#cgaux

[deckbagz]

#Repost @uscgaux_spacecoast 🚤・・・ Free board. Our crew aboard Eco Tours (CGAUX 6996) hauled this stand-up paddle board onto the deck after finding it floating free in the Banana River just off the city of Cape Canaveral. An un-manned adrift vessel is always a cause for concern so the crew immediately alerted the watchstander at Coast Guard Station Port Canaveral and began a search for a potential mariner in distress. No one was found in the search but the owner was later identified via social media and reunited with the wayward board. The very appreciative owner was given a small supply of #USCG "If Found" identification decals along with some reflective paddle stickers. Paddle craft and other small boats should always be labeled with owner contact information in order to avoid unnecessary searches.⚓🇺🇲 . #coastguardauxiliary #safeboating #paddlesmart #paddlecraftsafety #uscgaux #cgaux #searchandrescue #sup #stand_up_paddle #paddleboarding #boatingsafety #boatinginflorida #DeckBagZ #onthewater #paddleboardsafety #safetyequipment #fanaticpaddle #Supgear Coast Guard Auxiliary photos by Greg Hendricks. (at Space Coast Florida USA) https://www.instagram.com/p/B5CMnZ1Hlrm/?igshid=pnt9s7dyn9vj

[alorenzaa]

via: https://www.instagram.com/p/CGAux-xF9U3/?

[kingfisherdes]

#mensjewelry This is a #bowline #necklace with a lovely #diamond on a black rubber cord. #masculine #kingfisherartjewelry #seafarers #yacht #boat #sailing #sailor #cgaux #mainer #marlinespike #knottying #knotjewelry

[drillmaster]

#Coasties on parade! @Regrann from @cg_auxiliary_association - #Repost @uscgaux_cityisland ・・・ Members of the Coast Guard and Coast Guard Auxiliary from units in the Tri-State area participated in New York City’s 225th St. Patrick's Day Parade, March 17, 2016. The event included more than 200,000 participants marching in the parade and more than 2 million spectators who lined Fifth Avenue from St. Patrick's Cathedral in Midtown, Manhattan to the 79th Street Transverse in Central Park. (U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary Photo by Auxiliarist Josef Myska) #cgaux #cgauxa #Regrann

[timmpowell]

SUNDAY EDITION: Boat Fire Prevention & Response (when prevention doesn't work)

Fire aboard ship has always been a dreaded and, often, a fatal experience. For large ships, it is the second largest hazard for crew and passengers. For us small guys, it can be just as serious.

In this article we are going to discuss steps we can take to prevent a fire and we will look at some responses to a fire.

PREVENTION! - There are actions to take, or to avoid, that can manage the risk of an onboard fire. First, let’s look at the boat’s actual fuel. Since most of our boats burn gasoline, we will address that issue. (Diesel is also flammable but not as easily ignited. Once burning, though, it creates an intense blaze.)

The chance of a fuel fire is heightened when refueling. There are some precautions we can take to prevent a fire during this process, realizing that it is the fumes from gasoline that are highly flammable. So let’s deal with fumes.

If your boat has an enclosed cabin, close all of the windows and doors before refueling. That way no fumes can get into that part of your boat.

Frequently check your fuel lines and connections for leaks and worn spots.

Be sure all electrical devices are turned off, as well as your engine.

When gasoline passes through the hose, it generates static electricity. If that ‘sparks’ with the fumes at the fuel tank fill point, an explosion can occur. To dissipate the static electricity, keep the metal nozzle of the hose in contact with the metal part of the refueling opening, hopefully grounding the system.

Try not to spill any fuel during the process. Not only does this add to the danger of fire but you are legally responsible for your fuel spills.

Once fueling is complete, securely fasten the gas cap.

Open up all windows and doors to ventilate.

If you have an inboard or inboard/outboard engine it is time to run the bilge blower. That is a fan located in the bottom of the bilge where gasoline fumes can accumulate, gas being heavier than air. Run the fan for four minutes. (It is also good advice to run this blower before ANY engine start, since even a small leak can produce lots of fumes.)

Obviously, no smoking anywhere near the boat is the rule when fueling.

Use your nose! Gasoline has a distinct odor and even a small amount can be smelled at some distance. If you smell gas, shut everything down and find the source.

Another fire hazard is cooking fires, either from propane tanks, stoves or grills. Be sure all connections are tight. It makes sense to have one of your fire extinguishers close to the galley.

As to the proper number and size of the fire extinguishers on your boat, there are some laws on the subject. Boats less than 26’ must have at least one B-1 extinguisher. Boats between 26’ and less than 40’ must have two B-1s or one B-2.

When buying your extinguishers buy the ones that have “ABC” printed on them. They will put out combustible material and liquids (such as gasoline or grease), and electrical fires.

The number indicates the capacity – II is larger than I. As to how many and what size to buy, more and larger is the way to go.

Fire Response: Putting out the Fire

Fire on a boat, of any size, is more of a threat than the same fire on land. On land we can simply walk away. On our boat away from land, we enter another potentially threatening environment – the water. In either event, the captain must make a fast and clear decision.

Fight or flee? If the fire is a fuel fire (that is, some part of the gasoline system has been breached), recognize the situation as very dangerous. If the fire is small and does not threaten the main or auxiliary fuel tanks, trying to put out the fire with your fire extinguisher might be advisable. However, be careful; gasoline fires can go from small to huge in a matter of seconds!

At the same time you are fighting the fire, have someone put out the anchor and everyone put on their life jackets. Most fires are in the mid-section or rear of the boat and the anchor will keep the bow into the wind with the smoke and flame going astern.

Marc and I have already made the decision that if we have a gasoline fire aboard we are “OFF THE BOAT”! We will don life jackets and abandon ship. It’s now the insurance company’s problem. You must make your own decision; if you can make it in advance that’s good, and then stick to it.

Propane fires are a close second. I would probably try to extinguish the fire IF I could shut off the propane tank at the tank without getting burned. Your call.

If the fire is gasoline or propane fueled and you have abandoned ship, be careful if the fire seems to have gone out of its own accord. Think twice before re-boarding. The fire may still be smoldering and could explode anew at any time.

If the fuel fire occurs when you are secured to the fuel dock, there are other things you can do. If the fire starts from a spark where the filler hose in going into the gas tank, DO NOT pull the hose out of the tank! Stop the flow of gas and go for the fuel shutoff switch on land and the larger extinguisher on dock. (Know ahead of time where these are located.)

Other fires, such as grease flare-ups on a grill or stove, present challenges but are usually more easily extinguished. First, turn off the flame. If you can smother the fire, that’s good. Otherwise, use your fire extinguisher and don’t stop until the extinguisher is empty. (That won’t be long with a B-I size.)

DO NOT TRY TO EXTINGUISH A GREASE FIRE WITH WATER!

To operate the extinguisher on any type fire (Of course, you have already read the instructions on the extinguisher.), detach the extinguisher from its bracket, pull the safety pin and then squeeze the trigger. Spray the fire with a back and forth movement directed at the base of the fire.

If the fire is wood, paper or other combustibles, your chances of putting it out are good. But watch out if the fire is close to fuel; it could spread and be uncontainable real fast.

Just as soon as you can after initial suppression efforts are underway, put on your life preserver in preparation for the last resort – abandoning the ship!

PHOTO CREDIT: A U.S. Coast Guard patrol boat battles a simulated vessel fire in San Diego harbor during a training evolution. Maritime assistance is only one of the ways the Coast Guard serves the American public. Under the Department of Homeland Security, the Coast Guard patrols American harbors, enforces maritime law, and protects America's shoreline. U.S. Navy photo by Photographer's Mate 3rd Class Aaron Burden

[michaelhimes-blog-blog]

#coastguard #funeral #memorial #riptony #cgaux #astoria #queens #nyc #fall To Tony Reardon, we is a great man.

[timmpowell]

“Because the USCG is the smallest branch of the armed forces, we tend to be more personable among our ranks. We are much more like a family.”

Even today the United States Coast Guard remains somewhat mysterious for a lot of people (especially inland) because of its size and mission.

I was recently asked: 

Is the process of joining the USCG generally the same as for the other branches of the US military?

Does the culture of the US Coast Guard differ from that of other military branches?

The US Coast Guard is the smallest branch of the armed forces. We became part of the Department of Homeland Security after September 11, 2001. Prior to that we were part of the Department of Transportation and before that the Department of Treasury. Our rank structure is the same as the Navy and our pay scale falls in line with that of the other services. We have been mistaken for a branch of the Navy and during wartime our assets that are assisting overseas may fall under their command. So this may be where the confusion lies.

Joining the Coast Guard is very similar to the other services. You go and see a recruiter, take the entry exam, go through a physical, sign the paperwork, and head off to boot camp. Once you graduate boot camp you will most likely head off to your first unit unless you’ve been approved to attend a rating school right out of boot camp. Your first unit will give you the opportunity to see what the Coast Guard is all about and what kind of job you qualify for and may want to pursue. Once you’ve figured that out you put your name on the school list and wait. Sometimes the list is really short, and you’ll leave right away. Other jobs, like aviation, may keep you waiting close to a year before you’re sent over to one of our air stations to complete your airman program for 6 months and then get to school. After graduating school you head off to your new unit as a new Petty Officer Third Class and start working!

The culture of the Coast Guard is the same as the other services but different. Our rank structure and customs and courtesies and benefits are virtually the same. We have the enlisted ranks, Chief’s Corp and Officer’s Corp. We wear a uniform, salute our officers, and respect our senior enlisted. We also have access to other military installations and their exchange and commissary stores. The big difference is that because we are the smallest branch of the armed forces, we tend to be more personable among our ranks. We are more like a family.

[timmpowell]

To the Members of Coast Guard Auxiliary Division 11 (Middle Tennessee)

“I wanted to pass along to all the Coast Guard Auxiliary Division Commanders and all the Auxiliarists out there my appreciation for all their service to the Coast Guard, our missions and to all the boaters out there that we serve. Today many years ago Congress and the President had the foresight to create the Coast Guard Auxiliary to help support the missions of the Coast Guard and you continue to serve today to help support those missions.

Without you, our little portion of the United States would not be as safe, so I thank each and every one of the Auxiliarists out there helping us today and I send my best wishes to all of you as you celebrate the Coast Guard Auxiliary's birthday.

Happy Birthday! And Semper Paratus.

Very Respectfully,”

Douglas Salik, LCDR

Supervisor

US Coast Guard Marine Safety Detachment (MSD) Nashville

[timmpowell]

The Sunday Edition #2: The US Coast Guard and Percy Priest Lake (Part 1)

Some have asked me, “What does the US Coast Guard have to do with Percy Priest Lake?” Well, the answer is a bit complex. The United States Coast Guard (USCG) has responsibility on all of our nation’s waters. Having said that, the sheer size of our nation’s waterways, compared to the relatively small number of Coast Guard people, requires the Coast Guard to concentrate its resources on the greatest needs.

That does not mean that Percy Priest Lake (state water) gets no Coast Guard attention. The Coast Guard has assigned that job to its Auxiliary. But first a little explanation.

The Coast Guard is composed of four segments: Active duty, reserves, civilian employees and the Auxiliary. There are about 42,000 active duty; 8,100 selected reservists; 8,700 civilian employees; and 32,000 Auxiliarists.

The mission of the Coast Guard is to always be prepared (Semper Paratus) to respond to any natural or man-made maritime incident or disaster. Coast Guard activities are organized into three areas to do this job:

Prevention

Response (if prevention does not work)

Logistics – consists of all personnel and assets that support prevention and response

The Auxiliary’s main function is to support the active duty Coast Guard. The local Auxiliary does this, whenever tasked, by providing personnel, boats and aircraft in response to needs from Coast Guard Sector Ohio Valley or Marine Safety Detachment - Nashville. Auxiliarists also perform administrative duties, such as radio watch standing, at Coast Guard stations enabling active duty personnel to address serious on-water and in-the-air missions.

However, on Percy Priest Lake there are no active duty or reserve elements to support, so the Auxiliary gets involved in all three areas of prevention, response and logistics. Locally the Auxiliary works closely to support the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency, the Corps of Engineers and various public safety and law enforcement agencies.

We do this by implementing several Coast Guard programs. First, we provide boats and aircraft, with fully trained crews, to conduct safety and security patrols, aids to navigation checks, regatta patrols and search and rescue missions. These patrols are under Coast Guard orders using our own specially inspected boats. The Coast Guard pays for fuel, some maintenance, meals and towing expenses. When under orders, Auxiliary crews are covered by Coast Guard liability and medical protection.

Second, the Auxiliary, in conjunction with the United States Power Squadrons, conducts free Vessel Safety Checks. These inspections assure the boaters that their boats meet minimal federal and state equipment requirements. Don’t worry about any legal consequences if your boat doesn’t pass the inspection the first time. The results are not shared with anyone besides you. If the boat fails the inspection, remedy the situation and then get re-inspected.

The third major Coast Guard program the Auxiliary manages is recreational boaters’ public education. This consists of a series of boating courses, from basic to advanced, offered to you, the boating public. In Middle Tennessee these courses are provided jointly by the Auxiliary, Corps of Engineers and Tennessee Wildlife Resource Agency.

Next Sundays article will address specifically what the local Auxiliary “Flotilla” (that’s the name for the local branch of the Auxiliary) does and how you can become a part of the action.

[timmpowell]

For CGAUX Members that missed Division 11 Vessel Examiner Training:

The 2014 VE and PV Workshops Are Now Available

 Be advised that the 2014 VE and PV Workshops are now available to the membership.

This year the 2014 Vessel Examiner Workshop is a "Required" workshop and it is available in an online format or it can be taken in a classroom setting. 

Failure to complete the workshop by 30 June will result in the VE going in REWK (Required Workshop not Met)

Not Authorized to conduct VSCs while in REWK status

If a member falls into REWK status, the FC will submit Recertification Request to DIRAUX to place in "Current" status, after the workshop is completed. 

Failure to complete workshop by 31 December will result in VE going into REYR (Annual Requirement not Met)

Must complete required workshop

Complete two supervised VSCs

FC to submit Recertification Request to DIRAUX

Required 2014 VE Online Workshop: 

 The required VE workshop can be completed at the AUXLMS website (same site used for “Mandatory Training”)

A video overview on how to access AUXLMS is available here and printable directions can be accessed here.

Required 2014 VE Classroom Workshop (PowerPoint):

The required VE workshop can be completed in a classroom setting.  Completion must be recorded on Workshop Mission and Attendance Report, ANC Form 7039, to receive credit (check box #5 in section 1 and submit per policy 

2014 PV Workshop: 

 The PV workshop is not a “required” workshop this year

 Can be completed in a classroom setting, as in years past (available as a powerpoint)

 If completed as a workshop (classroom setting), must be recorded on ANSC Form 7039 to receive credit in AUXDATA (check box #16 in section 1 and submit per policy)

[timmpowell]

Last USCG Auxiliary Recreational Boating Safety Course of 2013!

Shipmates,

  An opportunity to earn your Basic Qualification (BQ) in the Auxiliary: Last USCG Auxiliary Boating Safety Course of 2013!

  Before you even get started, you need to earn your Basic Qualification. What does this mean? When you join the Auxiliary, you start out in Approval Pending status. There are four levels of member status. All of this is detailed in Chapter 3 of the Auxiliary Manual.

Approval Pending (AP) – New member, awaiting final determination of Personnel Security Investigation (PSI) from the Security Center. Members in AP status cannot hold offices or qualify, nor perform missions without supervision.

Initially Qualified (IQ) - Members who join who have not completed a NASBLA recognized safe boating course (proof is provided by submitting a course completion certificate or state boating card) before completing the PSI are placed in this status after their PSI is favorable. In IQ status, you may not qualify in any program, only serve as a trainee.

Basically Qualified (BQ) - Members who join and complete a NASBLA recognized safe boating before their PSI is complete, or those who are IQ and complete one and forward a copy of the course completion or boating card to their Flotilla Commander are BQ. BQ members can do everything except proctor examinations. They can hold office and can qualify in any program as long as they meet the other requirements.

Auxiliary Operational Specialist (AUXOP) - AUXOP members complete a program of courses, outlined here, that demonstrate proficiency and knowledge. These members wear the AUXOP device and can proctor Speciality Course exams.

PLEASE NOTE: If you are a new member and never showed proof of completing a boating course or a state boating card when applying, please consider taking Last USCG Auxiliary Boating Safety Course of 2013!. If this class doesn't meet your schedule, please contact the your FSO-PE and they will find you a class in 2014. Why do you ned to be BQ? Because the Auxiliary doesn't want members who cannot prove a minimum level of familiarity with boating to become instructors, vessel examiners, program visitors, boat crew, etc.

IMPORTANT:  Once you complete the course, forward a digital copy to your Flotilla Commander. He/She will then submit it for entry into your AUXDATA membership record.

[timmpowell]

Volunteer, Whites Creek Access Build at Hospital Rd with TSRA

Shipmates, Friends and Folks I haven't met yet...

My friends at Tennessee Scenic Rivers Association (TSRA) have asked for help this weekend building a new water access point on Whites Creek. If there’s one thing on which our local paddlers can agree on it is the fact: We want more safe places to access Tennessee waterways.

This is an excellent opportunity for our members that enjoy paddlesports to partner with others to keep our paddlecraft community strong. I am dedicated to creating a network of Auxiliarists that are willing to support; improvement, beautification, advocacy, fundraising and maintenance of safe waterway access facilities and development of Blueways.

Volunteer, Whites Creek Access Build at Hospital Rd with TSRA Volunteers will be constructing a new Whites Creek Paddling Access NW of Hospital Rd & Stewards Ln intersection for a nice 4 1/2 mile paddle from Hartman Park Access, & close proximity Cumberland River. November 1st, 2nd & 3rd, 800AM-400PM Ideally we ask volunteers to come for a 4 hour shift but any amount of time is appreciated. *Friday Nov 1st, we will need 2 people to help with the preliminary work. *Saturday Nov 2nd, we can use as many people as possible for build & cleanup. *Sunday Nov 3rd, we need 10 people for morning and afternoon shifts. No experience required. Wear protective footwear & gloves. Dress for dirt. News Channel 5 May 2013 Whites Creek Access build & cleanup. May 2013 Canoe & Kayak Access Project at Hartman Park. If you are available and willing to help at any of these times, please email or call Patty Shultz   patty@shultzonline.com or call 376-9226.  Thanks so much, Patty Hospital Rd & Stewarts Ln Nashville, TN 37218 Google Maps Whites Creek, Hartman Park Paddling Access, 36.211494,-86.826108 Whites Creek, Hospital Rd Paddling Access, 36.187026,-86.860199 Tennessee Scenic Rivers Association Paddle Adventures Unlimited Sierra Club Middle TN Group Whites Creek Watershed Alliance Nashville Metro Parks and Recreation Nashville Water Access and Blueways

[timmpowell]

Men's Running - Men's Coast Guard 993 "Customized"

I have realized over the last 20 years that New Balance shoes fit me better than any other brand. With other brands I always have to get a longer shoe to get the width I need. When I realized that NB had a “U.S. Coast Guard” shoes I decided to give them a try. I bought with confidence since NB sizes always run true. I received them a month ago and have put 25 miles on them and they are great.

Superior comfort meets classic style with this durable high-mileage trainer. The U.S. Coast Guard Edition 993 features ABZORB® SBS advanced cushioning in the forefoot for responsiveness you can feel for miles. The addition of ABZORB® DTS in the heel plus a full length ABZORB® insert will cushion each step to help you love running even more! This special 993 features Coast Guard-specific details, plus you can personalize it with your name, rank or other message to show your pride for your service. 

Note: NB reserves the right to decline any requested personalization message that includes profanity, slander, trademarks and/or any other violations not consistent with New Balance Athletic Shoe.

TYPE:

Stability

WEIGHT:

388 grams (13.7 oz)

Features

Blown rubber outsole

Pigskin/Mesh upper

Polyurethane midsole offers durable cushioning and effective resistance to compression set

These shoes are proudly made in our U.S. factories by our more than 1,300 U.S. workers. Where the domestic value is at least 70% they have labeled them "Made in USA."

[timmpowell]

US Coast Guard Auxiliarist Offers Halloween Tips for Parents and Motorists

As Halloween approaches, Coast Guard Auxiliarists reminds parents, trick-or-treaters and motorists to observe some important safety tips when they are out in the evening during the next several days.

“Because excited trick-or-treaters often forget about safety, motorists and parents must be even more alert,” said Auxiliarist Timm Meunier. “Drivers in middle Tennessee should to be especially vigilant between the hours of 4 p.m. and midnight, when pedestrians are most vulnerable,” she added.

Here are some tips for parents and drivers to help keep children safe this Halloween:

Parents

We recommend that parents accompany young trick-or-treaters at least until the age of 12.

Since children are small and often hard to see even in well-lit situations, it is important to be sure a child’s Halloween costume is flame-retardant and visible with reflective material.

Choose disguises that don’t obstruct vision and opt for non-toxic face paint instead of masks. Check and adjust the length of costumes to avoid tripping.

Review trick-or-treating precautions, including pedestrian and traffic safety rules.

Plan and discuss the route your trick-or-treaters will follow. Teach children to stop only at well-lit houses and to never enter a stranger’s home or garage.

Parents and trick-or-treaters should cross streets only at the corner, and never between parked cars or mid-block. Be sure that approaching cars come to a complete stop before stepping into the roadway. 

Motorists 

Slow down in residential neighborhoods and obey all traffic signs and signals. Drive at least 5 mph below the posted speed limit to give yourself extra time to react to children who may dart into the street.

Watch for children walking on roadways, medians and curbs. In dark costumes, they’ll be harder to see at night.

Look for children crossing the street. They may not be paying attention to traffic and cross the street mid-block or between parked cars.

Carefully enter and exit driveways and alleys.

Turn on your headlights to make yourself more visible — even in the daylight.

Broaden your scanning by looking for children left and right into yards and front porches.

Keep your eyes on the road at all times. Remove any distractions that may you’re your attention away from driving, such as cell phones or in-car entertainment and navigation systems.

[timmpowell]

FLOTILLA STAFF OFFICER FOR SECRETARY OF RECORDS (FSO-SR)

PURPOSE

SECRETARY OF RECORDS (FSO-SR). The FSO-SR prepares and distributes the Minutes of all flotilla meetings. The Flotilla Commander may assign other flotilla records for the FSO-SR to maintain, such as rosters and standing rules. 

The FSO-SR is directly responsible for the recording and publication of the minutes of Flotilla meetings, maintains a current record of Flotilla members, officers, committee assignments and other such appointments made by the FC. This officer will maintain a current list of Division officers, will attend all unit meetings, and will maintain a close liaison with the Division Staff Officer Secretary/Records. Additionally, any other pertinent Flotilla records should also be administered and supervised by this officer. He or she will keep a current record of all Flotilla members, will cooperate and coordinate with the FSO-IS to ensure all member's AUXDATA records are correct, will keep a copy of the Division and Flotilla Standing Rules and other administrative records.

More...

The Flotilla Secretary of Records (FSO-SR) is responsible for keeping accurate records of both the Flotilla Meetings and the FSO (Staff) Meetings. This involves making either handwritten notations or electronic notations at the respective Meetings. These notes are then prepared in a format for publication to the Flotilla at large via the Flotilla eNewsletter or Blog. Helpful in preparation for the duties is a review of the Administrative Procedures Course. These Procedures give a basic understanding of the importance of accurate and timely records.

Usually included in the Minutes are:

Meeting Date, Time and location

Members in Attendance and whether in uniform

Guest in Attendance

Programs and presenters

Announcements and updates from up and down the Chain of Leadership 

Scheduled Events

Member Training Opportunities

Awards and Achievements

Staff and Committee Reports

Remarks from the Bridge and/or Flotilla Commander

Other important information regarding the Meeting

The Minutes may not be limited to these items.

The Flotilla Secretary should be the one to prepare Form 7017, Record of Unit Meeting.

Form 7017 is a short summary of the Minutes and is transmitted up the Chain of Leadership.

The FSO-SR is a position that a new member can assume without extensive training. This position provides opportunities for becoming acquainted with and familiar with Flotilla members, other Staff members, and Procedures. This position also allows opportunities for input and suggestions into programs and goals of the Flotilla.

The FSO-SR should maintain records of all Minutes and Forms. The FSO-SR should ensure that the records are available to the Flotilla and succeeding FSO-SR. The FSO-SR should assist and guide succeeding Secretaries and other Staff as needed.

[timmpowell]

FLOTILLA STAFF OFFICER FOR PUBLICATIONS (FSO-PB)

PURPOSE

PUBLICATION (FSO-PB). The FSO-PB acts as editor of the unit’s publication. All flotillas should have some type of publication, or newsletter, to keep members informed of all flotilla activities. A flotilla publication is important for members who miss a meeting. The publication need not be fancy--just a simple mailing of reminders about coming events to each member, made on a regular basis, will do the job.

The FSO-PB is the editor of the Flotilla newsletter who will maintain close liaison with the Division Staff Officer of Publications to ensure a prompt flow of suitable articles and information of interest to the readership within the Flotilla, Division and District. This officer will develop and maintain a library file of photographs of Flotilla activities, will encourage Flotilla members to contribute articles of interest for inclusion in the newsletter. This individual has the duty of assisting in the preparation, Director's clearance and publication of unit publications and will promptly submit articles for publication. He or she will cooperate and coordinate with the FSO-PA in obtaining action photos of Flotilla activity for publication, will report monthly to the VFC on activities and progress in this area, and will maintain a file of all unit newsletters published and/or articles submitted to other publications.

More...

A Publications Officer is responsible for the preparation, design, layout and publication of brochures, flyers, posters, newsletters and/or magazines. The FSO-PB will encourage the submission to the unit publication of articles by members and staff officers. It is important to maintain close liaison with the next higher unit Publication Officer to insure prompt and direct exchange of information and articles important to the organization.

A member may participate in Publications without actually becoming a Staff Officer.

A Staff Officer may recruit others with expertise to enable a quality finished product.

A member would not have to become formally “qualified” to be able to function initially.

Typical duties of the Publications includes:

1. Collector: The Publications Officer is responsible for gathering information from elected officers, appointed staff officers, the members, and from the units above in the "chain of communication and management."

2. Writer: Publications Officers, who possess writing skills, are encouraged to produce or compile information from various sources to better inform the membership.

3. Editor: As an editor, the Publications Officer has the responsibility of ensuring that all the information gathered is correct, in keeping with Auxiliary policy, and be informative, interesting accurate and timely.

4. Reporter: Information may be sought out to meet the membership's right to be informed. This may include phone calls, interviews or even personal visits.

5. Designer: When all the facts have been collected, the Publications Officer puts them in written form for presentation to the membership. The results should be eye appealing, easy to read, and easy to distribute.

6. Distributor: After the news has been gathered, laid out and reproduced, it must be distributed to the membership and others who should receive a copy of the material.

Note: The taking of photographs is a plus for this position to augment those submitted by the membership.

Training Opportunities:

On-line resources abound for pre-approved stories and pictures for use in publications.

A comprehensive PUBLICATIONS OFFICERS’ GUIDE is published by the Auxiliary .