This has been a boating season with many incidents, accidents, but mostly tragedies. This is where the Auxiliary does our best work. Our routine patrols on the waters and in the air, special events, marina visits, life jacket observations, marine dealer visits and most importantly Public Education. There is no end to our work. Everyday is a new beginning. Our job number 1 is Recreational Boating Safety. The more people we touch, the more lives that are saved.
As I write this, we are celebrating Coast Guard Day across the District and Nation. The 229th birthday of the U.S. Coast Guard, the longest continuous serving sea service in our great country. Ant this year is the 80th Anniversary of the Coast Guard Auxiliary. Take the time to enjoy the many fellowship events taking place around our District with our Auxiliary and Active Duty "Team Coast Guard" members.
The last of our Regional Training events this year took place at the end of July. Another outstanding event. We will continue to find new ways to bring training to all members. I hope you were able to take advantage and attended your local training events. The feedback we garnered was positive about RBT and the classes that were offered. Voice your opinions so we can make it better for you.
Planning is underway for our future events. The annual Leadership Development Academy, Annual Awards Banquet, D-Train 2020, Regional Based Training and new Staff Officers College and events with great classes for all members.
This is the time of year for District, Division and Flotilla level elections. Choose our leaders wisely. The very future of our organization is at stake, and after elections, make sure to attend Change of Watch ceremonies around the District. Let's honor our outgoing leaders and celebrate our incoming leaders. The more you get involved, the better our organization will be. And remember, Recruit One- Bring a Friend.
In closing, our members are our greatest asset and strength. Looking around the District, the future looks bright. It is my pleasure to serve with all of you. Thank you for all you do.
Stay well and be safe.
Semper Paratus Shipmates!
Respectfully,
Mark Stone
Mark Stone
District Chief of Staff,
First District Southern Region
BOATING SEASON EXTENDS INTO 2019
And just like that, it's August. Most people are talking about the end of summer, school shopping and preparing for Fall. Stores have Halloween and Thanksgiving decorations on the shelves, but, what is true is that boating season is still alive and well and the end is not even close. Our waterways will see an increase in traffic as boaters want to get that "one more day on the boat". And that means our work continues.
District Chief of Staff's Message