BRAVO ZULU 2020 Q-2 news magazine uscgaux roger bazeley pa1 publish-rmb r2-pn

2nd Quarter 2020 1 MARCH-JUNE
Bravo Zulu
Point Bonita Flotilla 17 D11N, CA
FEATURED in Auxiliary Fitness…10 - Boat crew Tiffany Townsend and Auxiliary Patrol facility SEAHORSE
Photo: Roger Bazeley
QUARTERLY NEWS
2nd Quarter 2020 BRAVO ZULU News Magazine
USCG AUXILIARY

Table of Contents Q-2, 2020
Staff and Contributors
Editors: Bravo Zulu 2020 Q-2
FSO Public Affairs – Roger Bazeley PA1
FSO Publications – Roger Bazeley
Creative Staff: Design, Layout
Roger Bazeley PA-ADSO
Photographer, Design and Layout
Andrew Niquette Article Layout/Contributor
Advisory Staff Officers:
Julie Vincenzini, 2020 FC
Jane Smith PA-1, DSO-PA D11N
Gail Giacomini District ADSO-PA
Article Contributors Q-2:
Andy Koenig, VFC Flotilla 14-04
Jim Losi DCAPT-S
Dean McFarren D11N – Chief of Staff
James Duncan D11N – DSO Navigation Aides
Gail Giacomini ADSO-Deputy District PA-3
Vivian Matuk CA Boating – Dockwalkers
Past National Commodore Richard Washburn
Andrew Niquette AUXPA3, COVID-19
Roger Bazeley, AUX PA-1
Photography Contributors Q-2:
National Park Service photo archives
USCG Photo and Historic Archives USCGC
Roger Bazeley AUX PA-1, D11N Photographer
Mikiko Bazeley, Point Bonita Flotilla 2018 COW
USN Photo Archives
Cover Photo: Sausalito, CA - Boat crew member Dr.
Tiffany Townsend MD AUX-Fitness demonstrator with
Auxiliary Patrol facility SEAHORSE Photo: Roger
Bazeley
Articles + Content
CONTENTS…2
FYI: Point Bonita Flotilla/ Lighthouse History…3
About the Auxiliary …4
COVID-19 Information Fact Sheet…5
USCG Sector SF Master Chief Retirement
Command Master Chief Christensen…6
National Safe Boating Week (NSBW) History...9
Pre-Patrol Stretches and Warm-ups…10
Why we do what we do…14
Proper Uniform Wear…18
Ready to Communicate; Ready to Recruit…21
Point Bonita FLASH – Monthly News…23
MEMBERS DECK & FYI, RBS, ALERTS…25
The Demise of Traditional Raster (RNC) Paper Charts
– From BOATUS…26
MEMBER TRAINING - Paddle-Craft Safety…28
USCG National Safe Boating Week with Water Safety
Fair at USCG Station Golden Gate…39
Boat Crew Crossword Puzzle…47
Our 2020 Flotilla Leadership Team…42
ETHOS: Leadership & Diversity Policy…43
Auxiliary Specialty Programs…44
Auxiliary Chaplain Support Program…45
Boat Crew Word Puzzle…46
Boat Crew Word Puzzle – Answers…47

POINT BONITA FLOTILLA 17, SF, CA
POINT BONITA LIGHTHOUSE HISTORY
Tower Information
Tower Height: 33.00'
Focal Plane: 140'
Active Aid to Navigation
Latitude: 37.81559 N
Longitude:-122.52950 W
National Park Service Historic Achieves – Photos and Historic Documentation
With the discovery of gold in 1848, California and the world changed forever. San Francisco became the main
port for gold seekers from around the globe. To lead the new settlers and explorers safely through the dangerous
waters of the Bay entrance, a system of lighthouses was developed. Alcatraz’s light showed the way for ships
directly in front of the Golden Gate and Fort Point’s lighthouse marked the southern edge of San Francisco Bay,
but another lighthouse was needed north of the Golden Gate to make the entrance recognizable for ships sailing
up the coast from the south. That lighthouse site became Point Bonita.
Point Bonita Lighthouse, the third lighthouse on the West Coast, was completed in 1855. Built upon a high
ridge 300 feet above the water, there were soon complaints that thick fog frequently obscured the light beam. A
new site at a lower elevation was chosen nearby at the tip of Point Bonita. Unstable rock made construction of a
hand-hewn tunnel and trail to the site challenging. A new 3-room brick structure was built to support the upper
half of the original lighthouse that was moved to the new site in 1877. On December 26, 1896, George Cobb
the lighthouse keeper of the Point Bonita lighthouse rescued three young men who came close to drowning
nearby. For this feat George Cobb was awarded the Silver Lifesaving Medal. The USCGC GEORGE COBB
that was launched in December 18, 1999 was the last of 14 “Keeper Class” coastal buoy tenders named for
lighthouse keepers, and is named in his honor.
Left: USCGC GEORGE COBB departing Sector SF - Right: Point Bonita Lighthouse at Sunset;
Photos: Roger Bazeley

ABOUT THE
AUXILIARY
Who we are and what we do
The United States Coast Guard Auxiliary (USCGAUX)
is the uniformed auxiliary service of the United States
Coast Guard (USCG). The Auxiliary exists to support all
USCG missions except roles that require "direct" law
enforcement or military engagement. As of 2019, there
were approximately 24,000 members of the U.S. Coast
Guard Auxiliary.
Established by Congress in 1939 the United States Coast
Guard Auxiliary motto is Semper Paratus (Always
Ready). We invite you to learn more about who and
what we do as members of TEAM COAST GUARD.
The Auxiliary areas of operation:
- Recreational Boating Safety and Education
- Public Affairs and Community Outreach
- Safety and Security Patrols – Ports/Waterways
- Search and Rescue Mission Support
- Chefs/Food Specialists for USCG events/ships
- Mass Casualty and Disaster Assistance
- Pollution Response & Patrols
- Commercial Fishing and Vessel Exams
- Platforms for USCG Training – Helicopter OPS
- Recruitment for Coast Guard Auxiliary/USCG
In addition to the above, the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary
operates in any mission as directed by the Commandant
of the U.S. Coast Guard or Secretary of Homeland
Security. Our mission is to promote and improve
Recreational Boating Safety, to provide trained crews
and facilities to augment the Coast Guard and enhance
safety and security of our ports, waterways, and coastal
regions, and to support Coast Guard operational,
administrative, and logistical requirements.

Auxiliary AUXFS Assist USCG Sector SF Master
Chief Christensen Retirement
Roger Bazeley AUXPA1 Photography
Captain Wright Deputy Sector SF Commander, Port Captain – Sector Logo
Coast Guard Sector San Francisco personnel held a retirement ceremony on Yerba Buena Island, as
Capt.Wright, Sector Deputy Commander reads orders to Master Chief Christensen, prior to retiring.
Left: Master Chief receiving AOR Map from Command Right: Captain Wright presents MC spouse honor.

Master Chief Christensen Retirement
1.) Retirement Ceremony, 2.) Auxiliarist and USCG Piper McFerin playin Seper Pratus, 3.) Master Chief’s Family being
honored, 4.) Sector Comand Master Chief, 5.) Master Chief being thanked by command member, 6.) Sector SF Deputy
Comdr. Captain Wright and Master Chief Christensen at sector parade field.

Master Chief Christensen Retirement
1.) Sector Deputy Commander Captain Wright, 2.) Bay Bridge Tower in Fog, 3.) AUXFS Logo, 4.) AUXFS John Foley, Linda Haines, and Tommy
Holtzman on serving line, 5.) Master Chief’s Retirement cake made by AUXFS Linda Haines, and cookies

National Safe Boating Week’s Beginnings and Today’s COVID-19
by Gail Giacomini, D11NR NSBW Chair, USCG Auxiliary Public Affairs NSBW National Directorate Diane Regan and COMO D11NR Mary Kirkwood
First, a historical overview: The first National Safe Boating Week was started by a Coast Guard Auxiliary unit, as a
Courtesy Examination Weekend, June 1952, in Amesbury, Massachusetts. By 1957 the USCG Auxiliary officially
sponsored National Safe Boating Week observances in various parts of the country and on June, 1958 the U.S. Coast
Guard wrote a Resolution that passed and established NSBW as the first week in June. *Changed to the week before
Memorial Day in 1995.
In 1957 NSBW was organized and overseen by the National Safe Boating Committee (changed to the National Safe
Boating Week Council, Inc.in 1973). The Council supports major boating safety efforts through: education, training
and outreach programs; planning and developing national boating safety awareness projects and campaigns, such as
NSBW. In 1971 the United States Congress authorized creation of the National Recreational Boating Safety (RBS)
Program, (uscgboating.org) which was adopted by the CG and CG Auxiliary as a year-round program to support its
mission of boating safety, including NSBW.
Here are some Key Facts from the US Coast Guard’s 2017 RBS Nationwide Statistics:
Every year, more than 70 million Americans participate in recreational boating with 11,961,568 registered
recreational boats!
Approximately 84.5% of the 449 boating fatalities who drowned were not wearing life jackets and only 14% of
deaths occurred on boats where the operator had received boating safety instruction.
The National Boating Safety Program lists five primary contributing factors in on-and-in-the-water accidents
and fatalities:
 Inattention of operator or crew regarding other boats, persons or surroundings;
 Inexperience and unfamiliarity operating a boat or recreating in the water;
 Improper or absent assigned vessel lookout or swimmers’ “water-watcher.”
 Machinery operation failure; and
 Alcohol or drug use while helming or recreating on or near the water.
To promote a “culture of safety,” and address these accident and fatality contributing factors, the Coast Guard
Auxiliary provides continuing boating safety courses and classes; free literature; free vessel safety checks; boat show
volunteer staffing; interactive boating safety activities; boating safety patrols; distribution of free safety literature and
lifejackets (from the CA Department of Boating & Waterways) at Public Affairs Exhibits along with the promotion of
National Safe Boating Week.
If you are a District Division CG Auxiliary NSBW Chair for 2020, and have had to cancel or postpone your event
plans due to COVID -19, the Auxiliary National Leadership encourages media use, using electronic communications,
to promote safe boating practices. Use the NSBW website for media ideas and templates
(www.safeboatingcampaign.com) and for training, Click here to download the NSBW PowerPoint to plan for your
Division’s readiness for NSBW 2021. Semper Paratus!

Pre-Patrol Stretches and Warm-up
Andy Koenig, VFC Flotilla 14-04, PT, DPT, MHA, OCS, CSCS
Auxiliary boat crew members have many tasks that need to be accomplished prior to getting
underway on a patrol. There is gear to stow, equipment to check, and a Risk Management
assessment to develop a GAR score. It is important that Auxiliarists also remember to prepare
their most important gear: their bodies.
Before you get underway, take a moment to take an inventory of how your body feels. If you
are required on an extended ride out to the dock, your heart rate is probably near resting, so it is
not circulating much oxygen to your muscles. Your muscles may be tight, which can limit
mobility underway. Your joints might be creaky, limiting comfort of movement. If you jump
right on board, you risk cramping up or starting the patrol feeling less than optimal decreasing
your performance. You have invested a lot in your training, planning, and preparation, so take a
few minutes to prepare your body for the physical nature of a patrol.
Serving on an Auxiliary Facility is a physical activity, especially if the weather deteriorates or
the seas are rising. A proper warm-up and stretching routine is important for both enjoyment
and safety during patrols. A quick stretching session can boost circulation, lubricate joints and
warm up muscles preparing them to work. It will allow you to move around the vessel, handle
lines, and stand watch with greater ease and attention. It will prepare your body for any
emergency situation that arises like a man-overboard situation or an unexpected towing
scenario.
A progressive warm-up gradually increases the heart rate and dilates the blood vessels, which
promotes oxygenation of muscle tissue improving performance. Elevated muscle temperature
optimizes efficiency and flexibility. A pre-patrol stretch reduces stress on muscles, tendons and
joints and increases range of motion reducing the risk of injury.
Before you embark, spend five to 10 minutes with the entire crew to complete a few rounds of
the exercises below. Pay attention to how your body feels and focus on any areas that seem
tight. Having a crew that is warmed-up and ready to accomplish the physical aspects of the
mission will maximize crew effectiveness and efficiency.
Important Note: Before starting any stretching program, check with your doctor about what
specific exercises are good for you.

Pre-Patrol Stretches and Warm-up…Continued
STANDING TRUNK TWISTS
1. Begin with a tall spine while either standing or sitting.
2. Grab on to a piling, sign, or upright support on the facility.
3. Slowly rotate to your right, hold this position for a two count,
and return to center.
4. Repeat to the left.
5. Move smoothly and maintain control repeating 10 times to each
side
SQUATS - Squats activate all the major muscles and joints of the
lower body including the ankles, knees and hips.
1. Begin with your feet slightly wider than shoulder
width.
2. Push your hips back while maintaining a flat back
3. Lower your hips as if sitting down, and keep your
knees from traveling forward of your toes.
4. Once you reach a comfortable seated position,
stand up, pushing your hips forward.
CROSS BODY STRETCH
1. Extend one arm across your body just below your chin.
2. Reach up with the opposite hand and grasp your elbow.
3. Gently pull your arm across your body with the opposite
hand. Hold this stretch for 30 seconds and repeat 3 times.

Pre-Patrol Stretches and Warm-up…Continued
BEHIND THE NECK STRETCH
1. Extend one arm straight overhead.
2. Bend your elbow, and reach down your spine.
3. Grasp the bent elbow with the opposing hand.
4. Gently pull your elbow, and hold this position for 30
seconds.
5. Repeat on the opposite side 3 times.
CHEST STRETCH
1. Stand in a doorway, near
a piling, or holding on to
the vessel.
2. Place one arm against
the wall and slightly turn
your upper body away from
the wall.
3. Hold for 30 seconds and
repeat 3 times on each
side.
Photos: Roger Bazeley AUXPA-1

Why we do what we do…
Our personal journey together
By Jim Losi
Each and every morning when I enter
my home office to begin my daily
ritual of responding to emails, making
early morning phone calls and
handling correspondence, I’m
reminded just how lucky to be an
Auxiliarist. I have a few bookcases
with shelving and one of them, is
dedicated to all things Auxiliary and of
course, our USCG.
Every morning without fail, as I drink
my first cup of coffee, I scan the
shelves and with that morning ritual
which serves as a daily reminder of
just how lucky I really am.
I think to myself, what other volunteer
organization would allow a member to
wear an official uniform of the USCG,
serve side by side with their
active duty counterparts and receive
world class training all the while
Photo: Jim Duncan while mentoring Jim
Losi through his Paton Verifier PQS
volunteering their time away from
family and loved ones?
For instance, why would Jim Duncan
invest 50 years of his life to the
Auxiliary and he still isn’t done? Why
would Mary Stephens, brand new to
the Auxiliary, use her vacation time to
go on a night-time training patrol and
smile all the way through it?
What organization would allow its
members to create a custom portfolio
of activities ideally suited to meet the
interests and passion of its members?
Mary Stephens on OPFAC SERVANT
during training patrol
Continued:
One word describes this, remarkable!
Why would Steven Hilt and Winnie
Zhou, currently cadets at the San
Francisco Sheriff’s Academy, take the
time away from their studies to
schedule their PA3 oral boards? The
answer to all of the aforementioned
questions is quite simple…it is heart!
Photo: My shelf in my home office
dedicated to all things USCG Auxiliary
and USCG

Why we do what we do…Continued:
Why would Roger Bazeley AUXPA1 Editor
Navigator Express show up 8 am on a
Thursday morning to photograph the
departure of the USCG STRATTON as she
deploys for six months and invest six hours
of his time on an unusually hot day at CGI,
and then drives to the Golden Gate Bridge to
photograph the STRATTON as it heads out
the Golden Gate Bridge?
Photo: Alameda, CA--CGC STRATTON WMSL 752
on 20 June 2019 the day of her 180 day deployment.-
headed out.
The answer to all of the aforementioned questions is quite simple…it is heart! I find this an absolutely
fascinating topic to explore. I decided that I wanted to do a deeper dive and learn from my fellow Auxiliarists as
to why they do what they do. In this instance, I homed in on “Why” they joined the Auxiliary. I will seek to try
and explain this through some good old fashioned research and talking to members.
Here is what I learned…I asked Kristan Verveniotis of Flotilla 04-06 why she joined the Auxiliary. She
responded, “I was looking for something to keep me busy outdoors as I prepared to have an empty nest.” She
went on to say, “I’m most inspired by the opportunity to help with boating safety… When they do happen for
others on the water, I hope that I’m around to help” I will note that I have patrolled with Kristan and she, like
her husband Paul, love the Auxiliary mission. Their enthusiasm is very contagious.
Jim Losi and Kristan
Verveniotis post check-ride
at the Victory OPTREX in
June 2019.
I was able to spend about thirty minutes with former D11NR Commodore Angelo Perata of Flotilla 11-01 at our
most recent PCA Fair at CGI this past January.
When I asked him why he joined the Auxiliary, his eyes widened, and the words flowed effortlessly. I didn’t
know this about Angelo, but he is former Active Duty Coast Guard and I simply expected him to say that the
serving in the Auxiliary was simply a logical extension of his prior service in the USCG. Well, yes and no.
Angelo went on to say, “the mission of boater education is so critically important that I felt it my personal
responsibility to work with the public and educate them about safety around the water.” He spoke so
passionately about the boater education mission. It was inspiring to just sit there and listen to him speak about
all things Auxiliary.

Why we do what we do…Continued
He left me with the following, “I love educating the next generation of Auxiliarist. I welcome every
opportunity to educate members and guide them to success.” Angelo was my QE and mentor during my
coxswain check ride in March of 2019, evaluating my skills as a prospective coxswain. I learned so much from
him during the check ride process. He is very much passionate about member education and success. It was
abundantly clear to me that my success was his success. Angelo is an incredible leader.
I recently had lunch with Sue Fry of Flotilla 01-07 at Yerba Buena Island while we were discussing an
Auxiliary project at Station San Francisco. As our conversation was winding down, I asked her how long she
had been in the Auxiliary and why she had joined. Sue perked up and proudly announced “I have been in the
Auxiliary for over 25 years!”
Sue shared with me that she has always been an avid sailor. When she was a younger person she sailed from
Hawaii to San Francisco. She recounted that “as I was entering San Francisco Bay, we were greeted with very
thick of fog. It was so thick with no visibility, we had to call for assistance…and of course, the members of
USCG Station Golden Gate came to our aid.” Sue went on to say that “I was so appreciative of them coming
out to help us, they really saved us! I felt I needed to do something, reciprocal of sorts. So, I joined the
Auxiliary and the rest is history.”
Steven Bustin of Flotilla 01-04 has first and foremost, a
strong lifelong sense of patriotism. Steven said that, “The
Auxiliary allows me, at this stage of my life, to serve my
country, the Coast Guard and my community. It is that honor,
coupled with the incredible and dedicated people working as
a team, which keeps me in the Auxiliary. Also, belonging to
something bigger than me, which reminds me of my family
members that served in the military. It is a way for me to
honor them. When on Auxiliary patrols, I usually carry the
dog tags of my dad and uncles in my pocket.” Photo: Alex
Bennett and Steven Bustin
Quindy recalls that “he showed me the telecommunications room where
the Coast Guard receives emergency calls from boater’s whom are in
destress. We went out on patrol with the Active Duty Coast Guard boat
crew and coxswain, on the small 29-foot patrol boat.”
Thanks to Auxiliarist Gallo’s efforts, Quindy decided against joining the
Army and made the drive to the Coast Guard recruiting office. Quindy
stated that “during my time in service, I had a wonderful time serving
while on board the Coast Guard Cutter Chase, which was home based in
San Diego, CA. My experience was unlike anything else, so much so, that
after getting out of the Coast Guard, I missed wearing the uniform and
helping people, so I decided to join the Coast Guard Auxiliary. Since I had
fond memories with Auxiliarist Gallo, I knew that I would really enjoy
being an Auxiliarist, and boy was I right.” Photo: Quindy Sammler aboard
OPFAC SERVANT getting ready for a patrol

Why we do what we do…Continued
Don Maiden of Flotilla 05-02 had a very heartfelt response to my question as to why he joined the Auxiliary.
Don stated, “I joined after a family member was killed serving in the Army. I wanted to honor his legacy in
some way, and I was too old to enlist via traditional means. The Coast Guard Auxiliary provided me the ability
to support a worthy mission while honoring a loved one's legacy.”
Terry Blanchard of Flotilla 01-09 is a very well-known Auxiliarist, especially amongst the San Francisco Bay
Area active duty members. Terry is also very special to me as he served as a mentor to me during my coxswain
training. Truth be told, he still mentors me. I need a lot of mentoring.
So I reached out to Terry recently and asked why he and his wife Linda joined the Auxiliary. Terry shared with
me a wonderful story, the essence of which follows. Terry stated that “While we they were waiting for our boat
to be built, we happened to see a public service ad in the San Jose Mercury News about an Auxiliary BS&S
class. The class was being given by what became our flotilla (01-09),San Francisco, I think back in 1992 that
those classes were either 12 or 14 weeks long. We were hooked!
I had also learned from Terry that both he and Linda were very close to the military, especially the US NAVY.
He shared with me further that they were both employed by the military for a number of years. Terry went on
to say more about why they joined the Auxiliary, “Maybe we joined because it wasn't much of a stretch. I've
been around the military most of my life in one way or another
I grew up as an Air Force brat, served my two years in the Army during Viet Nam then worked for the Navy as
a civilian employee. Linda worked for the Navy as a civilian employee longer than I did. Being around a
military setting or wearing uniforms wasn't so unusual for either of us. And 2020 will be my 27th year as an
Auxiliary member.”
Both Terry and Linda, along with all of the members who have shared their stories as to why they have joined
the Auxiliary, have as their core reason why they joined the Auxiliary…heart! I have learned so much about the
heart of the Auxiliary writing this article, that I have been inspired to continue to research the question and
continue to share the results in future editions of the NORTHWIND.
I am reminded frequently by Bob Schabert, DSO-HR that trying to understand the why a prospective member
would join the Auxiliary is a critical success factor in attracting a new member. Part of that process is to
understand why current members joined the Auxiliary and applying that knowledge to attract new members to
our Auxiliary ranks. This article’s intent was in trying to understand and highlight why members joined the
Auxiliary and why it is such a remarkable organization.
I may be finished with this current article for NORTHWIND, but I am far from finished from sharing what I
have learned from talking to members. There are so many wonderful inspirational stories out there amongst our
membership. My mission, going forward, is to share as many of these stories with you as I find them. Standby
for future articles on the subject!

PROPER UNIFORM WEAR
Dean McFarren D11N – Chief of Staff
The Coast Guard Auxiliary has supported The United States Coast Guard for over eighty years by providing
unique talents and performing a variety of missions as authorized by the Commandant. As part of “Team Coast
Guard”, the Commandant through the Auxiliary Manual has granted the Coast Guard Auxiliary permission to
wear the Coast Guard uniform when performing our authorized activities. Wearing of the Coast Guard uniform
is an honor that I hold in particularly high regard and part of the reason I joined the Auxiliary.
This “permission” to wear the
uniform is however not a “Right
of Membership” and should be
considered a Privilege. If we, The
Auxiliary, cannot live up to the
expectations and obligations of
representing our uniform and our
service to the best of our abilities,
the privilege of wearing the Coast
Guard uniform can be revoked at
any time.
When we think about the word
“UNIFORM,” what does it mean? …
from the dictionary
Uniform [yoo-nuh-fawrm]
1. Identical or consistent, as from
example to example, place to
place, or moment to moment
2. Without variations in detail
3. Constant, unvarying,
undeviating
4. An identifying outfit or style of
dress worn by members of a given
profession, organization, or rank
The dictionary leaves little doubt and the definition(s) is very clear. It states in so many words what we convey
in so few: “wear it properly.” I am a strong believer that if a member is to wear the uniform, then it should be
worn properly or not at all!
So, why am I bringing this up? There has been a considerable amount of concern recently within the Coast
Guard and the Auxiliary that not all of our members are in the habit of wearing our uniforms correctly. Does
this mean “all” Auxiliarists are not complying with requirements….No, of course it doesn’t. Most Auxiliarists
do wear the uniform correctly and proudly. However, what it does mean is there have been enough violations
observed nationwide that proper uniform wear is once again a major topic of conversation at the highest levels
of the Coast Guard and Auxiliary. That being said, I believe significant and ongoing attention needs to be drawn
to the subject.

PROPER UNIFORM WEAR…Continued
The Coast Guard allows us to wear their uniform … sure with a few minor differences (gold vs. silver and some
different ribbons & insignias) but when the public sees an Auxiliarist in uniform, they see the Coast Guard. We
must wear the uniform correctly and proudly. Why … because we honor the Coast Guard and the men and
women who serve and have served for so many generations. We could also be influencing future generations of
Coastie’s based on something as simple as how we present ourselves.
One would expect when a member attends an event such as a D-TRAIN, Change of Watch, training event,
Public Affairs event, or even a routine patrol that the member would be certain that he or she is wearing the
uniform of the day properly! Unfortunately, this is not always the case. It is up to leadership and quite frankly
ALL members to actively observe and privately coach violators and suggest what corrections should be made.
Additionally, we should be publicly praising those members for proper wear. Positive reinforcement goes a long
way! If one does not possess a “proper and complete uniform”, civilian clothing appropriate for the occasion is
permissible … and preferred over wearing a uniform improperly! I understand that every member wants to wear
the uniform, however if you don’t have a “complete” uniform… don’t wear it!
All Auxiliarists wearing the uniform of the United States Coast Guard should incorporate
the following values:
Pride: “In keeping with the true spirit of an organization of unpaid professionals (a.k.a.
volunteers,) the possession and wear of the Auxiliary uniform by Auxiliarists should be a matter
of personal pride.”
Honor: “When in uniform, the Auxiliarist is a representative of the Department of Homeland
Security, the Coast Guard, the Auxiliary, and the U.S. Government.”
Appearance: “Uniform cleanliness, completeness, fit, and personal grooming shall reflect the
pride of that representation.”
Support: “Assist other Auxiliarists in developing proper habits of personal appearance,
hygiene, and grooming when wearing the uniform.”
“Elected and appointed leaders are expected to wear the uniform properly to set an example for others.”
COMO Smith reminded me of a comment made by a past DIRAUX CMDR. Sumrok that still rings true today
and bears considerable thought by all… “There is a big difference between lack of skill and lack of will.” If one
lacks the skill to wear the uniform properly, training can correct the infractions. If one lacks the will to wear the
uniform properly, it is a much deeper problem.
The Auxiliary Manual includes “Flagrant and/or repeated uniform or grooming violations” as an “Infraction
Warranting Informal Disciplinary Action”. No one wants to initiate disciplinary action at any level; however,
this certainly underscores the fact that the uniform should be worn properly whenever it is worn! Lack of will
to wear the uniform properly is simply unacceptable!

PROPER UNIFORM WEAR…Continued
Remember when we were sworn in as new members, we all took the “Member Pledge”… That Pledge
included the following:
“As an Auxiliarist, you enjoy certain honors and privileges, among them, wearing the Auxiliary uniform and
flying the Auxiliary Ensign. Wear the uniform neatly and correctly and fly the Blue Ensign proudly. Remember
that your conduct reflects directly upon the image of both the Coast Guard and the Auxiliary.”
Let us repeat this phrase: Wear uniform neatly and correctly … something each of us swore to do!
So, I believe I’ve answered the “why” of proper uniform wear. You may have questions and are asking, “How”
do I find out more? Well, there are numerous resources for determining how … and when … to wear the
prescribed uniform properly. Is that a redundancy? … No! Knowing when to wear which uniform is very
important as well. Where does one find all of the answers? … in the AUXILIARY MANUAL Chapter 10 at
https://www.uscg.mil/Portals/0/OurOrganization/auxiliary/publications/AUXMAN.pdf?ver=2017-07-02-
093004-213
In addition to the AUX-MANUAL, there are also numerous PowerPoint presentations available including the
ODU presentation sent to all D11N members in early February requesting that each of you personally review
the content and have Flotilla discussions around the topic.
The D11N website also includes several PowerPoint presentations available for viewing and/or downloading
and can be found by accessing the MEMBER DECK, and clicking on UNIFORMS. These are excellent
presentations for training at the Flotilla level. All can easily be presented in about an hour and are great tools
for new and ‘more experienced’ members alike!
We have every right to be proud of our 80+ year-old organization and the core values that we hold in such high
regard. I urge all members to take pride in not only the tasks we perform for the Coast Guard, but also in the
manner in which we do them. The Auxiliary is unique in that we serve alongside active duty and reserve
members and we are looked at the same way when in uniform. We are the face of the Coast Guard in many
situations and it is our duty to present our service in the best and most professional way possible.
Thank you for being a member of the United States Coast Guard Auxiliary. I hope to see you at a future
Auxiliary event proudly wearing the uniform neatly and correctly!
As a closing note, I’d like to thank COMO Wally Smith for providing valued content for this article.
Semper Paratus,
Dean McFarren, D11N – Chief of Staff

Ready to Communicate; Ready to Recruit
Two Purposes, One Great Tool…
By Jim Losi
What has six wheels, six radios, four work stations, two diesel auxiliary generators, a galley with mini
refrigerator, a coffee maker, eleven Auxiliary recruiting posters, is thirty four feet long and is ready for your
Division to use? The answer is your District 11 NR Auxiliary Communications Vehicle or ACV and now your
Auxiliary Recruiting Vehicle or ARV! It’s one vehicle with multiple purposes.
Didn’t know our District had such an asset, well we do and it is available for your Division and/or Flotilla to use
for your various communication events and your recruiting events, aka Public Affairs events.
Left: Figure 1 - Larry Stanton & Kevin Sellstrom happy and working on new radio installations. Center: ACV/ARV Unveiling at
January PCA Fair - Right: Peter Todebush happy with his Swiffer and cleaning the ACV/ARV.
A few years back when Rich Thomas was our District Commodore, he worked with a team of Auxiliary
members to accept the mighty generous donation of a thirty four foot RV to our District. Upon receiving the
gift, COMO Thomas and team set upon the task of converting the RV into an Auxiliary Communications
Vehicle or “ACV” as it has been affectionately referred to. It was outfitted with some radios and then purposed
to be utilized as the primary communications vehicle for selected events like our annual Bay Area Fleet Week
and various Divisional OPTREXs.
As we started 2019 with a new Commodore, Mary Kirkwood put a challenge to us to expand the usage of the
ACV. She commented, “The ACV is an incredible tool and resource and we should make use of it and expand
its purpose.” Being a team of people who never shies away from such challenges, we started the process of
thinking about ways to make greater use of the ACV and expand its purpose. In the same District meeting
when DNACO-OP Smith and COMO Kirkwood put forth the ACV challenge, she challenged us further to
dramatically ramp up our District wide recruiting efforts.
So in true District 11NR Auxiliary Fashion, we assembled a team of members who rallied around this challenge
of expanding the usage and purpose of the ACV. That team consisted of Michael Thompson, Peter Todebush,
Larry Stanton, Kevin Sellstrom, Doug Manifold, Roger Bazeley, David Wright, Wally Smith, Tony Zocchi and
yours truly.

Ready to Communicate; Ready to Recruit…Continued
After a couple of weeks of organic and creative discussions, etc., one of the team members asked, “How about
using the ACV as a recruiting platform and merchandise it in such a way that it attracts prospective members?”
Finally the Auxiliary Recruiting Vehicle or ARV was born! Consequently in December, the team set about the
arduous task of cleaning, merchandising and further outfitting the ACV so that it could function as an ARV as
well. The team created a phased approach to work. Phase 1 consisted of a thorough cleaning of the ACV/ARV
from stem to stern.
That took quite a bit of manpower and hours. The second phase consisted of upgrading the communications
equipment to include the installation of two new radios. That also took quite a bit of manpower, technical skills
and hours to complete the job in an incredibly professional manner. The last phase consisted of assembling all
of the merchandising materials required to turn the ACV into an ARV and have it look like a world-class
recruiting platform.
Our goal was to unveil the ACV/ARV during the PCA fair weekend on January 18th and 19th. We wanted to
promote the ACV/ARV as a multi-purpose vehicle that can be used both as a communications platform for
various events and introduce its new function as a platform and a venue for recruiting new members to the
District 11NR Auxiliary.
In order to make this goal happen, the team assembled on Friday, January 17 when the team cleaned and
prepped the ACV/ARV for its initial unveiling the very next day. The team then moved the ACV/ARV from its
location by the credit union on CGI to the parking lot in front of the Point Welcome room. We also did a dry
run of how the ACV/ARV would look once completely merchandised. Once we completed the merchandising
and it’s set up, we stepped back and assessed our work.
Michael Thompson, Tony Zocchi, David Wright and I looked at each other and we knew we had a winner. The
very next morning as Auxiliary members arrived for their PCA weekend of training, they were initially greeted
in the parking lot with a newly purposed ACV/ARV. The reaction of the members and the various comments
made all the hard work of the prior 90 days well worth it. Upon the conclusion of the PCA fair weekend, we
sent out an email announcing the ACV/ARV and its various purposes, how to use it and how to reserve it for
future divisional communications, recruiting and public affairs events.
If you’re interested in using the ACV/ARV then please use this ACV/ARV Request Form. Please complete the
form and forward it to your respective district captain for processing. Mike Thompson is the auxiliary leader
who is responsible for coordinating usage of the combined a ACV/ARV. He will make certain that you have the
necessary drivers who are qualified and trained to drive the ACV/ ARV delivered to your event and returned
from your event. We are working on a budget driven by our District Chief of Staff Dean McFarren, which will
allow the District to allocate funds for fuel for the ACV/ARV thus not burdening the Divisions with the cost of
fuel.
The only thing we ask is that if you do decide to create an event in which you use the ACV/ARV that it be a
rather robust event where there would be a significant amount of traffic of prospective members considering
becoming District 11 North Auxiliary members. We already have three Divisions who have requested the
ACV/ARV for upcoming future events. If you need assistance in creating events, please rally around your
District Captain, Division Commanders and your Flotilla Commander’s and craft an event that will make the
best usage of this incredible resource.

The Point Bonita
Awards, Certificates and activities during January-February 2020 (Photos-Roger Bazeley AUXPA1)
(1-4) Certificates and Swearing into office, (6-9) Golden Gate Station: Risk Management Course (10-11) Rugby Match Event-
Treasure Island , (12) Sector SF Master Chief Christensen’s Retirement Ceremony

The Point Bonita
Flotilla Point Bonita, Division One Auxiliary Members Support Treasure Rugby Match with
Public Affairs and Recruitment Tent and Displays
Auxiliary Volunteers left to right: Gail Giacomini, Renee Thomas, FC Julie Vincenzini, Robin Stewart, and William Burns
Army Recruiters Vehicle & Tent; Teams’ Line up for the National Anthem with USCG Auxiliary and Army

The Point Bonita
Flotilla Point Bonita, Division One Auxiliary Members Support Treasure Rugby Match with
Public Affairs and Recruitment Tent and Displays
Auxiliary Tent and Display manned by Auxiliary: Bill Burns, Julie Vincenzini, Gail Giacomini, Rene Thomas, Robin Stewart.
Photos; Roger Bazeley AUXPA1

The Demise of Traditional Raster (RNC) Paper Charts – From BOATUS
Soon you will not be able to buy the colorful NOAA paper charts, but technology means you
can print your own up to date backup paper charts at a fraction of the price
As long as there have been electronic charts, mariners have been advised to keep a set of
backup paper charts just in case the electronics fail. Back in the day, a trip to a store that sold
genuine NOAA charts was how you got them — browsing through hundreds of colorful charts
and then paying (as much as $20 or more) for each chart you needed.
Those days are gone or will be soon. NOAA recently announced it will no longer be printing
nautical charts, phasing out the service over the next five years. NOAA says it currently makes
two kinds of charts that serve the same purpose, and it makes sense to discontinue paper charts
and move ahead with only the electronic version.
For years, NOAA has maintained more than 1,000 paper nautical charts in raster form. Raster
charts are simply pixelated images, or copies of charts, which could be printed through NOAA's
certified print-on-demand (POD) chart agents. It's these raster charts — including the Booklet
Charts that many recreational boaters use — that are going to be discontinued by January 2025.

The Demise of Traditional Raster (RNC) Paper Charts…Continued
NOAA also produces about 1,200 electronic navigation charts (ENCs) in various scales to plan
a voyage or pinpoint an anchorage. ENC charts are vector charts, meaning they're made of
digital data, which stores much more detailed information and can be more easily scaled. If
you've ever zoomed into an electronic vector chart, you've seen more detail as you focused in
on one area — raster charts can't do that. NOAA says ENCs will be remade into a standardized,
rectangular gridded layout, increasing the number of charts to about 9,000. Many of the older
charts will now be at a larger scale, meaning they'll contain much more detail for mariners.
Starting a couple of years ago, users could use a prototype of the online NOAA Custom Chart
application (NCC) that let them make their own charts from the latest NOAA ENC data. That
system is being improved as the end of paper charts nears. One of the biggest advantages of
ENCs is that they are up to date when you make them. In the past, when you bought paper
charts that were even a few weeks old, they needed to be updated by hand with current Local
Notice to Mariners, which could be a lot of work, depending on how old the charts were.
While the NCC is operational now, NOAA says improvements are needed to make it a viable
replacement for traditional paper nautical charts — hence the five-year plan to sunset traditional
raster and paper charts. NOAA says that while there is no timeline for the demise of individual
paper/raster charts, new ENC charts will be in their place as they are deleted.
So, what does this mean for you? If you're a fan of getting new traditional paper charts for your
navigating, you're soon going to be out of luck. However, you'll be able to use NOAA's NCC to
print your own small charts, with the ability to customize area and details to suit your needs, at
a fraction of the cost of traditional charts. You'll also be able to buy printed ENC charts from
vendors if you don't want to print your own. Now when you want to supplement your chart
plotter, it's easier and cheaper than ever.
Visit https://devgis.charttools.noaa.gov/pod to try your hand at making your own paper charts.
Or visit https://nauticalcharts.noaa.gov/customer-service/assist/ to make comments to NOAA
on what you'd like in its NCC application.

PADDLE CRAFT REFLECTOR KITS
United States Coast Guard Definition: 33 CFR 173 2018
“Paddle craft means a vessel powered only by its occupants, using a single or double bladed paddle as a lever
without the aid of a fulcrum provided by oarlocks, crutches, or similar arrangements”.
PADDLE CRAFT REFLECTOR KITS
1. The Auxiliary National Supply Center (ANSC) currently has about 16,000 Paddle Craft
Reflector Kits in stock. Developed by the Coast Guard Auxiliary under a grant from the Sport Fish
Restoration and Boating Trust Fund, administered by the Coast Guard, these kits help make
paddlers more visible to boaters. These kits are available from ANSC as stock line item #3004-
B. Due to the limited supply, there is a limit of 50 kits per order.
2. As the recreational boating season gets into full swing across the country, now is the ideal time
to distribute these kits as part of Auxiliary engagement with paddlers at public education events,
vessel safety checks, and program visits. Each kit consists of a sheet of shiny, reflective plastic
film containing four reflectors, one for each paddle tip. Paddlers can peel the reflectors from the
sheets and apply them to the tip of each paddle. On the water, these reflectors catch the sun, and
reflect it with a glint to make the paddle craft more visible to other paddlers and boaters. Each kit
includes a safety checklist that can be marked with the paddle craft owner's name and phone
number, and then applied to the paddle craft. The kit also contains much more useful safety
information for paddlers.
3. Auxiliary flotillas that engage with paddle craft communities are strongly encouraged to place
their orders now and distribute these valuable reflector kits soon in order to promote and achieve
improved paddle craft safety.

PADDLE-CRAFT Outfitters
Instruction, Rentals, Retail, and Tours
Greater San Francisco Bay Area
 101 Surf Sports—San Rafael, Redwood City; a full service water sports sporting goods shop specializing in SUP, prone
paddle boarding, windsurfing, kiteboarding, surfing, and kayaking; offers a full range of lessons, gear rentals, board repair,
kayak storage, SUP storage, boat storage, and guided tours.
 Adventure Sports—Santa Cruz; offers classes and trips
 Blue Waters Kayaking—Outfitter on Tomales Bay
 Cal Adventures—Sea Kayaking classes at UC Berkeley
 California Canoe and Kayak (CCK)—Outfitter in Oakland’s Jack London Square, Half Moon Bay (Pillar Point Harbor), San
Carlos, Sacramento, and Coloma (American River); offers classes and trips
 City Kayak—At Pier 38 on The Embarcadero in downtown San Francisco
 Current Adventures—Offers high-quality clinics in surf kayaking, as well as outings on Elkhorn Slough and Monterey Bay
 Delta Kayak Adventures—Based in Antioch; offers introductory classes, tours and rentals
 Escape! Sea Kayaking—Santa Cruz; specializes in high-quality instruction including ACA instructor certification
 Golden Gate Kayaking—Offers classes on San Francisco Bay, roll sessions on the Peninsula, and BCU training
 Half Moon Bay Kayak Co.—Pillar Point Harbor in Half Moon Bay; offers classes, expeditions to Honduras and Baja’s
Pacific coast, local trips, sales, and rentals
 Kayak Connection—Offers tours, rentals, and instruction in Santa Cruz Harbor and Elkhorn Slough
 Kayak Mendocino—Offers tours and kayak surfing classes out of Van Damme State Park on the Mendocino coast
 Liquid Fusion Kayaking—Fort Bragg; offers classes and trips on the Mendocino coast and rivers
 Monterey Bay Kayaks—Monterey Bay and Elkhorn Slough; offers sea kayaking rental and instruction, and worldwide sea
kayaking expeditions
 Outback Adventures—Fremont; offers classes, rentals, and retail sales
 Point Reyes Outdoors—Offers classes and naturalist-led kayaking tours on Drakes Estero, Tomales Bay, and Giacomini
Wetlands
 Recreational Equipment, Inc. (REI)—Berkeley, Corte Madera, and other locations on the west coast
 River & Ocean Paddle sports Coaching Collective—SF Bay Area; a coaching collective dedicated to the delivery of quality,
student-centered instruction and coaching in kayaking and stand up paddle boarding.
 The River Store—Lotus, CA; offers rentals, demos, and classes; based on the South Fork of the American River
 Sea Trek—Sausalito; offers trips, classes, and rentals

AUXILIARY INFLATABLE PFDs
Mike Lauro, DSO-VE
Inflatable PFD approval and history
In 1996, the U.S. Coast Guard began approving inflatable personal flotation devices (PFDs) to meet the requirement to
have onboard for one PFD per person. An inflatable PFD may be approved without conditions as a Type I, II or III PFD
for persons over 36.3 Kg/80 lbs. if it meets the requirements of this 46 CFR 160.076 (Inflatable Recreational Personal
Flotation Device). Type V life jackets can be approved if it meets performance levels for a Type I, II or III. It is important
the vessel examiner read the label or data printed inside on the PFD to determine its type, performance levels and any
restrictions. Inflatable PFDs are more complicated than standard lifejackets. The main characteristic for inflatables is
that it has a chamber or bladder that is filled either by a compressed air cartridge or by mouth.
Who may use the inflatable PFDs?
Unfortunately, not everyone was approved to wear the inflatable PFDs. The inflatable PFD is not approved for children
(under-16 years of age) and is not recommended for use by non-swimmers. They are not approved for water skiing,
riding PWCs, white water paddling, knee boarding or similar towed uses. Inflatables are approved by the Coast Guard for
stand–up paddleboards. These recreational PFDs, (low profile) have Type III performance and only approved when worn.
There are inflatables approved for recreational use only and not approved to meet carriage requirements on commercial
vessels.
Why are there several types of inflatable PFDs?
Inflatable PFD devices are classified into various types based on the environment in which they are designed to perform
and their intended use. The design of the PFD is tested on its characteristics of buoyancy and in the water performance.
For example, the Type I will be effective for all waters, especially open, rough and remote waters where rescue may be
delayed. It is designed to turn most unconscious wearers in the water to a face-up position. Type II PFDs are designed
for use where the water is calmer and rescue can be expected in a shorter period than in open seas. Type III PFDs are
designed in protected waters where water rescue can be expected in a short period of time.
Is this the right PFD for you and your boating activity?
Vessel examiners should know the performance level for each type inflatable PFD as well as the advantages and
disadvantages. The booklet “THINK SAFE” and the inflatable owner’s manual provided with every PFD are excellent
reference materials. Each person buying an inflatable should evaluate their needs and read the label before the purchase.
Some of the disadvantages and advantages of each type include:

AUXILIARY INFLATABLE PFDs continued:
PFD TYPE DISADVANTAGE ADVANTAGE
Type l
 Needs regular inspection
 Not for non-swimmers
 Use in offshore remote waters
 Turns most unconscious face -
up
 Floats you the best, highly
visible
Type II
 Not for activities w/water
entry
 Very comfortable when hot
 Highly visible color when
inflated
 Good for calm or inland
wearers
Type III
 Not for long hours in water
 Good for calm or inland wears
 Keep wearers face up after
inflation
Type V (Special
Use Devices)
 May require more than one
step for proper inflation
 May only be approved when
worn
 Equal to either Type l, II, or III
performance as noted on label
 Continuous wear prevents
being caught without protection

AUXILIARY INFLATABLE PFDs continued:
Current life jacket information
All lifejackets currently approved with Type codes will continue to be approved for use as long as they remain in good
and serviceable condition.
Type I PFDs or OFF- SHORE LIFE JACKET provides the most buoyancy. They are effective for all waters, especially open,
rough or remote waters where rescue may be delayed. They are designed to turn most unconscious wearers in the water
face-up.
Type II, or NEAR-SHORE BUOYANCY VEST is intended for calm inland water or where there is a good chance of quick
rescue. Inherently buoyant PFDs of this type will turn some unconscious wearers form to a face up position in the water,
but the turning is not as pronounced as a Type I.
Inflatable Type II PFDs turn as well as a Type I foam (or Hybrid) PFD.
Type III, or FLOTATION AID is good for conscious users in calm inland water, or where there is a chance of quick
rescue. It is designed so wearers can place themselves in a face up position in the water. The wearer may have to tilt their
head back to avoid turning face down in the water. The Type III foam vest has the same minimum buoyancy as a Type II
PFD. It comes in many styles, colors, and sizes and is generally the most comfortable type for continuous wear. Float
coats, fishing vests and vests designed with various features suitable for various sports activities are examples of this type
of PFD. This type inflatable turns as well as a Type II foam PFD.
Type IV PFD or THROWABLE DEVICE is intended for calm, inland water with heavy boat traffic, where help is always
present. It is design to be thrown to a person in the water and grasped and held by the user until rescued-It is not designed
to be worn. Type IV devices include buoyant cushions, ring buoys, and horseshoe buoys. There are no inflatable Type IV
devices.
Type V PFD or SPECIAL USE DEVICE is intended for specific activities and may be carried instead of another PFD only if
used according to the approval conditions on its label. A Type V provides performance of a Type I, II or III PFD (as
marked on its label). If the label says the PFD is “approved only when worn” the PFD must be worn, except for persons in
enclosed spaces and used in accordance with the approval label, to meet carriage requirements. Some Type V devices
provide significant hypothermia protection. Varieties include deck suits, work vests and vests with sailing harnesses.

Kite surfer Safety Warnings USCG
Coast Guard urges kite surfing safety after multiple rescues!
SAN FRANCISCO — The Coast Guard is reminding kite surfers Friday to operate with
caution after Coast Guard crews conducted multiple rescues of downed kite surfers in the past
week in the San Francisco Bay.
Coast Guard responders attributed this week's distress calls to a combination of weather and
inexperience, and are reminding kite surfers to take precautions. Kite surfers should always
have a reliable method for calling for help, such as a handheld, waterproof marine VHF radio.
They should also check the forecast before going out to find out when wind speed will be
optimal, as low winds can result in becoming stranded.
"Kite surfing, along with many other sea-going sports, such as kayaking and boogie boarding,
can be deceptively difficult activities," said Lt. Cmdr. Bonnie Shaner, the Coast Guard Sector
San Francisco response department head. "It's important to know weather conditions before
heading out, to take a VHF radio when possible and to never go to the beach alone. It also
helps to have a more experienced friend that can help you learn to enjoy all the summertime
activities California has to offer."
The Coast Guard responded to two cases this week after downed kite surfers contacted the
Coast Guard via VHF radio. One kite-surfer was drifting near the Golden Gate Bridge and a
second kite surfer was adrift near Alcatraz Island. Coast Guard Station Golden Gate 47-foot
Motor Lifeboat crews responded to both cases and retrieved the kite surfers prior to
transferring them to awaiting EMS personnel on shore.
The Coast Guard recommends that all kite surfers wear a life jacket and a helmet, carry a
hand-held radio while in the water and always let someone know when you're heading out and
when you plan to return. Additionally, the Coast Guard recommends that kite surfers mark
their equipment with name and contact information in the event they get separated from their
equipment. ///

Coast Guard emphasizes Water Safety ahead of fishing and boating seasons
MCKINLEYVILLE, Calif. — The Coast Guard, Coast Guard Auxiliary and the National Safe Boating
Council are promoting safe boating practices during the upcoming boating and fishing season in the areas
surrounding Eureka, Fort Bragg, Crescent City, Redding and Ukiah. The public will notice increased air and
boat enforcement patrols in 2019.
“In the event of a capsizing emergency, mariners are advised to remain with their vessel,” said Lt. Cmdr.
Gabriel Vigil, spokesperson for Coast Guard Sector Humboldt Bay. “It is easier for rescuers to locate a large
object in the water than it would be for a person." "If you see someone in trouble in the water, stay on the shore
and call 911 or Coast Guard rescue at (707) 838-6113," said Vigil. "Do not enter the water or you could end up
being a victim as well.”
According to uscgboating.org, in 2017 the Coast Guard confirmed more than 4,200 accidents resulting in 658
deaths, 2,629 injuries and more than $46 million in reported damages to property. “Wearing a life vest during
water activities is especially important for children," said Vigil. "With Northern California’s cold ocean and
swift flowing snow melt in rivers, cold water paralysis can set in within minutes making swimming
impossible." Alcohol use is the leading known contributing factor in fatal boating accidents. Where cause of
death was known, 76% of fatal boating accident victims drowned.
The Coast Guard strongly encourages all mariners to practice these tips before entering a vessel:
 Wear a life jacket. The U.S. Coast Guard estimates that life jackets could have saved the lives of more than 80
percent of boating fatality victims.
 Carry a VHF-FM marine radio. Cell phones often lose signal and run out of batteries after a day on the water.
Boaters should always monitor VHF-FM channel 16 for the most current ocean forecast and marine broadcasts
information.
 Register your EPIRB. Response time is the key to survival. Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacons
(EPIRBs) provide the fastest and most accurate way for Coast Guard search-and-rescue crews in locating and
rescuing people in distress.
 Watch the Weather. Stay current with the latest weather and ocean conditions before heading out on the water
through the local National Weather Service, visit www.weather.gov/eka/
 Get a Vessel Safety Check. It’s a great way of learning about problems that might create danger for boaters and
passengers on the water, or put boaters in violation of state or federal laws. Visit www.uscgboating.org , or
contact a local Coast Guard Station for details.
 Take a boating safety course. Boaters can learn the basics about their vessels and the "rules of the road" in
America's boating course, an electronic boating course produced through a partnership between the U.S. Coast
Guard Auxiliary and the United States Power Squadrons. For more information, visit
www.americasboatingcourse.com
 Never boat under the influence (BUI). Intoxicated boaters can face both federal and state charges with penalties of
up to one year in prison and up to $100,000 in fines.
The Coast Guard strongly encourages all mariners, including paddle craft operators, to practice these tips before operating
a vessel. (United States Coast Guard Press Release 5/7/2019 11th
District)

Illegal charter boats pose threat to public safety
The Coast Guard is continuing their mission to reduce unlicensed and illegal charter boats in the Bay Area.
Coast Guard units have recently boarded more than 50 vessels in the Bay Area to verify captain's licenses and
drug-and-alcohol testing programs, while Coast Guard investigators have conducted focused education and
outreach efforts at local marinas and fishing docks to address the growing concern over illegal charters.
Boaters should expect the Coast Guard to be actively engaging with operators to promote safe and legal
passenger vessel operations as all boats carrying passengers for hire are required to hold a Coast Guard license
and meet minimum safety standards.
"Our top concern is passenger safety," said Lt. Anna Funk, Coast Guard Sector San Francisco investigator. "If
someone gets underway on an unlicensed, unregulated charter boat, they could be putting themselves and their
loved ones in danger. Illegal charter boats and crews have no oversight and may not have the experience or
equipment to ensure passengers are safe."
Boat operators who transport paying passengers illegally without a license or without complying with federal
safety regulations pose a serious and dangerous risk on the waterways, because they may not have the proper
emergency safety gear and navigation and communication equipment aboard their vessel, and they may not
have undergone the proper license exams or vessel inspections. Owners and operators of illegal charter boats
can face maximum civil penalties of over $80,000 for illegal passenger for hire operations.
Some potential fines include:
* Up to $39,936 for failure to operate a passenger vessel without a Coast Guard license
* Up to $16,398 for failure to produce a valid Certificate of Documentation for vessels over five net tons
* Up to $12,007 for failure to have a valid stability letter
* Up to $7,710 for failure to have a bona fide drug and alcohol testing program
* Up to $4,591 for failure to provide a Coast Guard Certificate of Inspection for vessels carrying more than
six passengers
For additional recreational boating safety information, please visit www.uscgboating.org.
For information regarding your boating operations or charter regulations, please contact Sector San Francisco
Investigations Division at (510) 813-9636 or email at SectorSFInvestigations@uscg.mil.
To verify a captain's license, verify the inspected status of a vessel carrying more than six passengers, or if you
would like to report an alleged illegal charter operation, please contact the Coast Guard Sector San Francisco
Command Center at (415) 399-7300 or SFOSCC@uscg.mil.

Coast Guard kicked off National Safe Boating Week with Water
Safety Fair at USCG Station Golden Gate
By Roger Bazeley
The event, which kicked off National Safe Boating Week, gave the public and the media the opportunity to meet local
first responders and learn about boating safety through demonstrations and discussions. The event included displays,
rescue boat tours, a K-9 explosive-ordnance detection demonstration and information about boating safety, radio
communications and paddle safety.
USCG M-65-D Dolphin Helicopter with Rescue Swimmer demonstrating jumping from Dolphin into the cove, and then
will be hoisted back into Helicopter – Photo: Roger Bazeley PA1 USCGAUX

Coast Guard kicked off National Safe Boating Week with Water Safety Fair at USCG
Station Golden Gate
Public and USCG families touring 47’ Response Rescue vessels and 29’ response craft on float pad
USCG MH 65-D Dolphin Rescue Helicopter flying in for demonstration over Marin Fire Rescue vehicle
“We’re excited to host the community for this event to promote safe and responsible boating as we head into the
summer,” said Petty Officer 1st Class Matthew Whitlow, a BMC assigned to Station Golden Gate. “Northern California is
a great place to get out and enjoy the water; we just want people to do it safely so they always make it back to family and
friends.” Photos: Roger Bazeley PA1 USCGAUX

Coast Guard kicked off National Safe Boating Week with Water Safety Fair at USCG
Station Golden Gate
USCG Auxiliary Public Affairs “Coastie” Educator Ferguson interacts with children as “Coastie” talks about
/boating/water safety - Aux Lead Linda Pfeifer, FC – Photos: Roger Bazeley
Coastie the Safety Tug Boat
Coastie is a remote controlled “robotic cartoon character” in the form of a Coast Guard tugboat. Two Coastie specialists
are utilized in operating and presenting the RBS education program -- a remote control Coastie operator and an educator
to interact with the audience. The remote-control operator can make Coastie move, talk, play music and wink its large
eyes as well as, activate a search light, sirens and rotating emergency beacon lights. Children are attracted to Coastie as an
interactive teaching platform -- where educating youth about boating and water safety, at an early age, is significant in
saving lives.
The educator and Coastie operator interacts and entertains effectively in controlled settings, such as K-5 school facilities
and community youth centers. The Coastie educational program incorporates audience-participation skits, demonstrations,
and safety messages such “Life Jackets Float - You Don’t”. Coastie can also be used at more open settings, such as civic
festivals and boat shows; while engaging with all ages in ad-lib RBS conversations.
Coastie is an effective Public Affairs educational platform that supports the USCG Auxiliary’s Recreational Boating and
Water Safety Mission. All Coastie operators and educational specialists must complete a training course and PQS prior to
DIRAUX scheduling approval, transporting and operating Coastie at events. (District 11 North Public Affairs Team – D11N Public
Affairs Website)

Point Bonita Flotilla, California
“OUR 2020 FLOTILLA TEAM”
(Left to right) FSO-MS Bill Burns, Sue Fry FSO-FN, (rear) Jerry Norton FSO-MA, (front) Cynthia Dragon FSO-HR (middle) Julie
Vincenzini FC, (middle), Rear (Jim Dragon & Guest), (middle) Mary Stephens FSO-OP/FSO-NS, (right front) Robin Stewart FSO-
SR/FSO-IS, (rear) David Talton VFC, (front-right) Roger Bazeley FSO-PA/FSO-PB (Bravo Zulu Magazine) NAVEX-BC - Photo:
Tiffany Townsend
____________________________________________________________________________
2020 Flotilla 17 Elected and Staff Officers
(FC) - Flotilla Commander, Julie Vincenzini
(VFC) -Vice Flotilla Commander, David Talton
(IPFC) - Immediate Past FC., Bill Bermudez
2020-Staff Officers
(FSO-NS)- Mary Stephens
(FSO-CM)- Communications, Mark Allen
(FSO-CS)- Com- Services, Desmond Thorsson
(FSO-FN)- Finance, Sue Fry
(FSO-HR)- Human Resources, Cynthia Dragon
(FSO-IS)- Information Services Robin Stewart
(FSO-MA)- Materials, Gerald Norton
(FSO-MS) -Marine Safety, William Burns
(FSO-MT) - Member Training, William Burns
(FSO-PA) - Public Affairs, Roger Bazeley
(FSO-PB)- Publications, Roger Bazeley
(FSO-PE) - Public Education, Holland Ja
(FSO-PV) - Program Visitor, Julie Vincenzini
(FSO-SR) - Secretary of Records, Robin Stewart
(FSO-VE) -Vessel Examinations, Bill Bermudez
(FSO-OP) - Mary Stephens
BRAVO ZULU 2019-2020 Editor, FSO-PA/PB and NAVEX-BC Roger Bazeley AUX PA-1

ETHOS: Diversity Policy
Photos: Roger Bazeley, Public Affairs USCGAUX
THE U.S. COAST GUARD AUXILIARY’S DIVERSITY & INCLUSION PLAN
‘It is the policy of the United States Coast Guard Auxiliary to ensure that all citizens, regardless of race,
gender, color, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, age, religion, or physical or
mental disability have an equal opportunity to become a volunteer of this organization. It is after all, part of
our mission to become the volunteer organization of choice.’
“As the Past National Commodore, our national leadership team led implementing the USCG’s diversity
initiatives and challenged all who serve to do the same through leadership, mentorship, service, and example.
As someone committed to diversity, I understand that providing training is one of the strategies that helps build
an inclusive environment, which is crucial to attracting and retaining top talent, building member engagement,
and fostering creativity and innovation. Our Strategic Plan for Managing Diversity will guide us in our efforts
towards accomplishing this goal. Diversity of thoughts, ideas, and competencies of our people, keeps the
Auxiliary strong and empowers us to mission readiness and excellence.
Diversity is an imperative to the Auxiliary; it can increase morale and impact our success. In essence every
member is responsible for fostering an inclusive team atmosphere and being a contributing part of Team Coast
Guard. The Auxiliary is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive environment, a journey guided by the
deeply held values of Honor, Respect, and Devotion to Duty, as America's Guardians, we understand that
diversity is not a problem to be solved, but is an asset to be developed.”
Past National Commodore, Richard Washburn, U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary

AUXILIARY PROGRAMS
The USCG Auxiliary has a wide variety of
programs in which members may participate and
make a real difference by serving, supporting,
and augmenting the USCG and Auxiliary; as
part of America’s “TEAM COAST GUARD”.
Below are some of our special programs:
 MARINE SAFETY (MS) and
ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY
Qualified Auxiliarists and their facilities
assist with USCG marine safety and
environmental protection.
 PUBLIC AFFAIRS SUPPORT (PA)
Auxiliarists are authorized upon
qualifying as a Public Affairs Specialist to
support both Coast Guard and Auxiliary
Public Affairs including publications.
.
 PUBLIC EDUCATION (PE)
The Education Department’s mission is
twofold: to provide exceptional boating
safety education to American boaters with
the aim of reducing loss of life, personal
injury and property damage to recreational
boaters; and to deliver the highest possible
quality training, resources and
publications for our Public Education and
instructors.
 RBS PROGRAM VISITATION (PV)
The RBS Program Visitation’s intent is to
save lives and property by providing
marine related businesses with the most
current boating safety information for
boaters. Marine businesses customers will
be able to obtain the most up-to-date
boating safety literature and information
on Auxiliary Vessel Safety Exams and
Public Education boating courses.
 FOOD SERVICE SPECIALIST
(FS) Auxiliarists’ augment and
support active duty food service in
galleys, aboard cutters and during
special events.
 AUX Air Aviation Program –
(SAR) Search and Rescue Patrol
Missions as a USCG Auxiliary
qualified Pilot, Co-Pilot or Air
Observer in AUX Facility.
 RECRUITING PROGRAM
Auxiliarists may qualify and be
assigned to duty as military
recruiters to support the USCG’s
recruiting program. This assignment
includes qualification as a military
recruiter, proctoring recruiting
examinations, and administrative
assistance to recruiting offices and
for screening applicants for the
USCG Academy.
 AUGMENTING USCG
There are many diverse areas
available in augmenting the USCG
from Marine Safety and the AUXFS
program to Public Affairs.
Augmenting assignments are
coordinated by your Auxiliary
Sector Coordinator (ASC) or
Auxiliary Unit Coordinator (AUC)
to determine relevant qualifications.

USCG Auxiliary Public Affairs “Coastie” Educator Ferguson interacts with children as “Coastie” talks about /boating/water
safety – National Photo Contest Winner – Roger Bazeley PA1

Sausalito, CA -- Auxiliarists Will Sumner and Pete Grosvenor perform and vessel inspection on a 38.5 foot Juneau Sailing
Vessel berthed at the Sausalito Marina; look skyward to exam the masthead running lights visible operating condition.
This is one of many items in the vessel examination procedure to be examined for passing the annual Vessel Exam and
being awarded a new Decal upon passing the annual exam. Photographer: Roger Bazeley PA1 D11N

Yerba Buena Island, CA -- Auxiliary District Eleven Commodore Mary Kirkwood, Murray Shamray and USCG Sector San
Francisco Boatsman Curtis manning the water supply distribution valve for Sea Scouts taking part in Firehose training
and other exercises at the Sea Scout's annual "Safety at Sea" event, held on YBI at the Sector San Francisco. This is a
Team Coast Guard joint training participation event with Auxiliary volunteers and the USCG, May 16, 2019.
Photographer Roger Bazeley PA1 USCGAUX

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