I now know what it feels like to receive a standing ovation. A very humbling yet prideful experience. I was so overwhelmed that I nearly cried. (To tell you the truth, I think I did.)

The award was conferred by RADM Branham, the Commander of the US Coast Guard, 7th District. What made me feel so good about the award was the pride and ownership that the members of our district take in our publication. Every time I put out a call for articles I remind them that this is their publication and I think that message finally sunk in.

Our publication is distributed not just to Auxiliarists, but also to public officials at both state and National levels. It serves as a reminder that our great corp of volunteers saves the government millions of dollars every year by performing most Coast Guard duties (all except law enforcement). We are called the Coast Guard's "force multiplier" because all of the things we do, free up guardsmen to do other critical jobs. Good grief! I sound like a recruiting poster. That was never my intention.

Our training was one of the best and most well attended. (Possibly winning an award drew some folks in to see how we accomplished this.) I love what I do and as long as they will let me do this, I will avoid the elected ranks. I have no desire to be a Commander of anything. I am just happy to be home again.
P.S.: I don't own one of those snazzy white dinner jacket uniforms which is why I am wearing "appropriate civilian attire". One of these years...