EASTOfficial Publication of the Ninth DistrictWIND Eastern Region Since 1972 United States Coast Guard Auxiliary Volume XLVI Winter 2017-2018 Issue Number One

A sun-kissed glow on 9ER OUTSTANDING AUXILIARISTS IN LIMELIGHT

WINTER 2017-2018 EASTWIND PAGE 1 Message from the Commodore

It was the summer that wasn’t, in the Eastern end of the 9ER District. Cool and wet weather, with a very high water level, kept about 30% of boats in their winter berthing. It caused sev- eral negative effects. The number of Auxiliary hours are down from the previous year. Poor boating conditions meant fewer VEs, fewer MDVs and fewer OP hours. High water also meant people turned to paddle craft as a means to getting out on to the high water resulting in mishaps and deaths. Our paddlec- raft safety initiative was tested from the start of the season. Thanks to the Committee for Paddlecraft Safety (Glen Robert L. Harman, DCAPT; CWO John Henderson, OTO, and Gene Little, IPFC) and the many Auxiliarists who volunteered to Scofield help get the word out to our paddlecraft enthusiasts, 9ER DCO 9ER completed the first year of its Paddlecraft Safety initiative. The goals for the initiative were to motivate paddlers to: them to share their knowledge of boating. Dock Walkers • Have and wear a proper life jacket. are generalists in that they pass on information and answer • Have proper equipment on board. questions on marine safety, paddle craft, PE, VE, America’s • Have an awareness about all aspects of safety including Waterway Watch and many more areas. It gives Auxiliarists a situational awareness. purpose and a feeling of being a valuable member. According to the Committee, the overall impact for the first Under the direction of Rich Evans, DSO-MS, 9ER trained year was that: 86 Dock Walkers and logged 335 hours, engaged 1,605 oper- • Over 7,500 boaters were engaged. ators and did 228 dock walks. Bravo Zulu to this year’s Dock • Over 340 paddlecraft were checked. Walkers. Please, if you have not tried this very worthwhile • More than 250 points of sale were engaged. program, take the training in the spring and be ready to help. • Over 950 hours were volunteered. Public Affairs has been our third area of emphasis. The fall Bravo Zulu for this great effort. DTrain saw 25 Auxiliarists take the AUX 12 PA “C” school course. These PA Auxiliarists will be the “Tip of the Spear.” As with all preventive efforts of the Auxiliary, we will They were challenged to work with all areas (Paddle Craft, never know to what extent our efforts have had on paddlecraft Dock Walking, PE, VE and Recruitment) to the betterment of safety. The Kobo Toolbox website questionnaire has given the 9ER. They will not only advertise such things as PE classes or committee information to review the efforts and procedures VE blitzes, but gets information out to our customers - recre- used in 2017 and make adjustments for the 2018 season. With ational boaters - mission one. the number of paddlecraft deaths in 9ER during the 2017 season, our effort must be intensified. Under the direction of DSO-PA Terri LaVergne-Kunz, 9ER achieved great strides this year in our PA sector. The PA 9ER’s newest effort to improve our recreational boating Auxiliarists have been instrumental in getting information safety effort is 9ER Dock Walking. It’s a simple concept that videos on paddlecraft out to the public, they have been writ- has the potential to be a game changer for the Auxiliary. It ing articles shared through Facebook, YouTube and Twitter, entails Auxiliarists dressed in a polo shirt going to docks, they have been doing radio and newspaper articles, and man- meetings, marine dealers or anywhere that recreational ning information booths. Again, Bravo Zulu. boaters gather and answering questions in a friendly, relaxed, one-on-one environment. Auxiliarists are armed with a kit of In conclusion, it was a very trying boating season, but one information that includes whistles, oil absorbent cloths and that saw 9ER rise to the challenge by initiating several new safety fliers in exchange for the boater completing a simple programs and strengthening existing ones. “Thank you” to survey. Dock Walking is not a mass education effort, but it everyone who worked hard to make sure our boating public shows the boating public a friendly, informative Auxiliarist was safe and informed. Use the hard water season to prepare who can answer questions and take time to pass on their for next season’s challenges. Remember, we are charged with knowledge. This effort also gives Auxiliarists, who may not be carrying out our NACO’s Strategic Plan so keep its tenants in able or willing to do operations or VEs, a program that allows mind when you strive to improve what we do. Semper Paratus.

PAGE 2 EASTWIND WINTER 2017-2018 Table of Contents

Station Erie crew gathers to honor AUX-FS Lou Cummings.

Message from the Commodore Page 2 Cover Photo Cover Story: Outstanding Auxiliarists Station Erie holds ceremony Heroism Award, Inspirational Leader, Support for Active Duty Pages 4-5 to honor Auxiliary Food D-Train spotlights Auxilarists, Sector Buffalo Commander, Service volunteer Helen “Lou” and new district captains Page 6 Cummings of Sylvan Beach Making social media work for your flotilla Page 7 Flotilla 26 (right). The station’s Culinary Specialist, Petty Understanding cold water paddling Pages 8-9 Officer 2nd Class Emanuel Flotillas in Action: from AUX Santa to media embark White, reads the citation. At to oil boom exercise to GC SAR drills to hitting left is Petty Officer 1st Class the airwaves to air/surface exercise Pages 9-13 Zane Newell, the station’s Personal watercraft operators meet the challenge Pages 14-15 Executive Petty Officer (XPO). Page 4. Di•ver•si•ty is more than a buzz word Page 16 U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary photos Special Guest: next chapter for retired Admiral Ryan Page 17-18 Dock walking is a game changer! Page 19 ‘Semper Gumby’ and mandated training Page 20 3 key words for program visitors Page 20

District Captains Page 21-22 Publisher Feed the district historian Page 22 District Commodore Robert L. Scofield District Chief of Staff Page 23 Editor Robert G. Stronach DSO-PB Contributing Editor Mark Thomas ADSO-PB District Chief of Staff EAST WIND Joseph A. Sopko, M.D. EASTWIND welcomes contributions from District Captains all interested parties, reserving the right to Clark Godshall, Ed. D edit for space and content, and to determine F. Robert Hasse if, when and where such submission might Michael McGrath be used. Email is the preferred method of communication: District Nine Eastern Region [email protected] NineEastern.org WINTER 2017-2018 EASTWIND PAGE 3 OUTSTANDING AUXILIARISTS Robert and Patricia Brody of Rochester Heroism Flotilla 42 were previously award spotlighted in EASTWIND after they were honored for saving lives and search-and- Inspirational rescue excellence. leadership The Coast Guard Founda- tion this fall couldn’t let their Active duty actions pass by without no- tice and honored the couple support with its 2017 National Hero- ism Award. The award cited their resuce of four adults and three children from a boat veering out of control HEROISM AWARD and on fire. Patti and Bob Brody received the 2017 National Heroism Award from the Coast Guard Foundtion. Photo / U.S. Coast Guard Foundation. Gene Little, past Commander of Ithaca, recruit and motivate others, Specialists (AUX-FS), Cum- Commodore partner with other agencies, minngs and her husband, Bill, NY Flotilla 22, was to and conduct demonstrations had already spent many Har- R. Scofield: receive the national Com- that contributed to saving bor Fests and holidays provid- Bravo Zulu to modore Charles S. Greanoff lives. ing meals and cheer at Coast Inspirational Leadership our oustanding Guard Station Oswego. So she Award, the Coast Guard an- Helen “Lou” Cum- jumped at the chance to run District 9ER nounced last spring. mings of Sylvan Beach the galley at Erie, with the Auxiliarists CDR Shawn McMillan, Flotilla 26 found herself in added bonus of her employer Director of Auxiliary for 9th a unique position to support (Bank of America) giving her Coast Guard District, had Coast Guard Station Erie time off to do so. (PA) and give the station’s cu- the pleasure of presenting the Station Erie personnel ap- linary specialist the opportu- Gene Little award to Little during the fall preciated it, too. Not only did nity to take his first vacation and district training conference they give her a ride on their Helen “Lou” Cummings (D-TRAIN) in Dunkirk, NY. in more than two years. U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary photos 45-foot rapid response boat, by R. Stronach and Gail Sutton. The award cited his ability to As Auxiliary Food Service but also honored her in an outdoor ceremony on her last day on Oct. 4, with the late-af- teroon sun bathing them in a golden glow (see cover photo). BM1 Zane Newell, Executive Petty Officer, and CS2 Emanuel White, who just returned from his two-week leave, presented Cummings with a Station Erie coin and a Letter of Appreciation, signed by Chief Boatswain’s Mate Daniel J. Heitzer, officer in charge.

PAGE 4 EASTWIND WINTER 2017-2018 OUTSTANDING AUXILIARISTS HEROISM AWARD PRESENTATION The Coast Guard Foundation presented the Heroism Awards on Oct. 5 in New York City during its annual Salute to the Coast Guard. Petty Officer 1st Class (BM1) Walter Kendall of Coast Guard Station Erie, PA (2nd from left) was honored for rescuing people trapped in a sinking boat while Auxiliarists Patti and Robert Brody (at right) were honored for rescuing chil- dren and adults from an out-of-control vessel. LEFT TO RIGHT: Admiral Charles D. Michel, Vice Commandant of the Coast Guard (shaking Patti’s hand); BM1 Walter Kendall of Coast Guard Station Erie; Vice Admiral Charles W. Ray, Coast Guard Deputy Commandant for Operations; Patti & Robert Brody of Rochester Flotilla 42. Coast Guard Foundation photo. INSPIRATIONAL LEADERSHIP Gene Little receives the Commodore S. Greanoff Inspirational Leadership Award from Coast Guard Commander Shawn C. McMillan (Ninth District director of the Auxiliary) during the awards banquet at the fall district training conference in Dunkirk, NY. At left is Coast Guard Chief Warrant Officer Chris Henderson, ready to present the Coast Guard Aux- iliary Commendation Medal certificate. U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary photo by Robert Stronach.

AUX-FS Looks at Needs to Extend Active Duty Support HOW TO DAZZLE COASTIES: HOMEMADE BREAD, DESSERTS, HOT FOOD FOR RETURNNG SAR TEAMS

The opportunity for AUX- ist wanted to take a two-week familiarize herself with the on the hand washing sink.) In FS support at Station Erie leave, but also is planning to station and galley, she was addition to preparing breakfast grew out of a GAP analysis conduct station-focused AUX- not expected to prepare meals and the main meal at noon, of six Sector Buffalo dining FS classes when local students until Monday, but went shop- Lou’s services included daz- facilities by Elizabeth Mac- are identified, Dr. Macintyre ping and cooked the main zling the crew with homemade intyre, MD, District Staff reported. meal of each weekend day bread and desserts, meeting the Officer for Food Service Lou Cummings, who joined at her own expense. (For the returning SAR response team (DSO-FS). Through Opera- the Auxiliary in 2002, in first three days she was joined with hot ziti, making chicken tions Training Officer (OTO) addition to being boat crew by AUX-FS Gail Sutton and soup for a sick coastie, teaching Chris Henderson, Officers in qualified and past Division 2 Dr. Macintyre who assisted an active duty how to make Charge were contacted and commander, has been a qual- with preparation and cleaning cheese cake, and responding some needs identified. As a ified AUX-FS for many years, while she familiarized herself to the station’s loss of power by result, the Auxiliary was not Dr. Macintyre said, noting: with the galley. During this implementing the three-sink only able to support Station time AUX-FS Sutton fixed method of washing and sanitiz- Erie when its culinary special- “Arriving on a Friday to the motion detector faucet ing dishes.” WINTER 2017-2018 EASTWIND PAGE 5 DISTRICT TRAINING CONFERENCE

DUNKIRK, NY – Sector • Michele Rosich, Lorain Fl. 64. Buffalo Commander, Capt. • Peter Baillie, Lorain Fl. 64. Auxiliarists Joseph DuFresne, spoke at the • David Basile, North Cleve- Fall D-Train banquet, praising land Fl. 7-16 receive the work of the Coast Guard • Gerald Ketchaver, Fairpoint recognition at Auxiliary in District 9ER. Harbor Fl. 76. • Karen Urrutia, Youngstown Fall D-Train He cited a few statistics: Fl. 31. Over 55,000 volunteer hours encompassing 1400 surface Notable Auxiliary Mem- patrols that included assisting bership Awards went to Steeg 28 persons in distress; 3,000 Johnson, Grand Island Flotilla by Michael Kowal hours in operations support in 35, and Ronald Behl, Lorain Hamburg Flotilla 32 areas such as watchstanding Flotilla 64, with 40 years and and food service; 851 public 45 years, respectively. education courses and 2200 vessel exams directly affecting Capt. Joseph DuFresne The Sustained Auxiliary Ser- 16,300 citizens. vice Award went to two recipi- Commandant’s Letter of Com- ents, Douglas Rigerman, Sodus Afterwards, Captain Du- mendation: Point Fl. 44, with 7,512 hours, fresne swore in the incoming and Stannard Baird Pfahl, Good- district captains, who coin- • Michael Kennedy, Sylvan year Fl. 65 with 7,995 hours. cidentally are all members of Beach Fl. 26. Youngstown Flotilla 31. They • Doug Rigerman, Sodus Several Flotillas were award- are Incumbent Clark God- Point Fl. 44. ed flag streamers for their years shall; Fred “Bob” Hasse, and • Judith Stobinki, Medina of dedicated service: Cleveland Michael McGrath. County Fl. 62. 7-16 with 50 years; Buffalo 33 • Glen Harman, Akron Fl. 61. with 70 years; and Syracuse 21, A number of Auxiliarists • Dr. Baird Pfahl, Goodyear Fl. 65. Ithaca 22, Rochester 42 and were awarded the Auxiliary • Rich Evans, Massena Fl. 11. Cleveland 75, all with 75 years.

Coast Guard Sector Buffalo Commander, Capt. Joseph DuFresne, swears in 2018 District Captains Michael McGrath, Clark Godshall and Fred “Bob” Hasse. U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary photos by Robert Stronach, editor, Sylvan Beach Flotilla 26. Beach Flotilla Sylvan Auxiliary Robert by Guard photos U.S. Coast editor, Stronach,

Representatives of units receiving flag streamers line up for a photo with Capt. Joseph DuFresne and Cmdr.Shawn C. McMillan. PAGE 6 EASTWIND WINTER 2017-2018 DISTRICT TRAINING CONFERENCE

Dictionary.com defines members of the Auxiliary with to why you are sharing. Include social media as websites and approved content. However, a hashtag or invite them to Social media: applications that enable users when Auxiliary post content, learn more about the Auxiliary to create and share content they need to be mindful of fact mission. You could also include making it work or to participate in social vs. opinion in the comments info on an upcoming safe for you in the networking. Facebook and section of social media boating course. Give them a Twitter, along with YouTube, accounts. Responding with an reason to look at the graphic Auxiliary Instagram and Snapchat, are opinion (to a professional post) or click on a link. If I wished some of the most popular; is not good practice when to promote an upcoming ABS however, there are hundreds if representing any brand. course with the infographic for not thousands of websites and How do you know when the 01-02, my introduction may applications available. content has been approved? read: Want to learn more about A few tips on How do you know when it is safe boating and life vests? Ask using social fair use? me how, or click this link to investigate our upcoming safe media to Members (if you are promote boating course. #safeboating not Public Affairs) should #sacketsharbor #lakeontario. a share stories, blogs, videos, brand; infographics and the like The use of the hashtags in this from approved sources. Some will include your post with case, the U.S. approved sources are National other posts that included the Coast Guard Auxiliary. Safe Boating Council; BoatUS hashtag - which will expand Important questions to Foundation; North American the viewing potential of your By Kathy Montgomery post beyond your ‘friends’ and ADSO-PA / Social Media keep in mind when posting Safe Boating Campaign; United anything about our “brand” States Coast Guard; United people who follow your page. on social media, through States Coast Guard Academy; Sharing these professional email or even a face-to-face United States Coast Guard posts to your personal pages conversation are: Auxiliary and Department of will help to also expand the potential views. Kathy (Taber) Montgomery • Has this been approved for Homeland Security. conducted social media release to the public? Sharing these stories, and A note about misrepresentation. Most training at the 9ER Fall • Why is this relevant to our providing an invitation to the people do not see the D-Train. She has been with area? conversation in the post, are difference between active duty the Auxiliary since 2009, and • Is this professional content excellent ways to promote our personnel and members of the has been actively promoting or personal content? “brand.” Another way to pro- Auxiliary. If you are not active safe boating for several years. • Am I about to share a fact mote the “brand” in a specific duty, proudly explain that you or opinion? region is to share local news She has her bachelor’s degree are one volunteer in a sea of in Communications for • Can we share this potent- stories, but again, beware of fact vs. opinion in the comments of thousands who are happy to Emergency Services and her ially Copyrighted material? the conversation or post. assist the active duty team with master’s degree in Journalism • Is this information accurate? Social media is social. It is a the mission of recreational Innovations. Kathy is the The Coast Guard Social conversation. It is important boating safety. ... And then editor of the weekly South Media Handbook lists the when posting to an Auxiliary direct them to our website, Jeff Journal, and a reporter questions a bit differently with page (Flotilla, Division, District cgaux.org. for Watertown Daily Times. the acronym - SAPP: Security, or National) you include Finally, be mindful of Accuracy, Policy and Propriety. a brief introduction to the what you are sharing to Any information that conversation. For example: your personal accounts. If members of the Auxiliary if you are the PA for Flotilla you showcase that you are a release on social media, or to 01-02 and you wish to share member of the Auxiliary, it is any members of the public in an infographic [informational in poor taste to post photos of any fashion, needs to follow graphic] about life vests on yourself operating a vessel with SAPP. Those who are working Facebook, do not just share the no life vest and an alcoholic Public Affairs should supply infographic, include a note as beverage in hand.

WINTER 2017-2018 EASTWIND PAGE 7 PADDLE SPORTS SAFETY Cold water, cold air could take a life UNDERSTANDNG COLD WATER PADDLING It has been happening too often. by Sue Lander SO-AUXPAD A paddler falls out of the boat, gets soaked to the bone, and Division 4 the combination of cold water and cold air takes a life. paddlesports Paddlers, whether using a kayak, canoe, paddle board or row boat, need safety officer to be aware of the risks and take measures to ensure their safety. Cold water immersion is a significant danger even when the water is not severely cold. The Cold Water Boot Camp USA DVD quotes statistics from a 2007 U.S. Coast Guard Drowning Report and 2007 Lifesaving Society Study, showing that one third of accidents were fatal in water 50-68F degrees, and over half were fatal in water less than 50F degrees. Of these fatalities, nearly all were not wearing a life jacket - while half were less than six feet from safety. Cold water temperatures are generally a risk in the spring and early summer (June and early July), but fall weather can bring its own challenges. A paddler may set out on a sunny fall day; however, if the winds pick up and wave heights increase, an inexperienced paddler is more likely to capsize. Unable to get back in the vessel, a paddler is at risk for hypothermia. Fully prepared for cold water paddling, Sue Lander, an Auxiliary paddle sports Cold water immersion has four phases; the first two safety officer, dresses for the air and water temperatures. are crucial in the first few minutes for survival: Phase 1 - Cold water shock. This occurs immediately upon immersion in water. It can cause Kayaking in cold water, a safe paddler carries essential survival involuntary gasping (which may equipment onboard. Photos by Jane Reid, Rochester, NY. cause water to enter the lungs), hyperventilation (which may cause dizziness and possible loss of consciousness), panic, and possible cardiac arrest. First minute is crucial to get breathing under control. Phase 2 - Incapacitation and muscle failure. During the next three to ten minutes, cold water can affect nerves and muscles causing muscle failure, resulting in an inability to swim. Thus, there is only a crucial ten-minute window for meaningful activity directed at self-rescue. Continued on next page. PAGE 8 EASTWIND WINTER 2017-2018 FLOTILLAS IN ACTION CG, AUX deliver Santa for Oswego’s ‘Christmas at Sea’ celebration OSWEGO, NY -- The Coast Guard and the Coast Guard Auxiliary delivered Santa Claus to the annual “Christmas at Sea” celebration in Oswego’s Historic Maritime District. The Dec. 10th event, hosted by the H. Lee White Maritime Museum, attracted 235 participants. They included over 60 children who got to talk it up with jolly old St. Nick, played by Auxiliarist Bill Cummings, 2017 Flotilla 26 commander. Escort- ing Santa Bill are, from left, Station Oswego Coasties Carreon and Lorin, Oswego Flotilla 24 Auxiliarist Mar- tin Enwright, and Coastie Driscoll. Photo by Mercedes Niess, H. Lee White Maritime Museum.

Continued from previous page. MINIMIZE RISK AND IMPROVE ENJOYMENT Phase 3 - Hypothermia. If falling into cold water, re-board the boat quickly or get as This generally occurs after 30 minutes when core much of the body out of the water as possible. The body loses heat body temperature drops, which can cause lack of 30 times faster in cold water and muscles lose strength rapidly. coordination, unconsciousness, and can be fatal. If unable to get out of the water, focus on conserving body heat. Do not swim away from the boat - the body loses more heat and Phase 4 - Post immersion collapse. strength while swimming and even swimming a short distance will This can occur after rescue when cooled blood from cause loss of muscle control. Let the life jacket assist in support, the cold extremities is returned to vital organs. Collapse hold onto the vessel, and pull knees to chest to retain heat until in arterial blood pressure and cardiac arrest can occur. assistance arrives.

THE BEST SAFETY RECOMMENDATION IS PREVENTION 1. Always wear a life jacket no the bow and stern. This aids flotation, information should the vessel be matter how close to shore or the ability and displaces water during a capsize. found unattended in the water. to swim. It is very difficult to put it 5. Be aware of the conditions before 9. Drugs and alcohol have no on once in the water. Stowing it in the going out on the water. Know the water place in paddle sports. kayak makes it hard to access. (New temperature, air temperature, wind 10. Take a Paddler Safety course. York requires a life jacket be worn from speed, wave height, and the forecast for Nov. 1 through May 1.) the anticipated period on the water. Here is a command message: Always wear a life jacket, and dress 2. Dress for the water temperature, Always expect the unexpected. dress in layers, and wear quick dry for both water and air temperature. clothes; not cotton. 6. Take a cell phone or VHF marine REFERENCES: radio to have some way to call for help. 3. Take a self-rescue class. It is crucial • Cold Water Boot Camp USA DVD, National Water Safety Congress. to know how to get back in a kayak; it is 7. File a float plan.Simply put, tell not a question of if the paddler will go someone the destination, time to expect • NYS Boater’s Guide, 2017. in the water; it is a matter of when. a return, any other paddlers going • Cold Climate Kayaking, and along, and a description of the vessels. Kayaker’s Guide to Understanding and 4. Use float bags. If the kayak does 8. Place an IF FOUND sticker on Preventing Hypothermia, Tom Holtey - not have bulk heads, place float bags in topkayaker.net. the vessel. This will add identifying WINTER 2017-2018 EASTWIND PAGE 9 FLOTILLAS IN ACTION MEDIA EMBARK TV crews spend an hour aboard a patrol boat

extreme significance to the U.S. Coast Guard’s mission of recre- ational on-the-water safety. Too many injuries and drowning have occurred.” Next step was getting the invitations into the right hands. Termotto chose Tuesday night of the prior week to email the invi- tation to the assignment editors at four local stations, along with Flotilla 42 patrol boat returns ROCHESTER N.Y. -- It is rized by the Coast Guard. An a photo of the vessel. The next with WHEC and WROC televi- rare that a television crew is Auxiliary Embark is not au- morning, he hand-delivered a sion crews. allowed to patrol with a USCG thorized unless, first, the Coast hard copy to each station. The Auxiliary vessel. That opportu- Guard approves it, and second, deadline was set for Thursday. nity was extended to television the Auxiliary approves it.” Immediately, two stations re- stations in Rochester in July. sponded by email. A third called U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary Once he got the go-ahead, photos by Jim Termotto The invitation was accepted his first step was, as he put it, Friday morning, apologizing by three stations, and their “creating an invitation worthy for missing the deadline, and experience on board a Flotilla of acceptance.” He explained: asking if they could still attend. 42 boat was aired during their “Too often news stories and Of course! The fourth station news programs. interviews are ignored because declined. The invitation offered two departure times the follow- Inviting media aboard a of lack of relevance or imme- diacy. To overcome this I made ing Wednesday. Termotto called Coast Guard Auxiliary vessel is each assignment editor who not a quick and easy endeavor, the invitation take on an official stature. It emphasized unique- chose a boarding time, and then noted Public Affairs Officer sent a confirmation. Jim Termotto. ness, exclusivity, and admittance by Reservation Only. Official Termotto prepared fact sheets “Media Embarks are autho- boarding requirements were to hand out. explained... Onboard re- “Having a ‘take away’ is an strictions were outlined.” important element of any Public The invitation was Affairs effort,” he noted. Hand- titled, SPEND AN HOUR outs included talking points for ABOARD A U.S. COAST the boat crew and TV crews; facts GUARD PATROL It went on public education, vessel ex- on to explain: ams, and paddle craft safety; and “The U.S. Coast Guard a brief history of the Coast Guard has placed the USCG Aux- and Auxiliary in Rochester. He iliary Flotilla 42 Rochester had each professionally printed. Patrol under orders to em- “There is one more outcome bark local news reporters of this Media Embark beyond and photojournalists. The the TV broadcasts,” Termotto purpose of this patrol is to said. “This began as an Auxiliary emphasize the importance awareness effort. It ended with in- of Recreational Boating quiries for membership to flotillas Spectrum Cable News photojournalist interviews BM1 Jessica Safety and Paddle Craft Boat- in the division. Recruitment is a Jones of U.S. Coast Guard Station Rochester. ing Safety. These issues are of National Strategic Plan element.”

PAGE 10 EASTWIND WINTER 2017-2018 FLOTILLAS IN ACTION Division 1 flotillas assist at oil boom exercise

Twelve members of Division in water, including oil, such exercise was completed on the by Kathy Montgomery 1 (092-01) participated in an oil as when a ship is damaged or St. Lawrence River this past year. SO-PA, Division 1 boom exercise on Aug. 23, in has run aground. The boom The auxiliary provided water Clayton, NY, with active duty is un-spooled from a ship and viewing opportunities for VIPs personnel and other agencies. placed around the contaminat- to the event. An oil boom is a temporary ed area so clean-up is easier to manage. Auxiliary assistance was USCG Auxiliary photo by floating barrier that prevents provided by John C. Augsbury, John C. Augsbury, Flotilla 16. the spread of contaminants This is the second time this Joseph W. Welch, Donald W. Fell and A. Parks Honeywell of Alexandria Bay Flotilla 16 (01-06); Steven R. Botsford and Bruce H. Chamberlain of Sack- ets Harbor Flotilla 12 (01-02); Timothy H. Burke, Robert W. Simpson, Cathy J. Trenton and Stephen J. Trenton of Ogdens- burg Flotilla 15 (01-05); and Bruce J. Burditt and Richard C. Evans of Massena Flotilla 11 Oil boom exercise on the St. Lawrence River. (01-01).

Division 6 assists CG SAR drills It was an overcast Sep- ano, would in turn conduct op- tember day when Auxiliarist erations necessary to maintain Edward Morris boarded the crew efficiency. 45-foot response boat docked “The weather was not ideal, at Station Lorain, Ohio. The but this deterred neither the active duty crew was scheduled Coast Guard nor Auxiliary,” to conduct search-and-rescue Morris noted. “…these SAR (SAR) maneuvers with an aux- practices were indeed a success.” iliary craft captained by Jack Benton, Division 6 vice com- When they returned to SN Daniel Powers and MK3 Payton Sherer prepare a tow line, which port, “Coxswain Delano com- Sherer (below) heaves to the Auxiliary patrol boat. Also on the crew mander and Flotilla 64 opera- mented on how much he and was BM3 Savannah Hooe. USCG Aux photos by Edward Morris, Flotilla 61. tions officer. all of the Station Lorain person- “As we approached Jack’s nel appreciate the work that the vessel (named Heavy Heron), Auxiliary performs in helping our orders were to perform the active duty Coast Guard several rescue operations,” re- save lives,” Morris reported. ported Morris, Flotilla 61 Pub- lic Affairs Officer. “He said these types of two- boat operational drills are most “The Heavy Heron would be beneficial. Without the help of the vessel in distress in need the Auxiliary, the Coast Guard of boarding and towing due to would be severely limited as to crew sickness and mechanical how often and how quickly they failure.” could conduct their SAR drills The Coast Guard crew, led due to the very limited resourc- by Coxswain BM3 Adam Del- es of people and equipment.” WINTER 2017-2018 EASTWIND PAGE 11 FLOTILLAS IN ACTION

By Kathy Montgomery Hitting the air waves FSO-PA. SO-PA, ADSO-PA, Sacketts Harbor Flotilla 12 HIGH WATER LEVELS LEAD TO ALTERNATE OUTREACH

JEFFERSON COUNTY, NY - As the For National Safe Boating Week, rain came down, the water levels con- Rachel Johnson, executive director of tinued to rise. Docks that were once the National Safe Boating Council, well above water level quickly became joined Ryan and me “live” via phone submerged, and many public launches and explained the Safe Boating were closed for safety reasons. Campaign as well as the “Wear It” Typically, Sackets Harbor Flotilla 12 program. would have a “National Safe Boating We also had several guests join the Week” public outreach station at the discussion throughout the majority Sackets Harbor boat ramp, but there of the summer, including active duty was virtually no safe space to do so. personnel and members of the NYS The difficulty of face-to-face discus- Department of Environmental Con- sion was a challenge easily overcome, servation (DEC). as flotilla member Ryan Grant was We found this form of outreach to just stepping into his role as a morn- be simple, yet effective. Many of the ing DJ for Watertown’s Tunes 92.5 FM. segments were saved as an audio file, Once he took to the airwaves this uploaded to SoundCloud and then past spring, we were able to start a shared via social media. weekly 5-10 minute safe boating seg- Although we had decreased radio ment each Friday morning. It was a presence as the summer boating nice way to kick off the weekend and season ended, we have discussed pos- remind area boaters to have fun while sible additional water/boating safety staying safe. topics to touch on throughout the Dexter, NY public boat launch and dock These segments reached the public year, such as change in water temp, - Black River Bay - high water levels on covered under Flotillas 12 in Sackets and ice fishing. May 10. Harbor and 16 in Alexandria Bay.

Senior Chief (BMCS) Brandan Liesen, OIC at Coast Guard Station Alexandria Bay, and Alexandria Bay Flotilla 16 Commander John C. Augsbury talk about boater safety on Tunes 92.5 in Watertown, NY with DJ (and Auxiliarist) Ryan Grant.

USCG Auxiliary photos by Kathy Montgomery.

PAGE 12 EASTWIND WINTER 2017-2018 FLOTILLAS IN ACTION

by Mark Galan Aux Air and Aux Surface play together Flotilla 61 OP & PA officer and SAR EXERCISE RESCUES ‘PERSON IN WATER’ Virginia Suda Flotilla 75 / past Division 7 CLEVELAND, Ohio -- On Sept. 18 commander at the strike of 1100 hours, Sector Buffalo issued a Special Marine Information Broadcast (SMIB) on Channel 16 announcing that a Coast Guard Auxiliary search-and-rescue exercise was underway, involving a search for a “per- Oscar dummy. son” in the water (an Oscar dummy) north USCG Auxiliary photo of Bay Village, Ohio. by Michael Bartok, Flotilla 7-16. It was game on!

The game was to put “Oscar” Chris Henderson, and obtained Aux Air located the Oscar in Lake Erie at a specified lati- advice from Aviation District dummy and vectored a surface tude, longitude, and time, and Staff Officer Bob Fratangelo. vessel within 20 minutes from stand off at a distance; have an Once a written proposal and the onset of the search. Un- Auxiliary aircraft begin a search Incident Action Plan (IAP) were fortunately, when Oscar was pattern to locate Oscar, and developed, crews were sched- picked up, it was found unre- then direct an Auxiliary surface uled, and orders approved. sponsive and the Command vessel to Oscar. The players were surface vessel directed the rescue boat All of this was under the facilities from Flotilla 61 in to a nearby marina where EMS Mission Coordinator Mark scrutiny of a SAR Mission Co- Akron, Ohio, and Flotilla 64 in would be waiting. The only oth- Galan observes exercise from ordinator (SMC) on a stand-off Lorain, Ohio; a stand-off Com- er casualty was a vessel that de- the command vessel. U.S. command vessel. mand Center vessel from Flo- veloped mechanical problems Coast Guard Auxiliary photo by tilla 7-16 in Cleveland, Ohio, shortly after getting underway. Michael Bartok, Flotilla 7-16. Since this was a more com- plex training scenario, with and a fixed wing aircraft from “This exercise taught us that multiple air and surfae assets, Flotilla 61. All assets had specif- good planning saves time, the organizers proposed the ic launch times, which reduced expenses, and the burden of mission to the Coast Guard’s loitering and fuel consumption. on-the-spot decision-making,” Operations Training Officer The mission was well record- noted Mission Coordinator (OTO), Chief Warrant Officer ed with a scribe aboard the Mark Galan. “The ICS (In- command vessel cident Command System) where all com- platform organizes, spells out munications were events, and predetermines monitored and re- all actions and logistics in layed between as- response to the events taking sets. This enabled place during the mission... the crews to play It stresses the importance of back everything mission awareness. We learned that took place for that when one vessel becomes a debriefing and disabled, the other vessel is able Auxiliary vessel approaches Oscar after being guided to the “victim” by an Auxil- after-action report. to complete the mission.” iary aircraft. USCG Auxiliary photo by Aux Air crew member Joe Weatherby IV. WINTER 2017-2018 EASTWIND PAGE 13 PERSONAL WATERCRAFT OPERATIONS From ‘Rock the Locks’ to Niagara Float Down

What do you do when you ing in tandem with Auxiliary Team 2 included POWs Sheila PWOs have multiple events over two patrol boats, got a little bit of and Doug Rigerman of Division weekends and across different a workout assisting paddlers 4, Sodus Point Flotilla 44. from divisions, with conditions who tipped into the water at The first step for the paddling ranging from close-in canal the Oswego Paddlefest, which armada was to negotiate a lock multiple locks to wide-open river? attracted some 600 paddlecraft. on the river. Imagine stuff- You put a call out to personal The next day the PWOs end- ing 200 paddlers, a boat and divisions watercraft operators (PWOs). ed up working hard, in tandem two PWCs in to the lock and The missions began Saturday, with Coast Guard response lowering the water. The lock meet the July 22, with the Oswego Pad- boats, to rescue a number of opens and some of the paddlers dlefest, also known as Rock the people who were drinking alco- are off to the races while others challenge Locks; then continued Sunday holic beverages and floating out are on a more leisurely pace. with a Float Down on the Ni- of control down the Niagara on As the paddlers spread out so agara River, and finally culmi- floats that were often more -ap do the Auxiliary facilities. This by Doug Rigerman nated with the two-day Oswego propriate for swimming pools lead group now entered the next Sodus Point Flotilla 44 Harbor Fest July 29-30. than a fast-moving river. lock, when suddenly one of the past Division 4 commander The following weekend the paddlers tipped her kayak and The Auxiliary’s personal was swimming in the lock. Shei- water craft (PWC) fleet, work- PWOs were back in Oswego for the Harbor Fest, providing a rap- la on her PWC crossed the lock id-response safety perimeter for to render assistance. water shows. A far cry from the Team 1 followed the last half previous Sunday on the Niagara. of the paddlers through the same PADDLEFEST locks. At every lock they had a least one or more people tip their The paddlers entered the kayaks and enter the water. The Oswego River from two starting outcome is good with no injuries. points (the long 11-mile course from Fulton and the shorter As Team 2 left the last lock and 5.8-mile course from Minetto) entered Oswego Harbor, with the with the goal of reaching the H. finish line in sight, a number of Lee White Martime Museum in paddlers raised their paddles in the Oswego Harbor. Two teams the air with the blades skyward, shadowed the paddlers and signaling for help. One of the provided assistance as needed. paddlers was sea-sick and having Each team consisted of a boat a panic attack. Doug maneuvered and two or three PWCs. Team 1 alongside the kayak, and signaled included PWOs Clark Godshall the Oswego fire boat, which took from Division 3, Youngstown the kayaker ashore. Flotilla 31; Steve Bollenbach- Team 2 then headed to the er from Division 2, Syracuse boat ramp to take their facilities Flotilla 21, and John Carpenter out of the water just as Team 1 (a PWO in training) from Divi- was entering Oswego Harbor. sion 2, Oswego Flotilla 24. They also followed the paddlers Team 1 followed the long- to the finish line before heading course paddlers without inci- to the boat ramp. The day was dent, and then handed them over with the on-water facilities off to Team 2 to follow down putting in 5 to 6 hours with a through the locks to the harbor, number of assists. A good day and no major incident for 600 Paddlers “Rock the Locks” at Oswego Paddlefest. while staying behind to follow the last half of the paddlers. paddlers. USCG Auxiliary photo by John Carpenter, Oswego Flotilla 24. Continued on next page. PAGE 14 EASTWIND WINTER 2017-2018 PERSONAL WATERCRAFT OPERATIONS

PWCs set up a dual tow of Niagara River rafters (inset) and lead them to shore. U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary photos.

Continued from previous page. Without Auxiliary support ed that “without the Auxiliary FLOAT DOWN “ support in this mass event, lives A non-approved event called in this mass event, lives could have been lost.” Float Tilla 10 Float Down was an HARBOR FEST approximately 6-mile float down could have been lost.” A week later, PWOs John Con- on the Lower Niagara River roy (Sylvan Beach Flotilla 26), Pat from Lewiston to Youngstown. head up the river to the launch against an overpowering cur- Christopher (Oswego Flotilla 24), For those not familiar with this site. They started encountering rent. The PWOs started to tow Mike Kennedy, Steve Bollenbach- area, the river has a 4 to 5 knot those who launched early, so the participants towards the exit er, Sheila and Doug Rigerman current, empties into the Lake PWOs spread out to float along point, and creatively entered were in Oswego for the Harbor Ontario and is an international with these people. into a dual towing formation Fest. They maintained a safety border between the U.S. and perimeter to keep boaters out of Over the next hour there were to pull larger groups of rafts to Canada. The participants, some an area where two-hour water ski no incidents. The wind picked shore. Some people in the water 300 people, were encouraged to shows were taking place. Why up and the waves were growing. were deposited by the PWOs at float down the river with “any- use the PWCs for this event? The No sooner had someone com- USCG Station Niagara where thing that floats” and to bring water depth is shallow in spots, mented that it was boring when active duty personnel pulled their beverage of choice. there’s a need for quick response things went from good to bad. them onto the Station’s property. Five PWCs worked the Float The CG response boats directed to an intruder, and it allows the Down, operated by Auxiliarists The participants were getting PWOs to groups of rafters need- active duty to attend to other sce- who worked the Paddlefest the close to the Canada shore and ing critical assistance while they narios during this weekend event. day before -- Sheila Rigerman, needed to be brought back performed rescues. The condi- RESULTS Doug Rigerman, Clark Godshall, towards the middle of the river. tion and demeanor of some of Over the two weekends the John Carpenter, and Mike Ken- When the PWOs encountered the victims clinging to PWCs in PWOs from three divisions nedy (Division 2, Sylvan Beach these people, they had no idea desperation caused towing lines and multiple flotillas trailered Flotilla 26). They had support they were near a foreign border, to fowl and disabled one PWO their PWCs upwards of 500 from Station Niagara’s 25-foot had very few or no paddles, who remained calm despite miles each, and did over 20-plus and 45-foot response boats and limited life jackets, plenty of being pulled into the river and hours under way on the water. other law enforcement platforms. beverages, and no idea where then was assisted by the 45’ They encountered approximate- they were to exit the river. boat, which was full of victims. With light winds and tem- ly 1000 people on the water and Over the next five hours some The PWOs diligently worked perature in the 70s, and a countless members of the public rafters entered the water and until all rafters were on shore. thunderstorm forecast for later on the land that saw what the attempted to pull their rafts in the afternoon, the PWOs left Active duty Coast Guard Auxiliary does. Station Niagara at about noon to towards shore while swimming from Station Niagara comment- WINTER 2017-2018 EASTWIND PAGE 15 AUXILIARY VALUES Di•ver•si•ty: more than a buzz word

Diversity (dəˈvərsətē,dīˈvərsətē). of automobile? As an article in atmosphere. Promoting inclusion by Carol Velcio No matter how it’s pronounced, Scientific American put it: “It supports member retention. Make FSO-Diversity, Flotilla 7-16 we hear this buzz word more and seems obvious that a group of friends with everyone. more. Environmentalists recog- people with diverse individ- 2. Value All Auxiliarists. nize the importance of ecosystem ual expertise would be better “Members are responsible to each diversity. Employers talk about than a homogeneous group at other for promoting an inclusive diversity in the workplace. Cultur- solving complex, non-routine atmosphere of acceptance and al diversity is important to sociol- problems. It is less obvious that respect…and moving beyond ogists in understanding societies. social diversity should work in simple tolerance to embracing Businesses rely on supplier diver- the same way—yet the science and celebrating our different sity. And the term is even used shows that it does.” backgrounds.” Listen to others. when referring to stock holdings. Everyone views problems Good leaders understand the val- In a New York Times Magazine differently. “Bringing together ue of building diverse teams. De- article entitled, “Has Diversity people of various backgrounds velop individual strengths to help Lost Its Meaning?”, Anna Holmes with different life experiences members achieve their goals while writes, “The ambiguity is the fact can generate ideas or perspec- supporting mission readiness. that the definition of diversity tives that others may not have 3. Promote Individual Success. changes, depending on who is do- considered or been aware of,” Celebrate contributions of others. ing the talking…But in reality — according to an article on the Invite new members to participate. which is to say, when applied to importance of diversity at amp- Use people with different skills and actual people, not flora, fauna, or globalyouth.org. delegate tasks appropriately. Pres- financial securities — the notion Consider the missions we ent clear and logical objectives. of diversity feels more fraught, support for the Coast Guard. Ensure all members understand positioning one group (white, To build an effective team, you their duties. Maintain a positive male Americans) as the default need to have both similarities attitude and learn from mistakes. and everyone else as the Other.” and differences. It is important No one is good at everything, so Instead of “them and us,” I look to call on others who have the excel at what you can do well. at diversity from a different — pertinent knowledge and expe- 4. Expand Outreach. Recruit- perhaps naïve — point of view. It rience to assume relevant sup- ing a diverse membership sup- is simply this: As humans, each of port or leadership roles. Don’t ports future growth. us has the need to connect with be afraid to ask others about others and develop the trust need- their skills and interests and In NY Times Magazine, Afri- ed to feel like we belong. assist them in finding ways to can-American film director Ava successfully achieve their goals. DuVernay admitted, “Diversity is Diversity is the mix. Inclusion is like, ‘Ugh, I have to do diversity.’ making the mix work. Our core values of honor, re- I recognize and celebrate what it --Andres Tapia spect, and devotion to duty de- is, but that word, to me, is a dis- Clearly, in our everyday world fine who we are. As our NACO connect… ‘Inclusion’ feels closer; variety makes life interesting. But, Diversity Statement puts it: To- ‘belonging’ is even closer.” gether we can assure that every- what if vanilla was the only fla- We are obviously a product of vor of ice cream? Or, shirts were one “regardless of race, gender, color, national origin, sexual our birth, but it is the entire hu- only available in red? Imagine an man experience -- our upbringing orchestra with only one type of orientation, age, religion, or physical or mental disability has and our life experiences -- that instrument. Would we be happy makes us unique. With diversity, I if there was only one make/model an equal opportunity to become a member of this organization.” believe we can enrich our lives and gain new insights and outlooks. The Auxiliary has four diver- sity goals and has offered pow- Mother Theresa, now known erful ways to help achieve them. as St. Theresa of Calcutta, wisely noted that working together, ev- 1. Positive Environment. eryone accomplishes more. She is “We need to create an envi- quoted often, but this one is worth ronment for everyone which committing to memory: fosters an appreciation of the values, skills, and abilities of I can do things that you cannot, each individual member.” Cre- You can do things that I cannot; Together we can do great things. U.S. Coast Guard photos. ate enthusiasm and a supportive PAGE 16 EASTWIND WINTER 2017-2018 SPECIAL GUEST ‘Honor, Respect, Devotion to Duty’ – The Next Chapter

by Virginia Suda past Division 7 commander

U.S. Coast Guard photo by Petty Officer 2nd Class Christopher M. Yaw

Retired Rear Admiral (RADM) June Ryan, sports. My brother visited the BGSU campus, who took the step to join the Auxiliary prior to and when I was looking for colleges, he told me her retirement this past year, commanded the I’d love BGSU. He was right. At the time, they Ninth Coast Guard District from June 2015 to had a new sports facility, and I was hooked. I Former August 2017. Prior to that she was military ad- initially tried out for the tennis team, but I came visor to the Secretary of Homeland Security, a down with mononucleosis, and was out most of Ninth District Sector Commander, Captain of the Port, Deck the season. I met some nice folks around cam- Watch Officer, Pacific Area Chief of Staff as well pus, and began to take Army ROTC classes with commander is as being the first female commanding officer them. I obviously never signed a contract with of Coast Guard Cutter Neah Bay in Cleveland, Army (despite my instructor’s encouragement). now a member Ohio. RADM Ryan also has the distinction of However, I do credit my four years in Army being the first woman to move up the ranks from ROTC with my early Coast Guard career success- of N. Cleveland junior enlisted to flag officer. She is now a -mem es through basic training and Officer Candidate ber of North Cleveland Flotilla 7-16. Recently we School by staying physically fit, learning military Flotilla 7-16. had a chance to interview RADM Ryan and learn drill and ceremony, proper saluting, and wearing more about her formative years and how she be- the uniform, etc. came interested in military service. Q: Who or what inspired you to join the CG Reserves Q: You are originally from Bettendorf, Iowa, when you were at Bowling Green State University? which is located on the Mississippi River. Did liv- ANS: When I was a sophomore in high school, ing in a river city spark your interest to major in I saw a Coast Guard commercial at about 3:00 in biology, or a future in Coast Guard? the morning. The theme was “start a tradition.” ANS: The Mississippi River really sparked The commercial featured a family, who has had a my interest in being on the water. My family member serving in the Coast Guard, on the Out- owned a 22 foot sailboat and we enjoyed sail- er Banks of North Carolina since it was the Life ing on the weekends. I took sailing lessons on Saving Service. That family still has members a Sunfish and enjoyed that as well. So, when serving today. I often tell folks, when I became I saw a Coast Guard commercial on TV, it all Sector Commander of North Carolina, I thought seemed to come together. I had come full circle. I was now overseeing the Q: How did you choose to go to Bowling Green exact area of responsibility that the commercial State University? featured. That was until I came to Cleveland and relieved VADM (then RADM) Fred Midgette as ANS: My brother attended the University of the Ninth District Commander. The family fea- Notre Dame. Notre Dame competed against Bowling Green State University (BGSU) in Continued on next page. WINTER 2017-2018 EASTWIND PAGE 17 SPECIAL GUEST

Continued from previous page. tured in that commercial so many years earlier, the forms. For those not familiar with govern- was the Midgette family. Sharing the Change ment service, the mere process could appear to of Command stage with VADM (then RADM) be very challenging. I think providing that per- Midgette was one of the most memorable mo- sonal touch and encouragement may keep po- ments of my career. I truly had come full circle. tential members motivated through the lengthy (Her quote in Cleveland Magazine (Nov. 30, application process. So those are three areas Think 2016) expands on that: “My dad served in the -- just off the top of my head. Army Air Corps and my brother was in the Air Q: What do you think is the most pressing chal- Force. My mother was a nurse, so growing up lenge facing the Auxiliary today? Auxiliary I knew I wanted to do something that involved ANS: I think the most pressing challenge is service. But I also wanted to do something that membership. I’d like to see (and hope to see) no one in my family had ever done before.”) more active duty members become AUX mem- Q: How did you first learn about the Coast bers after they separate. Guard Auxiliary? Q: Do you have other plans after retirement in ANS: I first learned of addition to the Auxiliary? the Auxiliary as a LTJG ANS: I do not. We have bought a house, in Yorktown, VA. I served and the “honey do” list is very long (removing as the Training Center wall paper and painting.) Longer term, I hope Auxiliary Liaison Officer. to “give back”, specifically assisting in either Both the local flotillas, elementary schools or high schools as a motiva- as well as their district tional speaker -- increasing the self-esteem and training events were held confidence of students, particularly girls. at the Training Center. I was honored to help them Q: What influenced you to stay in this geograph- coordinate the events. It ical area? was there I became life- ANS: We wanted to keep our daughter in long friends with folks one high school. (With my tour rotation cycles, like Ev Tucker, Tom and she may have been in as many as three high Donna Gilroy, and other schools.) She loves attending the St. Joseph Auxiliarists in the Fifth Academy, an all-girls school. She is on crew Coast Guard District. I (rowing out of “The Foundry” on the Cuyahoga returned to D-5 for their River). So that is what influenced us to stay here. D-train last year, and was Once she graduates school and attends college, “ truly humbled to receive we will re-evaluate where we eventually want to the Order of the Penguin “retire-retire”. U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary photo by Robert Stronach. from those I worked with Q: How have you balanced the demands of your so many years ago. job, frequent travel, etc. with home/family life? Q: Do you have any particular area of interest ANS: Balancing home, work, and travel is in the Auxiliary that you want to pursue? always challenging, regardless of what business ANS: I enjoy training, so I think I’d be in- you’re in. What I love most about the Coast terested in helping in that capacity; not sure if Guard is that it really is like family. My husband, that would be member training or in Boating a retired CWO4 (WEPS) in the Coast Guard, Safety Courses. Another interest of mine is the fully understands and appreciates the positive AUXFS (Auxiliary Food Service) program. I aspects of having “The Admiral Visit.” One of met the Ellis’ in North Carolina when the pro- the most rewarding parts of my job is traveling gram was still in its infancy. I’ve seen it grow to the various parts of the D-9 AOR, and sitting and have greatly appreciated the assistance of and talking with Coast Guard members who live the AUX FSs at so many of my events, both and work there; Active, Reserve, Civil Service, here and at my other units. Another area, I and Auxiliary. My husband works from home, think I could assist in is working with new and during my tour as the Ninth District Com- members. After going through the full AUX mander, much of the home obligations have application process to become a member, I fallen on his shoulders. I’m happy to be able to would be interested in helping others fill out assist with those responsibilities.

PAGE 18 EASTWIND WINTER 2017-2018 A game changer Dockside advising a way to reach the public AND RECRUIT MEMBERS

by Joseph Sopko, M.D. District Chief of Staff

iStockPhoto

Last year our district In this program we think It is often said that people became the second in the of ourselves as generalists don’t know who or what nation to develop a new pro- who know a fair amount Auxiliary is and that’s par- Do something gram known as Dock Walk- about all of these special- tially because we do blend in ing or Dockside Advising. It ties, and if we don’t know a so well with the active-duty “ focuses on getting Auxiliar- particular answer, we know and reserves. Also, on first that our active- ists to meet and interact with someone who does. Thus sight that uniform can be a boaters of all types on the we can share our knowledge little off-putting to potential duty shipmates docks of their marinas, yacht with the boating public in new members, and yes, as a clubs, public docks, launch a new and innovative way. secondary goal of this pro- can’t... Dress down ramps and paddle craft sites. We can do something that gram we will also be able to This requires us to think our active-duty shipmates recruit a new and more di- of ourselves more as general can’t so easily do. We can verse group especially from and look more like practitioners (in its medical dress down and switch from the paddle craft community. sense) rather than as spe- our uniforms to civilian So, in summary, think the public we are cialists. We tend to have a dress and look more like the of yourselves as recreation- specialty worldview in the public we are reaching out al boating safety general reaching out to. Auxiliary that we are vessel to. Think about the ODU practitioners, take off your examiners or instructors or uniform. We wear it well and ODU and support this image boat crew or marine dealer proudly in Nine Eastern but change for the Coast Guard ” visitors or marine safety spe- it is an active duty uniform Auxiliary in Nine Eastern. cialists or ATON verifiers or distinguished only by the I think it really will change public affairs specialists, etc. word “Auxiliary” over the and improve our “game”. You get my meaning. left pocket.

WINTER 2017-2018 EASTWIND PAGE 19 DISTRICT TRAINING

Members are ‘Semper Gumby’ when it comes to mandated training

Although mandated train- libraries to gain computer the Coast Guard, helping ing has been available for access. In many cases train- them meet mission objec- years in one form or another, ing was provided on an in- tives. Also, we meet our we have emerged this past dividual basis. 9ER has con- commitment to be of service year with full implemen- tinued to offer the training not only to the maritime tation, having complied at its D-Trains. Despite some community, but the commu- with the requirements that hurdles, we have had multi- nity as a whole. all members complete 10 ple flotillas achieve the 3-Star However, the job is not mandated courses. We can NACO award for 90% mem- done. Six of the courses confirm that our membership bership completion. Thanks (Security, Privacy, Sexual is truly “Semper Gumby” (Al- to our flotilla leaders, our Harassment, Sexual Assaults, by Clark J. Godshall, Ed. D ways Flexible). The creativity newest members fully under- Civil Rights and Suicide Pre- District Training Officer to accomplish the task called stand the requirements and vention) have to be renewed upon members to overcome have aggressively pursued the every five years. So, start to technology limitations, gain training while awaiting secu- think about taking advantage passwords, take assessments, rity clearance. of “hard water” times for and become engaged in these The training of our joint training and other Aux- trainings. members is key to a highly iliary mission opportunities Local Flotillas and Divi- evolved, dynamic, effective, and thanks for being “Sem- sions provided the courses and efficient organization. per Gumby” with mandated before and after their meet- Training enables us to be- training. ings, at local schools and come valuable partners with

3 key words for program visitors

At Fall DTRAIN, our new your partners; let them know One last point, our OTO DIRAUX gave us three key how our program benefits wants Program Visitors to words listed below. I would their customers. Ask if they focus on getting the safety like to apply them to our mis- have questions; find ways to message out to ice fishing by Michael Bialaszewski sion as Program Visitors. further help partners and get enthusiasts this hard water Dist. Staff Officer - Program Visitors Aviate: Plan you approach the boating message out. season. We have brochures on to our partners (each one is Navigate: Work through hypothermia, and cold water somewhat unique); address your plan. Document your action. This is an excellent the needs in your area. Keep stops, perform needed way to get the message out information out that individ- follow-up. Make sure your in- to a potentially underserved ual program partners would ventory stays up to date. Com- group. find useful for their specific plete your mission, perform Thank you for all that your customers. a summary for yourself, and do in this program. Bring Communicate: First off, tell improve as you go. Did you someone new along and you flotilla commander or vice get information out to part- perhaps you can talk to them commander your plans; this is ners that will make boaters about the need to recruit new very important. An email or safer? How could you expand Program Visitors. phone call works. Speak with or improve your mission? PAGE 20 EASTWIND WINTER 2017-2018 DISTRICT CAPTAIN

We each have our reasons for our Auxiliary service

Members of the U.S. Coast While Job #1 of the U.S. what we do is not important. Guard Auxiliary have their Coast Guard Auxiliary is Sometimes, it may feel like own motivation for the recreational boating, our it we’re not making a con- amount of time, effort, and members have many years of tribution. While not always service that they choose to experience on the water. That apparent, everything we do in dedicate to the Auxiliary. knowledge manifests in ser- service is extremely import- Each one of us joined the vice via Member Training or ant. Every report we write, no U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary Guard photo U.S. Coast Auxiliary for a variety of Public Education or crew ac- matter how concise or brief Dr. Clark J. Godshall reasons, and we all derive dif- tivities. Many join with little it may be, has some informa- District Captain for Logistics ferent satisfactions from our or no boating experience at tion in it that helps our fellow and District Training Officer experience in support of the all, but through the years and members do what they do active duty and public. with hard work, have gained best. In the aftermath of the excellent skill sets that not Revisiting the member who September 11, 2001, the only benefits them as Aux- brings the snacks: While it ranks of the Auxiliary swelled iliary members but in their may be the only thing he/ with new members. It was a personal lives as well. she does in the flotilla, it may time when our country was Some of our members just be one of those things under attack in such a way come to us simply for the that bring members to the that hadn’t been seen since fellowship. After all, there meetings. While at the meet- Pearl Harbor in December, are some really great people ings, members get training, 1941. Our country needed that belong to the Auxiliary. announcements, awards, and us, so many of us joined up Lifelong friendships form actively participate. While it to take part in the effort and here that derive from work- may seem to be a very small felt strongly that if there ever ing along-side people with gesture at the time, it just was a time to volunteer, the common interests. While may end up being a very large time had arrived. Auxiliary some members are extremely contribution in the end. members have found their active, spending their time We all are Auxiliary mem- volunteerism to be the perfect district/division-wide, others bers for different reasons. opportunity to serve. serve more locally at the flo- We all get different levels of tilla level, or perhaps behind satisfaction out of our work. the scenes. Whatever you do in your Whether one is a District service for the Auxiliary, do While not leader, or the member who it well and do it to the best of “ brings snacks for a flotilla your ability. The boaters, the always apparent, meeting, ALL of us are im- Coast Guard, the nation and portant to the Auxiliary. Ev- your fellow members all ben- everything we ery contribution (whether it efit when you do. When you be to the boating public, the look at your flotilla-mates do in service Coast Guard directly, or to sitting next to you at the our fellow members) is criti- meeting, know they are here is extremely cal to our mission success. because they want to serve-- Sometimes, it may feel like just like you do. important. what we do goes unnoticed. Thanks for your service to “ Other times, it feels like Team Coast Guard. WINTER 2017-2018 EASTWIND PAGE 21 DISTRICT CAPTAINS Some parting thoughts, and a ‘thank you’

As my term as District one conversations, and per- forgotten, or God forbid, did Captain comes to an end, I haps even our newest oppor- not know in the beginning. want to do several things: tunity, “Dock Walking”. This I have been a member for 11 • First, to thank the mem- is an innovative way to get our years and wish that course bers of 092 for their efforts to message across to the boating had been available when I promote safe boating in our public, recruit new members joined. I also plan to take AOR and partner with the ac- (which we dearly need), learn the “Good Mate” course so I tive duty Coast Guard mem- from others’ experiences and can participate in the Dock bers to make their duties safer even have some fun. Walking mission. and more efficient. By that, I • Consider taking some of • It is never too early to mean Watch Standing, patrols our numerous courses, which start “prepping” for our (land, sea and air), vessel ex- are free, by the way. The on-water missions next sea- ams, safe boating classes, meal Training Directorate site is a son. I know this was not a U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary Guard photo U.S. Coast preparations and just being good place to start and I can great year for many of us, Dr. S. Baird Pfahl good “shipmates”. tell you from experience, you but hopefully 2018 will be 2017 District Captain for Response • Encourage all of you to are never too old to learn! better. Check all of your finish your Mandated Train- The sites range from on-line, safety equipment and con- of the other variety, and in ing. We are getting closer to D-Train courses and “C” sider picking up one of the essence “had a blast”. Please our 90% goal, so perhaps find Schools. Many of these latter “electronic flares” so you will give my successor, Mike ways to help your fellow mem- courses are taught by experts never be out of date. McGrath, the same support, bers get over the finish line. A in their fields both in the Aux- In conclusion, I want you advice and guidance you team effort can make the pro- iliary and the Coast Guard. all to know how much of a provided me. cess faster and more enjoyable. • I plan to take the BQII pleasure and an honor it was I look forward to seeing • Spread the word about safe course as a general refresher to have served as one of your you in the future and say boating through boating safety and I know I will find a lot District Captains. I made to all of my 092 members: classes, boat shows, one-on- of information that I have many friends, hopefully none “BRAVO ZULU.”

Feed the district historian James Middleton is the District 9ER historian, DCO Robert L. Scofield announced. “He will archive any information that you deem worthy of keeping. Some examples of what to send him: copies of newsletters (so that he can glean any noteworthy mate- rial for posterity), significant flotilla anniversaries (e.g., 75th, 70th, 50th), and any events you would want remembered. Let’s not overlook this valuable resource for the future of the Auxiliary.” Historian Middleton may be contacted at: [email protected].

PAGE 22 EASTWIND WINTER 2017-2018 DISTRICT CHIEF OF STAFF We are not in the navy

Recently active duty Coast When national instructors sweaters, the collar is to be Guard officers have observed were at our latest DTrain, they worn outside of the sweater. 9E Auxiliary members wearing observed that the cardigan and And finally, I was observed at white crewneck undershirts woolly pully sweaters were not the last NTRAIN with my left instead of the proper the being worn correctly. Now I rear pant pocket unbuttoned. U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary Guard photo U.S. Coast proper V neck shirt (no sleeves admit that this might seem That’s the pocket where your showing). Crew neck shirts are like a small point (please see wallet probably resides so by fine in the Navy but not in the Uniform Regulations below), buttoning it properly we also Coast Guard. Please let’s get but if you are wearing any deter pickpockets. this right. open collared shirt with these

3.C.11. Outerwear Only Coast Guard approved outerwear will be worn. When wearing outerwear with buttons Dr. Joseph Sopko, DCOS and/or a belt, all will be fastened. When wearing any outerwear with zippers, they will be zipped a minimum of two-thirds closed. Pregnant women may adjust outerwear closure as needed to prevent discomfort. Uniforms Item Description Related Information WOOLY PULLY SWEATER The wooly-pully sweater is Wear with: and (optional) Insignia. See made from wool or synthetic • SDB (in lieu of SDB Coat except Chapter 4.A. for the wear of yarns in a rib knit V-neck when SDB Coat is more appropriate) you appropriate insignia. design with epaulets. • TB • WDB • Maternity When wearing the sweater Uniform (except Jumper) with any open-collared shirt, The sweater may be worn wear the collar on the outside. under the trench coat, reefer coat, foul weather parka II, and the windbreaker as long as it does not extend below the coat bottom.

Yes. CARDIGAN SWEATER The button-front cardigan Wear with: (optional) Insignia. See style sweater made of an • SDB (in lieu of SDB Coat except Chapter 4.A. for the wear of acrylic/wool blend material when SDB Coat is more appropriate) appropriate insignia. with epaulets. • TB • WDB • Maternity When wearing the sweater Uniform (except Jumper) with any open-collared shirt, Authorized for wear inside wear the collar on the outside. and outdoors within the limits Must remain buttoned at of the Coast Guard unit/activity, all times with the exception and may be worn under other of expectant mothers, the outerwear when traveling sweater may be buttoned or between Coast Guard units or between work and home (as U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary Guard photos. U.S. Coast unbuttoned after the first No. trimester of pregnancy. long as it does not extend below the bottom of the outerwear). WINTER 2017-2018 EASTWIND PAGE 23 Department of Homeland Security PRSRT STD United States Coast Guard POSTAGE United States Coast Guard Auxiliary PAID PO Box 232 SEYMOUR, IN Marcy, NY 13403 PERMIT NO. 198

Official Business

Auxiliarists teach school children paddlesports safety Sylvan Beach Flotilla 26 brought paddlesports safety to the 14th annual Safety and Health Expo at Dolgeville (NY) Central School. Coordinated by So. Adirondack Fire Prevention Team, the June expo attracted some 300 children and adults in grades 3 through 6. Auxiliarists Tom and Melaine Paatz taught the children how to safely climb in and out of a canoe and what to do if they should capsize. They covered: pre-departure check, what to wear, what to bring, hypothermia, heat exhaus- tion, weather and boating hazards, and the importance of wearing life jackets. Students were given a boating safety workbook, a whistle, and the message that “life jackets are life savers.” USCG Aux photo by Melaine Paatz. Photo by Allen-- by Knish, Melaine DSO-DV Paatz, Flotilla 26 Used with parental consent. PAGE 24 EASTWIND WINTER 2017-2018