Topside Spring 2017 Newsletter | Page 20

Help Wanted # 1- OMOS “ Our Members , Our Strength ”
P a ge 20 t opside V olume 114 , I s s u e 2

Commander Gunter Retires

As many of you may know , CDR Gunter has recently retired from the Coast Guard to begin his new career in the environmental field in Houston Texas . CDR Gunter has been a stalwart supporter of the Auxiliary , and it has been our honor and privilege to have had the pleasure of working with him in his capacity as Director and we will miss his advice and commitment . CDR Gunter started his Coast Guard career as an Auxiliarist having joined as a young man at the urging of his parents who were both members at one time . It is only fitting that he end his career serving as advisor and counselor to the organization he has known and supported throughout his life .
As DCO , I have had the pleasure of working with the Director on a different level than many of the members and have truly developed a bond and a friendship that I hope we can maintain . I thank him for his wisdom and advice and wish him , his wife , son and daughter well in their new adventure . God speed , Commander- smooth winds and following seas to you !!!

Auxiliarists Participation in Political Activities

While the climate in the U . S . has been heightened by the recent presidential election and resulting political actions , this is a reminder that Auxiliarists are advised that we may not engage in political activities that would implicate the Coast Guard or the Coast Guard Auxiliary in these actions as noted in the AUXMAN , COMDINST 16790.1G Chapter 5 : “ Regulations and Policies ,” Section C- “ Public Appearances for Political Affairs ,” C . 1- C . 2 . c . Understanding the passions that are aroused in individuals , it is important that we maintain composure and dignity . Should you notice that members are becoming overwhelmed by concerns over rumors or innuendo , please look out for your shipmates and try to calm their concerns . Auxiliarists may also utilize the Coast Guard Work / Life program to assist members facing adversity in many areas that may require professional help appropriate to employee assistance programs . Information for these programs can be found by accessing the Auxiliary national web site , click on the “ Coast Guard ” tab , “ Spouses and Families ” “ Work Life Program ” or directly at www . cgsuprt . com or by calling 1-855-247-8778 .

Help Wanted # 1- OMOS “ Our Members , Our Strength ”

There are several members in the District who are currently undergoing personal struggles , whether it be dealing with health concerns , family matters , or mourning the loss of a loved one . You are asked to please remember those members and keep them in your thoughts and prayers that they may find solace in the camaraderie of their shipmates knowing that they are not alone in their tribulations . A telephone call or card to those in need would be greatly appreciated and would serve to brighten their days knowing they are being thought about , especially the following members :
If you know of anyone in your Division or Flotilla who is experiencing difficulty or has recently passed , or if some monumental event has graced their lives which is cause for celebration , please notify ADSO- SR Marilyn Hughes at mhughes213 @ comcast . net . Marilyn will in turn notify Rita Kratzer and me so that appropriate responses can be sent ( e . g .: “ Get Well ” wishes , “ Congratulations ,” “ Thinking of You ” or condolences ) We want to take care of our shipmates and with your help we can let our members know that we are there support them and to share “ Joy and Sorrow .”