P a ge 22 t opside V olume 115 , I s s u e 1
Standing Watch on the 87s , continued
Serving as an In-Port Watchstander on a Cape May based Cutter is special because of the opportunity to meet the recruits who are training at TRACEN as they tour a Cutter . Some of the recruits will be assigned to one of the 87s based throughout the country . They are eager to learn , and the Auxiliarist is eager to help them learn .
A very special esprit de corps is fostered between the Active Duty and the Auxiliary on-board the 87s , acting as one unified proud Team Coast Guard with mutual respect , devotion , enthusiasm and honor to duty . Most gratifying to each of the Auxiliarist Watchstanders is the fact that the Active Duty constantly expresses their thanks for the Auxiliary support and service .
John Burns maintains a constant look-out for Auxiliarists interested in qualifying on the Cutters . If you are interested in qualifying as an 87 Coast Guard Cutter Watchstander in Cape May , John can be contacted at : JohnBurns2 @ comcast . net or 609.780.2314 .
About the Author : Rick Kettinger is an AUXOP Member in the 5 th Northern District , Cape May Flotilla 08- 02 . He serves as a Watchstander on the 87s , and is also qualified by the USCG Auxiliary and the New Jersey State Marine Police as a Public Boating Safety Instructor .