Criteria The Coast Guard Sea Service Ribbon is awarded to active duty members of the Coast Guard and Coast Guard Reserve, inactive duty members of the Coast Guard Reserve, or non-Coast Guard personnel who, und... The Coast Guard Sea Service Ribbon is awarded to active duty members of the Coast Guard and Coast Guard Reserve, inactive duty members of the Coast Guard Reserve, or non-Coast Guard personnel who, under temporary or permanent assignment, satisfactorily complete a minimum of 12 months cumulative sea duty. MoreHide
Criteria The Commandant's Letter of Commendation was originally created to enable the Secretary of the Treasury or the Commandant to address a Letter of Commendation to any individual in the Coast Guard for "m... The Commandant's Letter of Commendation was originally created to enable the Secretary of the Treasury or the Commandant to address a Letter of Commendation to any individual in the Coast Guard for "meritorious service resulting in unusual and outstanding achieve-ment rendered while the Coast Guard is serving under Treasury Department jurisdiction." The current ribbon is awarded to any member of the Armed Forces of the United States, serving in any capacity with the Coast Guard, for an act or service resulting in unusual or outstanding achievement, whose performance is less than that required for the Coast Guard Achievement Medal. MoreHide
Criteria This ribbon recognizes the important contributions made by teams and groups below the unit OPFAC level; i.e., boat and aircraft crews, staff elements, Quality Action Teams, etc. All Coast Guard person... This ribbon recognizes the important contributions made by teams and groups below the unit OPFAC level; i.e., boat and aircraft crews, staff elements, Quality Action Teams, etc. All Coast Guard personnel (Regular, Reserve, Auxiliary and Civilian, including non-appropriated fund activity employees) are eligible.The action or accomplishment performed by the team or group must be comparable to that which would merit the Commandant's Letter of Commendation ribbon (or higher) to an individual. To qualify for this award, a member of a team or group must have made a significant contribution to the overall team effort. MoreHide
Description
Kimball Award for small boat readiness and operations
Best Friends
Kevin Dutrieux, Matt Edes, Doug Piper, Laura Ladd, Caleb Corson, Dave Rokes, Charles Miller, John Davis, Dave Pappas, Jim Obrien, Jason Hubert, Tom Walker, Jim Toohey, Zarella Butler, Felicia DeCastro, Tom Smith, the entire crew of the Deck Force from the time I started to when I left.
Best Moment
Sailing GALLATIN after completing our first CART and TSTA in over two years (despite being drydocked and pierside for nearly the first year of my tour); getting several drug busts our first patrol, passing our first official STAN with a 41-50.
Criteria The Coast Guard Commendation Medal may be awarded to members of the Armed Forces serving in any capacity with the Coast Guard for meritorious service resulting in unusual and outstanding achievement r... The Coast Guard Commendation Medal may be awarded to members of the Armed Forces serving in any capacity with the Coast Guard for meritorious service resulting in unusual and outstanding achievement rendered while the Coast Guard is serving under Department of Homeland Security jurisdiction. Specifically, it may be awarded to persons who, while serving in any capacity with the Coast Guard (including foreign military personnel) distinguish themselves by heroic or meritorious achievement or service. MoreHide
Criteria The Coast Guard Meritorious Unit Commendation may be awarded by the Commandant (or designated subordinate awarding authorities) to any unit of the Coast Guard for valorous or meritorious achievement o... The Coast Guard Meritorious Unit Commendation may be awarded by the Commandant (or designated subordinate awarding authorities) to any unit of the Coast Guard for valorous or meritorious achievement or service in support of Coast Guard operations not involving combat. The performance of duty must render the unit outstanding when compared to other units performing similar service but not of such a nature to merit award of the Coast Guard Unit Commendation. MoreHide
Description
Awarded to CGC Gallatin during Change of Command 2011
Criteria
Awarded by area commanders, the "E" Ribbon provides visible recognition for personnel of cutters earning the overall operational readiness "E" award during Refresher Training.
Description
Gallatin's Battle "E" after successfully completing CART and TSTA
Criteria All members of the Coast Guard, including Reserve personnel, and all members of other branches of the Armed Forces when serving with Coast Guard units are eligible for this award for service performed... All members of the Coast Guard, including Reserve personnel, and all members of other branches of the Armed Forces when serving with Coast Guard units are eligible for this award for service performed on or after April 1, 1967. The Coast Guard Achievement Medal is given for professional and/or leadership achievement in a combat or noncombat situation based on sustained performance or specific achievement of a superlative nature of such merit that it warrants more tangible recognition than is possible by the Commandant's Letter of Commendation Ribbon, but which does not warrant a Coast Guard Commendation medal or high award. MoreHide
Criteria The Coast Guard Good Conduct Medal is awarded on a selective basis to enlisted members in the Regular Coast Guard or the Coast Guard Reserve for proficiency in rating, sobriety, obedience, industry, c... The Coast Guard Good Conduct Medal is awarded on a selective basis to enlisted members in the Regular Coast Guard or the Coast Guard Reserve for proficiency in rating, sobriety, obedience, industry, courage and neatness throughout a specified period of active military service (from May 17, 1920, to June 30, 1934, and from November 1, 1963, to December 31, 1979, the period of service was four years; for all other periods, including the present, it is three years). MoreHide
Best Friends
Gerry Canavan, Rick Loster, Glenn Lee, Al Morris, Edgar Jimenez, Sean Hagerty, Pete Lawrence, Luis Velez, Dave Chenlo, James Meyer, Alex Pomales, Kevin Brodie, Ryan Burke, Andy Hillquist, Ian Marquez, Ivan Porubic, Kerk Battle....pretty much everyone I was on VASHON with, from start to finish...Im sure Ive forgotten names, its by no means intentional!
Best Moment
Finally sailing VASHON home after two years of hell and doing a couple of patrols under our belt, and proving we could operate through adversity!
Worst Moment
The whole hurricae fiasco, experiencing Deepwater and ICGS bungling in its worst manner.
Other Memories
Working our asses off to make VASHON the best 123' we could...we were the Warrant Boat and we didn't mess around, and everyone knew it!
Best Moment
Enjoyed sailing with the crew back to Miami and helping stand bridge watch. Loved beign underway while our ship was still high and dry recovering from Katrina
Criteria The Coast Guard Commendation Medal may be awarded to members of the Armed Forces serving in any capacity with the Coast Guard for meritorious service resulting in unusual and outstanding achievement r... The Coast Guard Commendation Medal may be awarded to members of the Armed Forces serving in any capacity with the Coast Guard for meritorious service resulting in unusual and outstanding achievement rendered while the Coast Guard is serving under Department of Homeland Security jurisdiction. Specifically, it may be awarded to persons who, while serving in any capacity with the Coast Guard (including foreign military personnel) distinguish themselves by heroic or meritorious achievement or service. MoreHide
Criteria The Presidential Unit Citation may be awarded to units of the Armed Forces of the United States and cobelligerent nations for extraordinary heroism in action against an armed enemy occurring on or aft... The Presidential Unit Citation may be awarded to units of the Armed Forces of the United States and cobelligerent nations for extraordinary heroism in action against an armed enemy occurring on or after December 7, 1941. MoreHide
Criteria This ribbon recognizes the important contributions made by teams and groups below the unit OPFAC level; i.e., boat and aircraft crews, staff elements, Quality Action Teams, etc. All Coast Guard person... This ribbon recognizes the important contributions made by teams and groups below the unit OPFAC level; i.e., boat and aircraft crews, staff elements, Quality Action Teams, etc. All Coast Guard personnel (Regular, Reserve, Auxiliary and Civilian, including non-appropriated fund activity employees) are eligible.The action or accomplishment performed by the team or group must be comparable to that which would merit the Commandant's Letter of Commendation ribbon (or higher) to an individual. To qualify for this award, a member of a team or group must have made a significant contribution to the overall team effort. MoreHide
Criteria The Humanitarian Service Medal is an individual award, presented to individuals who are physically present at the site of immediate relief and who directly contribute to and influence the humanitarian... The Humanitarian Service Medal is an individual award, presented to individuals who are physically present at the site of immediate relief and who directly contribute to and influence the humanitarian action. The Humanitarian Service Medal is only awarded for service during the identified "period of immediate relief;" eligibility for the Humanitarian Service Medal terminates once (if) the humanitarian action evolves into an "established ongoing operation beyond the initial emergency condition." MoreHide
Criteria The Coast Guard Sea Service Ribbon is awarded to active duty members of the Coast Guard and Coast Guard Reserve, inactive duty members of the Coast Guard Reserve, or non-Coast Guard personnel who, und... The Coast Guard Sea Service Ribbon is awarded to active duty members of the Coast Guard and Coast Guard Reserve, inactive duty members of the Coast Guard Reserve, or non-Coast Guard personnel who, under temporary or permanent assignment, satisfactorily complete a minimum of 12 months cumulative sea duty. MoreHide
Description Hurricane Katrina was the costliest natural disaster and one of the five deadliest hurricanes in the history of the United States. The storm is currently ranked as the third most intense United StatesHurricane Katrina was the costliest natural disaster and one of the five deadliest hurricanes in the history of the United States. The storm is currently ranked as the third most intense United States landfalling tropical cyclone, behind only the 1935 Labor Day hurricane and Hurricane Camille in 1969. Overall, at least 1,245 people died in the hurricane and subsequent floods, making it the deadliest United States hurricane since the 1928 Okeechobee hurricane. Total property damage was estimated at $108 billion (2005 USD), roughly four times the damage wrought by Hurricane Andrew in 1992 in the United States.
The eleventh named storm and fifth hurricane of the 2005 Atlantic hurricane season, Katrina originated over the Bahamas on August 23 from the interaction between a tropical wave and the remnants of Tropical Depression Ten. Early the following day, the new depression intensified into Tropical Storm Katrina. The cyclone headed generally westward toward Florida and strengthened into a hurricane only two hours before making landfall at Hallandale Beach and Aventura on August 25. After very briefly weakening to a tropical storm, Katrina emerged into the Gulf of Mexico on August 26 and began to rapidly deepen. The storm strengthened to a Category 5 hurricane over the warm waters of the Gulf of Mexico, but weakened before making its second landfall as a Category 3 hurricane on August 29 in southeast Louisiana.
Katrina caused severe destruction along the Gulf coast from central Florida to Texas, much of it due to the storm surge and levee failure. Severe property damage occurred in coastal areas, such as Mississippi beachfront towns; over 90 percent of these were flooded. Boats and casino barges rammed buildings, pushing cars and houses inland; water reached 6–12 miles (10–19 km) from the beach.
Over fifty breaches in New Orleans's hurricane surge protection were the cause of the majority of the death and destruction during Katrina on August 29, 2005. Eventually 80% of the city and large tracts of neighboring parishes became flooded, and the floodwaters lingered for weeks. According to a modeling exercise conducted by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE), two-thirds of the deaths in Greater New Orleans were due to levee and floodwall failure. All of the major studies concluded that the USACE, the designers and builders of the levee system as mandated by the Flood Control Act of 1965, is responsible. This is mainly due to a decision to use shorter steel sheet pilings in an effort to save money. In January 2008, Judge Stanwood Duval, U.S. District Court, ruled that despite the Corps' role in the flooding, the agency could not be held financially liable because of sovereign immunity in the Flood Control Act of 1928. Exactly ten years after Katrina, J. David Rogers, lead author of a new report in the official journal of the World Water Council concluded that the flooding during Katrina "could have been prevented had the corps retained an external review board to double-check its flood-wall designs."
There was also an investigation of the responses from federal, state and local governments, resulting in the resignation of Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) director Michael D. Brown, and of New Orleans Police Department (NOPD) Superintendent Eddie Compass. Many other government officials were criticized for their responses, especially New Orleans Mayor Ray Nagin, Louisiana Governor Kathleen Blanco, and President George W. Bush. Several agencies including the United States Coast Guard (USCG), National Hurricane Center (NHC), and National Weather Service (NWS) were commended for their actions. They provided accurate hurricane weather tracking forecasts with sufficient lead time.... More
Memories While drydocked in Bayou La Batre for repairs to our 123' patrol boat, the crew was split up; myselfWhile drydocked in Bayou La Batre for repairs to our 123' patrol boat, the crew was split up; myself and 5 others remained in Mobile, AL while the remainder of the crew and families were in Key West. With very little time to prepare, I drove from Miami to Mobile in a day, got the remainder of our crew together to begin securing the ship while it was in drydock, gather sensitive electronics and administrative paperwork, and evacuate to Lake City FL. After returning, we were directed to mobilize a security escort team to assist Sector Mobile with providing security for fuel and supplies deliveries to stricken areas of Alabama, Mississippi, and Louisiana. This operation continued for about a month. Once we were able to return to the shipyard, the recovery process took place to try and find engineering parts damaged or destroyed by the hurricane and flooding. As a result of the storm, VASHON remained in Bayou La Batre for an additional 10 months, finally returning to Key West in July of 2006 in time for a change of command. ... More
Criteria The Coast Guard Commendation Medal may be awarded to members of the Armed Forces serving in any capacity with the Coast Guard for meritorious service resulting in unusual and outstanding achievement r... The Coast Guard Commendation Medal may be awarded to members of the Armed Forces serving in any capacity with the Coast Guard for meritorious service resulting in unusual and outstanding achievement rendered while the Coast Guard is serving under Department of Homeland Security jurisdiction. Specifically, it may be awarded to persons who, while serving in any capacity with the Coast Guard (including foreign military personnel) distinguish themselves by heroic or meritorious achievement or service. MoreHide
Criteria The Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal is awarded to members of the Armed Forces who, after July 1, 1958, participate in specified United States operations or those in direct support of the United Natio... The Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal is awarded to members of the Armed Forces who, after July 1, 1958, participate in specified United States operations or those in direct support of the United Nations or friendly foreign nations MoreHide
Description
TAD onboard DALLAS in support of Haitian Expedition
Criteria The Special Operations Service Ribbon is awarded to personnel of the Armed Forces serving in any capacity with the Coast Guard (and certain other individuals) who participate in significant numbers in... The Special Operations Service Ribbon is awarded to personnel of the Armed Forces serving in any capacity with the Coast Guard (and certain other individuals) who participate in significant numbers in a Coast Guard special operation, not involving combat, and who have not been recognized by another service award for the same operation. MoreHide
Criteria All members of the Coast Guard, including Reserve personnel, and all members of other branches of the Armed Forces when serving with Coast Guard units are eligible for this award for service performed... All members of the Coast Guard, including Reserve personnel, and all members of other branches of the Armed Forces when serving with Coast Guard units are eligible for this award for service performed on or after April 1, 1967. The Coast Guard Achievement Medal is given for professional and/or leadership achievement in a combat or noncombat situation based on sustained performance or specific achievement of a superlative nature of such merit that it warrants more tangible recognition than is possible by the Commandant's Letter of Commendation Ribbon, but which does not warrant a Coast Guard Commendation medal or high award. MoreHide
Criteria All members of the Coast Guard, including Reserve personnel, and all members of other branches of the Armed Forces when serving with Coast Guard units are eligible for this award for service performed... All members of the Coast Guard, including Reserve personnel, and all members of other branches of the Armed Forces when serving with Coast Guard units are eligible for this award for service performed on or after April 1, 1967. The Coast Guard Achievement Medal is given for professional and/or leadership achievement in a combat or noncombat situation based on sustained performance or specific achievement of a superlative nature of such merit that it warrants more tangible recognition than is possible by the Commandant's Letter of Commendation Ribbon, but which does not warrant a Coast Guard Commendation medal or high award. MoreHide
Criteria All members of the Coast Guard, including Reserve personnel, and all members of other branches of the Armed Forces when serving with Coast Guard units are eligible for this award for service performed... All members of the Coast Guard, including Reserve personnel, and all members of other branches of the Armed Forces when serving with Coast Guard units are eligible for this award for service performed on or after April 1, 1967. The Coast Guard Achievement Medal is given for professional and/or leadership achievement in a combat or noncombat situation based on sustained performance or specific achievement of a superlative nature of such merit that it warrants more tangible recognition than is possible by the Commandant's Letter of Commendation Ribbon, but which does not warrant a Coast Guard Commendation medal or high award. MoreHide
Criteria All members of the Coast Guard, including Reserve personnel, and all members of other branches of the Armed Forces when serving with Coast Guard units are eligible for this award for service performed... All members of the Coast Guard, including Reserve personnel, and all members of other branches of the Armed Forces when serving with Coast Guard units are eligible for this award for service performed on or after April 1, 1967. The Coast Guard Achievement Medal is given for professional and/or leadership achievement in a combat or noncombat situation based on sustained performance or specific achievement of a superlative nature of such merit that it warrants more tangible recognition than is possible by the Commandant's Letter of Commendation Ribbon, but which does not warrant a Coast Guard Commendation medal or high award. MoreHide
Criteria The Commandant's Letter of Commendation was originally created to enable the Secretary of the Treasury or the Commandant to address a Letter of Commendation to any individual in the Coast Guard for "m... The Commandant's Letter of Commendation was originally created to enable the Secretary of the Treasury or the Commandant to address a Letter of Commendation to any individual in the Coast Guard for "meritorious service resulting in unusual and outstanding achieve-ment rendered while the Coast Guard is serving under Treasury Department jurisdiction." The current ribbon is awarded to any member of the Armed Forces of the United States, serving in any capacity with the Coast Guard, for an act or service resulting in unusual or outstanding achievement, whose performance is less than that required for the Coast Guard Achievement Medal. MoreHide
Criteria This award is the unit equivalent of the Secretary of Transportation Gold Medal for Outstanding Achievement. On November 3, 1994, Secretary of Transportation Federico Pena awarded the Department of Tr... This award is the unit equivalent of the Secretary of Transportation Gold Medal for Outstanding Achievement. On November 3, 1994, Secretary of Transportation Federico Pena awarded the Department of Transportation Gold Medal for Outstanding Achievement to the Coast Guard as a whole. MoreHide
Criteria The Coast Guard Unit Commendation may be awarded by the Commandant and designated subordinate awarding authorities to any unit which has distinguished itself by valorous or extremely meritorious servi... The Coast Guard Unit Commendation may be awarded by the Commandant and designated subordinate awarding authorities to any unit which has distinguished itself by valorous or extremely meritorious service not involving combat (but in support of Coast Guard operations), which renders the unit outstanding compared to other units performing similar services. MoreHide
Criteria The Coast Guard Unit Commendation may be awarded by the Commandant and designated subordinate awarding authorities to any unit which has distinguished itself by valorous or extremely meritorious servi... The Coast Guard Unit Commendation may be awarded by the Commandant and designated subordinate awarding authorities to any unit which has distinguished itself by valorous or extremely meritorious service not involving combat (but in support of Coast Guard operations), which renders the unit outstanding compared to other units performing similar services. MoreHide
Criteria The Coast Guard Unit Commendation may be awarded by the Commandant and designated subordinate awarding authorities to any unit which has distinguished itself by valorous or extremely meritorious servi... The Coast Guard Unit Commendation may be awarded by the Commandant and designated subordinate awarding authorities to any unit which has distinguished itself by valorous or extremely meritorious service not involving combat (but in support of Coast Guard operations), which renders the unit outstanding compared to other units performing similar services. MoreHide
Criteria The Coast Guard Unit Commendation may be awarded by the Commandant and designated subordinate awarding authorities to any unit which has distinguished itself by valorous or extremely meritorious servi... The Coast Guard Unit Commendation may be awarded by the Commandant and designated subordinate awarding authorities to any unit which has distinguished itself by valorous or extremely meritorious service not involving combat (but in support of Coast Guard operations), which renders the unit outstanding compared to other units performing similar services. MoreHide
Criteria The Coast Guard Meritorious Unit Commendation may be awarded by the Commandant (or designated subordinate awarding authorities) to any unit of the Coast Guard for valorous or meritorious achievement o... The Coast Guard Meritorious Unit Commendation may be awarded by the Commandant (or designated subordinate awarding authorities) to any unit of the Coast Guard for valorous or meritorious achievement or service in support of Coast Guard operations not involving combat. The performance of duty must render the unit outstanding when compared to other units performing similar service but not of such a nature to merit award of the Coast Guard Unit Commendation. MoreHide
Criteria The Coast Guard Meritorious Unit Commendation may be awarded by the Commandant (or designated subordinate awarding authorities) to any unit of the Coast Guard for valorous or meritorious achievement o... The Coast Guard Meritorious Unit Commendation may be awarded by the Commandant (or designated subordinate awarding authorities) to any unit of the Coast Guard for valorous or meritorious achievement or service in support of Coast Guard operations not involving combat. The performance of duty must render the unit outstanding when compared to other units performing similar service but not of such a nature to merit award of the Coast Guard Unit Commendation. MoreHide
Criteria The Coast Guard Meritorious Unit Commendation may be awarded by the Commandant (or designated subordinate awarding authorities) to any unit of the Coast Guard for valorous or meritorious achievement o... The Coast Guard Meritorious Unit Commendation may be awarded by the Commandant (or designated subordinate awarding authorities) to any unit of the Coast Guard for valorous or meritorious achievement or service in support of Coast Guard operations not involving combat. The performance of duty must render the unit outstanding when compared to other units performing similar service but not of such a nature to merit award of the Coast Guard Unit Commendation. MoreHide
Criteria The Coast Guard Meritorious Unit Commendation may be awarded by the Commandant (or designated subordinate awarding authorities) to any unit of the Coast Guard for valorous or meritorious achievement o... The Coast Guard Meritorious Unit Commendation may be awarded by the Commandant (or designated subordinate awarding authorities) to any unit of the Coast Guard for valorous or meritorious achievement or service in support of Coast Guard operations not involving combat. The performance of duty must render the unit outstanding when compared to other units performing similar service but not of such a nature to merit award of the Coast Guard Unit Commendation. MoreHide
Criteria The Coast Guard Meritorious Unit Commendation may be awarded by the Commandant (or designated subordinate awarding authorities) to any unit of the Coast Guard for valorous or meritorious achievement o... The Coast Guard Meritorious Unit Commendation may be awarded by the Commandant (or designated subordinate awarding authorities) to any unit of the Coast Guard for valorous or meritorious achievement or service in support of Coast Guard operations not involving combat. The performance of duty must render the unit outstanding when compared to other units performing similar service but not of such a nature to merit award of the Coast Guard Unit Commendation. MoreHide
Criteria The Coast Guard Meritorious Unit Commendation may be awarded by the Commandant (or designated subordinate awarding authorities) to any unit of the Coast Guard for valorous or meritorious achievement o... The Coast Guard Meritorious Unit Commendation may be awarded by the Commandant (or designated subordinate awarding authorities) to any unit of the Coast Guard for valorous or meritorious achievement or service in support of Coast Guard operations not involving combat. The performance of duty must render the unit outstanding when compared to other units performing similar service but not of such a nature to merit award of the Coast Guard Unit Commendation. MoreHide
Criteria The Coast Guard Meritorious Unit Commendation may be awarded by the Commandant (or designated subordinate awarding authorities) to any unit of the Coast Guard for valorous or meritorious achievement o... The Coast Guard Meritorious Unit Commendation may be awarded by the Commandant (or designated subordinate awarding authorities) to any unit of the Coast Guard for valorous or meritorious achievement or service in support of Coast Guard operations not involving combat. The performance of duty must render the unit outstanding when compared to other units performing similar service but not of such a nature to merit award of the Coast Guard Unit Commendation. MoreHide
Criteria The National Defense Service Medal is awarded for honorable active service as a member of the Armed Forces during the Korean War, Vietnam War, the war against Iraq in the Persian Gulf, and for service... The National Defense Service Medal is awarded for honorable active service as a member of the Armed Forces during the Korean War, Vietnam War, the war against Iraq in the Persian Gulf, and for service during the current War on Terrorism. In addition, all members of the National Guard and Reserve who were part of the Selected Reserve in good standing between August 2, 1990, to November 30, 1995, are eligible for the National Defense Service Medal. In the case of Navy personnel, Midshipment attending the Naval Academy during the qualifying periods are eligible for this award, and Naval Reserve Officer Training Corps (NROTC) Midshipmen ae only eligible if they participated in a summer cruise that was in an area which qualified for a campaign medal. MoreHide
Criteria The National Defense Service Medal is awarded for honorable active service as a member of the Armed Forces during the Korean War, Vietnam War, the war against Iraq in the Persian Gulf, and for service... The National Defense Service Medal is awarded for honorable active service as a member of the Armed Forces during the Korean War, Vietnam War, the war against Iraq in the Persian Gulf, and for service during the current War on Terrorism. In addition, all members of the National Guard and Reserve who were part of the Selected Reserve in good standing between August 2, 1990, to November 30, 1995, are eligible for the National Defense Service Medal. In the case of Navy personnel, Midshipment attending the Naval Academy during the qualifying periods are eligible for this award, and Naval Reserve Officer Training Corps (NROTC) Midshipmen ae only eligible if they participated in a summer cruise that was in an area which qualified for a campaign medal. MoreHide
Criteria Individuals authorized the award of this medal must have participated in or served in support of Global War on Terrorism operations on or after September 11, 2001 and to a future date to be determined... Individuals authorized the award of this medal must have participated in or served in support of Global War on Terrorism operations on or after September 11, 2001 and to a future date to be determined. MoreHide
Criteria The Special Operations Service Ribbon is awarded to personnel of the Armed Forces serving in any capacity with the Coast Guard (and certain other individuals) who participate in significant numbers in... The Special Operations Service Ribbon is awarded to personnel of the Armed Forces serving in any capacity with the Coast Guard (and certain other individuals) who participate in significant numbers in a Coast Guard special operation, not involving combat, and who have not been recognized by another service award for the same operation. MoreHide
Criteria The Special Operations Service Ribbon is awarded to personnel of the Armed Forces serving in any capacity with the Coast Guard (and certain other individuals) who participate in significant numbers in... The Special Operations Service Ribbon is awarded to personnel of the Armed Forces serving in any capacity with the Coast Guard (and certain other individuals) who participate in significant numbers in a Coast Guard special operation, not involving combat, and who have not been recognized by another service award for the same operation. MoreHide
Criteria The Coast Guard Sea Service Ribbon is awarded to active duty members of the Coast Guard and Coast Guard Reserve, inactive duty members of the Coast Guard Reserve, or non-Coast Guard personnel who, und... The Coast Guard Sea Service Ribbon is awarded to active duty members of the Coast Guard and Coast Guard Reserve, inactive duty members of the Coast Guard Reserve, or non-Coast Guard personnel who, under temporary or permanent assignment, satisfactorily complete a minimum of 12 months cumulative sea duty. MoreHide
Criteria The Coast Guard Sea Service Ribbon is awarded to active duty members of the Coast Guard and Coast Guard Reserve, inactive duty members of the Coast Guard Reserve, or non-Coast Guard personnel who, und... The Coast Guard Sea Service Ribbon is awarded to active duty members of the Coast Guard and Coast Guard Reserve, inactive duty members of the Coast Guard Reserve, or non-Coast Guard personnel who, under temporary or permanent assignment, satisfactorily complete a minimum of 12 months cumulative sea duty. MoreHide
Criteria The Coast Guard Sea Service Ribbon is awarded to active duty members of the Coast Guard and Coast Guard Reserve, inactive duty members of the Coast Guard Reserve, or non-Coast Guard personnel who, und... The Coast Guard Sea Service Ribbon is awarded to active duty members of the Coast Guard and Coast Guard Reserve, inactive duty members of the Coast Guard Reserve, or non-Coast Guard personnel who, under temporary or permanent assignment, satisfactorily complete a minimum of 12 months cumulative sea duty. MoreHide
Criteria The Coast Guard Sea Service Ribbon is awarded to active duty members of the Coast Guard and Coast Guard Reserve, inactive duty members of the Coast Guard Reserve, or non-Coast Guard personnel who, und... The Coast Guard Sea Service Ribbon is awarded to active duty members of the Coast Guard and Coast Guard Reserve, inactive duty members of the Coast Guard Reserve, or non-Coast Guard personnel who, under temporary or permanent assignment, satisfactorily complete a minimum of 12 months cumulative sea duty. MoreHide
Criteria The Coast Guard Marksmanship Ribbon are issued under the same criteria as the U.S. Navy, but Coast Guardsmen use a .40 cal SIG-Sauer P229R DAK pistol instead of the Navy's M9 pistol. The Coast Guard i... The Coast Guard Marksmanship Ribbon are issued under the same criteria as the U.S. Navy, but Coast Guardsmen use a .40 cal SIG-Sauer P229R DAK pistol instead of the Navy's M9 pistol. The Coast Guard issues two ribbons, known as the Coast Guard Pistol Marksmanship Ribbon and the Coast Guard Rifle Marksmanship Ribbon. The Marksmanship Device is awarded for qualification at the higher levels of sharpshooter and expert. Like the Navy, for those who receive an expert qualification, the Marksmanship Medal is awarded instead of the Marksmanship Ribbon. MoreHide
Criteria The Coast Guard Marksmanship Ribbon are issued under the same criteria as the U.S. Navy, but Coast Guardsmen use a .40 cal SIG-Sauer P229R DAK pistol instead of the Navy's M9 pistol. The Coast Guard i... The Coast Guard Marksmanship Ribbon are issued under the same criteria as the U.S. Navy, but Coast Guardsmen use a .40 cal SIG-Sauer P229R DAK pistol instead of the Navy's M9 pistol. The Coast Guard issues two ribbons, known as the Coast Guard Pistol Marksmanship Ribbon and the Coast Guard Rifle Marksmanship Ribbon. The Marksmanship Device is awarded for qualification at the higher levels of sharpshooter and expert. Like the Navy, for those who receive an expert qualification, the Marksmanship Medal is awarded instead of the Marksmanship Ribbon. MoreHide
Criteria The Coast Guard Marksmanship Ribbon are issued under the same criteria as the U.S. Navy, but Coast Guardsmen use a .40 cal SIG-Sauer P229R DAK pistol instead of the Navy's M9 pistol. The Coast Guard i... The Coast Guard Marksmanship Ribbon are issued under the same criteria as the U.S. Navy, but Coast Guardsmen use a .40 cal SIG-Sauer P229R DAK pistol instead of the Navy's M9 pistol. The Coast Guard issues two ribbons, known as the Coast Guard Pistol Marksmanship Ribbon and the Coast Guard Rifle Marksmanship Ribbon. The Marksmanship Device is awarded for qualification at the higher levels of sharpshooter and expert. Like the Navy, for those who receive an expert qualification, the Marksmanship Medal is awarded instead of the Marksmanship Ribbon. MoreHide
Best Friends
Brian Fleming, Jason Griffin, Matt Coppola, Frank Tatu, Mark Cutter, Al Bell, Gerald Greer, Paul Wells, Chuck Murray, John Clinton, Doug Donnaly, Marcus Gherardi, Lisa Ragone, Daniel May, Sam Neill, Rick Arsenault, Gerald Welton, Rob Craighead, Tim Hudson, Ray Murray, Dawn Stephens, Dave Considine, Brian Kuhar, Rick Barone, John Huard, ...
Best Moment
My Chief's Initiation and being welcomed into the Chief's Mess; being a CDAR; being active in the Mess.
Worst Moment
Seeing some kids get kicked out for alcohol and wishing there were more that could be done to help them
Other Memories
Red Sox Memorial Day, being on the field for the first time in my life; sharing Red Sox games with great friends, like Marcus, Dave, Tim, Jason
Criteria All members of the Coast Guard, including Reserve personnel, and all members of other branches of the Armed Forces when serving with Coast Guard units are eligible for this award for service performed... All members of the Coast Guard, including Reserve personnel, and all members of other branches of the Armed Forces when serving with Coast Guard units are eligible for this award for service performed on or after April 1, 1967. The Coast Guard Achievement Medal is given for professional and/or leadership achievement in a combat or noncombat situation based on sustained performance or specific achievement of a superlative nature of such merit that it warrants more tangible recognition than is possible by the Commandant's Letter of Commendation Ribbon, but which does not warrant a Coast Guard Commendation medal or high award. MoreHide
Comments
First District (95) JI (97), Group Key West (01), Grand Isle (2- 2002)
Criteria The DoT 9-11 Ribbon was awarded to individuals serving in any capacity with the Department of Transportation, Merchant Marine, or to other civilians for acts or service that contributed to recovery fr... The DoT 9-11 Ribbon was awarded to individuals serving in any capacity with the Department of Transportation, Merchant Marine, or to other civilians for acts or service that contributed to recovery from the attacks of September 11, 2001; force protection following the attacks; or, for efforts that directly contributed to the increased infrastructure security effort between September 11, 2001 and September 11, 2002. MoreHide
Criteria The Commandant's Letter of Commendation was originally created to enable the Secretary of the Treasury or the Commandant to address a Letter of Commendation to any individual in the Coast Guard for "m... The Commandant's Letter of Commendation was originally created to enable the Secretary of the Treasury or the Commandant to address a Letter of Commendation to any individual in the Coast Guard for "meritorious service resulting in unusual and outstanding achieve-ment rendered while the Coast Guard is serving under Treasury Department jurisdiction." The current ribbon is awarded to any member of the Armed Forces of the United States, serving in any capacity with the Coast Guard, for an act or service resulting in unusual or outstanding achievement, whose performance is less than that required for the Coast Guard Achievement Medal. MoreHide
Best Friends
Rick Odonnel, Jim Malcolm, Juan Gonzalez, Nate White, Chris St. Martin, Doug Fears
Best Moment
Boardings, boardings, boardings - 4 fish seizures! Patrolling in GANTSEC, doing Cuban Migrant Ops, patrolling Cay Sal, going to Miami for the Presidential Visit.
Chain of Command
Ltjg Kevin Carroll, LT Doug Fears/LT Harry Schmidt
Description In 1994, the Coast Guard was involved in its largest peacetime operation since the Vietnam war, responding to two mass migrations at the same time -- first from Haiti, then from Cuba. Over 63,000 migrIn 1994, the Coast Guard was involved in its largest peacetime operation since the Vietnam war, responding to two mass migrations at the same time -- first from Haiti, then from Cuba. Over 63,000 migrants were rescued and prevented from illegally entering the US in Operations ABLE MANNER and ABLE VIGIL. At its height, Operation ABLE MANNER involved 17 US Coast Guard vessels, patrolling the coast of Haiti while Operation ABLE VIGIL involved 38 Coast Guard cutters patrolling the Straits of Florida.... More
People You Remember Kevin Crowley, Barry Cates, Brian Huff, Mary Watson, Jennifer Elliot, Mike Hicks, Robert Kulka, AdamKevin Crowley, Barry Cates, Brian Huff, Mary Watson, Jennifer Elliot, Mike Hicks, Robert Kulka, Adam Knowles, Mike Gossage, Jeanie Diamond, Bill Strong, Larry Toler, Cleve Craddock, Marlo Lee, Kristi Nadler, and all of the families and friends of SHEARWATER and the SES Division.... More
Memories Riding the SHEARWATER was one of the best times of my career. It was a dream to be an underway officRiding the SHEARWATER was one of the best times of my career. It was a dream to be an underway officer of the deck on this cutter. I loved the trips to Guantanamo and patrolling inside the Haitian claw conducting counternarcotic and migrant operations. Great crew, great fun, I wish it could be done all over again.... More
Best Friends
Pete Guzman, roommate from Mohawk (Happy Birthday, Easter Bunny!!!); Brian Huff, Michelle Sawyer, Jenn Elliot, Jeannie Diamond, Bob Kulka, Greg Bergeron, Larry Toler, Cleve Kradick, Julie Kovak; Everett Baxter, Joe Alione, Barry Cates
Best Moment
Every patrol we did, the drug bust from Tug Sea Crescent, port call to Freeport, Bahamas, the party in the Best Western (got the pics, been there done that!); fishing with Brian Huff, the Key West driveby's on our bikes after the Duval Crawl; grilled spanish mackerel with cajun spices off of Brian's grill!
Worst Moment
Searching for our fellow SES shipmates Charlie Platt, Jon Olshefski, and Wes Thomas, and attending the funerals right before decommissioning.
Chain of Command
Chief Cates, LT Matt Crawley/LT Bill Strong
Description
M/V Barovento, intercepted by the SHEARWATER, The ship was brought pierside and a more thorough search conducted, where cocaine was found onboard and seized
People You Remember Brian Huff, Troy Mathews, Doug Piper, Julie King, barry Cates, Bill Strong, USCGC SHEARWATER, Group Brian Huff, Troy Mathews, Doug Piper, Julie King, barry Cates, Bill Strong, USCGC SHEARWATER, Group Key West, USCGC GALLATIN... More
Memories Numerous counterdrug patrols during my career. My first drug bust seen was the M/V Barovento, intercNumerous counterdrug patrols during my career. My first drug bust seen was the M/V Barovento, intercepted by the SHEARWATER, where a former CG shipmate and still friend, Suzanne Matos, was onboard. The ship was brought pierside and a more thorough search conducted, where cocaine was found onboard and seized. My next drug bust was also onboard SHEARWATER, this time as the QM2, in 1993. We boarded the tug vessel SEA CRESCENT, sailing from Columbia to the US. The captain was a US citizen, and if I remember correctly, had hired at the last second a columbian deckhand to make the trip. The deckhand turned out to be a drug runner, and during the course of the boarding, several kilos of cocaine were found onbord. The tug was escorted to Key West, where the crew was eventually turned over to Customs and DEA officials. After that, it took almost 17-18 years before I saw my next drug bust, this time on GALLATIN. We patrolled off the coast of Columbia and Venezuela, the furthest south I had ever been. During my tour we had 3 massive drug busts, all involving cocaine. Definitely one of the highlights of my career!... More
Best Friends
Dena Reagan, Dale Rope...damn it was so long ago I've forgotten so many others!
Best Moment
Surviving Tropical Storm Fabian, climbing the yardarm as we're pulling into DC, sailing the Potomac river, stopping to honor and remember the Cuyahoga crew.
Other Memories
My first TAD sailing and learning OLD SCHOOL!!!
Criteria The Joint Meritorious Unit Award is presented in the name of the Secretary of Defense to Joint Activities of the Department of Defense for meritorious achievement or service, superior to that which is... The Joint Meritorious Unit Award is presented in the name of the Secretary of Defense to Joint Activities of the Department of Defense for meritorious achievement or service, superior to that which is normally expected, under one of the following conditions: During action in combat with an armed enemy of the United States, For a declared national emergency or Under extraordinary circumstances that involve the national interest. MoreHide
Worst Moment
6 weeks TAD in Key West, with a tooth infection the size of a golfball..apparently while I had a drunken good time right out of bootcamp, I forgot where the barber shop was..and when I got back onboard, Chief Pollard in a not so subtle way reminded me of what clipper shears were supposed to do to my head! I never forgot that and needed that dose of reality!! Thanks Chief!!
Chain of Command
BM3 Selby, BM2 Bill Durrington, BM2 Mark Kempton, BMC Mike Pollard, LTJG Matt Szigety, LCDR Sue Moritz, CDR Bruce Stubbs
Best Friends
Uniform 130 and Uniform SCD - I remember being scared shitless the first week, but with the help of our former Army soldier Dave Webber (and future YN extraordinaire), he kept us loose and fancy free during marches to and from classes and PT, and before long, boot camp was FUN! Great leadership from our former CC SS1 Chuck D'Amico (the KING Shitbird!). I made some lifeling friends and memories, and am grateful for those friendships still today.
Best Friends
Bob Overby, Roderick Bright, SS1 Chuck D'amico, Danny Davirro, Mark Harmon, Dan Webber, Anthony Dean, Jay Amrien
Best Moment
Loved the "Stripes" marches to and from the gunnery range..how the hell we didn't get caught doin stupid reverse flanks in formation , I will never know!
Worst Moment
The first week!!
Instructors
SS1 D'amico (CC)
Other Memories
Loved the SCD details, our graduation drill team ceremony...got the video a few months ago, and holy **** we looked sharp! and SKINNY too!!
Criteria The Bicentennial Unit Commendation was awarded by the Commandant to all Coast Guard members (including selected Reservists, civilians, and auxiliarists) who serving satisfactorily during any period fr... The Bicentennial Unit Commendation was awarded by the Commandant to all Coast Guard members (including selected Reservists, civilians, and auxiliarists) who serving satisfactorily during any period from June 4, 1989 to August 4, 1990. MoreHide
Kevin Dutrieux, Matt Edes, Doug Piper, Laura Ladd, Caleb Corson, Dave Rokes, Charles Miller, John Davis, Dave Pappas, Jim Obrien, Jason Hubert, Tom Walker, Jim Toohey, Zarella Butler, Felicia DeCastro, Tom Smith, the entire crew of the Deck Force from the time I started to when I left.
Sailing GALLATIN after completing our first CART and TSTA in over two years (despite being drydocked and pierside for nearly the first year of my tour); getting several drug busts our first patrol, passing our first official STAN with a 41-50.
Leaving