topside
Volume 116, Issue 1
Page 19
Division 21, continued
Flotilla 21-04, piloted by Barron M. Batchelder, Flotilla Commander, and Bonnie L. Duffin, Vice Commander,
was a very active flotilla with over 20 members present at each meeting. Morale was excellent, and members
enjoyed fellowship at the meetings. Member retention was evidenced by enthusiastic participation in meetings,
activities, and monthly Member Training, usually conducted by Peter Overcast. Recruiting is an integral part of 21
-04’s missions (first three quarters of 2018): 216 Marine Dealer Visits, 98 Vessel Exams, 15 MOM Patrols (68
hours) with 4 SARs and 16 people assisted, Public Education courses, Member Training (48 hours), Public Affairs
(87 hours) with some new venues. In addition to thriving missions, this flotilla demonstrated fruitful recruiting
and congratulated Ken Brennan, Devin Keith, and Ashley, Ogle, on becoming new members of the U.S. Coast
Guard Auxiliary, Flotilla 21-04.
The superb morale and participation of the group is reflected by the earning of new qualifications and awards
throughout the year. The Surface Operations Program was improved by Michael McElwee who earned his
Coxswain Qualifications and by Walter Alsegg who added another Operational Facility to our flotilla.
Telecommunications Officer Qualifications were warranted for James White. Jessica Matern, James White, and
Chris Schretzenmaier merited Program Visitor Qualifications. Bonnie Duffin earned the Recreational Boating
Safety Device Award. Jacob Trombley earned his Instructor Qualifications. James White merited Vessel
Examiner Qualifications and passed his Auxiliary Leadership and Management course. Flotilla 21-04 exhibits
outstanding motivation.
At D-Train in March, Barron Batchelder and Mike McElwee were award-
ed the Coast Guard Auxiliary Achievement Medals and Commendations
for Superior Service.
Before the September Flotilla 21-04 monthly meeting, members were invit-
ed to tour the Dam Tower at Blue Marsh Lake. Brianna Treichler, Park
Ranger at Blue Marsh, presented an excellent tour of the dam interior by
providing a wealth of information concerning the operation of the dam.