Announcements Archive

August 2008 Commandant Report (Posted 01SEP2008)

Letter to the Membership on Hurricane Gustav [PDF version]

(Posted 01SEP08)

1st Quarter 2008 Commandant Report (Posted 18MAY2008)

This quarterly brief presents two topics in the Projects and Critical Issues categories that either require added attention and emphasis or are tracking on course at this time. The first item Coast Guard Auxiliary modernization was discussed in the most recent flag conference. The second item addresses the longer term Auxiliary Information Systems requirements. Following the discussion of critical issues is a section on Accomplishments and Initiatives that draws items of interest from activities in experienced by field units. Finally, The Course Ahead outlines the directions and efforts of the National Staff Directorates.

NACO report to the Commandant, February 2008 (Posted 28FEB08)

This month's Report to the Commandant highlights Auxiliary events and people during the Month of February, 2008.

NACO announces new NADCO-RBS, DC-A (Posted 06JAN08)
The National Commodore takes pride in announcing the appointment of Mr. Ed Sweeney as National Directorate Commodore for Recreational Boating Safety (NADCO-RBS), effective immediately. Sweeney previously served as the Department Chief for Public Affairs leading the public affairs initiative for the US Coast Guard Auxiliary through out the country since November 2006. Ed also has extensive RBS experience; he is a qualified Vessel Examiner, RBS Program Visitor, and Instructor, and has earned the new RBS device. He also has extensive experience working with our RBS partners and has received numerous awards from the Coast Guard Auxiliary and the RBS community.

In addition, Mr. Robert Nelson is appointed as Department Chief, Public Affairs (DC-A). Nelson has extensive experience in the department most recently as deputy to the Department Chief. Nelson started his Public Affairs career as an FSO-PA and served in all leadership positions at district and at National up to current appointment as Department Chief.

NACO’s Holiday Message (Posted 12DEC07)

This Holiday season we gather with our friends and family to share good wishes and celebrate the significance of this special time of year. The friendships we have developed take on added meaning during the holidays, and it is a pleasure to send cards and gifts to those who hold a special place in our lives. It is also a time to pause and remember the men and women of our armed forces who are away from their families as they serve in defense of our nation. Please keep them in your thoughts and prayers for a safe return home.

Thank you for the time and effort you give to our Coast Guard and for being part of this wonderful family we call the Coast Guard Auxiliary. Your efforts and dedication carry the spirit of this holiday season all throughout the year.

We volunteer to serve in the Coast Guard Auxiliary for many different reasons; ultimately, we derive the satisfaction of a job well done as we serve our fellow citizens on the water, in the air, in the classrooms, on the docks, and even in cyberspace. We enjoy the unique challenges of recruiting, mentoring and fellowship with the finest volunteers in America.

The success and challenges of this year are behind us, and while I pause to be thankful for all that has been provided to us, I am ever mindful of the wonderful opportunity the new year brings. This week the annual Coast Guard Ball in Washington DC is in honor of the volunteers of the US Coast Guard Auxiliary. This prestigious event in our Nation’s Capital brings a fantastic focus to the incredible contribution our Auxiliarists make to the safety and security of America’s, ports and waterways.

My wife Mary Kay and I extend our Aloha and most heartfelt wishes to you and your family for a safe and happy holiday.

Steve Budar
National Commodore
 

PDF Version

The National Commodore requests nominations for the Charles S. Greenoff Inspirational Leadership Award (Posted 08OCT07)

The Charles S. Greanoff Inspirational Leadership Award recognizes the most exemplary performance by a Flotilla Commander during the previous calendar year. Only those Flotilla Commanders who demonstrated sustained, exceptional standards of proficiency and conduct, and whose appearance and bearing were consistently impeccable, shall be considered for nomination. This award parallels the other Coast Guard Inspirational Leadership Awards: Captain John G. Whitherspoon Inspirational Leadership Award for Active Duty and Reserve Officers, the George R. Putnam Inspirational Leadership Award for Civilians, and the MCPO Angela M. McShan Inspirational Leadership Award for Active Duty or Reserve Chief Petty Officers (E-7). The recipient’s tenure shall extend from 1 January to 31 December of the year selected.

Nomination packages must originate at the Flotilla level and can be submitted by any member directly to the Division Captain. The package should be forwarded electronically. Packages should adhere to the minimum requirements prescribed by the sample format in the Appendix. The Division Captain must submit the Division's selection to the District Commodore by 1 November.


A full discussion of the award criteria and submission procedure follows.

Eligibility Criteria

Nominees for this Auxiliary Leadership Award must meet the following criteria:

• Serve as incumbent Flotilla Commander at the time of the solicitation for the award (September).
• Be a member in good standing of the Auxiliary at the time of selection (November) and presentation of the award (February).
• Regularly demonstrate unwavering leadership prowess, including the ability to gain genuine commitment from all levels of the organization.
• Exemplify the Coast Guard core values of "Honor, Respect, and Devotion to Duty."
• Demonstrate sincere interest and concern for others and their success in the Coast Guard Auxiliary.
• Display a keen sense of ethical conduct and exhibit a high degree of personal integrity.
• Earn the high esteem and admiration of others.
• Foster the spirit and intent of diversity.
• Motivate others to excel in mission performance.
• Be a positive role model and mentor.
• Project professional uniform appearance and bearing.
• Other related contributions, achievements, and awards should be included for consideration.

GREENOFF INSPIRATIONAL AWARD:

a. Nomination packages must originate at the Flotilla level and can be submitted by any member directly to the Division Captain. The package should be forwarded electronically. Packages should adhere to the minimum requirements prescribed by the sample format in the Appendix. The Division Captain must submit the Division's selection to the District Commodore by 1 November.

b. The district/regional EXCOM must validate all nomination packages and determine which nomination to forward. The DCO shall endorse and forward only one Leadership Award nomination from the district/region to the respective ARCO by 1 December.

c. Upon review of all packages, each ARCO shall endorse and forward only one nomination for the area to NACO and NAVCO for review by 1 January.

d. NACO shall submit the three nomination packages to CG-542 by 10 January.

e. CG-542 shall review and forward the three nomination packages to CG-133 by 15 January.

f. The Coast Guard shall convene a selection committee consisting of one O6 (Captain), one E9 (Master Chief), one Civilian and one Auxiliary Commodore. The final nominee will be selected in February.

Recognition

The recipient of the Inspirational Leadership Award shall receive the following recognition:

Announcement of award by ALCOAST and ALAUX message.

Award presentation will take place at a ceremony in Washington, DC during the Commandant's State of the Coast Guard address (February), in conjunction with the Whitherspoon, McShan and Putnam Inspirational Leadership Awards. A trophy will be presented.

Travel, lodging and per diem expenses for the recipient and guest will be covered by orders which shall be issued by G-133.

Recommendation for the Auxiliary Commendation Medal to be submitted by NAVCO.

An article and photo will be published in the Coast Guard’s Leadership News and The Navigator.

The Greanoff Inspirational Leadership Award recipient may be requested, with NACO concurrence, to represent the Auxiliary at other official functions and ceremonies during their tenure.

Background on Commodore Charles S. Greanoff:

Mr. Greanoff first became affiliated with the Coast Guard in 1943. He was released from the Army that year under the Sullivan Act, and immediately signed up with the U.S. Coast Guard Temporary Reserve and the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary (both entities were one in the same at that time) on August 23rd, 1943. He became part of District 9 Flotilla 7-03, a port security unit responsible for protecting the Port of Cleveland, the Cuyahoga River and the city's bridges. After the war Mr. Greanoff continued his active participation in the new Coast Guard Auxiliary and soon became Flotilla Commander in 1950. He quickly rose through the ranks of the Auxiliary; first holding the position of Division Captain in 1953, Ninth District Commodore in 1956-57 and achieving the Auxiliary's highest position of National Commodore in 1958-59. As National Commodore, Mr. Greanoff traveled the country to support the new missions of the Coast Guard Auxiliary and even testified before Congress on the importance of boating safety regulation. He was instrumental in shaping the Auxiliary into the effective organization it is today. During the next three decades COMO Greanoff continued to accrue thousands of hours of support each year for all the Coast Guard's missions as an active member of the Auxiliary. Commodore Greanoff's affiliation with his most recent duties first began in 1991 with his appointment as assistant to the Ninth CG District Family Programs Administrator. He was a key player in the establishment of the fledgling Work Life program development in D9. In March of 1993 COMO Greanoff was appointed the Ninth District Ombudsman Coordinator, the first Ombudsman Coordinator position created in the Coast Guard, and he continued in that role until 2005. During the last ten years of service as the Ninth District Ombudsman Coordinator Mr. Greanoff trained over 150 district ombudsmen at more than fifty units around the Great Lakes providing guidance, training and support to these important volunteers. COMO Greanoff's spirit of leadership epitomizes the criteria established for the Auxiliary Inspirational Leadership Award, through his 63 years of sustained service, based on the core values of Honor, Respect and Devotion to Duty, and dedicated to the members of the Coast Guard Auxiliary, the Coast Guard and the nation. Past National Commodore Greanoff currently resides in Lakewood, Ohio.



Appendix

Greanoff Inspirational Leadership Award
Nomination Package Format

Date

From: District Commodore

To: NAVCO, Chairman, COMO Charles S. Greanoff Inspirational Leadership Award Selection Committee
Thru: Area Commodore

Subj: COMMODORE CHARLES S. GREANOFF INSPIRATIONAL LEADERSHIP AWARD NOMINATION

Ref: (a) The Coast Guard Auxiliary Manual, COMDTINST M16790.1 series, ch.11

- Nominations shall not exceed three typed pages.
- They must be in MS Word format.
- Include two digital color photos (.jpg); one photo to be full length wearing Tropical Blue Long uniform with combination cap or Auxiliary Blue Blazer outfit with no hat, and one photo to be head and shoulder without combination cap (similar to Auxiliary ID photo).
- Nomination packages shall be submitted via email with this document and both .jpg photos as attachments. An on-line form will be available on the Forms page of the Auxiliary website.

1. The following background information is provided per reference (a):

a. Name: James R. Jones, EMPLID 1234567
b. Unit: XXX-XX-XX
c. Date of enrollment: YY MMM DD
d. Name of spouse and/or children (if applicable)
e. Offices attained: Example
FSO-MT YY MMM DD to YY MMM DD
FC YY MMM DD to YY MMM DD
National Staff BA-XXX YY-MM-DD to present

2. Special projects (describe):

Example: Coordinated a Flotilla Safe Boating Day at the Community Festival
Organized members to host a holiday party for the local CG Station

3. Previous recognition during Auxiliary membership (describe):

Example: Flotilla Auxiliarist of the Year - 2005
Runner up – Division Auxiliarist of the Year - 2005
Letter of Appreciation

4. List and describe any personal Auxiliary awards:

Example:
Auxiliary Commandant Letter of Commendation (2)
Auxiliary Golden Web Award

5. Brief synopsis of significant professional and personal achievements that support nominee's selection:

Example:
Leadership and Management School
Coxswain qualified
Professional Development (career or community related)

6. Narrative of the nominee's outstanding achievements based on specific facts and examples, which clearly show that they were exceptional in accordance with nomination criteria.

Example: Specific examples and supporting information on how the nominee exemplifies the criteria for this leadership award. Nominations should focus on proactive leadership acts that benefit the greater good of the members, flotilla, division, and community, and less on the day-to-day routine activities and management of flotilla activities and resources. Units should consider the prestigious nature of this award and the prospect of the nominee's participation in high visibility initiatives.

7. Community Service:

Community service may address what the Auxiliarist has done for everyone they came into contact with through the Auxiliary, local Coast Guard units, and other organizations.

8. Required Photos.
 

August 2007 Report to the Commandant (15SEP07)

The August 2007 NACO report to the Commandant has been added

to the Coast Guard reports page and can be accessed directly here.

Reports to the Commandant (04SEP07)

The recent monthly reports to the Commandant have been added to the Coast Guard reports page.

Crossing the Bar (09APR07)

The National Commodore announces with regret the death of Commodore Charles S. Greanoff, Past District Commodore – D9E , Past National Commodore 1958-59. Read COMO Greanoff's obituary in the Cleveland Plain Dealer, paying tribute to his life of service. See this notice for information on condolences and remembrances.

Coast Guard Mutual Assistance Campaign (16MAR07)

“Helping Each Other” is this year’s Coast Guard Mutual Assistance Campaign theme. COMO Joe Lanz Auxiliary chairman, explains what the program does for members of Coast Guard Forces. Please take a moment and see how you can be a part of this worthy program that supports Auxiliarists and all members of the Coast Guard family in financial need.  Read the letter

UPDATE! National Awards list available (31JAN07)

Auxiliary leaders and members, as we near the end of 2006 this is an excellent time to review the progress and accomplishments of the year and recognize those members who have contributed to your Flotilla, Division or District success. A list of National Auxiliary Awards established by the National Board and/or Coast Guard Auxiliary authority other than the National Board (e.g. NEXCOM, NACO) has been prepared. Please review the list to determine which awards of these awards your unit or individual members of your unit may be qualified to receive. Please remember that there is also a full range of Auxiliary and Coast Guard awards detailed in the Auxiliary Manual, Chapter 11 - Auxiliary Recognition/Awards. The awards in the Auxiliary Manual and this list represent great opportunities to recognize unit and individual excellence – such recognition is one our key tools to recruit and retain an effective membership.

NACO’s Holiday Message (18DEC06)

The holiday season is a special time for us to share with our family and friends, Mary Kay and I would like to offer our best wishes from our family to yours for a happy and safe holiday.

At this time of year I like to reflect back on those senior Auxiliarists who were there for me 20 something years ago when I joined the Auxiliary. These mentors helped me through the challenges and frustrations of BQ and boat crew and encouraged me to find the things that I enjoyed doing in the Auxiliary. More importantly, they gave me permission not to feel like I had to do everything, I could be satisfied doing just what I enjoyed and giving as much time as I could afford. It was good advice and kept me involved and serving all these years.

The successes and challenges of 2006 are done and behind us, it is now time to focus on the coming year and what we need to do to make it as successful as possible.

Many of us joined the US Coast Guard Auxiliary to improve our boating skills and to provide some level of service back to our community. Fortunately for us, there are a multitude of opportunities to serve and I encourage you to take full advantage of everything that interests you. Be involved, learn and teach. If you have been in the Auxiliary for a number of years you have amassed a huge amount of information and experience that makes you the perfect mentor for new members in your flotilla. Take a future Commodore under your wing and help them to develop their skills and become a better Auxiliarist.

Thank you for the time and effort you give to our Coast Guard Auxiliary.
I wish you joy, health and happiness in 2007.
 

As they say here in Hawaii, Hauoli Makahiki Hou (Happy New Year)

Steve Budar
National Commodore

PDF Version

Auxiliary Leadership Guidance Team Announcement (12DEC06)
It is my pleasure to announce the establishment of the Coast Guard Auxiliary Leadership Guidance Team (LGT).

This team will design and implement leadership development training programs for the Coast Guard Auxiliary, working in partnership with the National Department of Training. The LGT will have the responsibility to develop and manage the implementation of a fully integrated curriculum of leadership training from the FC through the DCO. Read more

Request for nominations for the New Auxiliarist of the Year Award (08DEC06)

The New Auxiliarist of the Year (NAUXOY) award recognizes the most exemplary performance by an eligible Auxiliarist during the previous calendar year. Only those Auxiliarists who demonstrated sustained, exceptional standards of proficiency and conduct, and whose appearance and bearing were consistently impeccable, shall be considered for nomination. This award parallels the awards for the Coast Guard Enlisted Person of the Year (EPOY) and the Civilian Employee of the Year (CEOY) awards. NAUXOY tenure shall extend from the date of their announcement as NAUXOY until the date of announcement of their successor. Read more...

Change of Watch:

On November 2nd 2006 Steven Budar assumed the duties of National Commodore from Gene Seibert at a ceremony at Coast Guard Headquarters.

A report on the ceremony and pictures can be found at SITREP: Coast Guard Auxiliary e-zine | NACO's Election Remarks

The following reports, news items and documents were produced under the direction of Past National Commodore Gene Seibert during his term as National Commodore.

Final log entry: A message to the members (24OCT06)

In a few short days, I will be hauling down my flag as National Commodore and recently, I have had a little more time to be reflective.  I wanted to take this opportunity to share a few thoughts with you about the Coast Guard Auxiliary. 

Read more

Quarterly Briefing to the Commandant on the state of the United States Coast Guard Auxiliary (18OCT06)

This is the final summary report to the Commandant of the Auxiliary challenges, opportunities and initiatives during National Commodore Gene M. Seibert’s 2005-2006 watch.

Simplified Reporting (09OCT06)

One of the projects I hoped to see delivered during my term as National Commodore is the Auxiliary Activity Report (AuxAR) program. This electronic reporting process will allow members to report hours into AUXDATA simply, quickly and online. I mistakenly thought implementation of this new process would be a slam-dunk. Unfortunately, I underestimated the complexity of the connection to the AUXDATA system and so we are still waiting for this ball, now circling the rim, to fall through the hoop. Here’s some background and the current status of this important project. Read more

The Auxiliary Boat Crew Program (09OCT06)

Many of you have become aware of the impending changes to the Auxiliary Boat Crew Training Program and I’d like to take this opportunity to update you on these changes.

These changes do not imply any change in the importance or priority of the Auxiliary Surface Operational Support to the US Coast Guard. Auxiliary operational support to the Coast Guard has been and will continue to be a critical component of our mission mix. These programs are absolutely vital to the Coast Guard. Read more

Auxiliary Policy Statement (13SEP06)

ADM Thad Allen, Commandant of the Coast Guard, has signed the U. S. Coast Guard Auxiliary Policy Statement. This one page document clearly outlines the Auxiliary's goals and charges the active duty and reserve components to fully engage the Auxiliary at every command level.

This policy statement firmly places the Auxiliary in Coast Guard mission planning and execution. Read more

National Commodore's NACON 2006 Remarks & Banquet Thank You Remarks (05SEP06)

Read the National Commodore's remarks at the 2006 National Conference in Dallas:

      "This is my last opportunity as National Commodore to personally report to you, the National Board of the United States Coast Guard Auxiliary. Therefore, I feel it is only fitting to pause a moment and summarize where WE collectively started 2 years ago, how far we have come and the direction we must continue to follow. I feel it is important for us to recognize that as members of the Auxiliary, we were and continue to be, participating in both revolutionary and evolutionary times, with our internal organization being affected by the many external changes in our world." Read more

Coast Guard Auxiliary Dive Program (28AUG06)

Over the past several months, questions regarding the “Coast Guard Auxiliary Dive Program” have been raised by many Auxiliarists throughout our organization. I’d like to update you on the Dive Program and provide additional information to initiate planning at the local levels

National Commodore's Letter to the Commandant on the 216th Birthday of the U.S. Coast Guard (09AUG06)

Auxiliarists Needed to Help Regional Exam Centers with Surge Operations! (01AUG06)

During my last quarterly briefing with Admiral Collins (then Commandant of the Coast Guard) and subsequently confirmed by Admiral Allen, Commandant of the Coast Guard, we have identified a critical USCG need for Auxiliary support around the new requirement that all Merchant Mariners present themselves to the Coast Guard for ID verification and fingerprinting.

Operation Life Ring (12JUN06)

As a result of the unprecedented devastation and the resulting catastrophe created by Hurricane Katrina lat year, Operation Life Ring twas launched with contributions of over $125,000 raised. June 1, 2006 marked the beginning of this year's hurricane season. I encourage your continuing support to Operation Life Ring so that we may meet the urgent needs of our members and Coast Guard families as they may arise.  Read more

National Commodore's Report to the Commandant - April 2006 (Posted 12JUN06)

National Commodore's Flag Conference Briefing - May 2006

(Posted 12JUN06)

Recruiting (27MAR06)

Our members are the lifeblood of our Auxiliary. In all of our programs, our members are the key element. Because of the quality and dedication of our membership we continue to be the premier volunteer organization in our nation. To thrive, we must continually be looking to recruit quality people. This is called recruiting and recruiting is something that each of us should count as a personal core mission. April Membership Drive Read the rest of this issue of OnCourse.

Applications Sought for Election of National Officers (17MAR06)

In accordance with the provisions of the Standing Rules of the National Board of the Unites States Coast Guard Auxiliary, the National Commodore posts the process for those who wish to be considered for NACO, NAVCO and ARCO, as well as those seeking appointment as NACOS and NADCO.

Notices: NACO, NAVCO and ARCO  | NACOS and NADCO

CAPT Dorothy Stratton's 107th Birthday: (17MAR06)

You read that right! The first Director of the SPARs (Coast Guard Women's Reserve) will celebrate her 107th birthday March 24, 2006. The Auxiliary sends birthday greetings.

2006 National Calendar (28FEB06)

The current 2006 National Executive Committee calendar has been posted.

Leaders Wanted! (09FEB06)

Do you know that a decision you will make may determine who our National Commodore will be 18 years from now?  That’s the kind of power that you have, to affect our future course.

Yes, you!

As a member of the US Coast Guard Auxiliary, you have an important vote.  Depending on the office that you hold, you may have more than one opportunity to elect tomorrow’s leaders. Read the rest of this issue of OnCourse.

VADM Allen's letter to the Auxiliary at N-Train (03FEB06)

VADM Thad Allen's schedule kept him from attending the N-Train Conference. He did, however, send this letter to be read. ADM Allen's letter concerns the Auxiliary during and following last year's Gulf Coast hurricanes where ADM Allen was the Principal Federal Official.

NACO's Remarks at NTRAIN 2006 (31JAN06)

Updated: Coast Guard Auxiliary Business Plan (25JAN06)

The Business Plan provides a strategic blueprint for the United States Coast Guard Auxiliary for the years 2006-2007. It describes to the leadership the current environment, key strategic imperatives—aligned with the published vision and mission statements and NACO watchwords and directions. This plan is a living document and will be periodically updated based upon feedback from cognizant Coast Guard authority, the National Executive Committee , and the District Commodores, progress while accomplishing the elements of the plan, and future changes in the environment. The Business Plan is properly characterized as evolutionary, rather than revolutionary. Nonetheless, the cumulative effects of implementing the plan’s features are intended to be substantial—providing clear direction, focus, and accountability for the coming years.

National Legislative Liaison Committee Website (08JAN06)

The Auxiliary National Legislative Liaison Committee, which reports to the
National Commodore, has a new website to support the Auxiliary's Legislative
Liaison Officers.

National Commodore’s Reading List 2006 (30DEC05)
“It’s Your Ship” by D. Michael Abrashoff, has been selected by the National Commodore as his 2006 “Commodore’s Choice.” 

This reading list of books is designed to offer all members of the Coast Guard Auxiliary with recommended books related to leadership. While this list is not all-inclusive, it has as its goal, to either provide a starting point or to expand existing knowledge and skills in leadership for all Auxiliarists.

The reading list is meant to provide a tool for individual leadership growth. It takes into account that responsibility for leadership development resides primarily with the individual, their unit and the Coast Guard Auxiliary as an organization.

The list is divided into four categories: (1) How To Books On Leadership; (2) Leadership Theory/Textbooks; (3) Success Stories; and (4) Motivation.
 

NACO's Report to the Commandant - October to December 2005  (16DEC05)

Read the National Commodore's December 2005 Memo to the Commandant reflecting recent Auxiliary activities.

New Offerings in Public Education! (15DEC05) 
This edition of On Course begins a series of occasional articles written by the program experts – the National Staff who develop and oversee existing and emerging new programs.

As a lead into this particular article on public education and new members, I feel it prudent to give you some background information.

As we approach 2006, the Coast Guard Auxiliary will place an extensive focus on four important and specific areas.

Read the rest of this issue of OnCourse.

NACO’s 2005 Holiday Message  (12DEC05)

The holiday season is a special time for us all, and Maria and I want to extend our best wishes for a peaceful and joyous holiday season to you and your families.

We are fortunate to be a part of an organization with rich and diverse cultural traditions. I hope you will pause during this time to reflect on the many contributions you've made this year in your service to the Coast Guard and our country. I commend your dedication to our mission, the sacrifices you make everyday, and your willingness to invest the effort necessary to make a difference. I am also grateful for the many accomplishments you achieve that help sustain the Coast Guard Auxiliary.

Each of you makes a difference and that makes each of you a special member of a remarkable family. I urge you to rededicate yourself, in this season of reflection, celebration, and fellowship, to our noble service.
The New Year promises many new challenges and opportunities for the Coast Guard Auxiliary, and I look forward to exploring them with you. I hope you will share my resolution for the coming year to make our organization an inviting, hospitable environment that welcomes all and fulfills all of our most ambitious aspirations.

Yet again, I thank you for all your efforts in the past year, and I also express my sincere gratitude to your loved ones for their support of your dedication to serve others.

Warmest wishes for a joyous holiday season and a happy New Year.

COMO Gene M. Seibert
National Commodore
U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary

NACO’s Thanksgiving Wishes to the Membership of the Coast Guard Auxiliary (21NOV05)

I’d like to take this opportunity on behalf of Maria and myself to wish all of you and your loved ones a Thanksgiving overflowing with happiness and warm wishes.

This has been a year filled with events that make many of us feel very thankful just to be alive. Thanksgiving is about togetherness, love and sharing, and giving thanks for our blessings. As we strengthen the ties that bind our loved ones and us together, I give thanks for your unselfish contributions and dedication to our organization, the Coast Guard and our Country.
 

Happy Thanksgiving
Gene M. Seibert
COMO Gene M. Seibert
National Commodore
U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary

District Standardized Standing Rules (16NOV05)

These standing rules for Auxiliary Districts were approved at NACON 2005

Commandant Flag Conference Briefing on the Auxiliary (11NOV05) 
Presented to the Coast Guard flag officers in earlier this month, this briefing updates the Coast Guard on the State of the Auxiliary since their last briefing in the summer. As you will note, it stresses to the Coast Guard the importance of mission blending and balance, as well as the importance of Recreational Boating Safety. Likewise, it calls for their support and involvement in the overall planning process, identifying expectations and gaps. (The brief consists of a presentation [PowerPoint version] [PDF version] and a remarks document)
 

New section launched: NACO's reports to the Coast Guard (18OCT05) 

The National Commodore reports regularly to the Commandant of the Coast Guard on the status of Auxiliary programs and the accomplishments of our members.

National Commodore's remarks at NACON 2005 (18OCT05) 

The “Winds of change” is this year’s conference theme, and I feel it is an appropriate theme for the Auxiliary’s at present; for the events of the past few years have caused and will continue to cause changes in our world view, in our operating environment, in our requirements and qualifications for membership, and many of our day-to-day activities. However, I hasten to add that many things will not change; most importantly our continuing commitment to the core values of the Coast Guard and Coast Guard Auxiliary and our commitment to Recreational Boating Safety. Furthermore, what will not change over the next few years is our conscious efforts to balance our missions of Recreational Boating Safety and Coast Guard Support with Maritime Homeland Security. Read the full remarks in pdf.

National Commodore's remarks  at the District 8ER Conference (18OCT05) 

OPERATION LIFE RING

September 8, 2005

Dear Fellow Auxiliarists,

I am sure you are aware of the devastating catastrophe resulting from Hurricane Katrina throughout the Gulf Coast area of Mississippi, Alabama and Louisiana. We see the heroic efforts of many members of our Coast Guard family, many performing valiantly despite the serious personal impacts upon themselves and their families.

Our Auxiliarists as well as the active duty, reserve and Coast Guard civilian employees within the area are dramatically impacted by their own personal devastation to their own homes and personal property. They are displaced and are in critical need of our assistance to help them sustain themselves and their families then begin the rebuilding of their lives. They need our full support at this time more than ever. 

Read the rest of the National Commodore's message

Link to the Operation Life Ring Announcement

Link to Operation life Ring Donations Site

National Commodore's message on changes to the Career Counselor program  (08SEPT05) 

NACO’s Second Report on Strategic Business Plan’s Tasks and Milestones for the Second 100 Days  (02AUG05) 

As you are aware, the Coast Guard Auxiliary Strategic Business Plan provided a list of the key tasks (and associated schedule) necessary for the successful implementation of the plan.

As with any useful plan, the Auxiliary's Business Plan is evolutionary and to be successful, it must not become "shelf-ware." Rather, it has to be dynamic and continually changing, so as to meet the current and ever evolving challenges facing the Coast Guard Auxiliary's transformation.

This is my report on the defined tasks and milestones for the second 100 days of our Business Plan (listed below). Many of these tasks and milestones in themselves have evolved from the time they were first listed in the plan. They are persistently being worked so as not to become stagnate but rather to adapt to the change around us.

Therefore, as you review or compare this second set of tasks and milestones, please be aware that some have been deleted, changed, expanded, etc. in our attempt to remain dynamic and to address the evolving challenges facing the Coast Guard Auxiliary.

Likewise you will see some of the major accomplishments during this second 100 day period, as well as a set of tasks and milestones for the next 100 days. Read the rest of the National Commodore's report.

On Course: Fuel Budgets  (02AUG05) 

Recently, many District Commodores have informed me that the fuel shortage is becoming a major concern and that fuel shortages are impacting their districts.  Some have asked how our fuel budget works and they want to know what we are doing to safeguard the fuel funds allocated to the Coast Guard Auxiliary.

Since 9/11 the Auxiliary has been providing ever-increasing levels of support to the Coast Guard.  This increase in support is reflected in increasing Auxiliary operational mission-hours in all areas of Auxiliary direct operational support missions. Read the rest of this issue of OnCourse.

On Course: Issues for a better Auxiliary (27JUN05) 

Heraclitus, a Greek philosopher of the late sixth century, wrote: “Nothing endures but change.” As we look to the future of the United States Coast Guard Auxiliary, this simple phrase still rings true.

Throughout the past year the senior management of the Auxiliary and their support staff has worked hard to understand our environment. We’ve identified major drivers for change and developed well thought-out plans and programs. We’ve communicated our shared vision to the membership. Read the rest of this issue of OnCourse.

NACO Message regarding the 66th Anniversary of the USCGAUX

(27JUN05) 

As you know, last Thursday, 23 JUNE 05, marked the 66th anniversary of the formation of the United States Coast Guard Auxiliary. I would like to take a few moments, and I ask you to join me, in reflecting back on what things were like when our organization was formed, and compare that to where we are today. Read the rest of the National Commodore's message.

All hands: NACO's report on the business plan’s tasks and milestones

(27MAY05) The Coast Guard Auxiliary Strategic Business Plan provided a list of the key tasks (and associated schedule) necessary for the successful implementation of the plan.

As with any useful plan, the Auxiliary’s Business Plan cannot become “shelf-ware.” It has to be dynamic and continually changing, so as to meet the current and ever evolving challenges facing the Coast Guard Auxiliary’s transformation.

Many of the tasks and milestones listed in the Business Plan (listed below), in themselves have evolved from the time they were first listed in the plan. They are persistently being worked so as not to become stagnate but rather to adapt to the change around us. Read the rest of the National Commodore's report.

OnCourse: (23MAY05) I’d like to tell you about a new communication that starts with this message – it’s called On Course and is a message from me to you.

It’s meant to give you information on a broad range of subjects of interest and importance to the membership. The topics will be issues forwarded from each district and will be addressed monthly or whenever there’s a special need to alert you to something important and timely. Read the rest of the National Commodore's message and the first issue of On Course.

CG all flags Auxiliary conference brief (09MAY05) 
In November, National Commodore Gene M. Seibert shared with the assembled Coast Guard flag officers the Auxiliary's new direction and provided them with his expectations for the first 100 days following the Auxiliary's change of watch.

It was through the national Vision, Mission, and Strategic Imperatives, that a new course for the Coast Guard Auxiliary had been set. And on this course, the Auxiliary continues to move into new and uncharted areas of responsibilities.

His report at the May 2005 flag officers conference brings them up to date and charts the course for the next 100 days. Read the brief

May 2005 Diversity Council Report to NACO (09MAY05) 
The gathering of 25 Diversity Advisory Council members from USCG active duty, reserve, Auxiliary and civilian forces were charged at their first meeting to investigate, research, and gather data on the diversity issues all Coast Guard workforces that were felt to jeopardize the Coast Guard from being the Employer of Choice.

Within a few days they were to prioritize those issues into a report/presentation and deliver it to the Commandant and the other flag officers. Auxiliarist Donald C. Lloyd, DVC-PD, sent this report on those activities to the National Commodore. Read the brief.
 

Organizations that do not recognize, appreciate and celebrate the variety of their membership will not survive. We must not allow prejudice and tunnel vision to derail the progress and prestige of the United States Coast Guard Auxiliary. Therefore, I challenge each member to investigate ways that we can become stronger through diversity. Read the National Commodore's message on sexual harassment prevention and diversity...

The National Commodore's Reading List -  A list of books is designed to offer all members of the Coast Guard Auxiliary with recommended reading related to leadership. While this list is not all inclusive, it has as its goal, to either provide a starting point or to expand existing knowledge and skills in leadership for all Auxiliarists. Beginning in 2005 and each year thereafter, the National Commodore will name one book a year the “Commodore’s Choice” for professional reading. “Leading Change” by John P. Kotter is the 2005 “Commodore’s Choice”.

As we face the challenge of terrorism while maintaining our focus on our traditional marine safety missions we must be Ready, Responsive & Resolute. Read more about our watch words for 2005-06.

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