National Awards Calculation Excel Spreadsheets - Hyperlinks for Excel spreadsheets designed specifically for calculating National awards (Boat/U.S. Flotilla of the Year, Outstanding Public Education Flotilla & Vessel Safety Check Marine Retailers Association Award) have been added to the District 8WR Awards website under the National Awards category. 14mar10   

2010 Members Survey - Member responses to the 2009 survey questions suggested that leadership and communications were worth exploring further as they represent topics at the core of successful Auxiliary member retention. To this end we now have an opportunity to dig deeper into our Auxiliary information processes and related leadership dynamics.

I'll ask every Auxiliary member to take a moment and embark in this follow-up survey designed to help us more explicitly understand our leadership and communications challenges and craft processes and tools better designed to meet your needs.

Here is our Auxiliary Leadership and Communications link: http://www.surveymonkey.com/s/66VMGPK  I encourage everyone in the Auxiliary to take this very important survey. The average survey time takes 8-to-9 minutes.  The survey will remain active through the end of March, 2010.

Results will be made available in an upcoming Navigator and potentially presented at NACON 2010. Semper Paratus, Nicholas Kerigan, National Commodore, U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary  13mar10

Congratulations to Bob Donaldson for 30 Years of Service in the CG Auxiliary - Bob Donaldson, Vice Commander Auxiliary Division 15, was presented his 30 Year Membership Service Certificate by Ray Kenney, Flotilla Commander 15-08, District Captain (COMO) Richard Lawrence and Division Commander Jan Kelley on behalf of Mary Landry, Rear Admiral, Coast Guard District Eight.  Donaldson began his career 18 OCT 79.  During that time he has served in several flotilla positions including CM, PE, PA, VFC, FC as well as a SO-PA, and Branch Chief-PA on the national level.  He is presently ADSO-PA and a member of the National Photo Corps.  When asked about changes he had experienced during his 30 years he said, “I am most impressed with the new attitude of Auxiliarists to improve proficiency so we may serve the Coast Guard and our citizens on a more professional level.  ‘It’s a great organization and I see improvement almost every day.”  Picture of presentation. 09mar10

New Anti-harassment & Hate Incident Procedures - ALCOAST 58/10 contains an announcement of newly established Coast Guard policy to ensure a workplace where no member of the workforce will be subject to physical or verbal harassment, abuse or violence base on an individuals race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, marital status, parental status, political affiliation or any other basis protected b the law.  The instruction reflects the ongoing commitment of the Coast Guard to provide a workplace environment free of harassing behavior.  08mr10

Sammy Otter Costume Reservation - Sammy Otter now has his own webpage where members may view on-line a calendar to see when and if the costume is available.  Members who are interested in reserving the costume may now reserve it by submitting an e-form which simplifies process plus makes the process more convenient and quicker.  Visit Sammy's webpage at http://www.trlmo.com/cgaux8wr/pa/sam/calsam.htm  This hyperlink is also located in the left column of this page under the District Services category.  06mar10

New e-mail address for National Testing Center Help Desk- & Proctor info! - If you are needing help from the National Testing Center. please do not use the ntchelp@auxtdept.org e-mail address. This address is not in use as National no longer has access to this old e-mail account.  The correct e-mail address for the Help Desk for National Training Center is admin@ntc.cgaux.org.  Also, all PROCTOR REQUESTS should be sent using admin@ntc.cgaux.org.  05mar10

District 8WR Directory now available electronically - The Directory for District 8WR is now available via a secure password protected webpage. The ID and password are the same as for the e-Directory that is on National's website.  The hyperlink for entry to the Directory is maintained in the left navigation column on this webpage under the Resources category in alphabetical order - Directory - 8WR.

The Directory contents have been abbreviated in an effort to avoid duplication.  All the phone numbers, e-mail addresses, mailing addresses and other personal member information has been removed as this information may now be secured on the Auxiliary Officers Directory provided by National. The District 8WR Directory contains instructions on how to navigate through the Auxiliary Officers Directory.  The information contained in the Auxiliary Officers Directory comes directly from AuxData.  Therefore, it is of utmost importance that members keep their AuxData information current.  02mar10 

Commissioning of United States Coast Guard Cutter Waesche - The Waesche (to be stationed at CGI) is the second ship in a new class of National Security Cutters, the fist being the Bertholf (also stationed at Alameda).  She is a state-of-the-art 418-foot vessel supported by a crew of about 110, and will be commissioned in Alameda, California at Coast Guard Island on May 7, 2010.  Learn more about this historic event, visit http://www.uscgcwaesche.com/ 02mar10

Paddlesports Training Course for Auxiliary Instructors - Paddlesports are the fastest growing segment of recreational boating with annual sales of canoes and kayaks now topping 300,000. To help meet the education needs of this growing user group the Coast Guard Auxiliary is exploring classroom-based paddlesports education.  In support of this effort, the Ohio DNR Division of Water craft (DOW) is hosting a on-day paddlesports education training class.  There are 35 Auxiliary seats available for this training.  Course materials will be provided at no cost to attendees.  The invitation is extended to Auxiliary instructors, Nationwide.  Interested Auxiliarists should request travel orders to attend this training through their Chain of Leadership.  The class is on March 5, 2010 in Cleveland, Ohio.  Complete details. 26feb10

New Detachment formed in Monroe, Louisiana - On February 19, 2010 the Little Rock, Arkansas Flotilla (15-8) formed the Monroe Detachment.    This is District 8WR's first CG Auxiliary presence in Louisiana since this portion of Louisiana became the District's Area of Responsibility (AOR) following the Coast Guard reorganization into Sectors and District realignments.  Congratulations and welcome to all members of the Detachment. Read details regarding the formation of the Detachment and view a picture of members attending the ceremony.

Chapter 4, Section a.7. defines a Flotilla Detachment as "A detachment is a sub-unit, not an independent unit.  Detachment formation enables a small group of three or more Auxiliarists to carry out some Auxiliary activities.  Detachments allow the flotilla to recruit and keep Auxiliarists in remote areas not having enough Auxiliarists to charter or maintain a full unit."  26feb10

Photos by Auxiliarists included in the Coast Guard's 2010 Posture Statement  - Photos taken by several Auxiliarists have recently been issued as part of the Coast Guard's 2010 Posture Statement, an annual publication that provides a broad overview of Coast Guard missions, goals and objectives along with its annual Budget-in-Brief. These Auxiliarists, and the pages of the 2010 Posture Statement on which their photos can be found, are: Page 14: Auxiliarist William Giers, D7 Flotilla 17-6 Page 15: Auxiliarist Charles Stevens, D1-Southern Region Flotilla 25-3 Page 21: Auxiliarist Morris Harvey, D7 Flotilla 15-1 Page 23: Auxiliarist Sal Ciappetta, D5-Northern Region Flotilla 16-1 Page 30: Auxiliarist Angela Daniel, D5-Southern Region Flotilla 67

The 2010 Posture Statement can be found at (http://www.uscg.mil/posturestatement/docs/2010_USCG_Posture_Statement.pdf).  These photos are also automatically included for consideration in the Coast Guard Photo Contest that was announced in ALCOAST message 666/09 (http://www.uscg.mil/announcements). The official judging of the Photo Contest will be held shortly, and results are expected to be announced by mid-March. Congratulations to these Auxiliarists and all who entered the CG Photo Contest!       10feb10

E-FORMS - The new 7029 and 7030 E-Forms have been pulled because they were posted to send .pdf forms and there are so many versions of Adobe Reader and Adobe Acrobat out there among the Auxiliary but not all versions of Reader and Acrobat will send/open the forms. Some readers were sending blank forms. Until the problem is resolved, the E-Forms will not be available. We will do everything possible to get them back as soon as the problem is resolved. Please be patient with us. Thank you. Marilyn
[Posted: Feb 7, 2010. Source: Marilyn McBain, DVC-IL]

AuxNav Advanced Coastal Navigation Course On-line - For members interested in completing the Auxiliary Operation (AuxOP) AuxNav Advanced Coastal Navigation Course Division 33 is offering a great opportunity for all members in District 8WR. Members may take the course from the comfort of their home on their computer, on-line, via webinar (Distance Learning).  Details about the course, dates and requirements are available on the   Advanced Coastal Navigation Class  and ACN Syllabus Adobe Acrobat documents.  Members may register for the course by clicking on the hyperlink for any date shown on the schedule and completing the subsequent registration form.  Details about accessing the course on line will be sent to members following registration.  Each student is responsible for acquiring their own study material plus making arrangements with a proctor for taking the examinations, either on-line or on paper in written form.  The test must be proctored by an AuxOP. A list of AuxOp proctors may be found on the District AuxOp Proctor webpage.  Please note that the first session begins March 1, 2010.  Students must order their study material through their FSO-MA.  5feb10

RBS (Recreational Boating Safety) Insignia Eligibility Criteria -   Changes have been made to the public affairs activity codes that count toward earning the Auxiliary Recreational Boating Safety (RBS) insignia. The RBS insignia recognizes extraordinary effort of Auxiliarists who consistently provide strong support to RBS programs. Its eligibility criteria require significant RBS program activity over a minimum period of two years.  Review the entire award criteria.  3feb10

National Scout Jamboree - The Coast Guard has been asked to support the 2010 National Scout Jamboree, which will be held at Fort A.P. Hill, VA, from 26 July to 4 August.  The National Jamboree brings together boy scouts and their adult leaders for training and experience in outdoor living and related fields. ALAUX  - 2010 National Scout Jamboree and ALCOAST 037-10 contain complete details.  Auxiliarists interested in volunteering  to assist in the program should complete and submit the CG National Scout Jamboree Task Force Questionnaire.  3feb10 

Untucked ODU now available - The Coast Guard Uniform Manager has advised that stocks of untucked Operational Dress Uniforms (ODU) are now arriving at a volume high enough to accommodate Auxiliary orders, but not at unlimited levels. As a result, Auxiliarists may now place orders to the Coast Guard Uniform Distribution Center (UDC, http://www.uscg.mil/uniform/) for one set of untucked ODUs for themselves. The next advisory will be to announce when unlimited sets of untucked ODUs may be ordered. 02feb10

Texting While Operating a Motor Vehicle General Order - In an effort to reduce the dangers of texting while driving, the President has issued Executive Order 13513 which mandates a federal government-wide prohibition on the use of texting messages while driving on official business or while using government-supplied equipment. This order also applies to Coast Guard Auxiliarists who are on orders with the Coast Guard.  Complete details are included in ALCOAST 012-10.    02feb10

District 8WR Spring Conference 2010 - The registration form for District 8WR Spring Conference is now available. The link to the fill-in form is located above in the Spring Conference section. You may submit your registration at any time as the Conference will be here before you know it.  06jan10

Mission Activity 7029 Form - The new 7029H form has been posted on National's Forms webpage.   Information from the old 7029G form will not be able to be entered into AuxData after Sunday, 3 January 2010, only information from the new form may be entered. The 7029 eForm will be posted as soon as possible.  02jan10  

New 7029 Form - ATTENTION ALL MEMBERS: Starting 4 January 2010 there will be a new Member Activity Log, ANSC Form 7029. The old one CANNOT be used.  The old mission 99 has been expanded into 5 sub-missions; 99-A Auxiliary Leadership; 99-B Recreational Boating Safety (RBS) Support; 99-C Marine Safety (MS) Support; 99-D Training Support; and 99-E Auxiliary Administrative/Logistical Support.  Fields have also been added for Non-Reimbursable Miles Drive and, Tolls and Parking.  These two enhancements will provide the Coast Guard with important "Return on Investment (ROI)" information relating to the Auxiliary.  01jan10.

TCT Refresher Course - the annual mandatory TCT Refresher Course for 2010 is now available.  Links for downloading the Class Slide Presentation, Facilitator Resource Guide and Participant Reference are located on the Member E-Training webpage of District 8WR's website.  29dec09

Western Rivers Publication - The final issue for the year 2009, Issue 2009-4, of the Western Rivers publication has been published to the District website.  The link to the publication is on the Western Rivers Publication webpage. 28dec09

Updated RBS Exhibit Guide - The informative Recreational Boating Safety Exhibit Guide has been updated and posted on the RBS Affairs web-site at: http://auxbdept.org/pdf/AuxRBSExhibitGuideDec09.pdf in time for this years boat show season. The guide contains proven methods for an effective exhibit developed and tested at various major events across the country for the past six years.  25dec09

Inflatable Life Jacket Basics -The Inflatable Life Jacket Basics article has been updated.  25dec09

From the OTO Desk -Quarterly news for ......... CWO Douglas Leavell has published his 1^st quarter 2010 news letter.   View the newsletter in Adobe Acrobat.  23dec09

Operations Workshop 2010 - National will be posting the Operations Workshop for 2010 shortly on the National website.  However, District 8WR has been working on an advanced copy and tailoring it to meet needs specific to District 8WR  Therefore, the Operations Workshop posted by National may not be used to satisfy the mandatory Operations Workshop for District 8WR.  The approved Operations Workshop for District 8WR will be posted on this website in time for the Change of Watch for the Divisions. 19dec09    

Unit Inventory Record (section C) Contents Guide on ANSC 7025 Form - Each flotilla and division units should report all government loaned property that it holds, not just property acquired via government loan during the calendar year being reported.  The date each item was acquired via government loan should be listed on the line adjacent to the item (if known) and a serial number be shown (if applicable).  View the guide from CDR Campbell dated 10dec09 for completing section C.  11dec09

Public Affairs Mentors Appointed -  The ADSO-PA Mentors have been appointed and are available to anyone who has a question or needs help with Public Affairs.  Needing help with getting started in Public Affairs, learning more about Public Affairs, the correct way to write a Press Release, etc. are only some of the ways in which they will be able to assist.  These appointments are an effort to insure that everyone can reach a Public Affairs Officer for assistance.  The Mentors are Doug Edelman PA Specialist I; also the Temporary Proof Reader and Approving Authority for Division 3, Robert Donaldson, SO-PA of Division 15 and Tom Vargo  past SO-PA of Division 30.  Welcome to all three of them.  

The responsibilities of these mentors are not assigned to any specific Divisions or Flotillas,  members may contact any of one of these Mentors. 07dec09

Publications Mentors Appointed - ADSO-PB Mentors have been appointed and are available to anyone who has a question or needs help with publications.  Color, format, where to find something, what is the correct way to ...., etc. are questions in which they will be able to assist.  The appointments are an effort to insure that everyone can reach a Publication's Officer for needed help.  The Mentors are Jill Reiss, SO-PB of Division 33 and Linda Vogel, a former SO-PB officer.  Welcome to both of them.

Responsibility to the Divisions will be divided between the Mentors.  Jill will assist Divisions 33, 31, 1, 2, 9 and 11 plus their respective flotillas.  Linda will be assisting Divisions 8, 3, 30, 5 15 and 16 plus their respective flotillas.  04dec09 

Mandatory Training for CG Auxiliary Members - Certain training is now mandatory for all members of the Coast Guard Auxiliary as set forth in ALCOAST 658/09.  Members are encouraged to take the courses on-line through the Coast Guard Learning Portal.  Members must have a Login Account to use the Learning Portal.  The Mandatory Training webpage contains a list of the required courses (4 in total at this time), modified version of ALCOAST 658/09, instructions on how to attain a Login Account and images of webpages needed to enter and navigate within the Learning Portal.   A link to the Mandatory Training webpage will be maintained on the Member E-Training webpage.  The direct link to the CG Learning Portal is https://learning.uscg.mil/portal.asp

A few procedures need to be resolved before members may acquire an ID and password for accessing the CG Learning Portal.  When they have been finalized notification will be posted on this website.  Therefore, the only members who have a 2009 mandated training requirement are those with CG Data Network access via their local unit.  These members with CGDN access should follow the instructions on the Mandatory Training webpage in order to secure a CG Portal User account so that they can complete their Information Systems Security training no later than 31 December 2009    04dec09

Expectations of Students Attending Coast Guard C Schools - The Chief Director's office (CG-542) has seen increased negative issues with students attending CG C Schools and refusing to do the pre-class or in-class or post-class assignments. There has also been issues in other areas such as following correct protocol and courtesies, uniforms, etc.  Please review the Coast Guard Expectations of Students Attending C Schools document which gives a synopsis of Coast Guard expectations of all students, regardless of rank, title, or office who attends any Coast Guard "C" School.  03dec09

2010 Instructor Workshop - Although not mandatory, the workshop is highly recommended.  It includes the E-Department updates, suggestions for improving instructor quality and tips on using PE as a recruiting tool.  The workshop is designed to be presented in a one hour time frame.  Access to the workshop PowerPoint is maintained on the District 8WR Member E-Training webpage.  The direct link to the PowerPoint is http://www.cgauxed.org/elib/aids/WS10/ws10.ppt  03dec09

Mandatory Training for CG Auxiliary Members - The system for completing the mandatory courses on-line is temporarily unavailable.  Therefore, as soon as the system is available, information on gaining access to the system, the mandatory courses, etc. will be posted in this Updates section.  25nov09

Holiday Traffic Advisory - ALCOAST 674/09, issued by Vice Admiral John Currier, U.S. Coast Guard Chief of Staff, addresses safe traveling over the holidays.  25nov09

Auxiliary National Realignment - ALCOAST 673/09 summarizes Auxiliary National realignment as in integral part of the Coast Guard modernization.  Reporting relationships are defined and title changes for ARCO to DNACO are identified.  25nov09

Coast Guard Photo Contest - The Coast Guard is holding a contest as part of an initiative to gather photos for the Coast Guard Performance Report and Posture Statement.  This photo contest is open to all members of the Coast Guard (active duty, civilian, Reserve, Auxiliary, family member, retired).   Please read more about it in ALCOAST message 666/09 posted at ( http://www.uscg.mil/announcements/alcoast/666-09_alcoast.txt ) 24nov09

Auxiliary Vessel Salvage Funding Procedures when vessel was under orders - Policy and guidelines have recently been established to address the salvage of Auxiliary vessels operating on orders during emergent circumstances. Please see ALCOAST 657/09 at http://www.uscg.mil/announcements/ for further details and contact information.  20nov09

Protecting Personal Identification Information (PII) - View the Personal Identification Information (PII) PowerPoint for a definition, examples, reason for concern, and protection measures.  18nov09

On Water Training Manual Updated  - The new On Water Training Manual (OWT) has been updated. The updates include new cross references of tasks to courses now being used: About Boating Safely, second edition, Boating Skills & Seamanship, 13th edition; Sailing Skills & Seamanship, sixth edition. There are minor title changes reflected in the change from DC-E to DIR-E. The new manual can be downloaded from the e-library at http://cgauxed.org/owt.htm  17nov09

Auxiliary Vessel Salvage Funding Procedures - ALCOAST 657/09 is intended to validate that the Operational Commander may commit CG funds in emergent situations.  The existing Damage Claims process remains unchanged.  District 8WR's Damage Claim Process is located on District 8WR DirAux subweb.  17nov09

DSAR 2010 - District Search & Rescue (DSAR) 2010 will be held in Scottsboro, AL.  Detailed guidelines for the event have been published to the District 8WR website.  This link is also located in the left navigation column of this webpage near the bottom under the subheading of Training.  30oct09

Pledge of Allegiance - Due to concerns recently expressed about the participation of Auxiliarists when the Pledge of Allegiance is given, the Chief Director of the Auxiliary has restated the custom for Auxiliarists. 28oct09

Member Survey 2009 Results - The results of the 2009 Member Survey are now available from the National Department of Personnel.  A total of 5,574 members responded.  View the results.  20oct09 

Revised District 8WR Officer's & Policy Guide Published - The revised Officer's & Policy Guide has been published to the District 8WR website.  The revisions are based upon the changes approved at District 8WR Fall Conference meeting on September 25, 2009.  20oct09

The Coast Guard Auxiliary Goes Back to High School - This article in The Education Connection publication by the National Education Department gives an accounting of Flotilla 5's (Division 5, District 8WR) On Water Training of Cassville High School, Cassville, MO America's Boating Safety Class students.  The students boating safety education was extended beyond the classroom when the flotilla took them on the water in Auxiliary facilities as reinforcement of the training they received in the classroom.  The On Water Training program is approved by the National Education Department.  A copy of the manual plus frequently asked questions may be downloaded from their OWT webpage.  19oct09

Text Messaging Ban While Driving Includes Auxiliarists  - President Barack Obama issued an executive order on October 1, 2009 that bans Federal employees from text messaging when driving a government owned vehicle, when driving their privately owned vehicle while on official government business, or when using electronic equipment supplied by the government while driving.  Read the Executive Order and CHDIRAUX interpretation of the order as it applies to Auxiliarists.  17oct09

District 8WR 8 Hour TCT Class Schedule Updated - the 8 hour TCT class schedule has been updated to reflect scheduled classes through the end of this year and the beginning of 2010.  05oct09

Recognize Fellow Auxiliarists with CG Awards - with the majority of CG Auxiliary missions starting to slow down as the end of year is fast approaching, it is a good time to reflect back on the many accomplishments of fellow Auxiliarists.  Think about those members who have done outstanding work and begin preparing recommendations in the form of Coast Guard Awards for recognition of their outstanding work.  By starting now the recommendation process can be completed in time for presenting the awards at the District Spring Conference in 2010.  All the information needed for preparing and submitting a CG Award recommendation is provided on  District 8WR Awards website.   05oct09

From the OTO Desk -Quarterly news for ......... CWO Douglas Leavell has published his 4th quarter 2009 news letter.  Read the newsletter in Adobe Acrobat.  28sep09

Sew-on Insignia - 1.  The Coast Guard Auxiliary sew-on qualification insignia announced in ALAUX 033/09 are authorized for wear on the Operational Dress Uniform (ODU), Working Blue, and Hot Weather Uniform (i.e. - only the Coast Guard dark blue short-sleeve shirt alternative) described in the Auxiliary Manual (Commandant Instruction M16790.1 series). 

2.  In accordance with Coast Guard Uniform Regulations (Commandant Instruction M1020.6 series), only one Auxiliary sew-on qualification insignia is authorized for wear on the ODU.  By extension, this also applies for Working Blue and the Hot Weather Uniform authorized for wear by Auxiliarists.  Such insignia shall be centered directly above the "USCG
AUXILIARY" cloth tape immediately above the wearer's left breast pocket. Embroidered insignia shall be the same size as the metal insignia, centered on a tape the full width of the pocket.  The tape shall not exceed the width of the pocket.  If an Auxiliarist has earned more than one qualification insignia, then the insignia that is worn shall be at the discretion of the Auxiliarist.  Temporary/conditional sew-on qualification insignia shall not be worn on these uniforms.

3.  Pursuant to ALCOAST 074/09, the Auxiliary sew-on AUXOP device is authorized for wear on these uniforms.  It is the only Auxiliary device so authorized.  It shall be centered directly above the cloth nametape immediately above the wearer's right breast pocket. 

4.  These provisions shall be incorporated into the next change to the Coast Guard Auxiliary Manual. 20sep09
 

Wearing Coast Guard Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) with Auxiliary Markings -  Section 10.A.12. of the Auxiliary Manual (Commandant Instruction M16790.1 series) states, "Auxiliarists may not wear any distinctive part of the uniform or official Auxiliary insignia with civilian clothing."  Coast Guard Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) that is authorized for Auxiliary use while assigned to duty and that has Auxiliary markings (e.g. - "U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary" displayed on the back of a Coast Guard Type III life jacket) falls within the scope of, "...any distinctive part of the uniform..."  Auxiliary-marked PPE, including life jackets and float coats, are therefore only authorized for wear by Auxiliarists when in uniform and assigned to duty.  The Auxiliary Uniform Procurement Guide has also been changed to reflect this policy.  18sep09

CG Born Ready Recruiting Campaign - Born Ready reflects two years of intensive study, research, and creative consultation.  Its fresh approach spotlights the individual and targets people driven by action, adventure, and a commitment to a cause bigger than themselves -- people with a calling to serve, determination to make a difference, and the desire to do something meaningful with their lives.

Two Born Ready commercials and Coast Guard advertising were prominently featured during the recent Women's Professional Soccer (WPS) All Star Game and their recent Championship game carried on Fox sports channels.  You can watch the commercials here:
Men: http://cgvi.uscg.mil/media/main.php?g2_itemId=647184;
Women http://cgvi.uscg.mil/media/main.php?g2_itemId=647181.

Our people are our most important asset; Born Ready captures the excellence of our current workforce as it reaches out to the next generation of Guardians.  Since we are all recruiters, I hope you will join me in embracing this campaign.  We can attract people who want to create a deeper sense of urgency and importance in everything we do and we can challenge them to demand even more of themselves.   Together we'll ensure the Coast Guard remains America's Maritime Guardian.

For more information, visit www.gocoastguard.com.    VADM David Pekoske, Vice Commandant  14sep09
 

Social Media Engagement - Potomac River Incident - The Coast Guard was featured prominently in the news this morning for a training exercise that took place on the Potomac River http://www.cnn.com/2009/US/09/11/potomac.boat/index.html.  While the media coverage may die down, the blog-o-shpere is exploding.  Before engaging in this type of media, PLEASE read the ALCOASTs as they contain specific guidance on commenting and using Social Media tools.  Lt. Kerver, Public Affairs Officer, has sent an e-mail indicating that "no one in D8 should make any OFFICIAL posts on blogs, forums or other sites regarding this incident.  (Official messaging is being handled by CG-0922.)".   His  e-mail provides references and web addresses for policy to follow and guidance.  His complete e-mail with hyperlinks to ALCOASTs , etc. may be read via MS Word or Adobe Acrobat.  11sep09 

Diversity Advisory Council asks for Auxiliary Members Input - The Commandant's Fall 2009 Diversity Advisory Council (DAC) conference is scheduled to convene the week of 19 Oct 09 at Coast Guard Headquarters. To ensure an informative, engaging and productive conference, Coast Guard members, civilian employees and Auxiliarists are encouraged to provide the Council input on diversity related topics for discussion.  Please see ALCOAST 493/09 at http://www.uscg.mil/announcements/alcoast/493-09_alcoast.txt  for further details and contact information.  3sep09

NACON Wiki Website - The National Conference (NACON) has a wiki website that will be updated twice daily during the Conference so members may follow the NACON events.  The website address is http://sites.google.com/site/uscgauxnacon2009/ 24aug09

Online Auxiliary Officer Directory - National has developed an Online Auxiliary Officer Directory that permits members who are enrolled in the e-Directory to search for members by Last Name, Member ID or e-mail address.  Searches may also be made by Qualification (for members qualified and/or in REYR) or Office.  Entrance to the Directory requires the same sign-on as used for the e-Directory.   A link to the Directory has been placed in the left column of this webpage under the Resources category.  24aug09  

Auxiliary Sew-on Insignia - Coast Guard specifications for sew-on versions of Auxiliary insignia (i.e. - collar insignia for elected/appointed offices; qualification devices) have been developed and applied to production through the Coast Guard Exchange System (CGES). These new Auxiliary sew-on insignia have begun to arrive at CGES stores across the country. The collar insignia have a black "A" sewn on them. They represent the new sew-on standard for Auxiliary elected/appointed offices, and they replace sew-on insignia that have either a blue or red "A". Recognizing that many Auxiliarists wear sew-on insignia that have either a blue or red "A", a phase-in period is established for transition to these new sew-on insignia. The phase-in period shall end on December 31, 2010. After that date, the new sew-on insignia shall be the only authorized sew-on insignia for wear on appropriate Auxiliary uniforms. See the Auxiliary Sew-on Insignia document for purchase information and other details.  21aug09

ICS 210 Workshop at FALCON 2009 - Members interested in attending the ICS 210 Workshop at the Fall Conference in Branson must pre-enroll for the course as there is student maximum.  If you plan to attend the workshop, please send an e-mail to Bob Arisman, DSO-MT requesting that you be enrolled.  21aug09

AuxData Inactive Account Time Period Changes - Beginning September 1, 2009, AuxData accounts will be set to inactive status after 45 days (currently 90 days) of inactivity.  After 90 days (currently 180 days) of inactivity the account will be deleted.  These changes are necessary due to a security mandate issued by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS).  10aug09

FALCON 2009 Training Schedule - The Training Schedule for the 2009 Fall Conference in Branson, MO has been added to the District 8WR Fall Conference information above. 7aug09

Traveler Signature Required on Form CG-4251 - The traveler's signature is now required in block 24 of the CG-4251, Military Temporary Duty (TDY) or Civilian Temporary Duty (TD) Travel Orders.  In years past this was always an optional block.  The Personnel and Pay Center (PPC) will now return any form on which block 24 is not signed.  07aug09

Civil Rights On Deck Publication - Issue 4, Volume 7 - July 2009 of the Civil Rights On Deck monthly publication produced by the U.S. Coast Guard gives an insight on developments in the civil rights arena within the Coast Guard.  31jul09

Election Eligibility Criteria - Election of Flotilla, Division and District elected offices is drawing near.  A document has been prepared summarizing the Auxiliary election eligibility criteria for offices of Flotilla Vice Commander through Commodore.  View the document in either MS Word (51 MB) or Adobe Acrobat (30 MB).  31jul09 

Western Rivers Publication - Issue 2009-3 of the Western Rivers publication has been published to the District website.  The link to the publication is on the Western Rivers Publication webpage. 29jul09

Sector Upper Mississippi River Auxiliary Sector Coordinator (ASC) Appointed - Effective 27 July 2009, Robert Arisman was appointed as Auxiliary Sector Coordinator (ASC) for Sector Upper Mississippi River.  In his announcement, Commodore Marsh asked that everyone join him in welcoming Bob to this vital coordinator role and provide him with your support as he becomes familiar with his new assignment.  To aid in assuring the correct engagement between the Sector and the Auxiliary, the Commodore provided the basic role of the ASC in an MS Word and Adobe Acrobat document. 29jul09

National Server Will be Down for Security Maintenance - The Auxiliary National server will be down for security maintenance beginning late evening July 25 through July 26.  This means that all Auxiliary websites on the National server will not be available for browsing or publishing during this time period.  22jul09

New District 8WR Vessel Examiner/Program Visitor Website Published - a Vessel Examiner/Program Visitor website has been constructed and published for District 8WR.  This website is designed to assist members holding the VE and PV certifications as well as keeping any interested members updated in the VE/PV program.  A hyperlink to the VE/PV website is located on the District 8WR Staff webpage under the Vessel Examiner/Program Visitor staff position plus in the left navigation column on this webpage under the "Other Links" category.  Click on the following hyperlink to go directly to the VE/PV website.  29jun09

Congratulations from Commander of Eighth Coast Guard District on CG Auxiliary 70th Anniversary - In her message regarding the 70th anniversary of the Coast Guard Auxiliary our new Commander of the Eighth Coast Guard District, Admiral Mary E. Landry, expressed her appreciation of the Auxiliary stating "Please accept my personal "Bravo Zulu" for a job well done."  Read Admiral Landry's entire message.  26jun09

Travel Voucher Form - The correct version of the Travel Voucher Form, number DD-1351-2 is dated March 2008.  All earlier versions are obsolete.  The PPC (Pay & Personnel Center) will no longer accept versions of the form dated prior to March 2008.  The Forms webpage of the District 8WR website contains hyperlinks to the correct version of the form.  25jun09

ICS 210 Class - Division 33 has scheduled an ICS 210 class for October 17, 2009.  The location is yet to be determined.  This event has also been published on the District 8WR Calendar webpage.  25jun09

Congratulations from President Obama on CG Auxiliary 70th Anniversary - The President of the United States, Barack H. Obama, sends his "warmest regards to the United States Coast Guard Auxiliary in celebration of your 70th anniversary of service to our Nation".  The President congratulates you "for your steadfast commitment to the highest standards of citizenship, patriotism, and community service."  Read the entire letter from the President. 25jun09

CG Auxiliary 70th Anniversary - June 23, 2009 was the 70th anniversary of the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary.  Read ALCOAST 365/09 from Admiral Thad Allen, Commandant, in which he addresses this historic event.  In the 4th paragraph he states "Auxiliary performance has been nothing short of stellar, and its greatest impacts are readily reflected by Auxiliarists spirit of patriotism and dedication to the Coast Guard men and women with whom they serve.  I therefore intend to duly recognize the Auxiliary with an award of the Coast Guard Unit Commendation as part of its 70th anniversary celebration at Coast Guard Headquarters on June 23."  25jun09

From the OTO Desk -Quarterly news for ......... CWO Douglas Leavell has published his 3rd quarter 2009 news letter.  Read the newsletter in Adobe Acrobat 25jun09

Service Dress Blue (Alpha) uniform discontinued -  The Service Dress Blue (Alpha) uniform was discontinued as a Coast Guard uniform several years ago.  In January 2009, the Auxiliary National Board approved a recommendation to discontinue its use within the Auxiliary, and the Chief Director has approved this National Board action.  Accordingly, the Service Dress Blue (Alpha) uniform is no longer authorized as an Auxiliary uniform.  This change will be included in the next update to the Coast Guard Auxiliary Manual.  11jun09

Pictures from DSAR 2009 - Pictures from DSAR 2009 have been published.  Links to pictures of the teams, activities and competition grounds are located on the DSAR 2009 webpage.  08jun09

DSAR 2009 - Congratulations to the DSAR 2009 Champion Team, Division 16, for their outstanding performance as well as the Runner Up Team,  Division 8.  See complete DSAR 2009 results for all team events and individual awards.  A hearty "thank you" to all members who participated in DSAR 2009, in any capacity, for helping DSAR 2009 to be a very successful event.  Read details about the event.   View a picture of the Champion team.  Other pictures from the event will be published as soon as they are available.  Team member information is included on the DSAR webpage.   Updated 28may09  

Assist the CG by volunteering your cooking skills - For members who like to cook the "Chefs of the Future" (AuxCHEF) program has been designed to prepare members to assist in food preparation in Coast Guard stations, Sectors, cutters and anywhere else that the Coast Guard has personnel.  Learn more about the program and how to enroll from the AuxCHEF webpage. 25may09

USCG Publication 1 - first revision to capstone doctrine - Secretary Napolitano officially announced the first revision of the Coast Guard's capstone doctrine.  The announcement was made at the Coast Guard Academy graduation ceremony.  She stressed its importance to the Coast Guard and its applicability for the entire Department of Homeland Security.  Everyone is encouraged to read the publication.  Download the publication.  21may09

Western Rivers Publication - 2nd Edition 2009 published - The second edition for 2009 of the Western Rivers has been published.  A link to this edition plus prior editions from 2008 are available on the Western Rivers webpage. 06may09

Update on COMO Jeff Langley recovery - The Commodore had two strokes, February 18 & 19, 2009.  He spent 9 days in ICU and 2 more days waiting to go home during which he had two cranial surgeries.  He returned home March 3, 2009.  He has no paralysis or speech trouble.  Has some dizziness which is expected to leave, taste buds are working and his vision is about 95% but should get better.    He has completely quit smoking, lost 35 lbs and would like to loose another 20 lbs.  He is still on disability from work for another 60 days.  05may09

Request for articles and pictures for the Navigator Publication - Navigator Editor Judy Darby is looking for articles and pictures of national interest about the Coast Guard Auxiliary.  Articles and pictures from District 8WR may be sent directly to the Navigator, without clearance.  For Navigator guidelines go to http://auxadept.org/navigator.  3may09

Title Change of the CG Auxiliarist - Auxiliarists title of "America's Volunteer Lifesavers" has now been changed to "America's Volunteer Guardians".  This change is effective immediately.  2may09

H1N1 Flu Outbreak (Swine Flu) - Coast Guard Headquarters has set up an Internet page at http://www.uscg.mil/h1n1/ to post Coast Guard specific H1N1 Flu Outbreak information so that it can be accessed by Reservists, Auxiliary and families. 2may09

Swine Influenza Virus (SIV) update by Director of the Auxiliary -  The Office of Auxiliary and Boating Safety has published a bulletin providing an update on the Swine Influenza Virus.  The bulletin includes "What you can do" to avoid contracting the disease and gives several hyperlinks to internet sources for more information.  30apr09

Grants Handbook for 2009 - The 2009 Grants Handbook is now available.  Consult this document for sources of 2009 awards and grants.  It was prepared by the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary Department of Boating.  http://auxbdept.org/pdf/GrantsHandbook2009.pdf   24apr09

OPEX on Lake Texoma - Flotilla 16-07 is having an OPEX Sept. 18, 19 & 20^th on Lake Texoma.  The OPEX  will be held at Little Glasses Resort, located between Madill and Kingston, Oklahoma. Little Glasses Resort, has camping, RV spaces and cabins available. Call Little Glasses Resort to reserve your accommodations today at 580-795-2068.  They have a store, gas dock and boat ramp.  A buffet dinner will also be available Saturday night. Make plans to attend this fun on the water experience. Need more information please call Flotilla Commander,  Helen Arnold, 580-366-4677 or 580-565-9263.   23apr09   

Pictures from Spring Conference 2009 in Peoria, IL - Pictures from District 8WR Spring Conference that was held in Peoria, IL have been published to the District website for your viewing.  There are 4 pages of pictures which are categorized by Opening Ceremony, Meeting, Commodore's Banquet and Fun Night.  There are links in the upper right corner of each page so that you can browse each category.  07apr09

ICS 210 or 300 Compliance Deadline Date Extension - The Coast Guard Office of Incident Management & Preparedness has just granted an extension of the deadline date for completing the ICS 210 course.  The new date of compliance is 01 April 2010.  This course or the full ICS 300 course is required for Auxiliary Single Unit Resource Leaders such as coxswains, PWC operators, pilots (Aircraft Commander, First Pilot and Co-Pilot), certain members in the Trident Program or any other team/task force leader determined by a Coast Guard Unit Commander to have a need.  Though the compliance date has been extended, all members in need of completing the course are encouraged to complete the course as soon as possible.  26mar09 

DSAR 2009 District 8WR - District 8WR is scheduled to host DSAR 2009 at Lake Dardanelle, AR on May 22 and 23, 2009.  For complete information browse the Event Schedule MS Word - Adobe Acrobat and Competition Specifics MS Word - Adobe Acrobat. 26mar09

Boy Scouts of America Memorandum of Agreement - On 23 February 2009, the USCG Auxiliary signed a Memorandum of Agreement to begin partner liaison with Boy Scouts of America. The Boating Department is developing an implementation strategy to make this a meaningful agreement between our two organizations. The MOA can be downloaded in the Boating Department Document Library under Partners, or downloaded directly (as a PDF) here:

http://auxbdept.org/
http://auxbdept.org/documents.php
http://auxbdept.org/pdf/BSAUSCGAuxMOA23Feb09.pdf  24mar09

Respect and Professionalism - Read the message from VADM R. J. Papp, Jr., Commander, Coast Guard Atlantic Area reinforcing the need for "respect and professionalism". 17mar09

State of the Coast Guard 2009 Address - Admiral Thad W. Allen delivered his third State of the Coast Guard address at the National Press Club in Washington, D.C. on March 3, 2009.  Read the complete transcript or view a video. 6mar09

District 8WR 8 Hour TCT 2009 Schedule - the Team Coordination Training (TCT) 8 hour class schedule is available on the TCT Schedule webpage which includes dates, location, contact information and facilitator.  The link to the TCT Schedule webpage is available in the Navigation column on the left side of this webpage under the category "District Services".  22jan09

Personnel Security Form SF-86 for Direct Operational (DO) Revised - Forms SF-86 and SF-86A were revised July 2008.  Effective 01 January 2009 only the July 2008 forms will be accepted when application is made for a Personnel Security Direct Operational (DO) determination.  Links to the revised forms are available on the District 8WR Securities Issues/Forms webpage under the Direct Operational (DO) section.  20dec08 

New flotilla chartered in Division 33, District 8WR -  A new Flotilla, 33-6, was chartered in Division 33 on November 22, 2008 in Des Moines Iowa.  Jim Berry was elected the Flotilla Commander and Pat Jesse the Vice Flotilla Commander for 2009. The ceremony was attended by CMDR Campbell, COMO Gumb, COMO elect Dan Maresh, Ron Longnecker RCO-W, Steve Bernstein D-CAPT N elect, Katey Bernstein DCMDR-9 elect, Robert Smetka D-COS elect, and Emily Coffin, Army Corps of Engineers.  Members of 33-6 were joined by members of Division 33 from Lincoln and Omaha Nebraska. Welcome and Congratulations to all members of 33-6.  25nov08  View pictures of the chartering event - added 26nov08

New flotilla chartered in Division 1, District 8WR - Flotilla 1-11 was chartered in Ogallala, NE on November 15, 2008.  The new Flotilla Commander is Roger Rankin and the Flotilla Vice Commander is Les Foran.  The ceremony was attended by CDR Campbell, COMO Gumb and Ron Longnecker, RCO-W.  In addition, Herb Angell, BLA for the State of Nebraska, Buck Bassett, Mayor of the City of Ogallala and Scott Eveland, Boating Safety Officer for the State of Nebraska attended the celebration.  They were joined by members of Division 1 from as far away as Colorado Springs, CO, Grand Junction, CO and Casper, WY.  Welcome and congratulations to all members of Flotilla 1-11.  16nov08  View pictures from the chartering event - added 24nov08

Western Rivers Publication - Issue 2008-4 of the Western Rivers publication has been published to the District website.  The link to the publication is on the Western Rivers Publication webpage.  31oct08

Female Overblouse Dress Shirt available - The Female Overblouse Dress Shirt is available for ordering through the
Coast Guard Uniform Distribution Center (UDC).  It is authorized as optional wear for Auxiliary females as an alternative to the light blue dress shirt worn with the Tropical Blue uniform only.  Further information, particularly
concerning the placement of accoutrements on the shirt, can be found in ALCOAST 531/08 at the Coast Guard general message web site: http://www.uscg.mil/announcements/  31oct08

Academy for Division Commander and Flotilla Commander 2009 officers - The Division Commander (DCDR) Academy is scheduled for  7-9 November 2008 and the Flotilla Commander Academy  5-7 December 2008 both at the Drury Inn (Union Station), St. Louis, MO.   Invitational letters from CDR Campbell containing full details regarding location, travel, timetables, who may attend under reimbursable vs. non-reimbursable orders, uniform of the day, etc. have been published and are available for download DCDR letter or FC letter  Members who receive approval to attend the academy under reimbursable orders must complete the Travel Request Worksheet.  15oct08