Fa i r W i n d s

EAST PROVIDENCE FLOTILLA VOLUME 17 - ISSUE 1

Inside this issue:

DIVISION 7 CHANGE OF WATCH

COMBINED OPERATIONS TRAINING
CERTIFICATION CHECKLIST
AND MORE!

A COAST GUARD AUXILIARY PUBLICATION - DIVISION 7, FLOTILLA 72 EAST PROVIDENCE, RHODE ISLAND
FAIR WINDS 1
 ON THE C OVER

S U M M A RY
4 Policy Statements
6 The Editor’s Desk

M
12
8 From the Helm
embers of the Coast Guard Cutter Bristol
10 Be on the Lookout
Bay participate in hoist training with an air crew
12 Featured Article: in an MH-65 Dolphin helicopter from Coast Guard
Division 7 Change of Watch Station Detroit in Lake Erie. The Coast Guard rou-
16 Training: tinely conducts hoist training in preparation for
Combined Operations an actual search and rescue case.

22 For the Good of the Flotilla:

Coast Guard Mutual Assistance
24 Of Member Interest:
Certification Checklist

16
29 Brazo Zulu
30 All Hands Notices
31 Officer Directory
34 Junior Coasties

Fair Winds Magazine

East Providence Flotilla
20 Risho Blvd, Sector SENE

Editor
Donald Grace

Contact
401-477-6151
dlgrace@usa.net
www.cgaux72.org U.S. Coast Guard photo by Chief Petty Officer Nicholas Gould

24
FAIR WINDS 2 FAIR WINDS 3
FAIR WINDS 4 FAIR WINDS 5
THE EDITOR’S DESK

The Fair Winds baton is

passed on

S
eventeen ties and hard work performed by our members will
years ago, continue to be the central theme and focus of the
Auxiliarist redesigned Fair Winds.
Chris Law- In addition to flotilla-specific items, Fair Winds
rence de- will now include items of interest from across the
signed, wrote, Coast Guard family. Moving to a purely electronic
and printed the very first format aligns with the Coast Guard Auxiliary’s Quar-
issue of Fair Winds News- terly Magazine, Navigator Express. This style also
letter, creating four edi- allows for enhanced graphics and visual experience
tions a year. So that’s six- for the reader.
Donald Grace
ty-eight issues that he has I do hope that you enjoy the new format. I invite
Editor singlehandedly overseen the readers of Fair Winds to please provide me with
and published. your thoughts and feedback on the new format. Fi-
Established in 2005, Aux Lawrence created Fair nally, this magazine is designed by and for the mem-
Winds to keep the membership informed of upcom- bers of Flotilla 7-2 and the Coast Guard Auxiliary.
ing events and member recognition and as a vehi- This magazine could not be made without your hard
cle to promote the flotilla’s activities and efforts and work, dedication, and contributions. Thank you.
promote a team concept between the Auxiliary and
local Coast Guard units.
Under the stewardship of Mr. Lawrence, Fair
Winds was formally recognized as the “Best Flotilla
Newsletter” in the 1st Northern District in 2012, 2016,
and 2018. That is no small feat and a tribute to the
hard work and dedication of Mr. Lawrence.
However, as the adage goes, all good things must
come to an end. So, as the calendar flips over to 2023,
Mr. Lawrence is handing the baton over to yours tru-
ly. I want to thank Chris for all his work, dedication,
and leadership. He leaves behind a big pair of shoes
to fill. I promise to try my best.
As the baton changes hands, you will notice some
changes to the formatting and style of Fair Winds.
As you can see, altering the format from a printed
newsletter to an electronic magazine is the most ap-
parent change.
The thought process behind the format change is
to create an expanded offering that brings aware-
ness to items of interest that extend beyond our flo-
tilla to our membership. But, of course, the activi-

FAIR WINDS 6 FAIR WINDS 7


How Can You
Achieve Your
Auxiliary Goals?
PAUL BURKE
VICE FLOTILLA COMMANDER
G
reetings to all members of our Flotilla. I
am both excited and anxious about be
elected to the post of Vice Flotilla Com-
mander. Excited, because the more I get
involved with the Auxiliary the more I learn about
where we fit in the USCG family tree. Anxious be-
cause of the challenges and responsibility our staff
officers have taken on in 2023. We aim to pull us
back together. We have learned that Covid does not
stop our progress, instead we have come up with
ways to get things done despite the new hurdles we
encounter. I hope you’ll see the efforts we make and
you take the chance to lean in.
I have spoken with our Flotilla Commanders both
past and present and thought it wise to verbalize the
vision we have for the flotilla.
Our flotilla “7-2” has been primarily known for
Boat Operations. Historically when one joined the
Auxiliary, Operations was their focus. Join, qualify
on boat crew, and train on the water for whatever
mission the USCG needed – patrols, training evolu-
tions, SAR, etc.
The success of the Auxiliary and the diverse mem-
bership herein has broadened our skillset. This cou-
pled with the ever expanding number of missions
available to us (see the Diversity of Missions on the
following page) – we all are able to provide help in a
myriad of ways.
Here are some examples of how our members get
involved: John Dennis supports Air Operations and
FAIR WINDS
Culinary Assistance at Joint Base Cape Cod – he has
even served on a deployed USCG cutter as an Auxil-
iarist! Patricia Tarro has offered her time to assist in
the recent call for experts in cyber security. I found
my way into the Auxiliary through volunteering for
Boston Harbor Islands at Boston Light as a historical
interpreter. I worked with several watchstanders
who were responsible for maintaining the light and
its facilities.
Bob Lawrence, Chris Lawrence and Chad Cava-
naugh, are examples of members who have taken
multiple paths - working their way up the chain of
command in District and Divisional roles while con-
currently honing their skills in Boat Operations to
the point where our facility is asked for by name to
assist in training evolutions by the USCG crews from
Castle Hill and Point Judith. David Fillingim, Domi-
nic Ferrara, and Brian Jansen have taken the reigns
of FSO-PV, FSO-PE, and FSO-VE missions, respec-
tively, learning and helping many in the process.
Don Grace, has achieved (dare I say over achieved) a
lot in 3 years including boat crew qualification, AUX-
OP status, and being elected as our FC.
The point is, we have much experience to support
and guide you along the way and if we don’t have
the mentor in our flotilla, we know where to find it
for you.
Our intent for the flotilla is to be available to Auxil-
iarists with interests from Boat Crew to Culinary As-
sistance to Emergency Management to Air Ops and
8 FAIR WINDS
everything in between. We want
our members to participate in mis- AIR CREW
sions that give them purpose and BOAT CREW
make an impact. One can rise in BUILDING SUPPORT
the ranks of the staff officer groups CLERGY SUPPORT
or become qualified and proficient COAST GUARD ACADEMY PARTNER
in areas where our talents will be COLOR GUARD
used by the USCG. COMMERCIAL FISHING VESSEL EXAMINER
In order to achieve this vision, we COXSWAIN
need to progress. We need your in- DOCK WALKER
put and desires to be known. FOOD SERVICES
So I ask you – when you joined HEALTH SERVICES
our Flotilla – what was it that you INCIDENT COMMAND SYSTEM
wanted to do? Whatever that was, INSTRUCTOR
you probably read it on one of the INTERPRETER
many auxiliary sites. Did you get to LEADERSHIP ROLE
where you wanted? MARINE SAFETY
Ask yourself, a few questions. MUSICIAN
How many hours do you want to put OMBUDSMAN
in or rather how many hours can you PERSONAL WATER CRAFT OPERATOR
put in; does your spouse and family PILOT
time have an impact? Then what PIPE BAND
areas interest you? Are you aware PROGRAM VISITOR
of what is available? – the answers PUBLIC AFFAIRS
to these questions will help you de- RECREATIONAL BOATING SAFETY
termine just how much you can do WATCH STANDER
and perhaps where to start. Wheth- VESSEL EXAMINER
er that is 12 hours or 200 hours a AUXOP
year – every bit helps – most of us QUALIFICATION EXAMINER
begin slowly and get in deeper as RISK MANAGEMENT INSTRUCTOR
we gain comfort. As long as you are
getting a sense of accomplishment
we all win – you, the community,
and the USCG Auxiliary.
THE COAST GUARD AUXILIARY HAS MANY POSITIONS/
In a few weeks, we will send you
JOBS AS WELL AS MISSIONS AND LEVEL OF LEADERSHIP.
a questionnaire asking for your in-
FROM OPERATIONS SUCH AS FLYING PLANES AND PILO-
put. We want to know what you are
TING BOATS TO TEACHING BOATING SAFETY CLASSES,
interested in and to what extent
THERE ARE MAY WONDERFUL AND WORTHWHILE ACTIVI-
you feel you can participate. Please
TIES THAT WE CAN ENGAGE IN. FOR MORE INFORMATION
know there are no wrong answers.
ON THESE VARIOUS QUALIFICATIONS, PLEASE GO TO:
Every member brings value – we
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1FgTkAniwLMQd--yT-
want to know how we can help you
JorkXdR5Ohs81_w8/view
achieve your goals.
9
FOR ALL OF YOUR UNIFORM NEEDS
Be on the Lookout!
Upcoming Events, Meetings
and Trainings

MEETINGS: TRAININGS:

March 7 Division Meeting March 11 Boat Crew

Asprey House Shore side
Warwick Refresher
1900 hrs.
March 18 Boat Crew
March 8 Flotilla Meeting Shore side
Sector SENE Refresher
East Providence
https://shopcgx.com April 4 Division Meeting
1900 hrs.
Asprey House
April 4 Division Meeting Warwick
Asprey House 1900 hrs.
Warwick
April 12 Flotilla Meeting
1900 hrs.
Sector SENE
April 12 Flotilla Meeting East Providence
Sector SENE 1900 hrs.
East Providence
1900 hrs.
CLASSES:
May 2 Division Meeting
Asprey House March 11 Boat America
Warwick Asprey Boat House
1900 hrs. Warwick 7-9 pm
May 10 Flotilla Meeting March 14 Boat America
Sector SENE Asprey Boat House
East Providence Warwick 7-9 pm
1900 hrs.
May 1-5 Boat America
June 6 Division Meeting City Hall
Asprey House E. Providence 7-9 pm
https://auxcen.com Warwick
May 22 Suddenly in Command
1900 hrs.
City Hall
June 14 Flotilla Meeting E. Providence 1-4 pm
Sector SENE
East Providence
1900 hrs.

FAIR WINDS 10 FAIR WINDS 11

 FEATURED ARTICLE

Division 7 Change of Watch

The Auxiliary
Change-of-Watch

LOOKING
is patterned after
the Coast Guard’s
AT
NEXT formal, time honored

12
THE Change-of-Command
ceremony.

VCDR Welsh and DCDR Butziger Commander Christina Sullivan

MONTHS

S
taff officers, family and honored guests from all five Rhode
Island flotillas invaded the quiet and quaint maritime
vibes of Finn’s Harborside restaurant in East Greenwich,
Rhode Island on 29 January 2023. Joining the festivities
were members of Division 7 staff, the First District North-
ern Region leadership team, as well as representatives of
the U.S. Coast Guard Sector Southeast New England.
Honored guests included Coast Guard active duty Commander DCAPT Dennis Brunnell
Paul Mangini (Deputy Sector Commander - Sector SENE), Command-
er Christina Sullivan (DIRAUX), BCM Adam Louis (MCPO Officer in
Charge Station Point Judith), BMC Carl Heise (XPO Station Castle Hill),
CWO Elijah Reynolds (OTO D1NR) and YN2 Trevor Wilson (D1NR). On
the Auxiliary side, we were honored to have Commodore John Hume
(District Commander, D1NR), his Chief of Staff Glen Gayton, Commo-
dore Carolyn Belmore and Commodore Charles Grossimon (past Dis-
trict Commanders) and District Captain Dennis Brunnell.
Master of Ceremonies, Division Commander Arnold “Nick” Butziger,
welcomed the honored guests and members. This was followed by
the Flag Salute, and then the Innvocation. A delicious sit down meal
was served and heartly enjoyed by all members and guests.
Once the tables were serviced, CDR Mangini, CDR Sullivan and
DCDR Butziger conducted the ceremonial cake cutting with the sword.
After cake and ice cream, Commodore John Hume (District 1 North
Commander), sworn in DCDR Arnold Butziger and VCDR Brian Welsh.
Cmdr Mangini, Cmdr Sullivan and DCDR Butziger cut the cake. COMO Hume swears in VCDR Welsh and DCDR Butziger

FAIR WINDS 12 FAIR WINDS 13


“The Coast Guard is
facing an immense
shortfall of personnel
and will have an even
heavier reliance on
the Auxiliary for the
foreseeable future.”
Mike Quinn from Flotilla 7-6 is all smiles as he receives the Auxiliarist
of the Decade award from DCDR Butziger and VCDR Welsh for all of his
dedication and hard work over the past 10 plus years.
COMO Carolyn Belmore officiated
the swearing in ceremony for the
appointed staff officers for Division
7 and the flotillas.
At the conclusion of the swearing
in ceremonies, hands were shaken
and pats on the backs were given,
except for CMD Sullivan who gave
hugs instead. Once everyone took
their seats, DCDR Butziger and
VCDR Welsh presented the Division
and Flotilla awards to members.
Mike Quinn (Flotilla 7-6) received
the Auxiliarist of the Decade award
for his dedication and hard work for
the past 10 plus years as an over-
Photo courtesy of Aux. Karen Caron
FAIR WINDS 14
ly active IS Officer and Coxswain.
Charles Jenison (Flotilla 7-6) re-
ceived the Fellowship Award for
his outstanding work mentoring
and assisting fellow members.
Flotilla 7-2 was well represented
with awards too. Chris Lawrence
received an award for his dedication
and perservence in creating and
managing the Fair Winds newslet-
ter for the past 17 years and Past Im-
mediate Flotilla Commander Patri-
cia Tarro was awarded for her hard
work as SO-PE and completing her
term as Flotilla Commander.
David Fillingim, our staff officer
for PV was awarded for his out-
standing work with the most Pro-
gram Visitor hours in the Division
and our Flotilla Commander, Donald
Grace was honored with the most
training hours in the Division.
During their closing remarks,
CMR Mangini and CMR Sullivan
both thanked the Auxiliary for our
dedication and service. Howev-
er, they warned us that the Coast
Guard is facing a severe shortage of
personnel which will impact their
ability to complete many of their
missions. To cover that deficient,
the Coast Guard is going to have an
even heavier reliance on the Auxil-
iary.
Looks like it is going to be a busy
year!
“Fellowship is one of the
original pillars on which the
Auxiliary was erected upon.”
DONALD GRACE (FC), DAVID FILLINGIM (FSO-PV, FSO-SR) AND DOMINICK FERARRA (FSO-PE, FSO-DV)
FAIR WINDS 15
 H
ere at Flotilla 7-2, our primary area
of responsibility is Narraganse-
tt Bay. Our facility will also work
in nearby waterways such as the
Sakonnet River, Mt. Hope Bay, and
the Providence River.
Our missions vary between routine Marine Ob-
servation Missions (MOM), skill check boat crew/
coxswain training missions, and regatta support
(boat/swim races, air shows, parades, and fireworks),
to name a few.
Our preferred boat crew training missions are
two-boat operations with Coast Guard active and
reserve small boat units. These combined training
missions between the Gold and Silver side are vital
for improving and enhancing the training and ex- members can reduce the risks involved to an accep-
perience for both crews. In addition, two-boat ope-
TRAINING rations often involve different towing techniques,
table level.
Auxiliary boat crews can train for two primary

Boat Crew: general line handling, and a more realistic training

environment.
Working with different types of surface assets
types of combined air and surface operations: air-
drops/recovery (can be with either fixed-wing aircra-
ft or helicopter) and hoisting operations (helicopter

COMBINED
plays a vital role in preparing crews to handle various
scenarios and vessels. It provides the Coast Guard
boat crews with real-world training in working with
civilian boats and the different challenges they may
only). This article will primarily discuss combined
operations with an Auxiliary surface facility and
the MH-60T Jayhawk helicopters from Joint Base
Cape Cod.

SURFACE /AIR
encounter with each one. Meanwhile, it gives the
Auxiliary boat crews more significant interaction
with Coast Guard facilities and trains directly with
Coast Guard coxswains and certified crew members.
First, let’s look at the primary air facility we wou-
ld be working with. The MH-60T is an all-weather,
medium-range, twin-engine helicopter specialized
for search and rescue operations and has its pri-

OPERATIONS Our Flotilla facility is assigned to and works clo-

Surface Operations is just one of the many vital arms of the Auxiliary. However,
their boat crews are probably the most well-known to the public boating
community. It makes up a large portion of the activities for the average flotilla.
Auxiliary members become boat crew certified for various reasons, but the
most commonly cited is the ability to help those in distress. The fact that a
surface facility may be called upon at any time to render emergency aid at a
moment’s notice must be at the core of the boat crew’s training. An essential
part of that training is working with different facilities and assets.
sely with the crews and response boats from Station
Castle Hill but has also set up training with Station
Judith Point crews. One of the prime directives
from District (as well as National) is to improve the
quality and level of interaction between flotillas and
local Coast Guard units.
A training scenario that local Coast Guard and
Auxiliary members should consider is the potential
use of Coast Guard air assets based out of Joint Base
Cape Cod. Combining surface and air operations is a
concept introduced previously for the Auxiliary, al-
beit not an overly common one here in our Division.
Air and Surface Operations are inherently dan-
gerous in their own right, and combining them in
one training evolution can increase the danger level
exponentially. However, with the proper education,
communication, and equipment, air and boat crew
mary roots in the Army H-60 Blackhawk. It began
its service in 1990 as a replacement for the now-re-
tired HH-3F Pelican. A crew of four typically opera-
tes the MH-60T, including a pilot, copilot, crew chief,
and rescue diver.
As stated earlier, the two primary types of training
evolutions will be either air drops or hoisting opera-
tions. For boat crews, airdrops work similarly to a
Man Overboard (MOB) evolution, albeit a much more
realistic one considering the Auxiliary tends not to
throw crew members overboard for training purpo-
ses.
This article will focus on a hoisting evolution be-
tween an MH-60T Jayhawk and an Auxiliary boat
facility. It is important to note that hoisting opera-
tions off a vessel can be hazardous to all involved.
These situations require constant situational awa-
reness by everyone.

FAIR WINDS 16 FAIR WINDS 17

 Such training operations should be conducted
while underway during daylight hours in fair wea-
ther conditions. In addition, all Auxiliary crew
members must wear gloves, helmets, goggles, PFDs,
or appropriate exposure gear and boat crew personal
survival vests (COMDTINST M16114.5 series, 19.B3.c).
Before any scheduled evolutions involving air as-
sets, it is highly recommended that the Auxiliary
boat crew meet with the aircrew on the ground be-
fore getting underway. Knowing what to do before
the helicopter arrives at station can help lower the
risk for all involved. The combined crews should
discuss the evolution, goals, signals, safety proce-
dures, a detailed pre-underway briefing, and
a mission analysis. Since our local air
assets are coming in from Cape Cod,
a joint meeting on the ground wou-
ld require them to land at Station
Castle Hill for such a briefing.
Once the boat crew is un-
derway, but before the helicopter
arrives on station, all loose gear
on deck must be secured and
stowed away. The downwash
of a helicopter is very powerful
and can produce hurricane-for-
ce winds. It can blow a person
overboard and toss loose objec-
ts, such as articles of clothing,
into the air currents produced
by the rotor blades and poten-
tially get sucked into the engines.
In addition, it is crucial to lower and
secure antennas, booms, riggings, and
flags and to place radar in standby mode.
(COMDTINST M16114.5 series 19.B.3.e).
“During a Search and hoisting operations causing the ma-
The coxswain of the Auxiliary fa-
Rescue operation,
cility must be in radio contact with
the helicopter pilot throughout the transferring a victim to the length one would expect to use.
training evolution. A handheld ra- a helicopter provides
dio should be available as a backup. advanced medical care the Auxiliary facility, the helicopter
Hand signals should be well un- far sooner than on the pilot may elect to hover and deploy
derstood by all crew members in the water transport.”
event all radio communication is lost
(in such an event, the hand signal for
“breakaway, breakaway, breakaway” should imme-
diately be given).
After the basket or rescue swimmer is connected
to the hoist, the crew chief will send a line down to
the boat. One crew member in the Auxiliary facility
must be assigned to give hand signals to the hoist
operator.
A helicopter produces an intense downdraft, and
the spinning rotor blades act like an electric genera-
tor and can develop thousands of volts of electricity.
That electricity needs to go somewhere, preferably
not into the crew members. Therefore, the basket
or cable must touch the boat to discharge its energy
before a crew member touches it. Then, the hull of
the vessel will conduct the charge away harmlessly.
It is easy to see the dangers inherently involved
in combined air and surface operations. Another
factor that both air and boat crews must consider
is maneuverability for both the boat and heli-
copter. All potential hazards, both surface
and air, must be constantly monitored.
The helicopter pilot will provide
speed and headings to the coxswain
of the Auxiliary vessel for the du-
ration of the hoist. Coxswains
must check charts to ensure no
hazards preventing them from
“Helicopter operations are
maintaining that speed and hea-
ding. Boat crew members also exciting, dynamic environments.
need to be aware of other vessels One must be extremely vigilant and
that may come by to watch the prepared to make immediate decisions to prevent a
operation and potentially pre- serious incident.”
vent the Auxiliary facility from An MH-60T Jayhawk from Coast Guard Sector Columbia River conducts training with a Coast Guard Station Cape Disappointment 47-
continuing on their assigned hea- foot Motor Lifeboat crew on the Columbia River in Ilwaco, Washington, April 21, 2021. The boat and air crew often train together to stay
proficient in joint rescue techiques.
dings.
Aside from any potential ha-
allow it first to touch the vessel to pull away the static the helicopter, the boat crew member managing the
zards, the coxswain needs to ensure
electricity charge. Once the rescue device is on the line can gently toss the end of the line into the wa-
that the vessel has enough room not to
boat’s deck and needs to be moved, the crew shou- ter, being aware of the boat’s prop.
require any course adjustments. It is re-
ld unhook the cable and lay it loose on the deck. It Like most Auxiliary procedures and operations,
latively common for delays to occur during
should never be connected directly to the boat itself! safety comes first. At any time during the training
If transferring a patient/survivor, the crew evolution, if either the coxswain or pilot feels the
neuvering distance to increase. As a
should ensure that they are wearing a life ja- operation is unsafe, a “breakaway” should be con-
simple rule of thumb, plan for twice
cket and include all papers, medical records, etc., ducted. In such a scenario, the coxswain would di-
(if any) inside the patient’s clothing or blanket rect the crew to push loose the cable, rescue device,
Depending on the size and build of
to prevent any Foreign Object Damage (FOD) to and trail line over the side towards the helicopter.
the boat or helicopter. Once the patient is secu- The coxswain would then transmit “breakaway,
red, the crew member assigned to be the signa- breakaway, breakaway” to the pilot over the ra-
the basket or swimmer to a statio-
ler should notify the helicopter to lower the hook. dio. They would then turn the boat away from the
nary position and have the boat crew
Once the hook has landed adequately on deck (and helicopter and follow the pre-arranged plan for a
maneuver under the hoist for deli-
had its static electricity discharged properly throu- breakaway event.
very. The helicopter will trail a line down for a boat
gh the boat’s hull), the crew member should provide In addition to the hazards of the training itself, it
crew member to safely guide the device or swimmer
a “thumbs up” to the hoist operator and then tend is crucial to consider the various failure points that
down.
to the line to prevent the rescue device from swin-
As stated before, the boat crew members mustn’t
ging. Then, as the rescue device is secured inside Photo courtsey of Petty Officer 1st Class
touch the rescue device as it is lowered. They must
Cynthia Oldham

FAIR WINDS 18 FAIR WINDS 19

 HAND SIGNALS
can occur to both assets. For example, the Auxiliary the motorboat, and the boat crew retrie-
facility has multiple potential points of failure. One ved all three uninjured aircrew members.
could experience a loss of control systems such as Incidents like the one just described remind us of
the engines or steering. Disruption of communica- the dangers of such training missions. When con-
tions from a failed radio can cause problems (althou- ducting such combined operations, all crew mem-
gh backup radios are always onboard, as well as an bers of both Air and Surface facilities must be cog-
assigned crew member for hand signals). Of course, nizant of the various scenarios that can arise during
even a crew failure (crew member becomes injured, a joint training evolution and the inherent risks in-
sick, or somehow incapacitated) would impede the volved with each one.
successful completion of the training.
There is always the possibility that the helicop-
ter may have to ditch in the water. Coast Guard
aircrews receive extensive training in escape pro-
cedures. However, disorientation may occur due to
injuries, aircraft attitude, damage, or environmental
factors. If the helicopter goes down into the water,
LOWER CABLE STOP HOISTING HOIST UP
all boat crew members should never attempt to enter
an inverted aircraft.
In such an event, the boat crew would immedia-
tely move into a multiple Man Overboard (MOB)
evolution. The coxswain should direct the boat to
approach the helicopter bow-on from the leeward
side, creating as minimal a wake as possible so as
not to disrupt the vertical stability of the helicopter, An HH-65 Dolphin from Coast Guard Station Detriot is being re-
trieved from Lake Huron after the pilots lost situational awareness
potentially causing it to roll over in the water. while transitioning from a hover to forward flight during a night
Like any multiple MOB evolution, the recovery of time training exercise with a 41-ft boat from Coast Guard Station
Port Huron. No injuries were reported.
viable survivors is the priority, and the recovery of
remains is secondary. If the aircraft sinks, the boat
crew will deploy an anchor with a marker buoy for
the crash investigators to be able to locate the wre-
ckage at a later time.
Combined Air and Surface Operations are dy-
DISCONNECT FROM HOIST HOOK
namic and exciting. However, getting “tunnel vi-
sion” and losing situational awareness is easy. For
example, the loss of situational awareness cau-
sed the crash of an Air Station Detroit helicopter
in Lake Huron during a routine hoisting exercise
with a 41-ft Coast Guard motorboat on 20 April 2010.
During the nighttime training exercise, the pilots of
the HH-65 Dolphin lost awareness of their altitude
between the black water and the black night sky.
They began transitioning from a standing hover to
forward flight as they completed the hoisting ma-
neuvers. As the nose of the airframe tipped forward,
the spinning rotors came into contact with the wa-
ter’s surface causing immediate rotor separation
and loss of flight capabilities.
Luckily, the helicopter did not strike

Photo courtsey of Petty Officer John Masson EMERGENCY TERMINATE EVOLUTION

FAIR WINDS 20 FAIR WINDS 21
 G
enerally, the CGMA assists with cou-
nseling, short-term loans, financial
grants, referrals, and other related
means. The goal is to supplement,
not replace, any additional aid that
may be available to the recipient.
They focus on those caught in a short-term financial
crisis due to situations beyond their control. Those
in an emergency that endangers personal well-being
have the highest priority. In addition, the CGMA can
assist in various areas depending on your status wi-
thin the Coast Guard Family.
An emergency condition arises suddenly, is un-
foreseen and urgent, and requires immediate atten-
tion. The CGMA grants emergency assistance in
circumstances that impose severe financial or per-
sonal hardship on the member needing urgent help
FOR THE GOOD OF THE FLOTILLA to relieve the situation. The three main types of aid
are Emergency and Disaster Relief, the Day to Day

COAST GUARD
Support Program, and Education Assistance.
Any member of the Coast Guard Family may re-
quest assistance from CGMA by contacting a CGMA
Representative and completing the appropriate appli-

MUTUAL ASSISTANCE cation. If an eligible individual is unable or available

HELPING OUR OWN
The Coast Guard Mutual Assistance (CGMA) is an independent non-profit
charitable organization and the official relief society of the U.S. Coast Guard
community. They strive to promote financial stability and the general well-
being of the clients/customers that it serves. CGMA seeks to empower the
Coast Guard family in meeting future financial challenges and is ready to assist
them when they need it most. Through partnerships with other assistance
providers, CGMA delivers innovative financial assistance in response to
emerging Coast Guard family needs.
Formed in 1924 as the League of Coast Guard Women, the CGMA was
established to “minister to the general welfare of the commissioned officers,
warrant officers, enlisted men, and civilian employees of the Coast Guard
and their immediate families.” In 1941, Coast Guard Welfare was formally
established and took over the mission from the League. To better promote
their services, Coast Guard Welfare changed its name in 1979 to Coast Guard
Mutual Assistance. In addition, the CGMA expanded its offerings in 2015 to
include retired military personnel, Auxiliarists, Reservists, and commissioned
officers of the Public Health Service.
to apply, family members may apply on their behalf.
In addition, as participating flotilla members, Auxi-
liarists can apply for assistance to prevent privation
(food, eviction, loss of utilities), meet other emergen-
cy needs, and specific CGMA education programs.
Applicants requesting assistance must bring pro-
per identification, leave and earning statements,
other income and expense information, and comple-
te supporting documentation justifying their need
for assistance. In most cases, applicants must also
complete a detailed budget when requesting aid.
An approved loan will require one to sign a pro-
missory note with a repayment plan between 12 to
36 months (the CGMA can extend some loans to 60
months). Howe-
ver, if you sepa-
rate from service
before completing
the loan terms,
the CGMA may re-
quire repayment
in full.
All loan repay-
ments are sent
directly to CGMA-
-HQ as a personal check for Auxiliarists and Reser-
vists or via pay allotments for active/retired.
The repayment of loans is one of the vital pillars
of CGMA funding. They also receive some funding
from investment income. Still, their primary sour-
ce is contributions from the Coast Guard family and
unsolicited donations. The CGMA does not accept
any appropriated or non-appropriated government
funds.
Contributions can be made securely with credit
cards through their partnership with Qgiv or by che-
ck or money order
payable to “CGMA”
at 1005 N. Glebe
Rd. Suite 220 Ar-
lington, VA 22201,
or by mobile or ta-
blet by scanning
the QRC code here.

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 B
AU X I L I A RY C E RT I F I CAT I O N
y 1950, the Coast Guard Auxiliary
There are so many areas had defined the four cornerstones of
their mission: vessel examination,
I’m interested in... public education, safety patrols, and
fellowship. Throughout the 1950s,
But what do I need to get the main focus was public educa-
tion, vessel examination, and regatta patrols. From
and stay certified? the late 1950s on, several social and economic fac-
tors produced a tremendous boom in the Auxiliary’s
search and rescue work and its membership.
Although membership in the Auxiliary began to
increase, it was still limited to boat owners or tho-
se with special qualifications, usually teachers and
others with technical skills that could help support
a flotilla’s operations and missions. In addition, a
flotilla was limited to only three non-boat-owning
members for every boat-owning member.
During the early 1990s, The Chief DIRAUX office
made an active effort to integrate more of the Coast
Guard’s day-to-day operations. As a result, Auxilia-
rists soon began assisting in public affairs offices,
qualifying as Coast Guard boat and aircrew members,
qualifying as officers of the day at local stations, be-
coming Coast Guard recruiters, and providing medi-
cal services and chaplain well as culinary services.
The increase in Auxiliary missions coincided with
the increased demands the Coast Guard was under
due to a considerable number of disasters that oc-
curred during the 1990s: Hurricane Andrew, the ‘93
Mississippi Floods, and the Cuban-Haitian boatlift,
to name a few.
This is one of the
most common questions asked of the Member Training Staff Officer in any flotilla. With so many
different areas to specialize in, it can be a daunting task to keep up with all of the requirements.
This article is designed to assist one in keeping track of these requirements for the most common
certifications in our Division.
FAIR WINDS 24 FAIR WINDS
Due to their outstanding records and needs, in
1996, the law that limited Auxiliary participation
was changed. Auxiliarists were now allowed to su-
pport any Coast Guard mission, except for direct law
enforcement and military operations, as directed by
the Commandant of the Coast Guard. In addition,
The Coast Guard Auxiliary dropped the onerous re-
quirement for boat ownership.
This major shift in support operations opened
the floodgates for new members, and membership
grew substantially. However, with this change, new
certifications and maintenance requirements had to
be created to ensure that Auxiliarists possessed the
proper skills and knowledge to perform the Coast
Guard missions safely and adequately.
There are currently four primary Auxiliary arms
broken down into 15 different categories of duties
or missions: Recreational Boating Safety (Program
Visitor, Vessel Examiner); Response and Prevention
(Air Operations, Surface Operations, Telecoms Ope-
rator, Aids to Navigation, Marine Safety, Interpreter);
Coast Guard Support (Chaplain, Culinary Services,
Health Services, USCG Recruiting, Academy Part-
ner); and Mission Support (Instructor, Public Affairs).
Multiple certifications exist within many of the
categories listed above. The following list outlines
the various requirements for many of the most com-
mon qualifications in our Division. This list is not
all-encompassing, and one should see their FSO-MT
for more information.
25
 TOPIC
CORE TRAINING BOAT CREW / PERSONAL WATERCRAFT OPERATOR/ AUXPAD OPERATOR
The following Core Training Courses must be completed once every 5 years:
Auxiliary Core Training must be current (taken within the last 5 years).
Civil Rights Awareness (502319)
Must have taken Introduction to Risk Management. This is a one-time requirement.
Privacy Awareness (810015)
Must complete Risk Management / TCT workshop within the last 15 months.
Security Fundamentals (810030)
A QE Check ride must have been done within the last 3 years.
Sexual Harassment Prevention (810000)
Must complete at least 12 hours of underway time in the current year.
Workforce Resilience Training (502379)
Must complete the Operations Workshop by June 30 if required for that year.
The following course must be completed only one time. Must have taken the Blood Borne Pathogens Course (one time requirement)
Ethics 1 / Personal Gifts (502306) Per policy, this is required to get underway, not to hold the competency.

BASIC QUALIFICATION TRAINING (BQC II)
Anyone who has joined the Auxiliary since Feb. 1, 2018 must have completed the seven BQCII
courses (one time) in addition to the above.
VESSEL EXAMINER
Auxiliary Core Training must be current (taken within the last 5 years).
Must have taken Introduction to Risk Management. This is a one-time requirement.
Must complete at least 5 Vessel Safety checks during the current calendar year.
Must complete the Vessel Examiner Workshop by June 30 if required for that year.
PROGRAM VISITOR
Auxiliary Core Training must be current (taken within the last 5 years)
Must complete at least 4 Program Visits during the current year.
Must complete a Program Visitor Workshop by June 30 if required for that year.
CULINARY ASSISTANT
Auxiliary Core Training must be current (taken within the last 5 years)
Must have taken Introduction to Risk Management. This is a one-time requirement.
AUX CA-1’s must complete at least 12 Hours of Culinary Assistance in the current year.
(CA-2 has no currency hour requirement).
Must complete an annual Sanitation Workshop in the current year.
BOAT CREW COXSWAIN/ QUALIFICATION EXAMINER
Auxiliary Core Training must be current (taken within the last 5 years).
Must have taken Introduction to Risk Management. This is a one-time requirement.
Must complete Risk Management / TCT workshop within the last 15 months.
A QE Check ride must have been done within the last 3 years.
Must complete the Operations Workshop by June 30 if required for that year.
Must have completed NAV RULES 95 within the last five years.
Must complete at least 12 hours of underway time in the current year.
Must have taken the Blood Borne Pathogens Course (one time requirement)
Per policy, this is required to get underway, not to hold the competency.
INSTRUCTOR
Auxiliary Core Training must be current (taken within the last 5 years).
Must have taken Introduction to Risk Management. This is a one-time requirement.
Must complete at least 2 hours as LEAD or 4 hours as NON-LEAD in an Instructor mission.
The Member must complete the Instructor Workshop by June 30 if required for that year.
PUBLIC AFFAIRS 1, 2 and 3
Auxiliary Core Training must be current (taken within the last 5 years).
Must have taken Introduction to Risk Management. This is a one-time requirement.
Must complete at least 16 hours of Public Affair activity in the current year.
Must complete the Public Affairs Workshop by June 30 if required for that year.

FAIR WINDS 26 FAIR WINDS 27

AIR COMPETENCIES
Auxiliary Core Training must be current.
Must have taken Introduction to Risk Management. This is a one-time requirement.
CRM must be current (taken within last 15 months).
Must attend the annual Emergency Egress Training.
Must complete the annual Swim Test.
Must complete the annual Air Safety Workshop (CGAS).
Must complete the Air Operations Workshop by June 30 if required for that year.
Must fly and properly log a minimum of 12 hours as Pilot-in-Command each semi-
annual period (Jan-June / July-Dec.) - Only for Pilots and Co-Pilots.
Must have a current Auxiliary flight check or FAA flight check and Fly 3 missions under
orders, totaling 6 flight hours, each semi-annual period.
• BRIAN JANSEN SUCCESSFULLY ACHIEVED “BASIC QUALIFICATION” (BQ) STATUS.
Must maintain a current instrument rating in accordance with FAA regulations.

• NICHOLAS LOUREIRO HAS COMPLETED ALL BQII COURSEWORK.

TELECOMMUNICATIONS OPERATOR / WATCHSTANDER
• DON GRACE HAS COMPLETED THE ICS PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT SERIES FOR EMERGENCY
Auxiliary Core Training must be current (taken within the last 5 years). MANAGEMENT
Must have taken Introduction to Risk Management. This is a one-time requirement.
• SCOTT CAMPBELL HAS ACHIEVED HIS 15-YEAR SERVICE ANNIVERSARY
Must complete Risk Management / TCT workshop within the last 15 months.
Must complete the Communications Workshop by June 30 if required for that year.

AIDS TO NAVIGATION TECHNICIANS AND VERIFIERS

Auxiliary Core Training must be current (taken within the last 5 years)
Must have taken Introduction to Risk Management. This is a one-time requirement.
Must have taken Risk Management / TCT workshop within the last 15 months.
Must complete the Navigation Systems Workshop in the current year.

For more detailed information on various certifications available and the necessary steps to
acquire and maintain those certifications, please see the New Members’ page on the Human Re-
source Directorate site at: http://wow.uscgaux.info/content.php?unit=H-DEPT&category=new-
-members

FAIR WINDS 28 FAIR WINDS 29

 All Hands District Directory
Be Advised... District 1 North
DCO District Commander John Hume
DCOS District Chief of Staff Glen Gayton
IPDCO Immediate Past District Commander Byron Moe
--  PAPERWORK FOR YOUR ACTIVITY: Please make a concerted, timely effort to submit all your pa- DCAPT District Captain - SENE Dennis Bunnell
perwork for your Auxiliary activity to our flotilla Information Systems Officer (FSO-IS) at tarro@outlook.
DSO-AS Auxiliary Sea Scout Jason Oliveira
com. All the time and effort you put in are essential and valuable to our flotilla, the Auxiliary, and the
U.S. Coast Guard. It contributes to our overall success! However, no one can not tell what you did without DSO-AV Aviation James Griffith
it being entered into AUXDATA II, so please remember to submit your paperwork!  Remember, you also DSO-CA Culinary Assistance Laura Baker
can enter your hours directly into AUXDATA II yourself. Please see the AUXDATA guides on the IT Group
Directorate’s site . DSO-CM Communications Charles Motes
  DSO-CS Communication Systems William Bell
  -- WEATHER:  If there is any expectation that significant adverse weather conditions (Blizzards, hurrica-
DSO-DV Diversity Open
nes, etc.) will impact the local area, ALL flotilla members and their families are encouraged to seek safety and
shelter accordingly. The Flotilla Commander requests that once it is safe and conditions permit, ALL flotilla DSO-EM Emergency Management Gary Gordon
members either email or phone the flotilla commander about their status or safety for accountability.  This DSO-FN Finance Normand Choquette
safety verification is the standard protocol for all military and civilian personnel in government service. The
Coast Guard Auxiliary follows the same model since we fall under the Coast Guard umbrella.  Safety First! DSO-HR Human Resources Dewayne Roos
  DSO-IS Information Systems Laurel Carlson
-- CONTACT INFORMATION/SKILL SET CHANGES: Please ensure that your personal contact information,
DSO-MA Materials Stanley Zoll
call-out availability, occupational skills, and experience are up to date in the Auxiliary directory. To upda-
te, please log into AUXDATA II. All members can update their personal information under the Details tab. DSO-MS Marine Safety Shannon O’Neill
In addition, the Skills and Availability tab provides access to update one’s occupational skills, experience, DSO-MT Member Training Donald Ladd
and availability. Making sure your personal information is current ensures you receive critical official
notifications from the Auxiliary. Additionally, updating your skill set and talents helps to develop a vital DSO-NS Navigation Systems Stephen Wagner
pool of experience within the Auxiliary that the U.S. Coast Guard may use during significant emergencies. DSO-OP Operations Joseph Hogan
DSO-PA Public Affairs Kevin Ritchie
-- DIVERSITY STATEMENT: 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, age, religion, or physical DSO-PB Publications Thomas Broderick
or mental disability, have an equal opportunity to become a member of this organization. People from DSO-PE Public Education Lance McNally
a wide variety of backgrounds and interests are welcome and encouraged to join the Auxiliary to work
side by side with us as we serve the boating public. The fundamental action imperative of diversity is to DSO-PV Program Visitor Raymond Julian
create an environment that fosters an appreciation of the values, skills, and abilities of each individual DSO-SL State Liaison (RI) Normand Choquette
member. Members are responsible to each other for promoting an inclusive atmosphere of acceptance
DSO-SR Secretary/Records Allen Padwa
and respect, for demonstrating a commitment to fair and equal opportunity, and for moving beyond sim-
ple tolerance to embracing and celebrating our different backgrounds. We are committed to enjoying a DSO-VE Vessel Examination Stuart Jerman
diverse and inclusive membership. We all understand that diversity is not a problem to be solved but an
asset to be developed.
Assabet High School
Marlboro, Massachusetts

Meeting Time: 3rd Friday of each month at 19:00 hours

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Division Directory Flotilla Directory
Division 7 Flotilla 7-2

DCDR Division Commander Arnold E. Butziger FC Flotilla Commander Donald Grace

VCDR Division Vice Commander Brian Welsh VFC Flotilla Vice Commander Paul Burke
IPDCDR Immediate Past Division Commander Marcus Mitchell IPFC Immediate Past Flotilla Commander Patricia Tarro
SO-AS Auxiliary Sea Scout Arnold E. Butziger FSO-CA Culinary Assistance John Dennis
SO-CA Culinary Assistance Eve Clulow FSO-CM Communications Open
SO-CM Communications John Merrill FSO-CS Communication Systems Donald Grace
SO-CS Communication Systems Kevin Ratcliffe FSO-DV Diversity Dominick Ferrara
SO-DV Diversity Morganna Beltre FSO-FN Finance Diana Kryston
SO-FN Finance Karen Caron FSO-HR Human Resources Robert Lawrence
SO-HR Human Resources Janice Koleszar FSO-IS Information Systems Patricia Tarro
SO-IS Information Systems Michael Quinn FSO-MA Materials John Dennis
SO-MA Materials Michael Quinn FSO-MS Marine Safety Scott Campbell
SO-MS Marine Safety Chad Cavanaugh FSO-MT Member Training Donald Grace
SO-MT Member Training Herbert Peters FSO-NS Navigation Systems Open
SO-NS Navigation Systems Michael Quinn FSO-OP Operations Robert Lawrence
SO-OP Operations Charles Jenison FSO-PA Public Affairs Donald Grace
SO-PA Public Affairs Donna Bagdasarian FSO-PE Public Education Dominick Ferrara
SO-PE Public Education Steven Hill FSO-PV Program Visitor David Fillingim
SO-PV Program Visitor David Fillingim FSO-RS&S Rescue and Survival Systems Chris Lawrence
SO-SR Secretary/Records Rosalind Butizger FSO-SR Secretary/Records David Fillingim
SO-VE Vessel Examination David Siesel FSO-VE Vessel Examination Brian Jansen

Asprey Boat House USCG Sector SENE

2E View Street 20 Risho Blvd
Warwick, Rhode Island East Providence, Rhode Island

Meeting Time: 1st Wednesday of each month at 19:00 hours Meeting Time: 2nd Wednesday of each month at 19:00 hours

Contact Phone: 401-603-2628 Contact Phone: 401-477-6151

FAIR WINDS 32 FAIR WINDS 33

 Coastie The Safety Boat, is the Coast Guard Auxiliary’s You-
th Education, Boating and Water Safety Program representa-
tive. Robotronics Inc., a company that specializes in robotic
characters, designed and built Coastie. Auxiliarist Mike Ro-
beano from Columbus, Ohio got the idea in 1996 when he saw
a robot named “PC,” for “Police Car,” at a Safety Day event. He
A revolving collection of games, coloring pages and tracked down the manufacturer and reached out to them to
other tools to help educate and involve children into see if, by any chance, they could build a robot that was a boat.
safe boating and protecting the environment To his surprise, Robotronics had already created “Bobby the
Boat” which became the basis for Coastie.
After the initial development and training, there are now 52 Coasties across the U.S. including a pair of
them in the Boston area to help support District 1 North. If you’re looking for something new that’s a whole
lot of fun and a worthwhile educational tool for an upcoming event, click on “Coastie Finder” for a listing of
the newest Coastie to you. If you are interested in learning how to become a certified Coastie Operator, click
on “Coastie Operator” to get more information!

Please print out the

next two pages for
Coastie the Safety
Boat coloring book
for your children and
grandchildren.

Coastie is © Copyright of Robotronics Inc. of Utah. The Coloring Book pages are courtesy of Coas-
tie’s Water Safety Book as sponsored by U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary, U.S Coast Guard Auxiliary -
District 13, and Washington State Parks.

FAIR WINDS 34 FAIR WINDS 35

 Fa i r W i n d s
Coast Guard Auxiliary, East Providence Flotilla Quarterly Magazine

The East Providence Flotilla, officially designated as Flotilla 7-2

1st Northern, was formally established on 10 February 1959. It
is the oldest and smallest among the five flotillas that serve the
Rhode Island and Massachusetts areas. We have a long history SUBMISSIONS
which continues to be written today by our outstanding, diverse
and dedicated membership. We are comprised of a diverse group
of professional, dedicated members who offer their time, talents All articles must be written with
and skills in the pursuit of boating safety. We have been serving single spaced sentences. Include
our Nation, the Rhode Island boating community, and the East the author’s name, Auxiliary title and
Providence area for over sixty-four years. email address.

Photos for use in Fair Winds must be

Do you have a story to tell? Do you have an article or photo of
sent as attachments, not included
interest for our members? We want to hear from you! within the body of an article. All
photos must include:
NOTE: Any photographs, video or audio involving members of the
general public (adults or minors) for use in any Auxiliary news • A digital .jpg format
releases, education or promotional materials require approval via • A minimum of 5 megapixels
signature on a consent release form. • Color or black & white images are
accepted
Donald Grace, Editor • All photos must include a
complete caption, dateline and
photographer’s name.
• If the photo is of a minor or is taken
during a private event, a signed
photo release is required.

Non-Endorsement Disclaimer: The appearance of U.S. Department of Defense

(DoD) visual information in this publication does not imply or consitute DoD en- Send articles and photos to:
dorsement. Donald Grace, Editor
Fair Winds Magazine
The Privacy Act of 1974: Disclosure of any personal information published wi- dlgrace@usa.net
thin this newsletter is subject to the provisions contained in the Privacy Act of
1974. Except for official business, this act strictly prohibits the misuse, disclosure,
distribution, dissemination or copying of any material containing Auxiliary mem-
ber’s names, home addresses, telephone numbers and email addresses without au- © Copyright 2023 USCG
thorized consent. Any violations of this Act will result in legal action by the United Auxiliary, East Providence
States Coast Guard or civilian sanctions. Flotilla. All Rights
Reserved.
Copyright Notice: Fair Winds and all its contents are protected under the Uni-
ted States copyright law. USCG-related organizations, such as the Auxiliary flo-
tillas, divisions and districts, are hereby granted authorization to copy or reproduce
any portion of Fair Winds. All other organizations, publications and individuals,
however, must apply for and receive written permission prior to the reproduction
and distribution of Fair Winds content.

Flotilla Website: Flotilla Facebook:

www.cgaux72.org facebook.com/cgaux72eastprov

FAIR WINDS 36 FAIR WINDS 37

 Fa i r W i n d s
EAST PROVIDENCE FLOTILLA VOLUME 17 - ISSUE 1

AUX. P. BURKE KEEPS A WATCHFUL EYE AS THE SCHOONER NARWHAL SAILS

UNDER THE JAMESTOWN BRIDGE DURING A PATROL MISSION ON THE 20TH ANNI-
VERSARY OF 9-11. PHOTO COURTESY OF AUX. C. LAWRENCE

AUX. C CAVANAUGH LOOKS ON AS COAST GUARD VESSEL 45629 FROM STA-

TION CASTLE HILL CHECKS IN DURING A SECURITY PERIMETER MISSION. PHOTO
COURTESY OF AUX. D. GRACE

A COAST GUARD AUXILIARY PUBLICATION - FLOTILLA 7-2 EAST PROVIDENCE, RHODE ISLAND
FAIR WINDS 38