June, 2010 - Coast Guard Auxiliary Association

In This Issue:
CGAUX Association, Inc.
2 From The Desk Of…….
4
Richard L. Lawrence, Chief Counsel
Chairman of the Board/CEO
Nicholas Kerigan
3 Association News
President/Chief Operating Officer
James E. Vass
Executive Vice President
Steven M. Budar
Director
Anne Brengle
Director
Vice Admiral Terry Cross
USCG (retired)
Director
William R. Furbee
Director
Roderick “Rocky” Mitchell
Director
Henry G. Pratt III
Director
Gene M. Seibert
Director
RADM R. Dennis Sirois
USCG (retired)
Director
Joseph N. Taylor
Executive Director
Martin L. Phillips
4 Sweet to Salt Water
8 Henry Hudson 400th Anniversary
11 Educating the Crew for an
Emergency
8
13 Coast Guard Boat Boarded
15 Even Safe Boaters Encounter
Hazardous Boaters!
16 Coast Guard History Facts
17 Pentagon Federal Member Benefits
20 National Conference 2010 (NACON)
Secretary/General Counsel
Richard L. Lawrence
Treasurer
Robert J. Perrone, Sr.
Comptroller/Vice President Internal
Affairs
Stanley M. Feldman
22 eBeacon Articles Wanted
24 Online District Materials Store
Vice President External Affairs
John Whelan
13
Vice President Central Operations
Thomas C. Mallison
Vice President Eastern Operations
Thomas A. Venezio
Vice President Western Operations
Victor J. Connell
Director of Development
Chester Lowe
Director of Education
Robin L. Freeman
The BEACON is the official publication of
the Coast Guard Auxiliary Association Inc.
(CGAuxA, Inc.). All rights are reserved.
No portion of this publication should be
copied or otherwise used without written
permission. Communications shall be sent
to Coast Guard Auxiliary Association,
9449 Watson Industrial Park,
St. Louis, MO 63126. We reserve the right
to edit for clarity and brevity.
20
From The Desk Of:
CGAuxA, Inc. BEACON
COAST GUARD AUXILIARY REORGANIZATION
OFFICE OF CHIEF COUNSEL
Chairman of the Board/CEO
Nicholas Kerigan
President/Chief Operating Officer
James E. Vass
Executive Director
Martin L. Phillips
Publisher
Stanley M. Feldman
Editor
Mary T. Larsen
Assistant Editor/Production Manager
Carol Maccio
US Coast Guard Auxiliary toll-free
information number:
1-877-875-6296
US Coast Guard Auxiliary website:
www.cgaux.org
Coast Guard Auxiliary Association
website:
www.cgauxa.org
Article Submission:
Mary Larsen at
mtlarsen@bellsouth.net &
Carol Maccio at
carol.beacon.editor@gmail.com
www.shopauxiliary.com
Auxiliary Center e-Mail:
auxcen@cgauxa.org
As most Auxiliary members are aware, the US Coast Guard took
major steps in modernization of its structure. Some of the
changes are in place while others are in the process. Based on
these changes, the Auxiliary undertook to make those changes to
match the changes being made by the USCG. The concept for
the Auxiliary was to change where and as needed in order to
better interface and perform the missions of the Auxiliary. Among the changes was the
creation of the Office of Chief Counsel.
The structure of the Auxiliary had included various legal officers to advise and assist
the elected leadership. On the national level, the department chief of the Legal Affairs
Department served as the Auxiliary chief counsel and advisor to NACO and
CHIDIRAUX. The districts/regions had a district staff officer-legal/parliamentarian to
advise the DCO and board.
The legal department traditionally functioned in an advisory role at the national level as
well as the district level. Much of the work has involved interpretation of the Auxiliary
manual, some contractual review and guidance at elections at the respective levels.
As the DSO-LPs are appointed by the DCOs and serve at their pleasure, the
department lacked the structure similar to the other departments for a parallel staffing
concept. There was some interface and interaction yet a separation existed.
When the structure of the Auxiliary was reviewed in light of the USCG modernization,
the Auxiliary national leadership took the opportunity in mid 2009 to create a mirror
image of the USCG legal situation with the creation of the Office of the Chief Counsel
for the Auxiliary. The department was changed so that the holder of the position was
designated as Assistant National Commodore-Chief Counsel and is to report to the
Vice National Commodore. Seeing a need for some staff, a deputy chief counsel was
established together with three assistant chief counsels, one for each area of the
Auxiliary.
The Chief Counsel is to serve as the chief counsel for the Auxiliary and advisor to the
VNACO/NACO and CHIDIRAUX. The deputy assists as needed and also serves as
advisor to the Deputy National Commodore-Mission Support. Each of the three
Assistant Counsels serves as advisors to the three Deputy National Commodores:
Operations/AE, Operations Policy/AW and Force Readiness/PAC. Further, the three
assistant counsels are available to the district legal staff officers in their respective
areas. Collectively, there is now the opportunity to function more as a unit. The stage
is set for further interaction between the members of the legal team so that members
function more as a law firm with numerous offices.
The new organizational structure has been in place for less than one year and gains
experience as time goes by. The end result should provide a closer relationship
between the Auxiliary legal officers and allow a more unified approach to the legal
aspects of the Auxiliary.
Letters to the Editor:
letters@cgauxa.org
COMO Richard L. Lawrence, Assistant National Commodore-Chief Counsel
ASSOCIATION NEWS
by Martin L. Phillips, Executive Director
The Board of Directors met on May 1, 2010 in the Washington, DC area. Reports were provided by the Association’s
officers and the standing committees. Of significance was the Audit Committee report of their meeting in January. They
reviewed the annual budget as well as met with the independent auditors and Association management. They submitted
various recommendations for the Board to consider including approval of the audit report and financial statements. The
Board approved the audit report as well as the audited financial statements as presented. The Board also established a
policy for the nominations to Board of Director positions that included timelines for receiving nominations, the
Nominating Committee forwarding nominations, and the conduct of the annual election. The election of Board members
to fill vacant or expiring terms is scheduled for September 15, 2010.
Additionally, the Executive Director reported to the Board regarding problems experienced at the Auxiliary Center with
the financial software. The cause was discovered to be failing server drives which blocked account information. A
replacement server was authorized and obtained. The recovery process for the software programs took additional
intervention by subject matter experts but everything was restored and no critical information lost. The staff was
working on the backlog of data entries that accumulated during the couple of weeks the system was not available. He
also reported on an employee that had resigned and the efforts to hire a replacement for that position.
During old business the Board considered draft changes to the by-laws. After much discussion they decided to have the
changes submitted in smaller sections to allow a more diligent review by the Board. Under new business the Board
formally approved the authorized expenditure for the new server at the Association’s office/Auxiliary Center. A resolution
was provided for consideration dealing with a financial institute. After discussion, the Board felt a resolution was not
required as the institutions own forms cover the issue. By Board vote the resolution was rejected. Prior to adjournment
the Chairman recognized Directors Pratt and Furbee for their service as members of the Board of Directors. This was
their final face-to-face meeting as they complete their maximum terms of office on October 31, 2010.
The President/COO reported the 2011 USCG Auxiliary National Conference is scheduled to be held at The Westin hotel in
Charlotte, NC. The Board then adjourned their meeting.
Page 3
JUNE, 2010
After serving 10 years in the 8th Eastern, this
auxiliarist and his wife retired to nature’s coast
in west central Florida and new adventures. Several flotillas make up Division 15 along the Gulf
Coast from near Keaton Beach on the north to
Hernando Beach on the south. Areas of Responsibility extend ten miles west into the Gulf of
Mexico, making this a broad expanse of salt water and coastal rivers near the beginning of Florida’s sub tropics.
While summer and winter pool conditions raise
and lower water levels on the inland reservoirs
of the western rivers, coastal tides are another
thing entirely. It’s been said that there are 3
kinds of boaters here along the shallow western
coast of the sunshine state: those who have already
run across an oyster bar, those who are going to,
and the rest of us who LIE ABOUT IT ! It didn’t take
long for this coxswain to join the club. Another contrast between the western rivers and the Gulf Coast
is that up north boating pretty much shuts down
during the winter, while here, boaters just have less
of it to float in.
Thanks to the Auxiliary’s “flotilla finder”, I was able
to hook up with Crystal River’s 15-01, an experienced group of boaters who have mastered the basics and moved on to additional missions for Team
Coast Guard. One mission common to other districts/divisions is watch standing at stations like the
one at Yankeetown on the northern edge of our A O
R. Because of many years of service, a good working relationship has developed between local flotillas and the station’s C O. Since it’s convenient for
station boats to put in on the Crystal River, 15-01 is
frequently deployed to help out as the boat in disPage 4
tress for training operations.
Red tide sampling is another extension of the
flotilla’s “can do” attitude. The commercial, as
well as, the sports fishing industry is alive and
well in much of Florida, but concerns for the poisoning effect of Red Tide has prompted other
agencies to conduct sampling on a regular basis. Division 15 took an early lead in assisting,
and now at least 2 flotillas sample on a regular
basis. Typically, one of our boats leaves the estuary beyond Shell Island and tracks to 5 waypoints due west to the 10 mile limit. Water is collected from the surface and bottom layers , preserved, and sent to a designated lab for testing.
Reports are then made available to participants and
the public.
Since the tragedy of September 11th, tours are no
longer given at Progress Energy’s Crystal River
Power Plant, which includes a nuclear reactor.
Since then our Flotilla includes as part of marine
safety patrols under orders, frequent runs up to the
restricted area along the coal barge canal looking
for the unusual, and occasionally coming upon recreational fishermen who have strayed within the no
boat zone. Station Yankeetown is advised at the
start and when the patrol is secured, so that the energy plant knows when we are out there.
Our Division is fortunate to have a mobile display
available for boating occasions away from the water. This information booth provides safety information and recruiting materials for the Coast Guard
and application information for the Coast Guard
Academy. This year, as a part of Safe Boating
Week, it will be set up at a cooperating marina,
(Continued on page 5)
JUNE, 2010
Sweet to Salt Water
(Continued from page 4)
where 15-01 will offer “About Boating Safety” to slip
holders and the boating public. This one stop shopping approach will also allow for Vessel Safety
Checks upon request.
There is a healthy movement growing in the Auxiliary that invites division flotillas to share expertise and
resources for the common good of the cause –
boating safety. Monthly dinners alone do not support the fellowship leg of the Auxiliary’s mission.
Our unit benefits from instructors and a Q E from
other units and, in turn due to our central location,
hosts training and other events at the flotilla building
located on 5th Street in Crystal River. Monthly meetings are on the first Monday and begin at 1830
hours.
The Crystal River Radio is up and listening for most
safety patrols and can be activated to help in search
and rescue missions. Our state of the art electronics
allow for the watch stander to track our operational
facilities and to draw a fix on a vessel in distress.
Red Baron drills have been run in the past using the
aircraft of the neighboring flotilla at Homosassa.
With aerial surveillance the large area of Gulf water
can be flown over more quickly than surface rescuers, who are then directed to the boat in trouble.
With a shout out to my auxie buddies back in the 8 th
Eastern, I’m thankful for the training they shared
with me which is now being put to good use here in
the 7th.
Semper Paratus!
Florida Building
Page 5
The “Zero One”
Ready for a patrol.
Crystal River radio
(See page 7 for additional photos)
JUNE, 2010
http://www.cgauxa.org/nacon/
RECOGNITION
INFORMATIONAL
FRIENDSHIPS
Page 6
JUNE, 2010
Sweet to Salt Water (Continued from page 5)
Left: Red Tide Sampling.
Right: Before transferring
from 8th Eastern, FC Lewis
lead a survey team to record
assets along the Ohio for
MSU Peducah.
Below: Private Aid to Navigation (PATON) being replaced.
First Page: Sunset on the
Crystal River.
Page 7
JUNE, 2010
In 1609, Captain Henry Hudson arrived in New York
Harbor on his triple-masted vessel Half Moon with a
crew of not more than 20 English and Dutch sailors.
Four hundred years later, New York celebrated its
Dutch roots in the anniversary year with numerous
events up and down the Hudson River. A replica of
the vessel Half Moon was launched in 1989 and serves
as part of a living history museum. The replica was
one of the vessels participating in the numerous anniversary celebrations.
Also participating, was a fleet of historic Dutch flat
bottom vessels that departed the Dutch port of Harlingen on August 18, 2009 and were transported across
the Atlantic on a Dutch freighter to participate in the
anniversary celebrations. The boats consisted of lowslung skutsjes, fishing boats and barges and participated in sailing races and served as educational information for the public.
The flat bottom boats sailed to Governors Island on
September 10, 2009. Governors Island is located in
New York Harbor approximately one-half mile from
Battery Park in lower Manhattan. In 1966 the Island
was transferred to the Coast Guard. This was the
Coast Guard’s largest installation, serving both as a
self-contained residential community, with an onIsland population of approximately 3,500, and as a
base of operations for the Atlantic Area Command and
Page 8
Maintenance and Logistics Command as well as the
Captain of the Port of New York. In 1995, the Coast
Guard closed its facilities on Governors Island and, as
of September 1996, all residential personnel were relocated. President Clinton designated 22 acres of the
Island, including the two forts, as the Governors Island National Monument in January 2001. Shortly
thereafter, the United States of America sold Governors Island to the people of New York for a nominal
cost, with the stipulation that the Island would be used
for public benefit.
I was very fortunate to serve as crew member aboard
the Amigo IV during an Auxiliary patrol that escorted
the vessels on the last leg of their journey from the
Throgs Neck Bridge through the East River to their
berthing place at Governors Island. Also aboard that
day were coxswain Peter Talamo and crew member
Bert Pence from Flotilla 12-01 and crew members
Lorrie Bier and Hope Wright from Flotilla 12-05.
Amigo IV is a 38’ Saber Express owned by Dan Paul
of Flotilla 12-01 who, unfortunately, was unable to
make it that day.
Our mission was to ensure safe passage for the Dutch
fleet and to maintain a lookout for ferries, boats and
barges that might present navigational hazards. Commercial boat traffic in New York Harbor and the East
River is quite extensive and one must keep a sharp
(Continued on page 9)
JUNE, 2010
(Continued from page 8)
lookout when transiting through these waterways.
We departed from the World’s Fair Marina in Flushing, NY and headed east towards the Throgs Neck
Bridge to await the arrival of the Dutch fleet as they
proceeded westward through Long Island Sound.
Even though it was late summer it was a chilly, blustery day. Today’s modern clothing fabrics and Amigo
IV’s amenities made it a fairly comfortable trip. One
could not help but imagine the hardships the original
sailors endured during their long journey across the
Atlantic in search of a Northwest Passage and a shorter route to China.
Prior to the arrival of the fleet we encountered a lone
sailboarder crossing from the Long Island side towards the SUNY Maritime College located at the foot
of the Throgs Neck Bridge on the Bronx side. He was
battling the wind and the waves so we approached and
asked if he needed assistance. He told us he was fine
and declined our assistance so we kept a watchful eye
on him until he neared the shoreline by the college.
The first two boats appearing on the east side of the
Throgs Neck Bridge.
CG Vessel 41484 en route from Coast Guard Station
Kings Point.
Lorrie Bier keeping a lookout on the lone sailboarder
as he approaches the SUNY Maritime College vessel.
After about an hour we saw the lead boat approaching
in the distance. We watched in awe as the boats
rounded the point and passed under the bridge where
Amigo IV’s escort began.
BM2 Arrington and MK3 Anderson aboard CG 41484
approached Amigo IV to discuss plans for the escort.
(Continued on page 10)
Page 9
JUNE, 2010
(Continued from page 9)
Many things have changed in the four hundred years
since Henry Hudson first sailed through the river now
bearing his name. The port of New York has seen the
influx of countless immigrants passing through Castle
Garden and Ellis Island. Famous sights visible from
the riverfront are lower Manhattan; the Statue of Liberty; the Verrazano, Brooklyn, and George Washington bridges; Governors Island; the Intrepid; and the
list goes on and on. I am certain that Henry Hudson
could never have imagined that the river he once
sailed upon would become such an important part of
history and an integral part of the nation that would
eventually come to be called the United States of
America.
The old and the new: A Dutch vessel making its way to
Governors Island while the Staten Island Ferry departs
from Manhattan’s South Street terminal in the background.
The anniversary event was an extensive effort spanning many months with events in various locations
along the Hudson River. It utilized our Team Coordination Training (TCT) for multiple agency activities
that included the state of New York and the city of
Amsterdam, Netherlands. The Coast Guard Meritorious Team Commendation Citation for the final events
in the lower Hudson River states:
“For exceptionally meritorious service from 2 September to 20
September 2009 while serving on the United States Coast Guard
Auxiliary, First District Southern Region 2009 Henry Hudson
400th Anniversary Support Team. The vast amount of detail involved in planning and managing this event could not have been
accomplished without the dedicated professionalism of this team.
The Herculean effort applied to the planning, coordination and
operational support for this event is to a great measure responsible for its resounding success. An intensive multi-year planning
cycle that generated 60 plus pages of ICS command and control
instructions was undertaken and carried out with the help of a
great many dedicated Auxiliarists. The true meaning of team
effort was evidenced by sixteen D1SR divisions participating including 56 flotillas and 155 Auxiliarists volunteering more than
600 hours to this highly charged, international event. The shepherding of 20 visiting Dutch flat bottom boats during this high
security evolution that stretched from NY harbor to the upper
Hudson and included POTUS, Dutch royalty and the US &
Dutch Navy drew rave reviews from the Coast Guard and all
involved. The team displayed skill sets which insured that the
administrative, logistical and operational aspects of the support
mission were seamlessly and flawlessly executed. As a result of
this team’s efforts the event was a key accomplishment for the
Auxiliarists of First District Southern Region for 2009. The dedication, pride and professionalism displayed by the United States
Coast Guard Auxiliary, First District Southern Region Henry
Hudson 400th Anniversary Support Team are in keeping with the
highest traditions of the United States Coast Guard and the United States Coast Guard Auxiliary.”
FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:
Dutch Barges: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dutch_barge
Henry Hudson and the Anniversary Celebration:
http://www.henryhudson400.com/hh400_story.php
Half Moon and Hudson River Maritime Museum:
http://www.hrmm.org/halfmoon/1609moon.htm
Governors Island:
http://www.nps.gov/gois/index.htm
http://www.govisland.com/visit_the_island/default.asp
Article and photos by Carol Maccio, FC 1SR, 014-01-07.
Amigo IV in the foreground watching as the
Dutch vessels enter Governors Island dock.
Page 10
Photo of Half Moon taken June 10, 2009 courtesy of Peter
Talamo.
JUNE, 2010
Educating the Crew for an Emergency
By Bob Adriance
What’s the Point of Having
Safety Gear Aboard if
No One Knows Where it is or How to Use it?
***********
Early one July morning on Massachusetts’ Cape Cod Bay, Bill
Fihlman and his crew were fishing from his 20-foot center console
when Fihlman heard a single beep that seemed to have come from
the boat’s 200-hp outboard. Thinking it was nothing important, he
ignored it until a few minutes later when he heard a second beep. He
put down his fishing rod and was checking the engine temperature
gauges when he heard a third beep that was immediately followed by
a high-pitched alarm. He smelled burning wires and looked aft to
see a wisp of smoke coming from the engine.
Fihlman shut off the ignition and asked one of his crew to hand him
a fire extinguisher. He pulled off the engine cover (a mistake), and
saw more smoke – much more smoke – and flames. A few seconds
later, the crew who was searching for the extinguisher finally asked
where it was. Fihlman told him it was mounted to the port side of
the center console. More time passed. The crew was having trouble
finding the extinguisher because it was covered by the console’s
canvas enclosure.
Page 11
The fire extinguisher, when it was finally located, failed to put out
the fire – it knocked down the flames but they shot up again a few
seconds later. Fihlman asked someone to turn off the battery switch.
More time passed before someone asked where it was. The switch
was finally located and turned off. The fire went out.
Start to finish, the ordeal had taken maybe two minutes, although
Fihlman said it “seemed like a lifetime.” He had always been careful
to check electronics and safety gear before leaving the dock, but had
assumed his crew, one of which was his grown son, knew where to
locate obvious safety equipment like fire extinguishers and the
battery switch. After all, it was a completely open 20-foot boat.
Fihlman’s advice to readers: “Don’t assume anything! Give a
briefing to all passengers before embarking, regardless of their
experience.”
(Continued on page 12)
JUNE, 2010
Educating the Crew for an Emergency
Briefing the Crew
Before leaving the dock, spend a few minutes with your guests to make sure they at least know the basics of
onboard safety equipment. Don’t assume anything. When Bill Fihlman’s boat caught fire, the crew was only a
few feet away and he was available to give instructions and answer questions. That’s not always the case; if the
captain (you) were to fall overboard or become incapacitated, the crew would have to locate emergency equipment and make decisions based solely on whatever instructions you had given them prior to departure.
The list below includes basic safety equipment your crew should be familiar with. Note that for anyone coming
aboard who is new to boating, you might also emphasize that the equipment below – flares, fire extinguishers,
life jackets, etc. – are not likely to be necessary. Boating is supposed to be fun; no use scaring anybody.
(Continued from page 11)
Life Jackets
Show guests where they’re stored, and make sure
everyone knows how to put them on. Many people,
for example, will try to put their feet through the
armholes.
Fire Extinguishers
These should be out in the open and near areas –
engine, galley – where fires are most likely to occur.
Take a minute to explain how they work and which
types of fires the extinguishers are meant to be used
on. Point out fire port locations, if any.
Engine and Fuel Shutoffs
Especially on sailboats, it’s not always obvious how to
shut off the engine; it may involve opening a hatch
and pulling out a kill knob.
Not all boats have a fuel shutoff, but if one is
available, it should also be pointed out to the crew.
VHF
Take a few minutes – as much time as necessary – to
acquaint people with the operation of a VHF,
including emergency and DSC modes if available. A
brief explanation of when to use mayday (“grave or
imminent danger”) and pan-pan (“very urgent
message”) is also advisable.
Battery Switch
Aside from its location and how it works, you might
want to warn people not to flip the switch in a nonemergency; with some switches it could wreck the
alternator if the engine were running.
Charts
Someone is new to boating, there won’t be time to
explain all the nuances of using a chart. At the very
least, indicate which charts you’ll be using, where
you’re planning to go and the route you’ll be taking.
GPS and Loran
If electronics are available, crew should know the
basics of operation and how to get a lat/lon position.
Page 12
True story: In response to a request for his position
from the Coast Guard, a panicky passenger on a boat
on Long Island Sound responded that they were “OUT
AT SEA, YOU *&(@%#* FOOL!” Not much help.
Man Overboard Gear, including EPIRBs
Again, it’s not just where the MOB gear is located
that’s important, but also a brief explanation of how
and when to use it.
First
First--Aid Kit
These can range from basic first aid – band-aids,
sunscreen, gauze, and burn ointment – to kits that are
practically a portable clinic. Most kits are bare-bones
basic, however, and you would do well to tell guests
what types of emergencies can and can’t be addressed
by the kit.
Thru
Thru--hull Location/Operation
This is useful for everyone aboard to know when
you’re at the helm and water mysteriously starts rising
over the floorboards.
Bilge Pump
Make note of the bilge pump switch, if there is one,
the pump’s location (in case it gets clogged) and also
the location of any other pumps, including buckets,
that are onboard.
Flashlight
It may come in handy if you need to find any of the
other stuff at night.
***********
Bob Adriance is the author of
Seaworthy, Essential Lessons from
BoatU.S.’s 20-Year Case File of Things
Gone Wrong.
Click Here for a free insurance quote
from BoatU.S.!
JUNE, 2010
COAST GUARD BOAT BOARDED
Article and photos by Brian McArdle, BC -IACS;
International Affairs -Branch Chief Caribbean
Support, U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary
www.cgauxinternational.org
“ Daddy, Daddy, those men in the blue
uniforms said I could go on the big
orange boat over there. Can I? Can I?
Please!!!! “
Samantha McMahon at the helm
Thus began the often heard pre-boarding warning heard all
evening at Kilmarnock’s First Friday Walkabout. Each
month, the Lancaster by the Bay Chamber sponsors a
Walkabout on the First Friday of the month from May
through October in the Steptoes District of Kilmarnock,
Virginia. Vendors offer items for sale, businesses conduct
open houses, contests are offered, children activities are
available and a street is closed off for entertainment.
public events with them,” commented Welsh. “Flotilla 33
immediately took me up on the offer.”
“With Safe Boating Week close by, we took this
opportunity to include this event among our other National
Safe Boating Week activities,” said Wally Dawson, Coast
Guard Auxiliary Flotilla 33 Commander. “Having a Coast
Guard boat next to our booth really attracted a lot of
attention. While kids were
investigating the boat, we
were able to talk to parents
about boating safety.”
“The key was the crew that accompanied the Coast Guard
boat,” continued Hawley. “The three Petty Officers from
Station Milford Haven were excellent representatives of the
United States Coast Guard. They answered all the
questions put to them by children and adults. Their
professionalism, knowledge and conduct showed a lot of
people that did not have
previous contact with the
Coast Guard that Homeland
Security is in good hands.”
A request was submitted to
Senior Chief (BMCS)
Matthew Welsh, Officer in
Charge at Coast Guard
Station Milford Haven for
one of the station’s boats to
be available for the event.
Welsh quickly committed,
barring any emergency. “At
a recent meeting I had with
all Auxiliary Flotilla
Commanders located within
the stations Area of
Responsibility (AOR), I
mentioned that I wanted to
provide more support to the
Auxiliary by participating in
Page 13
“This was a very successful event,” said Jerry Hawley,
Flotilla Public Affairs Officer. “Not only did we distribute
our safe boating material, we had people sign up for our
ABC safe boating class and even looks like we may have a
new member.”
The event was so well
received that a boat from
Station Milford Haven has
been committed to the
August First Friday event in
recognition of National
Coast Guard Day.
Oh, by the way, what was
the most asked question?
“How fast can it go?”
TEAM COAST GUARD MEMBERS AT FIRST FRIDAY: (L TO R) Wally
Dawson, Wally Jachimski, Ed Hind, Sam Conge, Ian Duncan, Jerry
Hawley, BM2 Christopher Toner, SN Patrick Herring, MK3 James
Rankin, John Mill. Not pictured but attending also are: Frans
Kasteel, Brian McArdle, Howard Montgomery, Amy Thomas and Jim
Thomas.
JUNE, 2010
Page 14
JUNE, 2010
EVEN SAFE BOATERS ENCOUNTER HAZARDOUS BOATERS!
By Ron South, FSO-VE 3-13 8WR
After a 25 year period of boating abstinence, I decided it was
time to buy my second boat. I had always wanted to get another
one so I figured if I don’t do it at the age of 54, then I may never
do it.
After buying the boat, I enrolled in a safe boating class. I knew I
wasn’t a complete boating novice, because of prior boat
ownership; but I had no idea how much I really didn’t
know! When I learned that my boat insurance premiums would
drop by 15% with my company if I took the course, I signed
up! My initial motivating factor was the discount, and not
necessarily to learn more about boating safety. But, I actually
learned much more than I expected, and became motivated to
not only join the Coast Guard Auxiliary, but to become active
and committed!
Soon after taking the course, I was out on
the water with my prized pleasure craft, and
I soon realized that there are a lot of
careless boaters on the water. I’m sure
there are varied reasons for their
carelessness, i.e., lack of education in water
safety, excessive alcohol consumption, lack
of experience, and just plain stupidity.
I’ve made a personal observation that the
ones that seem just plain stupid often are
the ones with the nicest boats! (I refer to
these people as “having more money than
brains”!) I also quickly learned that river
boating is much different than the lake boating I did in the
past. The river is unforgiving and can be dangerous. As soon
as you let your guard down and stop respecting her power, she
will bite you. That bite can cost you monetarily, or worse, your
life. Some people just don’t think beyond the next
moment. The experience I’m about to share can serve as an
example!
I was anchored off a sand bar about 40 ft. offshore, and I met
one of those guys with more money than brains. Like most
boats my anchor is off the bow. As I learned in the boating
class, when anchoring, you should plan on 7-10 ft. of rode let
out for every foot of water depth you’re sitting in. As anyone
who has ever boated on a river knows, when dropping the
anchor, your boat will continue to drift down current setting the
anchor. Once set, you will generally be facing up river.
I was in about 10 ft. of water so I had let 70-100 ft. of rode out,
which of course was stretched out from my bow to the river
bottom at about a 45 degree angle. I was enjoying some lunch,
sunshine and a little fishing with my wife, when along came my
new “more money than brains” acquaintance.
His boat was considerably bigger than my 27 ft. Rinker, and he
decided he’d anchor in our vicinity - only closer to the sand
bar. The first thing he did was to pass me up river, by my bow
end instead of passing by me on my down river, stern end. The
current was drifting him closer and closer to me as he passed
Page 15
and I was concerned that he was going to get too close and cut
my rode with his prop. Fortunately that didn’t happen… but our
experience together was just beginning.
He anchored there for about an hour and decided it was time to
move on. He was still slightly up river from me and off of my
port side. He started to take in his anchor but he couldn’t seem
to get it loose. This is when the fun started!
He decided to put the boat in reverse and back up to pull the
anchor loose. The sand bar we were anchored off of was also
on my port side placing his boat between my boat and the
land. As he was backing up trying to free the anchor, he also
turned to pass back in front of me off my bow to get into deeper
water. Not only did he cross in front of me again, dangerously
closely, but he was also dragging his anchor
and rode over my rode as well!
By this time I was starting to get annoyed
and worried. The current was starting to
push him directly into my bow as he passed
me, so he gunned his engine in reverse to
avoid hitting my boat. This put him off of my
starboard side into deeper water. The
problem was, his anchor and rode were then
in contact with my bow and eventually got
hung up in my anchor assembly. Once his
rode became hung up in my anchor
assembly the current began to carry him into
my starboard side and so here we are, all
nice and cozy, my starboard side to his port side.
By this time, I was not only astounded and agitated by his
stupidity, but I started to wonder what kind of damage we were
going to end up with. I could also see that the other boater was
starting to get worried. He put the boat in forward gear, throttles
up and away from me; heading back up river off my bow… and
luckily his rode came free from my anchor assembly. Thank
goodness that this time he was finally able to free his anchor
and move on.
Fortunately the only damage I suffered was a couple of gel coat
burn marks on my bow from his rode but things could have
been a lot worse. In retrospect, I might have even been able to
avoid the gel coat damage by cutting his rode if I had been
thinking clearly. I always carry a rigging knife in a cup holder on
my helm for emergency times such as this (Something I learned
in my safe boating class). I should have immediately jumped
on my bow and as soon as his line came within reach of my
bow I should have cut it. He may have complained about losing
his anchor but that would have been his fault. The point is, in
an emergency it’s sometimes hard to think clearly. You just
can’t be too prepared!
I sure wish this guy had the good sense to take an Auxiliary
Safe Boating Class. I’m glad I did.
Have a safe summer.
JUNE, 2010
Coast Guard History Facts
William D. Goelz, FSO-PB 1SR 014-01-07
1898 - USRC McCulloch fought as part of the fleet under the overall
command of Commodore George Dewey, USN, at the Battle of Manila Bay
during the Spanish-American War. President John McKinley later
recommended that her commanding officer, Revenue Captain Daniel B.
Hodgson, be retired at full pay as reward of merit for "efficient and
meritorious services." A joint resolution of Congress was so approved on 3
May 1900.
1921 -The first radio fog signals in the United States were placed in commission on Ambrose Lightship, Fire Island
Lightship, and Sea Girt Light Station, New Jersey.
1882 - An Act of Congress (22 Stat. L., 55, 58), in an attempt to protect the Lifesaving Service from the evils of the "spoils
System," declared that "the appointments of District superintendents, inspectors, and keepers and crews of life-saving
stations shall be made solely with reference to their fitness and without reference to their political or party affiliations."
1942 - The Chief of Naval Operations, ADM Ernest J. King, ordered the Coast Guard Auxiliary to organize into a antisubmarine patrol force, which becomes known as the "Corsair Fleet" for service along the east coast. The Corsair Fleet
was made up primarily of private yachts, crewed by their owners, and converted for ASW use.
1796 - Congress increased the monthly compensation of Revenue Marine officers: masters $50; first mates $35; second
mates $30; third mates $25 and mariners $20.
Page 16
JUNE, 2010
Your membership in the Auxiliary allows you to take advantage of this high benefit card as well as
other benefits in being a member of the Pentagon Federal Credit Union.
About Pentagon Federal Credit Union
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More than $14 Billion in assets
Full range of financial services
Superior rates, proven service
Top Rates & Offers
*
Coast Guard Auxiliary Association Visa Platinum Cash Rewards
Members of the Coast Guard Auxiliary Association are eligible to apply for an
exclusive Coast Guard Auxiliary Association credit card. Support your Coast Guard
Auxiliary Association while reaping these rewards:
5.00% Cash Back on Gas Paid at the Pump
2.00% Cash Back Paid Monthly on Supermarket Purchases
1.00% Monthly Cash Rewards on all Other Purchases
0.25% Goes towards your Coast Guard Auxiliary Association to support USCG
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Have you applied for yours yet?

Offer subject to change at any time. Additional terms and disclosures
https://www.penfed.org/productsAndRates/overview.asp
Page 17
JUNE, 2010
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JUNE, 2010
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JUNE, 2010
J.W. Marriott Camelback Inn Resort & Spa
August 26 – August 29
Page 20
JUNE, 2010
http://www.cgauxa.org/nacon/
Be There!
Page 21
JUNE, 2010
USCGAUX - America’s Volunteer Guardians
eBeacon
“America’s Volunteer Guardians.”
We want to hear about it!
eBeacon
Editor’s note: We reserve the right to edit for clarity and brevity.
Page 22
JUNE, 2010
OFFICIAL USCG AUXILIARY T-SHIRT AVAILABLE

The Auxiliary Center now offers the authorized T-Shirt that conforms with the Coast Guard
specifications in the Auxiliary Manual.

It may be worn with the ODU uniform as well as the Hot Weather Uniform.
To order:

You may order it through your District Staff Officer for Materials (DSO-MA)
OR

Page 23
Go to the Online District Materials Store site through www.ShopAuxiliary.com.
JUNE, 2010
SHOP ONLINE --www.ShopAuxiliary.com -- Click on District Materials Store
Aux Logo: Luggage Tag (embroidered)
SKU: 81429
USCG Auxiliary Logo - embroidered
Our Price: $3.05
Aux Logo: Umbrella
SKU: 81452
Blue/White, 42" arc, 15" Length closed, with
Auxiliary Logo
Our Price: $11.75
DHS Logo/AUX Logo Windchime
SKU: 81444
Our Price: $40.20
Page 24
JUNE, 2010
SHOP ONLINE --www.ShopAuxiliary.com -- Click on District Materials Store
Aux Logo: Garment Bag
SKU: 81305
Garment Bag
With embroidered Auxiliary logo
Black
Our Price: $37.55
Aux Logo: Duffel Bag
SKU: 81306
Duffel Bag
With embroidered Auxiliary logo
Black
Our Price: $26.80
Auxiliary Ball Cap Standard (Plain bill)
SKU: 60481
Our Price: $12.60
Page 25
JUNE, 2010