Category: General Information

General Information

ALAUX 024/21 AUXDATA II UPDATE – PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT (PPE)

united states coast guard

01 JULY 2021

FM:  CHDIRAUX

TO:  ALAUX

ALAUX 024/21

 

Subj:  AUXDATA II UPDATE – PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT (PPE)

 

(a) Rescue and Survival Systems Manual, COMDTINST M10470.10 (series)

1. Effective today, AUXDATA II has a new functionality to track the issuance and maintenance of issued Personal Protective Equipment (PPE). The PPE function can be accessed from the Member Record on the PPE tab. In order to utilize the PPE functions, selected Auxiliarists will need specific PPE Manager permissions to enter PPE data and manage the PPE process. These selected Auxiliarists will likely be the same people who currently track PPE issuance and maintenance per reference (a). Only District Directors of Auxiliary (DIRAUX) or Operations Training Officers (OTO) can grant PPE Manager Permissions.

2. The Office of Auxiliary and Boating Safety (CG-BSX) will work with DIRAUX offices to begin the process of training PPE Managers to enter PPE information into AUXDATA II. This effort will be a phased-in approach to ensure the PPE design is working as intended and to make improvements based on initial user feedback. If your DIRAUX office has not given you PPE Manager permissions, please be patient. This will be a significant effort for PPE Managers to learn the process and to enter all of the PPE that is already in circulation in the field. We anticipate that it will likely take between 6-12 months to get all issued PPE entered into AUXDATA II.

3. Thank you to all of the Auxiliarists and OTOs who were instrumental in the development of the AUXDATA II PPE Management functionality.

4. If you have questions, please use the Chain of Leadership and Management (COLM).

 

If you have a question regarding this ALAUX, please seek resolution within your Chain of Leadership and Management (COLM) including up to your servicing District Director of Auxiliary (DIRAUX). If your question still cannot be resolved after that, then please email CGAUX@uscg.mil.

 

ALAUX 023/21 NEW CHIEF DIRECTOR OF AUXILIARY

united states coast guard

25 JUN 2021

FM:  CHDIRAUX

TO:  ALAUX

ALAUX 023/21

Subj:  NEW CHIEF DIRECTOR OF AUXILIARY

To all Coast Guard Auxiliary Personnel:

It is a true honor to relieve the watch this week as your Chief Director. Since 1939, the Coast Guard Auxiliary has had and will continue to have a myriad of ever-evolving missions that includes our ultimate responsibility to promote and improve Recreational Boating Safety as well as provide the Coast Guard with high quality operational, administrative, and logistical support. This is an incredible and humbling responsibility to shoulder, and one that requires an unfailing commitment to excellence in mission execution and support. I look forward to leading this highly motivated and talented group of 23,000+ Auxiliarists!

I can still remember the first time that I was introduced to the Coast Guard by a Coast Guard Auxiliarist in my home town of Plymouth, Massachusetts. I am forever grateful for this introduction and experience. Over the past 21 years, I’ve had the privilege to serve my country and the Coast Guard as both an Aviator and Aero Engineering Officer. I’ve led Coast Guard personnel in both operational and mission support roles.  Now, as your Chief Director, I look forward to learning more about your missions and working with National Commodore Malewski and his staff to carry out the goals laid out in the Auxiliary Strategic Plan for us by Admiral Schultz and Commodore Malewski.

When I’m not in uniform, I’m a family man and I enjoy spending quality time with my wife Sara and four children that are between the ages of 20 and 8.  We recently moved to Charlotte, North Carolina and enjoy numerous outdoor activities to include boating on Lake Norman. To find out a little more about me, please visit my Biography page at: CAPT GLENDYE BIO

Ladies and gentlemen, you have my commitment that I will strive to work with you and lead in a way worthy of our mission, your respect, and the sacrifices that so many of you have made and continue to make to keep us safe and worthy of the public trust. Thank you for your dedicated service and commitment to our nation, Semper Paratus!

Sincerely,

Captain Troy P. Glendye, U.S. Coast Guard

Chief Director of Auxiliary

If you have a question regarding this ALAUX, please seek resolution within your Chain of Leadership and Management (COLM) including up to your servicing District Director of Auxiliary (DIRAUX). If your question still cannot be resolved after that, then please email CGAUX@uscg.mil.

ALAUX 022/21 UPDATE TO AUXILIARY OPERATIONS POLICY MANUAL: AUXILIARY NAVIGATION STANDARDS – CG-BSX POLICY LETTER 21-02

united states coast guard

25 JUN 2021

FM:  CHDIRAUX

TO:  ALAUX

ALAUX 022/21

Subj:  UPDATE TO AUXILIARY OPERATIONS POLICY MANUAL: AUXILIARY NAVIGATION STANDARDS – CG-BSX POLICY LETTER 21-02

To all Coast Guard Auxiliary Personnel:

1.  On 25 June 2021, the Chief Director of the Auxiliary signed CG-BSX Policy Letter 21-02, Update to Auxiliary Operations Policy Manual: Auxiliary Navigation Standards.  The purpose of this policy letter is to update the Order Issuing Authorities’ (OIA) and facility operators’ responsibilities regarding Navigation Standards requirements for Auxiliary surface operations.  All OIAs and facility operators must comply with the provisions in this Policy Letter.

2.  The policy letter can be found on the Coast Guard Chief Director of Auxiliary (CG-BSX) website at: CG-BSX Policy Letters.

3.  Internet Release is authorized.

If you have a question regarding this ALAUX, please seek resolution within your Chain of Leadership and Management (COLM) including up to your servicing District Director of Auxiliary (DIRAUX). If your question still cannot be resolved after that, then please email CGAUX@uscg.mil.

 

ALAUX 021/21 RESUMPTION OF IN-PERSON AUXILIARY C-SCHOOLS – REVISION TO CG-BSX POLICY LETTER 21-01

united states coast guard

25 JUN 2021

FM:  CHDIRAUX

TO:  ALAUX

ALAUX 021/21

 

Subj:  RESUMPTION OF IN-PERSON AUXILIARY C-SCHOOLS – REVISION TO CG-BSX POLICY LETTER 21-01

To all Coast Guard Auxiliary Personnel:

1.  On 24 June 2021, the Chief Director of the Auxiliary signed the first revision to CG-BSX Policy Letter 21-01, Resumption of In-Person Auxiliary C-schools.  The purpose of this policy letter is to provide expanded guidance for the resumption of in-person Auxiliary C-schools as restrictions and limitations imposed by the COVID-19 pandemic evolve.  Auxiliarists vaccinated against COVID-19, as well as unvaccinated Auxiliarists, are now authorized to attend in-person Auxiliary C-schools subject to provisions of this policy letter.

2.  The policy letter can be found on the Coast Guard Chief Director of Auxiliary (CG-BSX) website at: CG-BSX Policy Letters.

3.  Internet Release is authorized.

If you have a question regarding this ALAUX, please seek resolution within your Chain of Leadership and Management (COLM) including up to your servicing District Director of Auxiliary (DIRAUX). If your question still cannot be resolved after that, then please email CGAUX@uscg.mil.

ALAUX 020/21 82ND BIRTHDAY OF THE UNITED STATES COAST GUARD AUXILIARY

united states coast guard

23 JUN 2021

FM:  CHDIRAUX

TO:  ALAUX

ALAUX 020/21

Subj:  82ND BIRTHDAY OF THE UNITED STATES COAST GUARD AUXILIARY

1. Today marks the 82nd birthday of the United States Coast Guard Auxiliary. I wanted to thank each and every one of you for your continued vigilance and professionalism over the past year. Your commitment to service and drive to overcome the challenges presented by the COVID-19 pandemic are truly inspirational. Let us continue to serve with pride and forge ahead into the future.

2. Also, please find the link here for an article written by my staff celebrating the Auxiliary’s Birthday: Happy Birthday to the Coast Guard Auxiliary! > United States Coast Guard > My Coast Guard News (uscg.mil)

3. Happy Birthday, U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary!

Respectfully,

Captain Scott L. Johnson

Chief Director of Auxiliary (CG-BSX)

R 141435Z JUN 21

FM COMDT COGARD WASHINGTON DC

TO ALCOAST

BT

UNCLAS

ALCOAST 218/21

SSIC 4102

SUBJ: 82ND BIRTHDAY OF THE UNITED STATES COAST GUARD AUXILIARY

1. Happy birthday and congratulations to all United States Coast Guard Auxiliarists on your 82 years of devoted service to a grateful United States Coast Guard and maritime public.

2. The U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary has forged a rich heritage and stellar reputation since its creation in 1939 when Congress established an organization of volunteers to promote boating safety in the United States and augment the U.S. Coast Guard. As the years have passed, the scope of Auxiliary support of Coast Guard units and missions has incredibly expanded, surpassed only by the enthusiasm, dedication, and compassion of Auxiliarists themselves.

3. In our 21st century Coast Guard, it is not surprising to find Auxiliarists delivering interpreter and translation services in dozens of foreign languages, honing cyber skills to assist the defense of Coast Guard information systems, and providing vital religious ministry support to the District Chaplain community, in addition to exercising their traditional roles and recognized strengths in recreational boating safety, search and rescue, and public outreach. This year we also celebrate the Auxiliary’s commitment to service throughout the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite the extraordinary challenges presented, Auxiliary personnel made significant impacts nationwide. Whether flying medical supplies to those in need in remote locations, supplying critical health services support to Coast Guard clinics, or furnishing compassionate chaplain support at Coast Guard units, the Auxiliary consistently answered all bells and facilitated Coast Guard response across the board.

4. Even more impressively, the Auxiliary employed remarkable flexibility in adapting to the necessities of a virtual environment. The Auxiliary rapidly and creatively leveraged technology to successfully conduct more than 1,000 virtual unit elections integral to the continuity of Auxiliary leadership. It also successfully held its first-ever online Auxiliary National Board meeting in which the Vice Commandant and I were privileged to participate.

5. The Auxiliary’s steadfast determination and remarkable ingenuity are hallmarks of National Commodore Alex Malewski’s Watch Words, “Ready, Resourceful, Resilient.” The Auxiliary sets the standard we can all appreciate and emulate in our quest for mission excellence. I am extremely proud of our Coast Guard Auxiliary. Please join me in recognizing this significant milestone in a long and distinguished history of service by congratulating our Auxiliarists for their outstanding performance and 82 years of exceptional adherence to our defining core values of Honor, Respect, and Devotion to Duty. Semper Paratus.

6. POC: CDR Edgardo Cruz, COMDT (CG-BSX-11) at: Edgardo.Cruz@uscg.mi

7. ADM Karl L. Schultz, Commandant (CCG), sends.

8. Internet release is authorized.

If you have a question regarding this ALAUX, please seek resolution within your Chain of Leadership and Management (COLM) including up to your servicing District Director of Auxiliary (DIRAUX). If your question still cannot be resolved after that, then please email CGAUX@uscg.mil.

 

ALAUX 019/21 JUNE 2021 COAST GUARD EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT CREDENTIAL BOARD RESULTS

united states coast guard

17 JUN 2021

FM:  CHDIRAUX

TO:  ALAUX

ALAUX 019/21

Subj:  JUNE 2021 COAST GUARD EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT CREDENTIAL BOARD RESULTS

1. Please read the following ALCOAST announcement of the June 2021 Coast Guard Emergency Management Credential Board results. Congratulations to Auxiliarists William Steadman, Joseph Gleason, Anthony Marzano, Camilo Olivieri, Stephen Kastensmidt, Joseph Leonard, Jr., and Michael Mason for earning this highly advanced credential! Bravo Zulu!

Respectfully,

Captain Scott L. Johnson

Chief Director of Auxiliary (CG-BSX)

 

R 141435Z JUN 21

FM COMDT COGARD WASHINGTON DC

TO ALCOAST

BT

UNCLAS

ALCOAST 218/21

SSIC 4102

SUBJ: JUNE 2021 COAST GUARD EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT CREDENTIAL BOARD RESULTS

A. COMDT COGARD WASHINGTON DC 191056Z APR 21/ACN 043/21

B. U.S. Coast Guard Emergency Management Credential (CGEMC) Application Guide, April 2021

1. This ALCOAST announces the June 2021 Coast Guard Emergency Management Credential Board results, which convened May 31-June 4, 2021 in accordance with REFs (A) and (B).

2. The CGEMC Board was established in 2021 to recommend Coast Guard personnel who have demonstrated the highest levels of expertise and proficiency in the field of Emergency Management (EM) for a credential. This credential is a cornerstone effort designed to advance crisis leadership skills within the Coast Guard by promoting the principles of EM. The CGEMC is available to any active duty (officer or enlisted), civilian, reserve (officer or enlisted), or auxiliary member who meets the training, experience, and test criteria, regardless of specialty or assigned duty station/position. The CGEMC Board was modeled after the ICS Competency Review process.

3. The June 2021 Board was the first CGEMC Board. Members were chosen based on, among other criteria, their current possession of a Certified Emergency Management (CEM) Credential issued by the International Association of Emergency Managers(IAEM) or other comparable agency. CG members who hold a valid CEM from IAEM or other comparable agency are awarded a CGEMC, once applied for, IAW REF (B). Members for future boards will hold the CGEMC. The June 2021 Board reviewed 53 applications resulting in 50 credentials recommended, of the 53, 39 were CEM or other comparable agency credential holders.

4. The Director, Emergency Management, COMDT (CG-5RI), approved the recommendations from the Board and found the following members to have achieved the CGEMC credential as indicated below:

CAPT Kailie Benson, COMDT (CG-OEM)

CDR LuAnn Kehlenbach, Sector Northern New England

CDR Martin Schell, USCGR, Pac-35

CDR Dawn Prebula, Air Station Corpus Christi

CDR Jason Ingram, Sector Virginia

CDR Scott Smith, Sector Anchorage

CDR Michael McGrail, MSST New Orleans

CDR Paul Rooney, USCGR, District 1 Boston

CDR Allison Cox, Sector Guam

CDR David Dixon, District 17 Juneau

CDR Sharon Russell, USCGR, Joint Staff South

CDR Matthew Walter, Sector Sault Ste Marie

LCDR Amanda LeMonde, Pacific Strike Team

LCDR Robert LeMonde, District 14 Honolulu

LCDR Brittani Koroknay, District 5 Portsmouth

LCDR David Vihonski, TRACEN Yorktown

LCDR David Fernandez, Sector San Francisco

LCDR David Ruhlig, COMDT (CG-00-CAG)

LCDR Rhenee Allen, Sector Virginia

LCDR Kristina Butler, COMDT (CG-OEM)

LCDR Ben O’Loughlin, Sector Ohio Valley

LCDR Nathaniel Sargent, Sector Northern New England

LT Daniel Dunn, Gulf Strike Team

LT Enrique Quinones, Sector Maryland-NCR

LT Amber Larson, COMDT (CG-OEM)

LT Andrea Prosser, Sector San Francisco

LT Patrick Chamberlin, Sector Detroit

LT Terry Plank, Sector Delaware Bay

LT Leah Roach, DCMS-81

LT David Steele, District 5 Portsmouth

LTJG J. Austin Newcomer, Sector Columbia River

LTJG Andrew Grady, District 5 Portsmouth

LTJG Brandon Young, TRACEN Yorktown

MSSR4 Todd Wardwell, Sector Delaware Bay

MSTC Terry Hasenauer, COMDT (CG-IMAT)

MLES3 Lee Conroy, COMDT (CG-MLE)

Mr. Steven Maynard, COMDT (CG-OEM)

Mr. Robert Gore, COMDT (CG-OEM)

Mr. Paul Stocklin, Sector Puget Sound

Mr. Peter Killmer, MSU Cleveland

Mr. Thomas Tarrants, COMDT (CG-OEM)

Mr. Frank Cesario, Sector Miami

Mr. Patrick Nelson, District 9 Cleveland

AUX William Steadman

AUX Joseph Gleason

AUX Anthony Marzano

AUX Camilo Olivieri

AUX Stephen Kastensmidt

AUX Joseph Leonard, Jr.

AUX Michael Mason

5. Recipients should expect to receive certificates electronically via the email address provided in their applications. COMDT (CG-OEM-1) will enter the CGEMC into Direct Access/ESS.

6. Each Board convening, COMDT (CG-OEM) will implement Board feedback to improve the application submission and review process as well as current guidance. Applicants can expect to see process improvements as well as successful application tips detailed in the Coast Guard Emergency Management Credential Application Guide annually. Furthermore, COMDT (CG-OEM) amplifies the information contained in the Guide through webinars, sample applications, FAQs and announcements all posted to the COMDT (CG-OEM-1) CGPortal Page at: (Copy and Paste Below URL into Browser)

https://cg.portal.uscg.mil/units/cgcpe1/SitePages/Home.aspx.

7. Members seeking to apply for Credential or require application guidance, can e-mail CG-OEM-1@uscg.mil.

8. Submission timelines and procedures are located in REF (B). All applications for the next Board are due by 15 August 2021 for the October 2021 Board convening.

9. The June 2021 Coast Guard Emergency Management Credential Board membership included:

Name

CDR LuAnn Kehlenbach, Board President

LCDR Amanda Le Monde

LCDR David Vihonski

LT Daniel Dunn

LT Enrique Quinones

MSSR4 Todd Wardwell

Mr. Steven Maynard served as Board Secretary and COMDT (CG-OEM-1) representative.

10. Questions regarding the June 2021 Coast Guard Emergency Management Credential Board results should be directed to CG-OEM-1@uscg.mil.

11. POC: CDR Laura Miller COMDT (CG-OEM-1), 202-372-2143 or Laura.S.Miller1@uscg.mil.

12. Ms. Dana S. Tulis, Director, Emergency Management (CG-5RI), sends.

13. Internet release is authorized.

If you have a question regarding this ALAUX, please seek resolution within your Chain of Leadership and Management (COLM) including up to your servicing District Director of Auxiliary (DIRAUX). If your question still cannot be resolved after that, then please email CGAUX@uscg.mil.

ALAUX 018/21 RESUMPTION OF IN-PERSON AUXILIARY C-SCHOOLS – CG-BSX POLICY LETTER 21-01

united states coast guard

02 JUN 2021

FM:  CHDIRAUX

TO:  ALAUX

ALAUX 018/21

Subj: RESUMPTION OF IN-PERSON AUXILIARY C-SCHOOLS – CG-BSX POLICY LETTER 21-01

1. On 28 May 2021, the Chief Director of the Auxiliary signed CG-BSX Policy Letter 21-01, Resumption of In-Person Auxiliary C-schools.  The purpose of this policy letter is to provide guidance for the resumption of in-person Auxiliary C-schools as restrictions and limitations imposed by the COVID-19 pandemic evolve.

2. The policy letter can be found on the Coast Guard Chief Director of Auxiliary (CG-BSX) website at: CG-BSX Policy Letters.

3. Internet Release is authorized.

If you have a question regarding this ALAUX, please seek resolution within your Chain of Leadership and Management (COLM) including up to your servicing District Director of Auxiliary (DIRAUX). If your question still cannot be resolved after that, then please email CGAUX@uscg.mil.

ALAUX 017/21 ASSOCIATION FOR RESCUE AT SEA 2020 GOLD AND SILVER AWARDS SOLICITATION

united states coast guard

02 JUN 2021

FM:  CHDIRAUX

TO:  ALAUX

ALAUX 017/21

Subj:  ASSOCIATION FOR RESCUE AT SEA 2020 GOLD AND SILVER AWARDS SOLICITATION

1. The Coast Guard recently solicited nominations for the AFRAS 2020 Gold and Silver Medals awards. Please submit nominations in accordance with the guidance below.

Respectfully,

Captain Scott L. Johnson

Chief Director of Auxiliary (CG-BSX)

 

R 131705Z MAY 21

FM COMDT COGARD WASHINGTON DC

TO ALCOAST

BT

UNCLAS

ALCOAST 183/21

SSIC 16100

SUBJ: ASSOCIATION FOR RESCUE AT SEA 2020 GOLD AND SILVER AWARDS SOLICITATION

A. Recognition Programs Manual, COMDTINST M1650.26 (series)

B. Auxiliary Manual, COMDTINST M16790.1 (series)

1. Per REF (A), this ALCOAST solicits nominees for the Association for the Rescue at Sea (AFRAS) 2020 awards.

2. Background.

a. Formed in 1976, AFRAS is a non-profit foundation that supports services concerned with saving lives at sea. The AFRAS awards program provides the opportunity for Area and District Commanders, Commanding Officers, and Officers-in-Charge to recognize deserving Coast Guard personnel for bravery in the conduct of search and rescue missions.

b. The AFRAS Gold and Silver Medals are the highest search and rescue awards presented to a Coast Guard member by a civilian organization.

(1) Gold Medal. Established in 1982, the Gold Medal is presented annually to a Coast Guard enlisted person for an act of extraordinary bravery during a rescue at sea.

(2) Silver Medal. Established in 2000, the Silver Medal (silver reflects the distinctive Auxiliary uniform) is presented annually to a deserving Coast Guard Auxiliarist (a collective nomination may be submitted for members of the same boat or aircrew).

3. Awards presentation. Both the Gold and Silver Medals will be presented in a ceremony in Washington, D.C., in the Fall, 2021. Ceremony participants include congressional representatives, AFRAS leadership, the Commandant of the Coast Guard, and other senior Coast Guard leaders. Award recipients will be honored at the ceremony and family members are invited to attend.

4. AFRAS award eligibility. AFRAS selects recipients from among nominations submitted. Award criteria are set forth in REF (A) and reiterated below.

a. Gold Medal nominees must be enlisted members on active duty at the time of the rescue being recognized. Silver Medal nominees must be Coast Guard Auxiliarists at the time of the rescue being recognized.

b. The response must involve a lifesaving rescue from the perils of the sea where the heroic actions of the nominee are uniquely distinguished. However, consideration will be given to all rescues involving life-threatening situations.

c. Nominations must be for Calendar Year 2020 rescues.

5. Administration.

a. Units are encouraged to submit nominations to COMDT (CG-SAR) via their chain of command. District awards boards should review all nominations to ensure compliance with the above criteria. Silver Medal nominations must be submitted in accordance with REF (B), Section 11.C.7.

b. Nominations must consist of:

(1) A cover letter identifying the nominee and pay grade (if applicable), current duty station/Auxiliary Flotilla, and the expiration of enlistment (if applicable).

(2) Coast Guard Award Recommendation, Form CG-1650.

(3) One-page award citation.

(4) 1-2 page summary of the action that fully describes the rescue.

(5) Any additional information pertinent to AFRAS evaluation of the nomination.

c. Forward command endorsed nominations to: COMDT (CG-SAR), U.S. Coast Guard, 2703 Martin Luther King Jr. Ave. SE, Washington, D.C. 20593-7516. Attn: AFRAS Nomination.

d. Award nominations must be received by COMDT (CG-SAR)

by 18 June 21.

6. COMDT (CG-SAR) AFRAS Awards POC: Mr. Mike Clarke (202) 372-2090. Request an advance copy of the award nomination is emailed to Mr. Clarke at: Michael.E.Clarke@uscg.mil.

7. Ms. Dana S. Tulis, Director, Emergency Management (CG-5RI), sends.

8. Internet release is authorized.

 

If you have a question regarding this ALAUX, please seek resolution within your Chain of Leadership and Management (COLM) including up to your servicing District Director of Auxiliary (DIRAUX). If your question still cannot be resolved after that, then please email CGAUX@uscg.mil.

 

ALAUX 016/21 NATIONAL SAFE BOATING WEEK

united states coast guard

21 MAY 2021

FM:  CHDIRAUX

TO:  ALAUX

ALAUX 016/21

 

Subj:  NATIONAL SAFE BOATING WEEK

 

1. Please read the following ALCOAST about National Safe Boating Week. “Please boat safely.”

 

 

Respectfully,

Captain Scott L. Johnson

Chief Director of Auxiliary (CG-BSX)

 

 

R 171851Z MAY 21

FM COMDT COGARD WASHINGTON DC

TO ALCOAST

BT

UNCLAS

ALCOAST 187/21

SSIC 16210

 

SUBJ: NATIONAL SAFE BOATING WEEK

A. Recreational Boating Statistics, COMDTPUB P16754.33

B. Elijah Cummings Coast Guard Authorization Act of 2020, section 8316

C. COMDT COGARD WASHINGTON DC 221827Z MAR 21/ACN 030/21

1. National Wear Your Life Jacket to Work Day is Friday, 21 May, and National Safe Boating Week (NSBW) is Saturday, 22 May, through Friday, 28 May. This year marks the fiftieth anniversary of the Federal Boat Safety Act of 1971. The message then was the same as it is now: “please boat safely.” The five most important things you can do:

a. Wear a life jacket,

b. Educate yourself through knowledge and skills based training,

c. Wear your engine cut off switch link,

d. Abstain from using alcohol while underway, and

e. Get a free vessel safety check from the USCG Auxiliary at: https://www.cgaux.org/vsc/.

2. CG-BSX works extensively with the States and the recreational boating safety community on efforts to encourage model boating behavior. Through a $126 million grant program, campaigns and enforcement target the desired outcomes in paragraph 1, and reach out to the American boating public in a variety of platforms. Please visit uscgboating.org to become more familiar with these efforts.

3. The COVID-19 pandemic led to a significant increase in boating activity in 2020. Boat sales reached recent record highs, with first-time boat buyers making up a larger percentage than at any time in the past ten years. The combination of record boat activity and sales, first-time boat owners, and difficulty receiving in-person education combined to also increase the number of accidents, injuries, and deaths. CY2020 deaths exceeded 2019 by 24%, and the deaths in June, July, and Augustin 2020 were the highest in 23 years. Also, SAR cases increased by 10% even despite less commercial traffic, indicating that recreational boating cases were the most likely cause. Although boating continues to be a relatively safe activity, you can help make it safer.

4. Per REF (A), 79 percent of boating fatalities were drownings, and 86 percent of those were victims that were not wearing life jackets. Please encourage and incentivize life jacket wear. Just like seatbelt wear, you never know when you will need it, but when you do, it’s critical. Most states require life jacket wear by children. For adults, an inflatable life jacket is not cumbersome and easy to don. REF (A), the 2019 Recreational Boating Statistics, may be found at: https://uscgboating.org/statistics/accident_statistics.php.

5. Virtual education classes hosted by the CG Auxiliary, found at: http://www.cgaux.org/boatinged, and the U.S. Power Squadrons at: https://americasboatingclub.org/learn/online-boating-education. The results have been very positive, as more students are now attending classes than when they were held in person.

6. This year, wearing an engine cut-off switch (ECOS) link became a requirement (REF (B) modified 43 U.S.C. §4312) while operating certain recreational vessels. If the vessel has an ECOS link, the operator most likely must wear it. (REF (C) and its supporting web site, found at: https://uscgboating.org/recreational-boaters/engine-cut-off-devices.php provides specific circumstances when wear is required and our enforcement posture during the initial roll out of this requirement). Each year, nearly 75 people die and 400 more are injured when they are struck by a propeller or a vessel. This requirement will help to reduce these tragedies.

7. Alcohol consumption remains the single-greatest contributing factor in recreational boating fatalities. Last year, 23 percent of deaths involved alcohol. Please encourage sober boating on our Nation’s waters. If you are an operational unit, please participate in Operation Dry Water (ODW) during the 4th of July Holiday weekend. An ALCOAST will be released within 30 days of ODW providing details.

8. Please ensure that boaters know what safety requirements their boat must meet and recommend them to get a vessel safety check at: https://www.cgaux.org/vsc/

9. During National Safe Boating Week, all Coast Guard units and commands are encouraged to participate in activities and special events that highlight safe boating. Units are encouraged to collaborate with their District Recreational Boating Safety Specialists while planning National Safe Boating Week public outreach strategies and events such as Sector and Station open houses and Auxiliary involvement.

10. POC: Tom Dardis, COMDT (CG-BSX-2) at: (202) 372-1063 or thomas.j.dardis@uscg.mil.

11. RDML R. V. Timme, Assistant Commandant for Prevention Policy (CG-5P), sends.

12. Internet released is authorized.

 

If you have a question regarding this ALAUX, please seek resolution within your Chain of Leadership and Management (COLM) including up to your servicing District Director of Auxiliary (DIRAUX). If your question still cannot be resolved after that, then please email CGAUX@uscg.mil.

 

ALAUX 015/21 2019 ASSOCIATION FOR RESCUE AT SEA (AFRAS) AWARD RECIPIENTS

united states coast guard

21 MAY 2021

FM:  CHDIRAUX

TO:  ALAUX

ALAUX 015/21

 

Subj:  2019 ASSOCIATION FOR RESCUE AT SEA (AFRAS) AWARD RECIPIENTS

 

1. Please read the following ALCOAST announcement of 2019 AFRAS award recipients. Congratulations to Seventh District Auxiliarists Stephen Wyatt and Gloria Wyatt on their award of the Silver Medal for their response to a 40-foot motor vessel on fire near Matanzas Inlet, St. Augustine, Florida in July 2019. Their heroic actions brought great credit to the United States Coast Guard and United States Coast Guard Auxiliary. Honorable mention is provided to boat crews from D5-Northern Region (Auxiliarists Andy Crowley, John Yowell, and Tim Youngern) and D9-Western Region (Auxiliarists Joshua Zajac, Sally Stelnicki, Les Piskopos, and Ruth Aurigemma). Bravo Zulu!

 

Respectfully,

Captain Scott L. Johnson

Chief Director of Auxiliary (CG-BSX)

 

 

R 131705Z MAY 21

FM COMDT COGARD WASHINGTON DC

TO ALCOAST

BT

UNCLAS

ALCOAST 182/21

SSIC 16100

 

SUBJ: 2019 ASSOCIATION FOR RESCUE AT SEA (AFRAS) AWARD RECIPIENTS

A. COMDT COGARD WASHINGTON DC 241019 MAR 20/ALCOAST 102/20

1. Per REF (A), this ALCOAST announces the recipients of the 2019 AFRAS Gold and Silver Medals. The Gold Medal is awarded annually to a Coast Guard enlisted member who exhibited exceptional courage and heroism during a rescue at sea. The Silver Medal is awarded annually to a deserving Coast Guard Auxiliarist for a heroic rescue for lives saved in either inland or coastal waters.

2. Due to COVID, AFRAS delayed the selection and presentation of the 2019 awards for one year. Presentation will be as per paragraph 6 below.

3. GOLD MEDAL.

a. The 2020 Gold Medal is awarded to AST1 Eric Young and AST1 Nathan Newberg, Coast Guard Air Station Savannah, Georgia. Both are recognized for their superior performance of duty while serving as Rescue Swimmers on Coast Guard helicopters 6531 (CGNR 6531) and CG44 (CGNR 6544) during the 08 September 19 rescue of survivors from the M/V GOLDEN RAY. M/V GOLDEN RAY, a 656-foot cargo vessel containing over 4,200 vehicles, equipment and 24 crewmembers, suffered a shipboard fire and capsized in St. Simons Sound, Georgia.

b. Upon arriving on scene, CGNR 6531 lowered AST1 Young over 100 feet onto the GOLDEN RAY, who found a group of survivors using their chem-lights to show their location. While connected to the hoist cable, AST1 Young then traversed the near-vertical deck and recovered a survivor using a rescue sling. CGNR 6531 again repositioned and lowered AST1 Young 130 feet to recover three additional trapped crewmembers, including one severely injured.

c. As CGNR 6531 departed the stricken ship to transport the survivors to medical services, CGNR 6544 arrived on scene and deployed AST1 Newberg to the starboard bridge wing. AST1 Newberg secured a section of fire hose to the ship railing and rappelled into the bridge, where he located the trapped master and pilot. The Captain initially refused to leave the vessel without knowing the status of the crewmembers trapped below. Displaying exceptional physical stamina, AST1 Newberg was able to lower the pilot to the port bridge wing and then an additional 40 feet to a rescue boat. With CGNR 6544 low on fuel, AST1 Newberg returned to the Captain, communicated to him the status of his engine room crewmembers, extracted him from the bridge, and safely hoisted him onto CGNR 6544. ASTI Newberg then conducted a survivor interview that shaped the next 36 hours of rescue operations focused on recovering the additional GOLDEN RAY crewmembers trapped below.

d. AST1 Young and AST1 Newberg demonstrated outstanding courage, quick thinking, and the ability to adapt to an extremely demanding situation, resulting in the rescue of six lives and locating four additional crewmembers trapped below deck.

4. SILVER MEDAL.

a. The Silver Medal is awarded to Auxiliarists Stephen Wyatt and Gloria Wyatt, who are recognized for their superior performance of duty during the 03 July 2019 rescue of four persons from a burning boat on the Intercoastal Waterway, near Matanzas Inlet, St. Augustine, Florida.

b. While participating in a recreational boating outing on their private vessel, PUMPDOG II, Auxiliarists Stephen and Gloria Wyatt observed the 40-foot motor cruiser DAYDREAMER on fire. Auxiliarist Stephen Wyatt headed for the burning motor cruiser and then radioed a distress call to Coast Guard Sector Jacksonville advising them of the situation and the presence of four persons in the water.

c. Auxiliarist Stephen Wyatt maneuvered the PUMPDOG II, and directed a second vessel operated by another family member, to approach the four victims who were within twenty-five feet of the burning vessel. Braving the intense heat and danger presented by the unstable burning vessel, Auxiliarists Stephen and Gloria Wyatt were able to bring the victims aboard the rescuing vessels. As the victims were pulled from the water, a propane tank on the burning vessel exploded. Both rescuing vessels immediately retreated to a safe distance to tend to the victims.

d. Auxiliarist Stephen Wyatt directed the transfer of victims aboard the second vessel to the PUMPDOG II where his son, a U.S. Air Force medical doctor, evaluated their physical condition. Auxiliarists Stephen and Gloria Wyatt remained on scene assisting the rescued family and helping to ensure there were no significant injuries that required additional treatment. The motor cruiser DAYDREAMER was a total loss, but the family onboard the cruiser escaped serious injury due to the heroic efforts of Auxiliarists Stephen and Gloria Wyatt.

5. In addition to the Gold and Silver Medal recipients, the other AFRAS award nominees demonstrated exceptional courage and have further enhanced the Coast Guard reputation as the Lifesavers and Guardians of the Sea. These outstanding nominees include:

a. Auxiliarists Andy Crowley, John Yowell, and Tim Youngern – USCG Auxiliary District 5 – Northern Region.

b. Auxiliarists Joshua Zajac, Sally Stelnicki, Les Piskopos, and Ruth Aurigemma – USCG Auxiliary District 9 – Western Region.

6. The Gold and Silver Award recipients will be recognized at a ceremony hosted by AFRAS in the House Rayburn Congressional Office Building, Washington, DC in the Fall, 2021.

7. Congratulations to the AFRAS Gold and Silver Medal recipients and all the nominees on a job well done.

8. COMDT (CG-SAR) AFRAS awards POC: Mr. Michael Clarke (202) 372-2090, Michael.E.Clarke@uscg.mil.

9. Ms. Dana S. Tulis, Director, Emergency Management (CG-5RI), sends.

10. Internet released is authorized.

 

 

If you have a question regarding this ALAUX, please seek resolution within your Chain of Leadership and Management (COLM) including up to your servicing District Director of Auxiliary (DIRAUX). If your question still cannot be resolved after that, then please email CGAUX@uscg.mil.