t opside V olume 79 , I s s u e 4 P a ge 4
From the Desk of the Commodore , continued
There is nothing like the energy and atmosphere of live DTRAINs . It is the most Auxiliary-affirming experience ; meeting national and district Auxiliary leaders , chatting with Coast Guard active duty ; to see your friends , EX- COM , DIRAUX staff , and shipmates - in the flesh , rather than as a one-dimensional image glowing on your table as you spiral down a virtual meeting wormhole . The opportunity of training , dining , and socializing together ; active duty Coasties and our most senior Auxiliary leaders become human in person . It was DTRAIN ’ s personal connection with members that transformed those hotel conference centers into a Team Coast Guard festival .
As a two-decade conference goer , I know this feeling well . I myself have been pressed taking closed-book exams and practical tests . I have been motivated by amazing instructors and mentors , and inspired by interesting Auxiliary presenters and Coast Guard speakers . I have felt the accomplishment of receiving awards , and the honor of presenting commendations to deserving members . I have purchased my uniform items at the district store , participated in many “ Friday Fun Nites ”, and engaged in stimulating conversation during meals and social mixers with members I may never see again . All to celebrate and share the tangible , communal power of our district conferences . Without question , the training we receive , the connections we make , the information that we share , the relationships that we strengthen , and the camaraderie and fellowship that we enjoy at DTRAINs contribute immeasurably to our being ready , resourceful , relevant , and resilient .
In today ’ s world of fear , unease , and social distancing , it ' s hard to imagine attending conferences like these ever again . I don ’ t know when it will be safe to return to face-to-face meetings and training , indulging in group conversation , dining together , or enjoying in-person ceremonies and fellowship . But I do know that we will do it again , because we have to . It ’ s not a choice . We ’ re Auxiliarists . We need gatherings like DTRAIN that reassure us that we are not alone . That we are relevant . That we are ready . And , most important , reinforce that we are indeed a Team . And I also know that we can surely get through this together .
As the 2021 Surface Patrol Season ends , I am taking this opportunity to thank you - Boat Crew , Coxswains , Qualification Examiners and appointed Operations Staff Officers for all you have done during this very challenging year for surface operations . Many of you ‘ Sailored-Up ’ and made patrols happen regardless of the particular setbacks we faced this year : COVID mitigations , multi-problem transition to AUXDATA II , CG Finance revisions of patrol orders , and loss of surface facilities . You have demonstrated that the Auxiliary is resilient and adaptable to changing dynamics .
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 .
Shipmates , 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 serve the Coast Guard and keep us worthy of the public trust .
Thank you for your dedicated service and commitment to our nation , Semper Paratus !