Ocean City MD – United States Coast Guard BM1 Larry Johnson (right) stands ready to pin the Boat Force Operation insignia on Auxiliary Member Steve Schmitt during the Auxiliary Change of Watch ceremony. Master Chief Timarre Sparks (left) Officer in Charge of Coast Guard Station Ocean City read the citation that describes Mr. Schmitt’s ten years of continuous service as Radio Watch Stander. (USCGAUX Photo by Steve Battistone)
Ocean City MD - On January 24, 2015, Coast Guard Auxiliary Flotilla 12-05 held its annual Change of Watch luncheon at the Light House Sound restaurant in West Ocean City MD. The Change of Watch honored outgoing elected and appointed staff officers and introduced the 2015 elected and appointed staff officers to the members in attendance.
Master Chief Timaree Sparks, US Coast Guard, Office in Charge of Coast Guard Station Ocean City, was the keynote speaker and presented several awards as well as presiding over the swearing in of the new elected leadership for 2015. Master Chief Sparks commended all members present for the outstanding support the Auxiliary provides to the Station Ocean City. Auxiliary member Steve Schmitt received special recognition for his role as a Watch Stander. “Auxiliary involvement like that of Mr. Schmitt helps the United States Coast Guard enhance operational readiness,” said Master Chief Sparks. Master Chief Sparks also thanked outgoing Flotilla Commander Robert Sheehan for a job well done and encouraged Al Parra, incoming Flotilla Commander, to continue pursuing operation readiness.
As part of the ceremonies, William Gleim, Division Commander, USCG Auxiliary presented awards in various categories, including Flotilla member with the greatest number of vessel examinations, on water operational awards, cumulative hour awards to individual members, and other mission awards.
For more information about the Coast Guard Auxiliary and its role in promoting recreational boating safety through Public Education classes, free vessel safety checks and an on water presence throughout the summer months, and how to join 30,000 other volunteers, visit their National Website at http://www.cgaux.org/. Flotilla 12-5 will have a booth in the Boat Show at the Ocean City Convention Center February 12-15. Persons interested in taking a Maryland Safe Boating Course or joining the Coast Guard Auxiliary are encouraged to stop by the booth.