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DNACO and Mrs. Simoni |
Charlotte, August 27. The Commodore’s banquet is the formal closing of the conference. Auxiliarists, Coast Guardsman, spouses, friends, partners and guests gather in formal attire to celebrate our fourth cornerstone, fellowship. There is excitement and anticipation of the keynote speaker for the evening, Vice Commandant of the Coast Guard, Vice Admiral Sally Brice-Ohara.
Following tradition and protocol, the senior officers and the Vice Commandant are announced and introduced to the assembly. Executive Aide to the National Commodore Anne Lockwood introduced the remaining senior officers, spouses and guests of the Auxiliary.
A somber and inspiring rendition of the “Missing Serviceman” was spoken by Auxiliarist Bob Hendrickson. An honors table was set in remembrance of all of the Coast Guardsman, Auxiliarists and other service personnel who have passed on and could not be with us this evening. A formal toast was offered with glasses filled with water. As Hendrickson explained, “Wine was not available to these individuals and water was a scarce commodity.”
Following the benediction by Auxiliarist Dale Crow, the assemblage enjoyed a delicious dinner.
Mr. Chris Edmonston, President of BoatUS Foundation presented the “Flotilla of the Year” award to Auxiliarist Alexander Ilnyckyj, Commander of Pensacola, Florida Flotilla 17, District 8 Coastal Region.
National Commodore (NACO) Jim Vass announced the Auxiliarist of the Year, Auxiliarist Scott Warner of District 13, Washington State.
NACO Vass and VNACO Mallison presented a gift to outgoing District 1 NR Commodore Paul Smith-Valley.
A special award was presented to the International Affairs’ Interpreter Corps. Auxiliarists Klaus and Brigitte Bauman and Auxiliarist John VanOsdol were so honored with a plaque for their service to this very successful endeavor.
NACO Vass introduced the Vice Commandant of the Coast Guard, Vice Admiral Sally Brice-O’Hara. He related her previous education, career achievements and current duties to the Coast Guard. “I present to you Vice Admiral Sally Brice O’Hara, a true friend to our Auxiliary,” he said.
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MIssing Serviceman's honor table |
VADM Brice-O’Hara opened her remarks by calling us “The greatest volunteer organization in the world.” She continued, “I have worked with the Auxiliary throughout my Coast Guard career. The job you do is invaluable to the Coast Guard; but also to the citizens who don’t realize it. And I want to personally thank you on their behalf.”
Her praise for the Auxiliary continued, saying, “I am constantly amazed the on amount of time the Auxiliary steps up when needed. Anyone who joins [the Auxiliary] is someone who wants to work.” Regarding Hurricane Irene, now threatening the lives and property of the Atlantic coast, she said that once the hurricane passes, “I’m sure Auxiliarists will be working beside the active duty with the recovery efforts.”
She offered advice on going forward from the conference and proudly wearing the uniform of a Coast Guard Auxiliarist. “Be proud of your heritage. In many towns across the country, often you are the only representative of the Coast Guard and the Auxiliary. Thank you for helping tell our story.”
Referring to the spouses, partners and guests she stated, “The Commandant has declared 2011 the year of the Coast Guard Family. To ensure we [the Coast Guard] make clear that we appreciate the family behind our active duty; and the Auxiliary is part of that family.”
Her remarks were followed by a five-minute standing ovation. NACO Vass presented her a gift; thanking her for her support of the Auxiliary and the taking time during this current crisis [Hurricane Irene] for her presence and remarks to the assembly.
NACO Jim Vass, as is his custom, closed the conference by requesting we travel home safe and carry his watch words of dependability, integrity and diversity back to their home units. Arms wide, he invited us to be with him and celebrate “Fiesta” at NACON 2012 in San Antonio, Texas.