Students Learn About Careers on the Water During 11th Annual Coast Guard Day

WILBERFORCE, Ohio.  On June 19, 2012, members of the Coast Guard Auxiliary welcomed more than 30 students and counselors from across the country to Coast Guard Day.  Jointly sponsored by Auxiliary flotilla 18-7 from District Eight’s eastern region, and Central State University in Wilberforce, Ohio, the annual Coast Guard Day gives a chance for the attending youths to explore careers performed on the water.

Students attending the Summer Transportation Institute enjoy a boat ride during "Coast Guard Day." For many of them it was their first time on the water.

This was the 11th year for Central State to bring the students, ages 14-17, up to Delaware, Ohio to participate in the program.  The day is part of their four-week "Summer Transportation Institute," with each week being devoted to learning about careers in a different segment: Air, Land, Water and Energy.   Coast Guard Day is the highlight of Water week.

The Auxiliary invited professionals from various occupations operating on or near the water to speak to the students.   The Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) state watercraft officer, Pete Angelas, detailed his role in patrolling the various lakes in central Ohio as well training the county law enforcement officers.  John Vargo from the United States Army Corps of Engineers explained how important man-made bodies of water, such as Alum Creek Reservoir, were in the big picture and how they affected areas as far away as Louisiana.  Finally, USCG Chief Petty Officer, Nathan Little, thrilled the crowd with some of his more harrowing adventures in the Coast Guard as well as detailing the benefits of enlisting in the service.

USCGAUX Flotilla Commander, Jay Garcia, was instrumental in starting the program more than a decade ago and explained why he still is so enthusiastic about it every year.  "The Majority of these kids have never set foot on a boat in their entire life," explained Commander Garcia,  "So besides communicating the importance of boating safety and wearing your life jacket, it’s satisfying to help them see that there’s more out here than what they’ve been exposed to in their lives."

 

 

Chief Petty Officer, Nathan Little, USCG, shared some adrenaline-filled moments of his career where he was involved in rescue and law enforcement operations.		John Vargo from the United States Army Corps of Engineers explained the jobs available at his agency.		Ohio Department of Natural Resources watercraft officer, Pete Angelas, takes questions about his role in patrolling Ohio waterways.

 

Another successful Central State University "Coast Guard Day" wraps up as the students embark upon a tour around the reservoir - hopefully it’s not a "3-hour tour."

 

~mg 06-29-12