RISING TO THE OCCASION - ALWAYS FIRST
We as a District hit the ground running from day one in January! Due to the government shutdown our members contributed more, engaged more, and interacted more to assist our active duty than any other District. Again, we showed the way as "Always First".
The government shutdown provided us the opportunity to think "outside the box" and you the members of D1SR responded brilliantly! Together we created, planned and held the first D1SR Awards Luncheon to replace that portion of D-Train 2019. To say it was a success is an understatment. We now plan on having our Awards "Banquet" every year. We have reserved the Officer's Club at the Coast Guard Academy to be held on April 4, 2020. I am hoping for the same enthusiasm and turnout as we had for our first Awards banquet.
IIn addition, we created and executed three Regional Based Training (RBT) events covering both Sector Long Island Sound North and South and Sector New York North and South. These Regional based training days are designed to accomplish two things. First, replace our training courses at D-Train, and second, to provide additional training regionally to include members who do not or cannot attend D-Train. The District Captains were tasked with putting together teams, organizing the training and locating central facilities to hold the events. A heavy lift in a short period of time, secure funding and get the word out and put on the show.
We accomplished an incredible feat as all RBTs were successful, well planned, well instructed and well attended. We now have a blueprint for the future. Thank you to DCAPTs David Marriott SLIS-N, John Traganos SLIS- S, Mike West, SNY-N and Val Ramsberger SNY-S.
Plans are in the works for the next combined LDA in December, D-Train with D1NR in March 2020. A Staff Officers College is being modeled after the successful Leadership Academy.
We had a succssful Fleet Week in NYC with over 100 members assisting active duty and with Sailfest in New London. I particiapted in the Ringing of The Bell at New York Stock Exchange in celebration our 80th Anniversary, what a great experience!
To all of you, thank you for what you do every day. Thank you for who you are, and please have a happy, safe summer season. Do your job and do it well. Remember to recruit - Just One More and we will double our membership in D1SR.
Respectfully,
Bill Bowen
Bill Bowen
District Commodore
First Southern District
District Commodore's Message