Naco

IPNACO Kerigan and NACO Vass

WASHINGTON – “Sir, I relieve you.” With these words, at a time honored ceremony held at Coast Guard Headquarters on 29 OCT 2010, Commodore James Vass relieved Commodore Nicholas Kerigan to become the 30th National Commodore for the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary.

The ceremony, which was presided over by ADM Robert J. Papp, Jr, Commandant of the U.S. Coast Guard, also sworn in other national leaders for the two year term ending 31 OCT 2012. The words used during the oath taking ceremony are the same words used at every level of the Auxiliary, Flotilla Staff Officer to National Commodore. The one exception, carrying on the tradition of the parent Coast Guard when the Commanding Officer of a unit is relieved, the words “Sir, I relieve you” followed by the retiring officer saying “Sir, I stand relieved.” Thus the continuity and tradition of the highest Auxiliary office is followed.

Commodore Vass, from Port O’Conner, TX, began his career in the United States Coast Guard Auxiliary in 1991. He has served in all elected positions up to his previous role as National Vice Commodore.

“Every flotilla is part of a community, and we take our responsibility to be good neighbors seriously,” said Vass. “We want to be that town’s Coast Guard Auxiliary. We can be a force for positive action, bringing together our partners, customers, and the community every day.” Commodore Vass’ full address is linked below.

Serving as National Vice Commodore is Commodore Thomas C. Malison from Dayton, OH. He previously served as Deputy National Commodore - Operations Policy and Atlantic Area West.
Commodore Donald L. Frasch, previously District Commodore of District Seven, will serve as Deputy National Commodore Operations and & Atlantic Area East.
Commodore Mark Simoni, previously Assistant National Commodore Operations Policy & Resources, will serve as Deputy National Commodore Operations Policy & Atlantic Area West.

Commodore Marie M. Scholle, previously District Commodore District Seventeen, will serve as Deputy National Commodore Force Readiness & Pacific Area.

Commodore Vass’ address: http://cgvi.uscg.mil/media/main.php?g2_itemId=1038219