Jon Bernz, Jason Bernz, Jane Bernz
RIOR TO 2017, I was familiar with the USCG (active duty) through my
recreational boating experience but really had no understanding of the Auxiliary component. My introduction to the Auxiliary came indirectly through my son, PO3 Jason Bernz who graduated from USCG TRACEN Cape May in July 2017 in class Q-194.
The graduation was a very proud moment for me as a parent. It came about two months after my wife and I gave Jason his farewell send-off meal at the famed Fraunce’s Tavern in NYC. Not only is Fraunce’s Tavern located only about a block from the USCG recruiting center at the Battery in NYC, it is where George Washington invited the officers of the Continental Army to join him to bid them their farewell. So, it seemed an appropriate place. If it was good enough for George Washington, it is good enough for us.
The time he spent at boot camp is best saved for another story. For those that don’t know, the experience is rugged to say the least; it is also hard on parents and family members as there is basically no communication allowed in the early part. And those two months seemed like they dragged on for years.
Article by Jon Bernz 014-07-74 Stamford CT
A TALE OF TWO STORIES
Graduation Day Photo by Jon Bernz.