my opinion, the interview turned out well and also received lots of praise during the initial reviews.

So far, the video has been seen over 200,000 times and has generated a lot of engagement and interest. I encourage all my fellow Auxilarists to “think outside the box” and do the same. I hope to make a difference and help the Coast Guard (and Auxiliary) increase their recruiting numbers. To watch my recruiting video, please visit the following YouTube page: https:// youtu.be/Y4XuCFFvmms

(The link to the video is also in Anthony Novellino, District Directorate Chief-L article on page 17 of this newsletter.)

To learn more about “The Qualified Captain,” visit the following Instagram page: https://www.instagram.com/thequalifiedcaptain/ Ω

George Papabeis, Flotilla 74, Brandon, films OS1 Angie Stephenson, a Coast Guard recruiter at the boat basin at Sector St. Petersburg, for the recruiting video. USCG Auxiliary photo by Chris Juall, Flotilla 84, Sarasota

District 7 Recruiting Incentive Plan For 2023

Background

A historic decline in membership continues to impact the Auxiliary and its duty to fulfill Recreational Boating Safety (RBS) missions and be the force multiplier it can and should be. The continued loss of seven to ten percent of our membership annually must be reversed, and new methods need to be considered if we are to succeed. Efforts to turn around this pattern require fresh approaches that include motivational marketing and monetary incentives that form a competitive mindset within our members and provide real value.

The motivational incentives are being developed by our District Staff (DSO) in Public Affairs (PA), Human Resources (HR), and Diversity (DV). The concept will use social media campaigns, motivational messaging, and items on meeting agendas at all levels to focus on this issue.

Plan Resources

The approved budget includes a $15K line item that will be a one-year monetary incentive to test this approach’s value and effectiveness. Compared to other districts, District 7 can easily afford to try this idea without any material impact on the district’s financial position. Financial data from 2017 to 2021 shows increased revenue of about 10% annually. This increase has been consistent and is not impacted by the cost of district conferences or other expenses, as these tend to be cost-neutral or minimal-profit events.

Division Awards

THE PLAN

Each division that achieves a 15% increase in new, Basically Qualified (BQ) members during the calendar year 2023, in accordance with the Recruiting Incentive Qualification Criteria (below), will receive an incentive award in the amount of $1,000, to be used as they see fit for any authorized program that furthers the general purpose of the Coast Guard Auxiliary and is consistent with the USCG AUX Auxiliary Financial Controls Standard Operating Procedure (SOP). When the funds are disbursed, the Division Staff Officer-Finance (SO-FN) shall advise the District Staff Officer-Finance (DSO-FN) how the monies were spent (email shall be sufficient). Each division achieving this goal will also receive a plaque recognizing its success.

Flotilla Award

The flotilla that achieves the highest number of new BQ members in the calendar year 2023, in accordance with the Recruiting Incentive Qualification Criteria, will also receive an incentive award in the amount of $1,000, to be used as they see fit for any authorized program that

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furthers the general purpose of the Coast Guard Auxiliary and is consistent with the USCG AUX Auxiliary Financial Controls SOP. When the funds are disbursed, the Flotilla Staff Officer-Finance (FSO-FN) shall advise the DSO-FN how the monies were spent (email shall be sufficient) The Flotilla Commander of the flotilla that achieves the most BQ members will be invited to our district conference as a presenter to share the methods used to achieve their success.

Recruiting Incentive Qualification Criteria

•Membership increases will be determined by comparing unit AUXDATA membership records between 1/1/2023 and 12/31/2023.

determine the divisions that qualify for this incentive payment jointly. They will inform the District Commodore (DCO), who will notify the recipients.

Plan Parameters

The program is a one-year plan. The concept includes a small built-in return on investment (ROI) since new members will pay dues to the district. In addition to incentivizing the recruiting efforts of our Auxiliary units, it also rewards units that focus on advancing their new members to BQ status as expeditiously as possible.

FN and District Staff Officer-Inrmation Services (DSOIS) will work together to

The monetary incentive, combined with a comprehensive marketing approach using print media, social media, and recruiting events, represents trailblazing but common, activities for the Auxiliary. The recent ALAUX 047/22 provides for a similar program with significant monetary awards for Auxiliarists and the issuing of an Auxiliary Commandant’s Letter of Commendation (ACLOC) award as well!

of Au mendation (ACLO

All U.S. mili pr bonuses to new e listees. Based on this trend, need market this to our members broadly, asure its l long-term pattern of d decline. Ω

All U.S. military branches now

A Conversation With Commodore John Holmes

By Robert Musco, PA 1

As of 2023, District 7 has a new Commodore- John Holmes. John Holmes was born and raised in New York City in the Borough of Manhattan. One of seven children, he attended St. Columbus Grammar School, the same school both of his parents attended. He spent his college years at the El Centro Campus of Dallas College, where he received a degree in hotel management. He did post-graduate work at California Coast University, obtaining his master’s degree. He moved to Florida in 1989, continuing to work in the hotel management industry and as a reserve deputy for the Orange County Sheriff’s Department. John was no stranger to law enforcement. His grandmother was a New York City police officer, along with several other relatives. Law enforcement seemed to be John’s calling. So when his job at the hotel demanded more traveling and more time away from his family, John decided to leave the hotel business and went to work full-time at the Sheriff’s Department. He spent the next twenty years as a deputy, working his way up to the rank of Sergeant.

John has since retired and currently enjoys spending time with his family, taking long walks with his wife and their dog, and spending time on their 23-foot Hurricane boat. As a hobby, he collects police memorabilia. “I have a collection of about 200 badges and several

Top: COMO John Holmes as we see and recognize him today- a member and leader of the US Coast Guard Auxiliary.

Below: Officer John Holmes of the Orange County Sheriff’s Department. Photos from COMO Holmes Facebook page.

patches.”

Living in Florida, he wanted to buy a boat and decided that taking a boating safety class would be a great idea. He found a class given by USCG Auxiliary Flotilla 17-11, Orlando/Winter Park.

“I was so impressed with the way the class was taught and the professionalism of the instructor that I decided to join that flotilla and have been a member ever since,” John said.

While John was rated for six-pack vessels, he went on to earn his Master Captain’s license as well. “It was the Auxiliary that gave me the inspiration to become a captain.” Over the years, he has held many staff and leadership positions within the Auxiliary, rising to his current position as District Commodore. When considering his time in the Auxiliary, he stated, “It has been very rewarding.” As Commodore, John believes the priorities of his tenure should be recruitment and retention and Recreational Boating Safety. He also believes that Public Affairs is important and is an area where he would like to

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from page 39)

see more growth and improvement. He reported the Director of the Auxiliary had asked him to help the active-duty Coast Guard in Public Affairs. He has also received several requests for the Auxiliary to help in other areas, such as culinary services. He stated, “The call for culinary assistance is overwhelming, especially in southern Florida.” Currently, the Auxiliary does not have enough qualified members, and travel to distant stations is a problem. John has seen several Auxiliary members work a tour at the southwest border, assisting Homeland Security, Customs, and Border Protection. When looking at the work these Auxiliarists have done, John stated, “I believe our work will open doors and bring about more opportunities for the Auxiliary to work closely with Homeland Security.” He has received compliments about their work, stating, “Customs and Border have had nothing but great things to say about the Auxiliary and the service we provided to them so far.” John is hopeful for future opportunities but at the same time is concerned. “As we continue to prove ourselves, we may be asked to perform other duties, but the question is, will we have the members to fill the positions?”

To meet the membership challenge, John has instituted a program whereby any division that can increase its membership roster by 15% in 2023 will receive a $1,000 incentive. He believes the Auxiliary needs to focus on attracting younger members to keep them moving into the future. He would like to see growth within the Sea Scout program, which could foster a progression into the Auxiliary. He stated, “We need to remain relevant while remembering

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our core values- Honor, Respect, Devotion to Duty.”

John would like to extend this message to the members of District 7: “I’m here, along with my staff, to support you.”

John shared with this writer some of his new, fresh, and invigorating ideas for this year’s D-TRAIN. If you would like to know what they are, I guess you will have to come to D-TRAIN in Orlando this September. See you there! Ω

COMO John Holmes’ 23-foot Hurricane ready to patrol the waters in the Orlando/Winter Park region.

Below: In addition to his widely recognized leadership skills, COMO John Holmes played the bagpipes for the Pipes and Drums of the Orange County Sheriff’s Department, and who doesn’t love pipers? Photos from COMO Holmes Facebook page.

What is AUXSCOUT?

Monique Wong, DSO-AS (AUXSCOUT)

AUXSCOUT is not a person.

It is the name of the “Auxiliary-Sea Scout Youth Development Program.” There are no “AUXSCOUTs.” In AUXSCOUT, Auxiliarists work with Sea Scouts from Sea Scouts BSA.

The Sea Scouts BSA program is a co-ed program in the Boy Scouts of America for youth ages 1420. Units in Sea Scouts are called “ships,” just like units in the Auxiliary are called “flotillas.” Sea Scout Ships are established nationwide and overseas to do activities on oceans, bays, rivers, and lakes.

A Sea Scout Ship may or may not own any boats, but Sea Scouts participate in activities and have fun on, in, around, and under the water. Scouts elect their youth leaders who plan, fundraise for, and run activities, with adult leaders serving as mentors to provide guidance and oversight. Sea Scouting is exciting and challenging. It is a place for Sea Scouts to grow, learn, find adventure, and build long-lasting friendships. Sea Scouts follow the curriculum in the Sea Scout Manual and achieve advancement in ranks by completing the requirements in the manual.

How did AUXSCOUT get started?

In 2018, the Coast Guard Auxiliary and the Boy Scouts of America signed a memorandum of agreement (MOA) that recognized Sea Scouts BSA as the Official Youth Program of the Coast Guard Auxiliary. This agreement formalized partnerships that have existed between the Auxiliary and Sea Scouts since 2009. Now, Auxiliary flotillas and divisions are encouraged to charter (sponsor) Sea Scout Ships. Sea Scouts and Sea Scouts leaders do not have to join the Auxiliary, even if their Ship is chartered by an Auxiliary flotilla. Any Sea Scout

Members seek information about the Auxiliary Sea Scout program at S-Train MAR. 12, 2023.

USCG Auxiliary photo

who is at least age 14, however, can apply to become a full Auxiliary member. Being a Sea Scout is the only way a person under 17 can join the Auxiliary.

The national Auxiliary-Sea Scout Youth Development (AUXSCOUT) Program Standard Operating Procedures (SOP revised on 21 Oct 22) outlines how Auxiliarists can work with Sea Scout youth and adult members, who may or may not be Auxiliary members. The Auxiliary’s Youth Programs Division Chief (DVC-SY) has oversight at the national level. Staff Officers are appointed at the district, division, and flotilla levels to help implement and support AUXSCOUT. Many resources are available for flotillas and divisions working with Sea Scouts. Flotillas and divisions can engage and support AUXSCOUT in different ways. Here are some possibilities:

• Pair up with an existing Sea Scout Ship

• Start a new Sea Scout Ship

• Do joint public affairs activities with Sea Scouts

• Conduct Safety at Sea events

• Provide training to Sea Scout Ships

• Participate in waterway cleanup projects with Sea Scouts

Auxiliarists who work with Sea Scouts will need to do some required training.

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Why AUXSCOUT?

The 2018 MOA strengthens the mutually beneficial relationship between the Auxiliary and Sea Scouts BSA. The partnership enhances the common goals of both organizations to promote recreational boating safety. Auxiliarists provide Sea Scouts with training in seamanship and other opportunities aboard Auxiliary operational facilities and at Auxiliary installations, the U.S. Coast Guard, and other U.S. agencies. Sea Scout youths and adults of Sea Scout Ships are integrated into the Auxiliary’s shoreside and underway programs. AUXSCOUT also creates a pathway for Sea Scouts and BSA members who desire to promote boating safety and support Auxiliary missions.

How will Auxiliary flotillas benefit from AUXSCOUT?

AUXSCOUT helps to drive growth in Auxiliary membership and to support Auxiliary missions. Sea Scouts and Sea Scout leaders are a potential

Sea Scouts also provide a fresh perspective on boating. They help the Auxiliary to be relevant to a younger generation who are excited about standup paddleboards, kayaks, sailboats, and water skiing. AUXSCOUT promotes STEM education, leadership, community service, and life skills. Auxiliarists can potentially influence a young person’s career and life.

How can Auxiliarists stay current with AUXSCOUT developments?

• Join the Sea Scouts, the Coast Guard Auxiliary’s Official Youth Program Facebook group

• Subscribe to the AUXSCOUT YouTube channel

District 7 AUXSCOUT Staff Officers

District Staff Officer-Auxiliary Scout (DSO-AS)

Monique Wong

Staff Officer- Auxiliary Scout (SO-AS)

Division 2

Division 5

Division 7

Division 12

Division 14

David Friedman

Matthew Glover

Stephen Browning

Walter Runck

Robert Cook

Flotilla Staff Officer- Auxiliary Scout (FSO-AS)

Flotilla 12

Flotilla 22

Flotilla 34

Flotilla 58

Flotilla 75

Flotilla 87

Flotilla 11-7

Flotilla 11-10

Flotilla 13-8

Flotilla 14-2

Flotilla 14-4

Flotilla 17-2

Links:

Jose Caban

David Friedman

Carlos Arenas

Matthew Glover

Stephen Browning

Laszlo Apathy III

Steven Sumner

Gordon Thomas

Walter Kostyk

Charles Hayes

Robert Cook

William Stephenson

AUXSCOUT Manual: https://seascout.org/ manual-resource-center/

source of new youth and adult members for a flotilla. Sea Scouts can help fulfill our recreational boating safety and public education missions in the best possible way by helping young people to be safe on the water and be aware of safety and environmental issues.

AUXSCOUT allows Auxiliarists to pass their experience and passion for boating to a new generation.

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AUXSCOUT YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ AuxScout

AUXSCOUT SOP: https://auxbdeptwiki.cgaux.org/ index.php?title=Standard_Operating_Procedures

Members seek information about the Auxiliary Sea Scout program at S-Train MAR. 12, 2023. USCG Auxiliary photo