DISTRICT ELEVEN NORTHERN REGION NORTHWIND
UPacific Area & Defense Force West Change of Command May 17, 2010
United States Coast Guard Auxiliary, America’s Volunteer Lifesavers
DEPARTMENT OF >>> The Uniformed Volunteer Component of The United States Coast Guard (Authorized by Congress in 1939)
July, 2010
ORTHWI D July 2010 issue Page 1
Contents July 2010 ←Northwind→
Cover Photo ) Pacific Area and Defense Force West Change of Command and Retirement Ceremony May 17, 2010 Coast Guard Island, Alameda, California. Vice Adm. Manson K. Brown relieved Vice Adm. Jody A. Brecken ridge as Pacific Area Commander, Vice Adm. David Pekoske, Vice Commandant of the U.S. Coast Guard, presided over the ceremony. Photo by Curtis S. Han, DCDR 5
1 2 Editorials, Contents, otices, and Masthead. 3 4 Stray Electrical Current Can be Dangerous by Victor Beelik North- 4 5 Member Training Mentor Program for District 11 Members by Steven wind Chan
5 6 Pacific Area Change of Command The official publication of the 7 Historical Feature Pritchard and the Greenland Patrol by William H. United States Coast Guard Auxiliary, District 11 NR Theisen, Wings of Gold Publication Vol. I6 No.2 July, 2010 8 9 Rodney E. Collins, DCAPT RBS * USCGC Aspen (WLB 208) Oil Clean Up * ACO 2010 by Victor J. Connell, Deputy ational Commodore, Editor in Chief George C. Knies, DSO-PB FORCECOM & PACAREA 9 Commissioning Reception for the USCGC Waesche by Robert Aston Contributing Editors 10 Law Log WHAT CA MEDIATIO ACCOMPLISH THAT TWO ARGUI G Bill Kinsey, ADSO-PB AUILIARISTS CA ’T ACHIEVE O THEIR OW ? by Robert L. Liu, ADSO LP John Gordon, ADSO-PB 11 Coast Guard Auxiliary and avy Sea Cadets Memorandum of Under Design and Production standing. From summer issue of the USCGAUX Magazine AVIGATOR George C. Knies, DSO-PB 11 12 USCG Interpreter Corps at Work by Victor Beelik 13 Mike Lauro Celebrates 10,000 Vessel Safety Checks by Phil Grove Webmaster 14 Photo Ops. USCGC Waesche Commissioning. Irene A. Wetzel, DSO-CS 15 16 Division 05 OPTREX 24 April, 2010 by Curtis Han Web: d11nuscgaux.info/ Northwind/index.html 16 17 Division 04 OPTREX 05 June, 2010 by Paul Verveniotis 17 Seaservice Pot Pourri : Medal of Honor; PERSO AL POTECTIVE EQUIP Photographers this issue ME T (PPE) FOR APPLICA TS (AP) ; Summer Sailstice, Treasure Island. Lynda McCarty 18 Flotilla Profile Series Flotilla 07 08 Youngest Flotilla in Utah Division by Curtis S. Han Joyce Bell John Gordon PA1 Sherri Eng 18 Armed Forces Sailing Regatta, San Francisco Bay Phil Grove 19 24 ational Safe Boating Week Reports, Missions and Activities: D 1, D 4, George Barantseff D 5, D 6, D 11, D 12. Dessislava Popovska Mary Gleim Victor Beelik EDITI G and DISCLAIMER: This publication reserves the right to proofread and copy edit all Russ Breed articles submitted. We will undertake to produce the best work possible, while maintaining Uncaptioned photos are in public “the” author’s intent and integrity of the work submitted. We take no responsibility and accept domain. Children photos have Parental/Guardian releases on file no liability for damages or costs caused by any errors left in the document. We cannot accept responsibility for the validity of web sites that link from this publica Proofreaders tion. Infringement of copyright and plagiarism are serious offences, and we cannot take respon Bill Kinsey, ADSO-PB sibility for any content submitted by an author. John Gordon, ADSO-PB Prior to submitting an article please have someone else proofread it. Prior to publica Chris Jewell, VFC-87 tion, your article as it will appear in the orthwind will be made available for your approval. Articles published in the orthwind must be consistent with stated policies of the U.S. NORTHWIND Coast Guard and Coast Guard Auxiliary. The Editor Commander (dpa-n) U.S.C.G. Coast Guard Send submissions to: Telephone numbers and addresses of members are protected by Island Bldg. 50-2 George Knies, DSO PB—Microsoft “Word” the Privacy Act of 1974. As a matter of policy, rosters of names, Alameda, CA 94501-5100 [email protected] addresses and telephone numbers shall not be made available to the general public or any outside organization. Privacy of all rosters shall be safeguarded and the page clearly labeled. The publication EDITOR : George C. Knies 2010 EDITION DEADLINES of these rosters addresses and telephone numbers on any com- TEL: (925) 939-0230 JAN 01 * APR 08 * JUL 01 * OCT 01 puter on-line service including the Internet is prohibited by the Voice/Text: (925) 953-8432 1974 Privacy Act. [email protected]
ORTHWI D July 2010 issue Page 2
STRAY ELECTRICAL CURRE TS CA BE DA GEROUS By: Victor Beelik
n the winter 2009 Edition of the eBeacon, Kevin somewhere, and in effect, electricity is escaping to the Ritz gave us his sad story how his 10 year old son ground. The manner it leaks to the ground is very im I Lucas was electrocuted by stray AC current ema portant. If your body provides a path to the ground for nating from the docks where he was swimming, wear this leakage, you could be injured, burned, severely ing a lifejacket, in the Willamette River, Oregon. shocked, or electrocuted. How did this happen? What can we do to avoid it? The “Green Wire” in the AC circuit (the round hole in Investigation by the Sheriff Dept proved that there was your home outlet) provides the AC safety ground. This an alternating current (AC) present and the source was a safety ground wire should be well connected to the power boat tied up in a nearby slip. It seems electrical boat’s DC negative ground. The purpose of this wire is current was leaking into the water, caused by a partial to provide a lowest resistance path to ground for any short either on the boat or at the shore power connector. stray AC current that finds its way onto the DC ground Fresh water is not a good electrical conductor; therefore system. the AC current was unable to reach ground at a suffi cient current rate to trip the circuit breaker. Because of A poor quality connection, which could be caused by its high salinity, the human body is a much better con corrosion, between the boats DC negative terminal and ductor of electricity than fresh water; thus the electric the AC safety ground (Green Wire) can cause a stray current was conducted to ground through the human AC current to enter the boat’s electrical system. body instead of the fresh water. When this happens, AC current may enter the water Saltwater is more conductive than the human body, through the propeller shaft and can injure or kill swim which explains why electric shock deaths have occurred mers near the boat. less frequently in saltwater. Electric shock drowning, as Kevin Ritz puts it, is a serious freshwater issue. First and foremost, no one should go in the water at a How serious is it? marina where boats moored are connected to shore power. This is especially true in fresh water marinas. To try to verify the fresh water conductivity issue, this author measured the conductivity of Lake Tahoe water Warning signs should be posted on every pier warning on the south east shore of the lake. The water in the lake people to stay out of the water. Accidents will still hap is so clean that the conductivity was not measurable: let pen since people often ignore signs (as happened in the us say ZERO! Zero or near zero conductivity translates case of 19 year old girl in 2005) or one may fall into the to an electrical resistance of near infinity, an insulator! water accidentally.
Electrical currents take the path of least resistance. Thus One clear cut solution is to have “Ground Fault Circuit the human body will be the main conduit of electric cur Interrupter” (GFCI) type devices installed on boats and rent to ground, especially if that human touches ground, shore power connectors which would automatically in for example, if he grabs on to a well grounded boarding terrupt the flow of electric current into the water in case ladder used to climb onto a dock. of a fault.
According to the USCG study done by Capt. David How does the GFCI function? Rifkin and James Shafer, a current as little as 15 to 30 When you look at a normal 120 volt outlet in the United milli ampers (mA) can create a muscle paralysis, and an States, there are two vertical slots and then a round hole AC current of 100mA can put a heart into fibrillation; centered below them. The left slot is slightly larger than death can follow soon afterwards. the right. The left slot is called "neutral," the right slot is called "hot" and the hole below them is called "ground." This is a very serious problem, but it is preventable. If an appliance is working properly, all electricity that An unintentional electric path between a source of cur the appliance uses will flow from hot to neutral. A rent and a grounded surface is referred to as a "ground GFCI monitors the amount of current flowing from hot fault." Ground faults occur when current is leaking to neutral. If there is any imbalance, monitor senses that
ORTHWI D July 2010 issue Page 3 Continued next page► the current flowing out of the hot terminal is not equal shore power connector. A small amount of current to the current flowing to the neutral terminal. It will trip caused by a ground fault of let say 10mA would trip the (disconnect) the circuit. The sensor in the GFCI is able circuit breaker. to sense a mismatch as small as 4 or 5 milliamps, and it can react as quickly as one thirtieth of a second! The problem still exists if the boat owner is not aware of the importance of the GFCI installed in his shore To illustrate: Let's say you are outside with your power power connector. A small electrical fault aboard his drill and it is raining. You are standing on the ground, boat will trip the circuit and the boat will lose power. and since the drill is wet there is a path from the hot Many owners will get impatient and without locating wire inside the drill through you to ground. If electricity the cause of the fault, will bypass the GFCI. Now he has restored power on board, but he also triggered the possi flows from hot to ground through you, it could be fatal. bility of a serious accident.
The GFCI can sense the current flowing through you Advice: Ask the marina manager if a GFCI is installed because not all of the current is flowing from hot to in your shore power connector; if not, buy an inline neutral as it expects some of it is flowing through you GFCI connector cable like the one shown in the figure to ground. As soon as the GFCI senses that, it trips the below. © circuit and cuts off the electricity.
A "GFCI" also known as ELCI (Equipment Leakage Circuit Interrupter) is already required in wet or damp environments such as pools, hot tubs, bathroom and kitchens. A ground fault circuit interrupter is an inex pensive electrical device that, if installed in, could pre vent the majority of the accidental electrocutions still occurring each year.
A GFCI breaker should be installed ahead of the boat
Member Training Mentor Program for District 11 Members Stephen Chan
id you ever get stuck when trying to go for a sel Auditing means, what are the requirements to qual certain qualification or perform a task in the ify, how much time and effort to study, what are the D Auxiliary? Or you might not know how to get tasks, where will the auditing take place? More impor started or what is involved? Wouldn't it be nice if some tantly, ask the mentor what satisfaction he or she gets one experienced in that area gave you a helping hand, out of performing these duties. After trading several someone who has been there, done that? emails, you may decide this is something worth going for. Or, on the other hand you’d rather look for some A mentor program is in place in the District to give you thing else. that helping hand. Click on the MT Mentor web page: http://services.d11nuscgaux.info/training/MTMentor.html . “Let’s say,” you have been progressing on AUXOP qualification, but find it hard to understand the subject You will find a list of folks ready to be your mentors, of weather (AUXWEA). Connect with a mentor on that with their areas of knowledge and their email addresses. subject. It is always good to discuss and learn about These folks are listed by Divisions, to give you a gen some particularly difficult concepts. eral sense of where they are located. You recently joined the Auxiliary and are eager to get Say you heard about Ferry Vessel Auditing. Sounds in involved in Public Affairs, especially in photography. teresting? By all means send an email to one of the Connect with a mentor on that subject too. mentors with that knowledge base. Ask what Ferry Ves Continued next page► ORTHWI D July 2010 issue Page 4
Are you planning an OPTREX event for the first time? mentor of your choice and you can choose any person Consulting with a mentor who has done it several times on the list regardless of Division or Flotilla boundaries. sure gives you a leg up. Further arrangements are entirely up to you and the mentor. Some cases can be by exchanging emails and/or The above are just a few ex phone calls. If you need to make arrangements to meet, amples on how mentors can you probably should choose a mentor close by. help you. Your needs can vary from asking for a pointer Let me know your experiences in using this mentor pro or two, to full face to face gram, so that I can make improvements. If you want to lessons and practice sessions. share your experience and expertise by becoming a In any case, start the initial mentor, let me know too. contact with an email to a My email address is on the MT Mentor web page. —
Pacific Area Change of Command he first African American to command U.S. Coast Guard operations for the Pacific Rim area assumed control May 14 amid speeches, a brass band and a T gun salute. There was also a helicopter flyover and some rain. It began falling just minutes before Vice Adm. Manson Brown — who comes to Alameda from a command in Hawaii — officially took over duties for a region that stretches across 73 million square miles. As the drops tapped the brim of his cap and peppered his freshly starched uni form, Brown said it was a good omen. "Coming from Hawaii, they say rain is a bless ing," the new commander said. "This is a good thing." Vice Adm. David Pekoske, who led the change of command ceremony at Coast Guard Island in the Oakland Alameda Estuary, compared the rain to the spray off a ship's bow at sea."Coast Guard weather," he called it. Brown takes over command from Vice Adm. Jody Breckenridge, who is retiring after serving 34 years with the Coast Guard. Breckenridge was the first woman to command the Pacific Area, which is based in Alameda and ranges from the waters off South America to the Far East and north to the Arctic Circle. It involves 32,700 personnel and 68 cutters. "It was truly an honor for me," Breckenridge said before her flag was lowered and Brown's raised. A native of Washington, D.C, Brown graduated from the U.S. Coast Guard Academy in 1978. He was act ing deputy chief of staff following the terrorist attacks of 9/11 and helped restore Iraq's transportation systems as an adviser to the provisional government in Baghdad six years ago.
Vice Adm. Manson K. Brown Vice Adm. David Pekoske Vice Adm. Jody A. Breckenridge ORTHWI D July 2010 issue Page 5 Continued next page►
Photos by Curtis S. Han, DCDR 5
ORTHWI D July 2010 issue Page 6
Pritchard and the Greenland Patrol By William H. Thiesen Wings of Gold Association of aval Aviation Magazine ‘Historical Feature’
here are so many Coast Guard service personnel Duck. Within a few hours, Pritchard and Bottoms had whose devotion to duty has put them in harm’s located the crash site and landed on the ice cap near the T way that it would take a lifetime to write an arti Flying Fortress. While Bottoms stayed with the J2F to cle about every one of them. The history of the Coast man the radio, Pritchard hiked back to the B 17, testing Guard includes the exploits of countless members who the heavily crevassed ice with a broomstick over the have sacrificed their lives in the line of duty; LT John two mile stretch. Pritchard took two survivors back to A. Pritchard is one of them. his small amphibious biplane and planned to evacuate “Johnny” Pritchard graduated from the Coast the rest of the bomber’s crew two at a time in a series of Guard Academy in 1938 and earned His wings at Naval round trips to the cutter. When he returned to the cutter Air Station Pensacola in 1941. His initial tour of duty that evening, orthland had to use searchlights to light began in Miami before he was re assigned to the the way. Greenland theater of operations, referred to as the On the morning of the 29 th , Pritchard and Bot Greenland Patrol. Not long after joining the ice toms completed another successful ice landing near the breaking cutter orthland off the east coast of downed bomber using his aircraft’s floats as makeshift Greenland, Pritchard volunteered to lead the search ski. By coincidence, an Army rescue party using motor party for three Royal Canadian Air Force aviators who sleds approached the crash site at the same time as crashed landed on the Greenland ice cap. Pritchard. Before the Army party arrived at the site one On 23 November 1942, Pritchard led the party of the motor sleds broke through a snow bridge carrying 2,000 feet up the coastal mountains to the ice cap and an Army officer into the deep fissure below. Fog began transversed the heavily crevassed ice at night using only to surround the area and visibility grew worse, so a flashlight to guide him to the exhausted Canadian fly Pritchard decided to return to orthland for men and ers. Pritchard received the Navy and Marine Corps equipment to help rescue the lost Army rescuer. One of Medal for leading this search and rescue effort. the B 17 survivors climbed on board the Grumman J2F Earlier that same month, the U.S. Army Air and the three men flew up into the fog. Corps had lost a C 53 transport aircraft on the ice cap. That was the last that anyone saw of Pritchard The aircraft and crew would never be found; however, and his crew. As dense fog and blowing snow closed in, on 9 November, a B 17 Flying Fortress took to the skies the amphibian’s radio signals grew weaker until they in an effort to locate the missing transport. Poor visibil were heard no more. Once again, the rescuers became ity caused the bomber to crash on the ice cap and for the the subject of a large search effort as orthland sent out next two weeks the B 17 and it’s crew of nine became rescue parties on foot over the next month. Four months the subject of a second search and rescue effort. after Pritchard’s disappearance, an Army aircraft spot On 28 November, within days of his successful ted the J2F Duck, but the crew was never located. rescue of the Canadians, Pritchard and Radioman 1C Treacherous ice and weather conditions postponed Benjamin Bottoms departed orthland to search for the evacuation of the B 17’s crew until early spring 1943 downed bomber crew in the cutter’s J2F Grumman when a Navy PBY Catalina flying boat repeated Pritchard’s daring feat of landing an amphibious aircraft Grumman J2F “DUCK” on an ice cap. For his rescue of the B 17 crewmembers, Pritchard posthumously received the Distinguished Fly ing Cross, although some believed he deserved the Medal of Honor. The lives, equipment and time in vested in this rescue effort testify to the incredible sea, air and land conditions experienced by Coast Guard personnel who served in WWII Greenland Patrol. How ever, Pritchard’s particular story exemplifies the Coast Guard’s core value of “devotion to duty.” ©
ORTHWI D July 2010 issue Page 7
Rodney E. Collins, DCAPT RBS
t looks like summer is finally here! With all of the rain we have had this I winter and spring the lakes and reservoirs are in better shape than they have been in quite a few years. And usually when the lakes and reservoirs are up it means more boaters are out to enjoy them. So we need to be diligent about getting the Safe Boating message out: Whether it is a Public Affairs event; a Public Education course; a Program Visit or a Vessel Exam. In fact this should be an excellent year when it comes to performing Vessel Exams. A large number of boats probably have not been used for a while so this will be a good time to remind the owners of what is re quired and recommended for them to have on board. When you are conducting the exams please remem ber to remind everyone, about the importance of the America’s Waterway Watch program. This year the Coast Guard has requested that we focus on getting the word out regarding AWW. I know that each Divi sion has taken this mission on and are stepping up their efforts to educate the public whenever possible about the benefits this program provides to all of us. I do not know about everyone else but it makes me feel good when I can provide worthwhile information to another boater and help make their boating ex perience more rewarding. If this is something that you can relate to then take the time this year to help a new member find out how good this feels. Take them to a Public Affairs event, a Vessel exam station, a Public Education class and get them involved in sharing their knowledge. Have a great summer and enjoy this boating season!
USCGC Aspen (WLB 208) ‘Buoy Tender’ deployed in Gulf of Mexico engaged in oil disaster clean up
Continued next page► ORTHWI D July 2010 issue Page 8 NACON 2010
very three years, the Auxiliary has its National Con- this year’s theme is “Western” and creative western wear ference (NACON) somewhere in the Pacific Area. is strongly encouraged. Entertainment Friday evening will E This year is unique, in that for the first time in my be provided by the Arizona State Balladeer, Dolan Ellis. memory - NACON is located at a magnificent 5 star resort He is a Grammy award winner and an original member of and spa complex in Scottsdale, AZ – the J.W. Marriott the New Christy Minstrels, and accompanies himself with Camelback Inn Resort and Spa, and lodging is available a 12-string guitar. at a great group room rate. The event takes place the last week of August, and yes…it will be hot. But it is a dry Saturday offers continuing National Board Meetings and heat. exhibits, and the formal Annual Commodore’s Banquet on Saturday evening. This special event is the highlight There are many interesting things happening all week at of the week. It includes the banquet dinner, many Na- NACON, and many vendors will be presenting special tional award presentations, introduction of the outgoing exhibits. Most attendees will plan to arrive on Thursday and incoming Auxiliary National Bridge, and presenta- so that they can attend the Thursday evening hospitality tions by the National Commodore with a key note ad- event which will be located outdoors in a large tent. All 16 dress by the new Commandant of the Coast Guard. It is Auxiliary Districts will participate in this fun social event, a time to celebrate being an Auxiliarist and part of Coast which is a “warm up” for the National Board Meetings Guard Forces with many new and old friends – definitely and National Elections on Friday. a night to remember . Victor J. Connell, Deputy The Friday meetings are followed by “Friday Fun Night” – ational Commodore, FORCECOM & PACAREA
Allision of Hong KongCOMMISSIONING‐‐‐Registered Containership RECEPTION M/V Cosco FOR Busan THE with USCGC the Delta WAESCHE Tower of the San Francisco
n May 6, 2010, at an evening pre-Commissioning reception for the USCGC Waesche [WMSL 751], along with the rest of the National Security Cutter Commissioning Committee, three Auxiliarists, Nick Tarlson (ANACO- O PS; 113-12-01), Richard Celia (F-C; 113-01-04), and Robert Aston (SO-IS/VE; 113-01-04), were awarded the Coast Guard Distinguished Public Service Award. Aside from the Gold and Silver Life-Saving Medals, this is the highest public recognition the Commandant of the Coast Guard may award.
“The Commandant, in recognition of notable services that have greatly contributed to the advancement of the missions and goals of the Coast Guard takes pleasure in presenting the Coast Guard Distinguished Public Service Award…” for the multi-year effort in the commissioning of the USCGC Ber- tholf and the USCGC Waesche. Their “dedication to public service is most heartily commended and is in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Coast Guard.”
As Admiral Thad Allen, Commandant, U.S. Coast Guard had (left to right): Richard Celia, Vice Admiral been tasked as Incident Commander to the Gulf Coast’s Deepwater Horizon David Pekoske, Robert Aston, Vice Admi- Crisis, by Commander-And-Chief Obama, and therefore unable to person- ral Jody Breckenridge, & Nick Tarlson. ally attend, presenting the awards were Vice Admiral David Pekoske, Vice Photo credit: Mary Gleim Commandant, U.S. Coast Guard, and Vice Admiral Jody Breckenridge, Com- mander U.S. Coast Guard Pacific Area.
Others in attendance included: Ms. Marilla Waesche Pivonika (Ship’s Sponsor and Grand-daughter of Admiral Waesche); Officers and family of the USCGC Waesche; representatives of the Navy League; representatives from BAE Systems, the Coast Guard Foundation, Lockheed Martin, Northrop Grumman Shipbuilding, L-3 Communica- tions; numerous Industry, Local, State, National, and International dignitaries, Military Representatives; and other Sponsors and Supporters. Robert Aston ©
ORTHWI D July 2010 issue Page 9
LAW WHAT CA MEDIATIO ACCOMPLISH THAT TWO ARGUI G AUXILIARISTS CA ’T ACHIEVE O THEIR OW ? LOG Robert L. Liu, ADSO LP
n January District 11N’s legal staff prepared the first of a ances can be a cathartic experience, and can have a healing series of articles on mediation. This is the second in that effect. I series. In the interest of gradually promoting a media tion program for purposes of conflict resolution, the staff will Mediation Flushes Out Hidden Assumptions . Often also provide training programs, the first of which was a pres conflicts arise due to different values and incorrect assump entation of the concept at D Train in March. tions each holds of the other person. During opening state ments, each side can gain insight into the other. Much can be A Short Review . Perhaps this is a good time for a learned about the other side’s motives and intentions. Fre quick summary of what was written in the last issue, before quently the Auxiliarists learn that the assumptions they made proceeding with new materials. Mediation is a tool for con about the other side are totally without basis. That begins to flict resolution through the use of third parties, and can be clarify issues and resolve conflicts. particularly helpful in inter personal disputes. If the parties were to get together on their own, with The process of mediation entails two or more dis no mediator present, the probability is high that each will yell agreeing Auxiliarists coming together with a neutral third at the other. Neither listens. That type of meeting is unpro party, called a mediator, to air and resolve grievances. Me ductive and, in fact, counter productive. The presence of a diation can be initiated either by an elected leader appointing mediator is immensely important and useful. The mediator a mediator to help resolve a conflict which she knows exists, controls the mediation process and the decorum of the pro or a disenchanted Auxiliarist can ask an elected leader to ap ceedings. If one side were to behave improperly, the media point a mediator to assist in the resolution of conflict with tor can request civil behavior. If it were merely a two party another Auxiliarist. meeting, lacking a mediator, when one side misbehaves, a request by the other side to be courteous may in fact escalate Typically the mediator would set a time for the Aux the tension. The very presence of the mediator in itself helps iliarists to meet. The session begins with all parties present, to avoid misbehavior. and each side begins with an opening statement listing his or her grievances and positions. After the initial session, the Opportunity to Explore Compromises. When the mediator meets separately with each side to explore further dispute consists of only the two sides with no mediator pre their points of view, and what compromises are possible. The sent, each side generally thinks of what demands he or she mediator may shuttle back and forth several times to help the wants to make, with little or no thought of what might need parties arrive at resolution. If the dispute is protracted, the to be given up. Stated somewhat differently, demands are at parties may arrange to continue in future sessions. The me the fore, but thoughts on giving can be non existent. Part of diator helps the parties work towards resolution. The media the role of the mediator is to facilitate the parties to arrive at tion process ends either with resolution, or, if no resolution is an agreement. This neutral person can help each side in two possible, the Auxiliarists may pursue other avenues, such as respects. During the shuttling part of the process, the media administrative discipline. tor can explore with the parties what each is willing to give to obtain what they want. Second, in addition to being a con What can mediation achieve that two parties with a duit of one side’s view to the other, the mediator, as a neu disagreement cannot on their own? tral, can oftentimes see and propose possible solutions which may escape the two sides. Dialogue is Established . When two persons are an gry with each other, they often do not communicate. Because Confidential Treatment of Requested Information . If mediation supplies a structured format, the process brings the Auxiliarists are left to their own devices without the help of a two sides together in a communicating environment, which is mediator, there is no one with whom to share confidential a first and major step in resolving a conflict. information. In a mediation environment, that opportunity exists and can help immensely in arriving at a resolution. In Airing of Long held Grievances . In conflict situa one on one situations, one side can offer views of the other tions, we often hear that people want to give the other person side to the mediator. Perhaps that has to do with the per “a piece of their mind”. In a sense that does take place. As ceived intent or motivation of the other side. Those remarks mentioned above, in a typical mediation, the two sides meet may sound accusatory, if made directly to the other side. formally with the mediator. At the inception of the process, Sharing that information with the mediator, but asking that it each side is given the opportunity to make an opening state be kept confidential, allows the mediator to appreciate the ment. This is an opportunity for each side to lay out all his or concerns of that party. This gives the mediator the opportu her grievances. The opportunity to lay out all one’s griev nity to find potential solutions that address those concerns
ORTHWI D July 2010 issue Page 10 Continued next page► which would otherwise go unaddressed. In essence, the mediation The legal staff is planning on the next article. While the process attempts to find avenues that can contribute to inter exact subject matter has not yet been determined, it may involve personal conflict resolution, which the two persons on their own techniques for the mediator, contrasting effective with ineffective would have been unable to find because they remain embroiled techniques. © with each other. Allision of Hong KongCOAST‐‐‐Registered GUARD Containership AUXILIARY M/V Cosco& NAVY Busan LEAGUE with the SEA Delta CADETS Tower of the San Francisco MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING From summer issue of the USCGAUX Magazine AVIGATOR
new Memorandum of Understanding between the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary and the U.S. Naval Sea Cadet Corps (USNSCC) authorizes cooperation between two organizations that have worked together A informally in the past. The memorandum expands on guidance contained in the Coast Guard Public Affairs Manual (COMDINST M5728.2D). Both organizations retain their authority, missions, and regulations and can now operate together in joint exercises and missions. Working with Sea Cadets falls under the Auxiliary’s Public Affairs, Community Re lations mission. This mutually beneficial partnership focuses on training, mentoring, personal growth, skills de velopment and service to our nation. The agreement focuses on providing enhanced maritime training, technical expertise, participation in training, and other opportunities that might otherwise be unavailable, while maintaining the values and purposes of each or ganization. It may also serve as a recruiting tool, as Sea Cadets “age out” after high school.. Both organizations require a prospective member to be a U.S. citizen with no felony record and able to pass a background check. Members of both organizations wear uniforms similar to the Navy and Coast Guard. Sea Cadets might partner with the Auxiliary to expand opportunities for vessel safety checks. While an Auxiliary team readies at a local boat ramp, several Sea Cadets in uniform serve as part of the pre evaluation team. The ca dets approach boaters telling them the benefits of a free vessel safety check. When a boater agrees to a check, ca dets might help the skipper collect documents and display equipment to be examined. When the vessel examiner arrives, the safety check is completed in ten minutes or less. Give it a try. Visit www.seacadets.org and use their locator:http://dolphin.seacadets.org/US_units/index_pub lic.asp to find a unit near your flotilla. The Navy League established the Naval Sea Cadet Corps, for youngsters aged 13 17, and Navy League Cadet Corps, for ages 11 14, in 1958. Congress federally chartered the Naval Sea Cadet Corps under Public Law 87 655 (36 USC 1541) on September 10, 1962. Sea Cadet units are divided into three main types. Divisions focus on maritime activity, battalions focus on construction (Sea Bees) and squadrons focus on aviation. Sea Cadets train in many areas which can be en hanced by the Auxiliary. They train aboard Navy and Coast Guard vessels using the same qualification standards as active duty service members. Longer term training occurs during school breaks, including Airman Training, Music Training, Seabee Indoctrination (construction), SEAL Team Training, Submarine Orientation, Military Law Enforcement Training, Explosive Ordnance Disposal, Leadership Academy, Marksmanship, Seamanship, and boating safety. ©
USCG Interpreter Corps at Work
t 1900 hrs 18 June, 2010 George Barantseff (FLT 01 SOCKEYE to be able to communicate with the Russian A 02) received a telephone call from Jeff Price Dep Federation avy Warship YARYAG a guided missile uty Auxiliary Sector Coordinator, USCG Sector San cruiser so as to effectively and greatly enhance the over Francisco requesting that he work as a Russian inter all safety of this operation. The Russian warship was wel preter aboard USCGC SOCKEYE (WPB 87337) on 20 comed in their own language into U.S. Territorial waters, June, 2010 from 0800 through the day. from the bridge communications of USCGC SOCKEYE The mission involved three Russian avy vessels and the mission was successfully completed. arriving into San Francisco Bay and docking at Pier 30 On June 20, 2010 the Russian avy guided missile 32. Due to the confidential nature of the assignment, the cruiser VARYAG arrived in port of San Francisco for a request was made on short notice. George’s Russian/ five day visit. It was accompanied by Russian avy English language skills were necessary for USCGC tanker BORIS BUTOMA and Russian avy salvage tug Continued next page► ORTHWI D July 2010 issue Page 11
FOTIY KRYLOV. operation quickly began to proceed in an orderly man Russian President Dmitri Medvedev was aboard to ner. dedicate a monument to Russian sailors who perished off Just before 1300 hours the last of the visitors who the California coast in the 1800's, and were buried in a would go aboard the cruiser was passed through the gate. small cemetery named Russian Hill, San Francisco. There must have been more than a hundred persons still waiting to be allowed to pass through the gate to go see the ship, but the visiting hours had come to an end. The crowd began to get a little unruly everybody was very unhappy at being turned away and would not leave. The security detail was trying to be as diplomatic as possible, but with no success under those very trying conditions. In the military service George had "Command Voice" training he offered to be the voice for the secu Guided Missile Cruiser VARYAG rity detail. They accepted with a " othing ventured, On 23 June, 2010 the Russian Federation avy nothing gained" approach and George politely but firmly (RF ) guided missile cruiser authorized a tour of the (and loudly) addressed the crowd in both English and warship—visitors were allowed to see the ship from 1000 Russian— telling them that the tour is over and that they to 1300, in groups of 10 persons. More than a thousand should disperse and go home. Many of them (especially people came to Pier 30/32. The security detail comprised the Russian speakers) were apparently glad to have of U.S. aval Criminal Investigative Service Special someone to whom they can directly address their frustra Agents, San Francisco Police, and RF Marines was tions and displeasure. George explained to them that the overwhelmed by the sheer number of the visitors, many visiting hours were from 1000 to 1300 there would be no of the crowd spoke only one language (English or Rus exceptions. It took a while, but the crowd finally began to sian). grudgingly disperse to the point where George’s linguistic support services were no longer required. George Barantseff (FLOT 01 02) George gave his Auxiliary business card to two of Photo by :Dessislava Popovska VARYAG E TERI G THE GOLDE GATE
Photo by George Barantseff (FLOT 01 02)
the U.S. CIS Special Agents for their after action report and to the RF Marine Lieutenant Colonel who came over to make sure that the gates were secured after the last of the visitors had departed. ———————————————————————— Editor’s Note: There are 23 Interpreters in Dis- trict 11N capable of interpreting 19 languages! The security detail was unable to communicate George is one of them. In the past two years we among themselves—neither spoke the others’ language. have published three articles pertaining to the George was one of the visitors and was wearing his Auxil USCG Interpreter Corps activities by our district iarist uniform. He saw the need for his linguistic skills members, including two involving George. He is and immediately offered his services to the supervisors of to be commended for providing a valuable ser- the security detail. He explained to them that he was the vice to our nation. Interpreter aboard CGC SOCKEYE during its escort duty on 20 June, 2010. They gratefully accepted and the Article written by Victor Beelik ADSO-OP-I ORTHWI D July 2010 issue Page 12
Mike Lauro Celebrates 10,000 Vessel Safety Checks Phil Grove, FC, DSO PV
ike joined Flotilla 10 03 Stockton in 1998 after visiting a CME station at Buckley Cove on way to the Delta Region with his family. He joined for the sole purpose of performing vessel safety checks. Mike M was already a member with the local Power Squadron and at the time the VSC program was only an Auxiliary activity. He spends most of his time with the VSC program, whether performing VSC's or teaching.
Mike has been a examiner since 1998. He did home study for a week and passed the test with 100%. Shortly after qualifying he partnered with various 10 03 flotilla members and worked mainly at Buckley Cove in the Delta. Currently he is conducting most of his inspections at Lake Comanche, as well as local yacht clubs on designated safety days.
Mike moved to Lodi in 1991, but before that he lived in a small mountain town of Quincy with his wife and chil dren. Mike had a small 12 foot fishing boat that he used a few times a year with his kids for fishing or for boat rides. There was one unique piece of equipment on his boat– a one gallon can of cement with a coat hanger that he used as an anchor. Seems Mike was a rookie regarding boating safety and equipment. Mike was enlightened when he visited a VSC station and forgot to bring homemade anchor and was forced to purchase a proper one.
Mike was invited by Flotilla 10 05 Fresno to do his 10,000th VSC at Millerton Lake. Most of Mike's VSC activ ity from March to October is mainly at Lake Comanche where he has 2 stations a month. He also has 1 station a month at Buckley Cove at the Delta and makes several 'house calls' during the week. Occasionally he travels throughout the District to observe VSC actives as DSO VE.
In 2005 while Mike was securing his station, a young woman showed up pulling an older jet ski. When Mike commenced his inspection he detected a strong gas odor and asked the woman to remove the seat/engine cover. He observed the bilge had nearly 3 inches of standing fuel. Had the woman started the engine, she might have been killed.
Regarding his accomplishments, he said it was for the boating public and his own satisfaction, not to set any re cord. Mike enjoys being outside, talking to people and having fun. He claims there are so many people that helped him become successful that there is no way he could name them all; however, without the support from his wife Sue and his German Sheppard Sandi (who has seen almost as many boats as Mike) he never could accom plish this feat. He does not plan to quit the VSC program or even slow down. Mike believes in the VSC program and says the program truly saves lives. His last thought was that he hoped he has been instrumental in assisting other examiners to have a positive impact on the boating public. ©
ORTHWI D July 2010 issue Page 13
“Man our ship and bring her to life” P Photo PA1 Sherri Eng H O U TTT S O C
O G P C SSS W A E S C H
Commanding Officer E CAPT Lance L. Brado C 0 M M I S S I O N I N G
ORTHWI D July 2010 issue Page 14
Division 5 OPTREX 24 April, 2010 Curtis S. Han, DCDR 5
Photos Curtis S. Han DCDR 5 CGSTA VALLEJO 24 APR 2010 Division 5 members and Active Duty Coast Guard personnel had a day filled with various operation training ex ercises (classroom and underway). This was strictly TRAI I G O LY!
Our fellowship activities commenced that evening with a BBQ Potluck Dinner, courtesy of Division 5.
Continued next page► ORTHWI D July 2010 issue Page 15
Continued: DIV 5 OPTREX 24 APR, 2010 On April 24th, Division 5 held another successful Operation Training Exercise at Coast Guard Station Vallejo. The event was “well attended.” The shore side sessions included opera tions workshop, HAZWOPER presentation, 1 hour TCT refresher workshop and 3 rotating stations cover ing MOB drills, towing demonstrations and Search and Rescue patterns taught by the station personnel. Immedi ately following lunch, six Auxiliary facilities String O Pearls, Osprey, Grumpy, Cygnus, Spoiled Rotten and Margarita participated in the underway training event. Joining the fleet was Station Vallejo's 41' Utility Trans port Boat. In addition, each Auxiliary facilitiy hosted an active duty coxswain onboard. This provided an excel lent training opportunity, to learn from the gold side and also a chance to shine for them. We look forward to an other opportunity to host another joint training event. I would like to thank all the members of the OPTREX com mittee and those who assisted throughout the event. Special thanks to Bob Smith for remaining behind while we were underway, manning the BBQ grill and preparing us a lovely evening meal. Photos this page Linda McCarty
String of Pearls Osprey
Margarita
Spoiled Rotten
Division 4 OPTREX 05 June, 2010 Paul Verveniotis DCDR 4
n 05 June 2010, Division 4 of the USCG Auxiliary held an OPTREX to initially qualify and re qualify O members in the Division as USCG Auxiliary Crew Member and USCG Auxiliary Coxswain. A list of the personnel successfully completing these qualifications are on the next page. Continued next page►
ORTHWI D July 2010 issue Page 16
Flotilla 43 ew Boat Crew Qualified: Arthur Hardee, Richard Myers. Boat Crew Re Qualified: Derek Chan, Michelle Patin, Harry Reinstein. Coxswain Re Qualified: Stephen Chan, Paul Verveniotis
Flotilla 46 Boat Crew Re Qualified: Bob Whitehead, Dick Kern, Faye Graham
Flotilla 48 ew Boat Crew Qualified: Elsie Lam Coxswain Re Qualified: Jimmin Chang
Flotilla 49 Boat Crew Re Qualified: Judy Esteban, Jim Higuchi
Flotilla 15 Coxswain Re Qualified: Jerry McAlwee
This OPTREX was the first one solely sponsored by Division 4 in many years. The members of Flotilla 43 the "Palo Alto, California Flotilla" extended their appreciation to the organizers and QEs of the Division event at their Flotilla meeting on 08 Jun 2010. A cake was provided for visitors and Flotilla 43 members to celebrate the success of this activity, with special recognition going to Paul Verveniotis, Division Commander, and David Naumann, SO Operations. Bravo Zulu to all who supported and participated in this event. ©
Seaservice Pot Pourri The Medal of Honor : As the award citation includes the phrase "in the name of Congress", it is sometimes erroneously called the Congressional Medal of Honor, however the official title is the Medal of Honor. It is embarrassing to be at meetings or conversing with military personnel who make reference to the CMH. This improper designation is utilized in movies, media reports, publications, even on the Military channel. The Medal of Honor is the highest military decoration awarded by the United States government . It is be stowed on members of the United States armed forces who distinguish themselves "conspicuously by gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty while engaged in an action against an en emy of the United States. "Due to the nature of its criteria, it is often awarded posthumously ”. Seaservice Members Receiving the Medal Of Honor AVY...746 * MARI ES...297 * COAST GUARD...1 —————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————
PERSO AL POTECTIVE EQUIPME T (PPE) FOR APPLICA TS (AP) Due to current funding issues DIR AUX can no longer issue PPE to boat crew trainees in Approval Pending (AP) status. Once their clearance is ob tained and they move up from AP status, PPE will be provided as funding permits. We encourage all members who are no longer active in the Boat Crew Program to please return all their DIRAUX issued life jackets and per sonal protective equipment to their Materials Officer for distribution to new members who want to become active in the program. —————————————————————————————————————————————————————— Summer Sailstice Celebration, Treasure Island, June 19, 2010. A group of brave souls endur ing a 35 knot cold wind— manning the Boating Safety Information table located in front of the Treasure Island Yacht Club. Photo by Russ Breed, TIYC
ORTHWI D July 2010 issue Page 17
Flotilla Profile Flotilla 07 08 ‘Youngest Flotilla in Utah Division’ Joyce Bell, SO PB
lotilla 07 08 is the youngest flotilla in Utah Division Members are active in the Vessel Examiner program, 7. It was originally organized among individuals who spending many week ends at local boat ramps, particularly at F boated on Bear Lake, which shares a boundary in the beginning of the boating season. Two members travel a Utah and Idaho. They have one charter member, Pamela Ber total of 300 miles to southern Utah to provide VSC’s for ger, who is still active in the Auxiliary. Pamela joined the boats that participate in a special Friendship Cruise on the Auxiliary as the flotilla was being chartered, at the age of 17 Green and Colorado Rivers over Memorial Day week end. years. Over the years, the membership has expanded and Communications is an important aspect of Auxiliary changed. They continue to provide safety patrols at Bear activities. Morris Farmer, a HAM radio operator, set a goal Lake, but also patrol Utah Lake, Deer Creek Reservoir and to get as many Auxiliary members as possible qualified. He other lakes and reservoirs in and around north central Utah. has taught numerous HAM radio classes, and to date twelve Under the leadership of Rex Miner, FC, members of members of the flotilla are qualified HAM radio operators, Flotilla 78 participate in diverse activities. plus additional members in the Utah Division. Thanks to his Safety patrols are an important part of their activi efforts, there will be a CG Auxiliary HAM radio net within ties. In 2007 the state of Utah entered into an agreement the month. with the Utah Auxiliary to make available two state boats for The flotilla has been very active in Public Education Auxiliary patrol use. This has been a win win partnership. as well. Utah requires that all youth must take a boating edu The Auxiliary has two additional vessels for safety patrols cation class before being able to operate a personal water and training. The state has the assistance of two more boats craft. Auxiliarists logged many hours teaching the youth for safety and SAR activities. PWC classes. In fact, Flotilla 78 has been the recipient of One of the vessels, christened Little Bear has been the District Public Education trophy during at least five dif stationed at Bear Lake, and its primary Coxswains are Bill ferent years. Rouleau and Pamela Berger from Flotilla 78. Little Bear has Public Affairs is another important part of Flotilla spent all three years at Bear Lake, an extremely popular va 78’s activities, especially since it can occur during cold cation destination. During the 2009 boating season she weather as well as when boating season begins. Auxiliarist posted the following statistics: Lana Visser is a pro when it comes to designing and putting $819,012 property saved, 3 rd highest in the together safety displays. Her displays have been used at the PACAREA and 6 th highest in the nation Utah Boat Show Coast Guard Auxiliary booth, which is 166 persons assisted, 2 nd highest in both the manned by members of Division 7. In addition, she has cre PACAREA and the nation ated a youth safety booth that has been used at elementary 60 assists, 2 nd highest in both the PACAREA and the schools, and as part of the water safety segment of ROCKIN’ nation. This is particularly impressive, considering that the UTAH (Reaching Out, Connecting Kids In Nature) program boating season at Bear Lake is only from Memorial Day to sponsored by the State of Utah. Utah has its own “Coastie,” mid September. donated by the State of Utah, which is always a hit with the The second vessel, christened Boat Utah , has seen kids. service at a variety of lakes in Utah, including Utah Lake, Auxiliarists in Utah donate many hours to promoting Jordanelle Reservoir, Strawberry Reservoir and Scofield boating safety. With no regular Coast Guard in the state, Reservoir. It has been needed most at Utah Lake, however, they partner with the State’s Boating Program officials. To where its primary Coxswains are Don Robertson and Joyce gether they are working hard to promote boating safety on Bell, also from Flotilla 78. the waters of Utah. ©
Armed Forces Sailing Regatta San Francisco Bay
LAMEDA, Calif. -- The Team Coast Guard sail boat (left) and the Team Air Force sailboat move through the San Francisco Bay A during the Armed Forces Sailing Regatta hosted by Club Nau- tique, May 15, 2010. All five military services participated and com- peted against each other during the second annual Armed Forces Sailing Regatta. Representatives from Club Nautique offered sailing lessons to the participants before having the teams race three times. Team Coast Guard was victorious in all three races, to defend their 2009 title. Photo by Club Nautique.
ORTHWI D July 2010 issue Page 18
NATIONAL SAFE BOATING WEEK 2010
USCG AUXILIARY - DISTRICT 11NR 2010 NATIONAL SAFE BOATING WEEK COMBINED REPORTS
embers from all Divisions in D11N carried out multi-mission efforts in support of National Safe Boating M Week with diverse events including facility displays, media articles, public affairs booths, vessel safety checks, operational patrols, and safe boating classes. NSBW activities are focused on the mission to promote communication and awareness on the part of civic leaders, the general public and employees of our marine part- ners with the requirements of boating safety.
Throughout D11N, the NSBW events were planned using ICS principles. The DSO-PA and DCAPT – Preven- tion/RBS decided to hold a NSBW Planning Competition in D11N. Each NSBW Division Chair to prepare an ICS- 201 Form with at least four additional supporting forms to document their plan development. These were sub- mitted to the DSO-PA) and DCAPT- Prevention/RBS for judging. A meeting was held at our DTRAIN to share NSBW event and promotion ideas.
This is a most timely approach to encourage the following:
1. Consider all aspects of an event to identify risks - have a safety plan. 2. Use best "span of control" practices to improve Auxiliary capabilities and competencies. 3. Encourage high performers to serve as Operations team Leaders, reach out, involve new members, and men- tor skill sets.
The award to the winning Division was an aluminum shaft paddle/oar with the Wear-It signs affixed via plastic clamps and the base is a water container umbrella stand. All easy to break down and transport to each water side event or PA/PE venue.
Division 01 – Central Bay and North Peninsula
Flotillas 12 and 14 combined to put on a special event at CG STA Golden Gate for National Safe Boating Week. Event plans were published in the Marin IJ, Bay Crossings, Marinscope, Commuter Times, The Ark, Pa- cific Sun and Latitude 38. Rick Saber served as liaison to coordinate with BM1 David McConkey Station Golden Gate, making sure we could use their Horseshoe Cove docks for three vessels and their flagpole area for an ex- hibit, and to ask for their assistance in providing tours on their 47' lifeboat, which they agreed to volunteer crew.
The Presidio Yacht Club served as a venue for Vessel Safety Checks and life jackets and Rae Kleinen of Flotilla 12 offered tours of his USCG Auxiliary facility vessel Sunrise. Travis Marina offered a dozen life jackets and Club Nautique offered six. Division one NSBW Chair, Diane Serchia provided ten lifejackets on loan from her sailboat, Everyday .
The City of San Rafael mayor's assistant set up a time for Mayor Albert Boro to sign a NSBW proclamation; the National Park Service set up signs at the entrances to Ft. Baker to secure the activity and the Discovery Mu- seum's Educational Director, Bruce Simon, helped set-up life jacket demostrations at the museum and to give away activity books. San Rafael - Mayor Albert Boro signed the NSBW Proclamation .
Member Al Coddington and his four Boy Scouts, Dwight Coddington, Jimmy Rodas, David Miramontes and Ronald Berliner came early and worked very hard from 10 am until 2 pm, with Jerel Berkov, Carol Paz and Rick Saber in making sure everyone visiting the Coast Guard Station Golden Gate's 47' lifeboat and the Auxiliary fa- cility Sunrise , donned life jackets.
A bright pink life jacket from Target was given away to an appropriate little girl, Claire Ridella, age four, who was so excited to wear it on the lifeboat tour! Claire and her parents came to see the boats in response to JoAnn Dunaway, Dyane Mohr and Diane Serchia at the Discovery Museum in the morning; from 10 am to 12 pm. Activ- ity books and other RBS materials were distributed along with life jacket wear demos. Ray Freedell brought the "Kids Don't Float" lifejacket loan station. Continued next page► ORTHWI D July 2010 issue Page 19
For activities there were Spanish and English activity books and crayons, a light weight heaving practice line for tossing at a hula hoop target, and model sail boats and motor boats for "Rules of the Road" practice on one of the exhibit tables. While some safe boating video was on display, the life savers for the kids were much more popular. Breast Cancer race-walkers who visited our exhibit also enjoyed them as their turn-around in the race was the flag-pole!. Floatable key-chains, water bottles and whistles were also popular give-aways.
An estimated 100 plus visitors toured the 47’ lifeboat and Rae Kleinen’s CG Auxiliary vessel. Visitors observed actual SAR responses as there were two call-outs of the CG STA Golden Gate crew for overturned sailboats! The exhibit, set up at CG STA Golden Gate flagpole, had about 50 estimated visitors for AWW talk, life saver candies, PFD demos and questions about the Auxiliary and the Coast Guard. *Five future Vessel Safety Checks were generated. — *Two members of the public displayed interest in possibly joining the Auxiliary – one plans to come to the Flotilla 12 June meeting.
On 22 MAY, the start of National Safe Boating Week, several volunteers from Flotilla 17 staffed a public informa- tion table at South Beach Yacht Harbor in San Francisco. The hours of operation were from 1000 to 1500. The weather was fair, but a strong wind reduced the usual number of people along the waterfront. About 33 people stopped by ask questions and were given a variety of pamphlets regarding boating safety. In addition 12 people signed up at the table for VSCs that the flotilla was also offering to the public that day. On the same day, several people from the flotilla provided staff support for a gold side function at the Treasure Island Sailing Center on Treasure Island.
Diane Serchia assisted Ensign Elizabeth Ellerson from Sector San Francisco with an information booth at the Treasure Island Sailing Center. The activities of that day included free life vests, sail boat rides, a 33-foot re- sponse boat from the Station as well as the Marine Unit from the SF Police Department. Many adults and chil- dren attended the event which included a BBQ. Many families stopped by our booth to ask questions regarding boating safety. Unfortunately, the strong winds did play havoc on our booth, but there were still plenty of folks who stopped by and thanked us for what the Coast Guard and Auxiliary do for boating safety.
Flotilla 15 stood up a boating safety booth in front of the Brisbane Marina office. We offered material for boaters as well as the CG Sector SF Communications Trailer. We had 3 Vessel Examiners on station and completed several scheduled exams and also some on the spot.
On the 22nd of May, we set up at the Oyster Point Marina launch area and conducted several VE's both sched- uled and on the spot. We handed out material and again supplied the CG Sector SF Comms trailer. We had members from Division 4 and Flotilla 19 on location with us to help out.
On May 25, with 25kt winds on the bay, several members surveyed South Bay launch ramp areas to look for overdue or distressed boaters. What we found were a host of sailors drawn out by the unusual conditions.
Division 04 - South Bay, Silicon Valley, and San Jose
Flotillas 41 and 49, both from San Jose, conducted a joint mission event at Anderson Reservoir in Morgan Hill, with a Public Affairs Booth, VSC event on May 22 nd , 29 th , and 30 th , 2 lake Safety Patrols and 1 in the Bay with KFOG. The PA booth was setup to promote the visibility of the VSC event and also included a large variety of relevant pamphlets and Cal Boating safety devices. Santa Clara County Park Rangers responsible for the lake were visible and engaged the public in safety discussions and referred many with questions to our display for materials. There were 42 vessel safety checks completed in addition to a successful safety patrol on the lake; Dockwalker kits were also provided. It is estimated that approximately 95 people visited various information booths.
Flotilla 43 from Palo Alto held a Public Affairs event and information table at the West Marine store in San Carlos. Informative pamphlets covering Carbon Monoxide, Daytime Distress Signals, Pump-Out Station Maps, etc. were distributed, and various boating safety items were displayed. A Public Affairs Event was held at Coyote Point Marina and Yacht Club with about 55 boaters visiting the information booth.
Flotilla 46 from Redwood City held a Public Affairs event at Redwood City Marina.
Continued next page►
ORTHWI D July 2010 issue Page 20
Flotilla 48 from San Jose-Almaden conducted a Public Affairs and Vessel Safety Check event at Calero Reservoir in South San Jose.
Flotilla 49, with participation of Flotilla 43, presented a Suddenly in Command class at West Marine store in Saratoga, with six students attending. Each course member was given a variety of brochures, flags and whistles.
Division 5 – San Pablo/Suisun
Flotilla 51 – Vallejo requested the cities of American Canyon, Benicia and Vallejo to issue proclamations recog- nizing National Safe Boating week in each case, a flotilla member attended each city council meeting to receive the proclamation and speak to the council. This was a good opportunity to get our safe boating message out to local officials. The proclamations were given to Chief Spillane at CG Station Vallejo.
On May 22 the flotilla went to 9th Street launch ramp in the city of Benicia, Ca. to start. It started off slow and got slower. Went over to Vallejo launch ramp (Brinkman's Marina) and set up a Public Affairs/Vessel Exam table. About 15 people were contacted, with some interest in the information that Auxiliary exhibited — Passed out 10 Federal Requirements & Safety Tips, and 10 A.B.C'S. and information on AWW.
3 VSCs were done at the 9th street launch ramp in Benicia, CA. and 5 were done at the Vallejo Launch ramp in Vallejo, CA. Each of the boaters that had a VSC. was given information on AWW.
On May 30 there were 4 VSCs at the old Alameda Naval Base in Alameda, CA.
One visit was conducted at the bait store/restaurant by Brinkman's Marina.
Osprey participated in operational training in Carquinez Strait with three other division boats on Saturday, 29 MAY. Even before we left harbor, we had two calls for assistance to vessels in distress. Both turned out to be minor problems, easily resolved, but it served to remind us of why we do training. We then proceeded to do a number of training exercises.
All participants attended a barbecue at Michael Ungersma’s (FC) home on May 22 following the VEs..Two of our members attended the memorial service at the Coast Guard cemetery near Point Reyes.
Flotilla 52 – conducted ABS class on May 15th, at the Napa Valley Yacht Club producing 10 graduates.
VSC/Dockwalker activities were conducted on May 22nd at Cuttings Wharf, 10 vessel exams, 8 Dockwalker kits were distributed.
Saturday, May 22: 9 VSCs at Cuttings Wharf Launch Area; 7 Dockwalker kits passed out 6 VSCs at Lake Hennessy Launch Area 4 Program Visitations – Napa
One Safety Patrol at Lake Berryessa on Sunday, May 23:
Saturday 5/29 - Joint training exercise involving crew qualifications and towing exercises. Event sum- mary: Chuck Burgess (5-3), Linda Lawrence (10-3), Randy McCormick (5-3), John Pierce (5-3), and John Scaff (5-3), worked on marlinspike, line handling, throwing the heaving line, attaching and detaching the skiff hook, operating the portable dewatering pump, and using their signal mirrors. Additionally, Chuck Burgess (Osprey ), Randy McCormick ( Cygnus and Grumpy ) and Linda Lawrence ( Grumpy ) got to participate in various underway activities including watch standing, steering to a compass course, towing evolutions, man overboard drills, an- choring, and radio operation. Curtis Han, Robert Gorham, James Converse, Mike Ungersma, Linda McCarty, Bill Kinsey and Craig Hartman participated.
During the event, one SAR event occurred (Cygnus) involving towing of a stranded vessel with one adult and two children on board to Martinez Marina. Continued next page►
ORTHWI D July 2010 issue Page 21
Three MSOM’s performed by Curtis Han (2) and Robert Gorham (1) in Napa River AOR.
A Total of 15 Program Visits were conducted during the NSBW, covering Napa and Lake Berryessa
Safe Boating radio PSA delivered to KVYN Radio in Napa. Public Service Announcement files are available at http://www.video.auxpa.org/audio.shtml
Flotilla 53 kicked off National Safe Boating Week with a number of activities at the Suisun City Marina launch ramp. The flotilla completed work on the refurbishing of their Boating Information Kiosk at the launch ramp, pro- viding boaters with a significantly improved source of boating safety information.
Flotilla members manned a public information booth at the Suisun City launch ramp, providing boating safety literature to approximately 30 boaters and displaying a land mobile facility.
Vessel Safety checks were conducted throughout the week on over 25 vessels. During these checks, the flotilla provided new lifejackets to 3 young boaters who did not have the proper sized PFDs.
At the invitation of the Nordic Tug Association of the Bay Area, the flotilla presented an overview of the new Rescue 21 system being installed by the Coast Guard, and conducted vessel safety checks on 14 documented vessels at the Suisun City Yacht Club – all passed with flying colors.
In conjunction with three operational facilities from Flotillas 51 and 52, the flotilla conducted a multi-boat training and safety patrol in Coast Guard Station Vallejo’s AOR. During these operations, Auxiliary vessels responded to three SAR cases and towed two boats to safe harbors.
A Marine Safety Observation Mission patrol was conducted in Coast Guard Station Vallejo and Rio Vista’s AOR’s, which covered over 100 miles of the central and south Delta, during which 8 marinas were contacted to promote the America’s Waterway Watch program.
Flotilla 55 – Sonoma , summary of events: During National Boating Safety Week, Flotilla 55 held or participated in 4 Public Affairs Events (Station Bodega Bay Open House, and Boating Safety at West Marine, Memorial Ser- vice at Pt Reyes CG Station), conducted a Joint Agency training with the Army Corp of Engineers, Sonoma County Sheriff, conducted 104 Vessel Safety Checks, 8 Dockwalker Surveys, 45 RBSPV visits, and conducted 8 Safety Patrols at Bodega Bay and Lake Sonoma
Saturday May 22, Gary Murray and Ron Kram conducted 24 Vessel Exams at Lake Sonoma Public Launch Ramp .
Sunday May 23, Flotilla 55 conducted a Suddenly in Command Class at Lake Sonoma Marina. The instructors set up stations representing 6 scenarios and had the students go to each station. Participating in this event were Tom and Shirl Maxson, Ray Van Cleave, Jim and Gretchen Diekmann.
Sunday May 23: Flotilla 55 conducted 6 VEs plus one facility exam at the Petaluma Marina. Wil Sumner con- ducted an Americas Waterway Watch event. .
Wednesday, May 26, Flotilla 55 put on a Public Affairs event with West Marine in Santa Rosa. Tom & Shirl Max- son had a booth and covered both boating safety and Dockwalker surveys at this event.
Monday, May 31, Flotilla 55 and Coast Guard Station Bodega Bay had a memorial service at Point Reyes Coast Guard Station for 4 interned Coast Guard serviceman that died in service. There were 9 CG Auxiliarists (Tom and Shirl Maxson, Mike & Barbara Ungersma, Ron and Margret Kram, Dick Palimeter, Gerald Terman and Wil Sumner and 6 Coast Guard Personnel from the station and CG Chaplain Southerland from TRACEN.
Division 06 - Monterey nd National Safe Boating week kick-off for Flotilla 6-4 took place on Saturday May 22 along the Monterey Harbor Masters dock. A 47 MLB from Station Monterey was present with a crew to provide tours and information. Auxil- iary members manned a booth to recruit members, offer vessel examinations and tell of the public education Continued next page► ORTHWI D July 2010 issue Page 22 courses available. BM1 Greaves the auxiliary liaison for Station Monterey spent most of the day at the booth. Lt. Suckow the stations EXO provided doughnuts, which were much appreciated.
Flotillas 6-7 and 6-10 held two events for National Safe Boating Week. On May 22 nd an information booth was set up at Santa Cruz Harbor offering boating safety materials, public education class opportunities, and vessel safety checks. On May 29 th an information booth was manned at the Santa Cruz West Marine Store offering the same services—Coastie made an appearance at both events.
Flotilla 6-1 for NSBW had a boating safety booth at Port San Luis. The PSL Harbor appreciated the effort and requested a larger event next year. A VSC station was also ongoing during the event.
Flotilla 6-4 participated with local public safety and Department of Defense agencies on May 28 th for the Defense Language Institute’s Safety Awareness Day. The Auxiliary handed out boating safety materials, information on boating safety courses and offer vessel safety examinations. Ten individuals at the event signed up for boating safety classes.
Division 12 – East San Francisco
Flotilla 12-1, conducted Public Affairs/Vessel Examinations at Alameda Marina. Ten Auxiliarists participated, 11 VSCs completed. In addition, a Land Mobile blitz from Berkeley to Richmond, involving three mobile communica- tion units and five Auxiliarists.
Flotilla 12-3, Oakland conducted a BS&S class.
Flotilla 12-5, Fremont: distributed posters and literature to Fremont’s Parks & Rec. facility at Lake Elizabeth, Fre- mont, and to San Leandro’s Marina.
Two Boats & Kids programs were conducted at two Peninsula schools.
Flotilla 12-91, San Ramon: completed 9 VSCs at a PAVE held at Discovery Bay, and passed out 30 Clean Delta bags for the dock-walker program.
Kicked off a Boat-N-Kids season with a long day at the Richmond YMCA. Approximately 150 kids participated who, after the training program, spent the rest of the day in the water. Two active USCG sailors helped the Flo- tilla with the day’s program.
A two day PA event was conducted at San Ramon’s Art and Wind Festival, May 30 &31 with public participation of about 70,000 visitors. Flotilla arranged for a CG Helo fly-over to coordinate with Memorial celebration on the center stage. The Mayor pointed out the significance and the crowd applauded the Coast Guard's contribution.
DISTRICT 11N - Acknowledgements
All members extend their appreciation to the USCG, Cal Boating, Police, Sheriff, Fire, County Parks, Cities, Marine Partners and other departments and agencies who contributed to the success of the 2010 NSBW campaign.
Left to right: Rod Collins (DCAPT - Prevention & RBS), Charles McCarty (VCDR5 & Division NSBW Chair), Curtis Suddenly in Command (SIC) Class @ San Jose West Marine, ORTHWI D July 2010 issue Page 23 Continued next page►
Memorial ceremony, USCG Cemetery, Point Reyes. Photo: Steven Bill Kinsey, Craig Hartman, on Cygnus. Johnson, VC Flotilla 51.
Flotilla 55 conducted Recreational Boating Policy and training with the Army Corp of Engineers and the Sonoma Towing joint exercise. Cygnus and Grumpy. County Sheriff Dept. This training covered communication, operations, and law enforcement policies.
Flotilla 55 and Coast Guard Station Bodega Bay had a memorial service at Point Reyes Coast Guard Sta- tion for 4 interned Coast Guard serviceman that died At the invitation of the Nordic Tug Association of the Bay in service. There were 9 CG Auxiliarists (Tom and Area, the flotilla presented an overview of the new Rescue Shirl Maxson, Mike & Barbara Ungersma, Ron and 21 system being installed by the Coast Guard, and con- Margret Kram, Dick Palimeter, Gerald Terman and ducted vessel safety checks on 14 documented vessels at Wil Sumner — 6 Coast Guard Personnel from the the Suisun City Yacht Club – all passed with flying colors . station and CG Chaplain Southerland from TRACEN.
ORTHWI D July 2010 issue Page 24