We are very proud of Alexander Rico, our immediate past flotilla commander, for being featured on the cover of OVER THE BOW, the official magazine of the Auxiliary's First District, Southern Region. 

An article in the publication commended Mr. Rico for receiving the Commodore Charles S. Greanoff Inspirational Leadership Award for being the top flotilla commander in the country in 2020.

He will be decorated in person at the Auxiliary's national training conference in January.

Bravo Zulu, Alex! As always, we are proud to serve with you.

You can read this issue Over the Bow here.

—ARUN DAS, FSO-CS

Adm. Karl Schultz, the commandant of the U.S. Coast Guard, and Auxiliarist Michael Barth at the Navy League's Anniversary Dinner.

The Upper Manhattan Flotilla's own Michael A. Barth attended the New York Council Navy League's 119th Anniversary Dinner on Nov. 18, 2021, as a member of the Recruiting Office New York team with Petty Officer 1st Class Leslie Morales.

Adm. Karl L. Schultz, the commandant of the United States Coast Guard, recognized Mr. Barth in his speech as the 2019 National Auxiliarist of the Year, prompting an ovation from the attendees.

Mr. Barth then had the honor of meeting with the commandant; Rear Adm. Thomas Allan Jr., the commander of the First Coast Guard District; Capt. Zeita Merchant, the commander of Sector New York; and Vincent Patton III, a retired master chief petty officer of the Coast Guard.

Thank you, shipmate, for everything you do and for representing the Auxiliary and the Upper Manhattan Flotilla with honor.

—ARUN DAS, FSO-CS  

Barth poses with Rear Adm. Thomas Allan Jr., the commander of the First Coast Guard District.

Barth with Capt. Zeita Merchant, the commander of Sector New York.

Barth with Vincent Patton III, a who served as the eighth master chief petty officer of the Coast Guard from 1998 to 2002.

Barth and YN1 Leslie Morales.

---

(U.S. Defense Department/Joint Chiefs of Staff photo)

Gen. Colin L. Powell, U.S. Army (retired), died on October 18 from COVID-related complications, according to his family. He was 84.

A native New Yorker, Powell grew up in the Bronx and attended City College of New York, where he participated in ROTC.

Powell rose through the ranks to become the first Black chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff. He served as the nation's top uniformed military officer from 1989 to 1993.

In 2001, he became the first Black secretary of state, serving in the role for four years in the administration of President George W. Bush.

"The U.S. Coast Guard mourns the passing of the Honorable General Colin L. Powell, 65th Secretary of the U.S. Department of State and the 12th Chairman of The Joint Staff," Adm. Karl Schultz, the commandant of the U.S. Coast Guard, posted on social media last week. 

The Upper Manhattan Flotilla honors Powell's service and mourns his death.

—ARUN DAS, FSO-CS 

LINKS

(U.S. State Department photo)

SAN DIEGO — Adm. Karl Schultz, the commandant of the Coast Guard, delivers his state of the Coast Guard address, March 11, 2021. (U.S. Coast Guard photo)

Adm. Karl L. Schultz, the commandant of the United States Coast Guard, delivered his third state of the Coast Guard address last week at Coast Guard Sector San Diego in California.

The commandant paid tribute to service members who have performed essential missions over the past year, which has been marked by the challenges, risks, and tragedies of the COVID-19 global pandemic.

"What makes the world's best coast guard? It's not our cutters. It's not our aircraft. It's our people — the human connection we create when we train and work alongside partners around the world," Schultz said. "Whether it is supporting combatant commanders and protecting national interests, working with our partner nations to protect the world's oceans, defending free and open trade in the Indo-Pacific or preserving and protecting [national/natural?] resources and interests in the Arctic."

The commandant also gave a shout-out to the Auxiliary and the many ways our 22,000 members serve the boating public and support our Gold Side partners with "ingenuity."

"Of note are 75 Auxiliary clergy members — more than double the number of our own Chaplain Corps — providing spiritual and mental health support for our members under considerable stress this past year," Schultz said. "Today, Auxiliaries with expertise in engineering and cybersecurity actively support 20 ongoing research and development innovation projects, injecting diversity, unique skill sets and fresh perspectives to our research and development teams."

The admiral added: "Thank you to the best volunteers in the world."

Only a small group of Coast Guard members attended the speech because of pandemic safety protocols but the address was viewed by thousands online.

—ARUN DAS, FSO-CS

(U.S. Coast Guard photo)

You can watch the admiral's address here: 

You can download a transcript of his remarks here.

>VOLUME II, ISSUE 1, 1ST QUARTER 2021 (PDF)

The Upper Manhattan Flotilla has released a new issue of The Daymark, our newsletter. This is our first issue of 2021.

We invite you to download and read the newsletter. We welcome your feedback. You can also view back issues and other content on our PUBLICATIONS page.

—ARUN DAS, FSO-CS

L-R: Ted Wadsworth, John McNamara, and Alex Rico

New leadership has taken the helm of the Upper Manhattan Flotilla. The term of Ted Wadsworth and John McNamara as flotilla commander and vice commander, respectively, began Jan. 1. Alex Rico is now the immediate past flotilla commander.

The trio have devised the flotilla's command philosophy.

The three pillars of AUX Wadsworth's philosophy are relevance, mentorship, and education.

AUX McNamara's are people, fellowship, and giving. 

And AUX Rico embraces diversity, community, and tradition. 

Please read the full text on the Command Philosophy page. 

—ARUN DAS, FSO-CS

AUX Alexander Rico, Immediate Past Flotilla Commander

First, I want to wish everyone a Happy New Year! It has been an honor and a privilege to serve as the Flotilla Commander for over two years. Our unit has evolved in that time which is in no small part due to the perseverance and commitment of each member.

I am immensely proud of the work we have accomplished together. Despite factors outside of our control, Flotilla 5-11 has increased membership, participation, and qualifications.

Make no mistake, the loss of our shipmate is felt by all of us. However, we should celebrate his contributions and our achievements during this difficult year.

We ended 2020 with:

• 5 members achieving AUXOP
• 3 new Program Visitors
• 2 new Vessel Examiners
• 2 new Instructors
• 2 new Members
• 2 members out of AP and into BQ Status
• AUX Barth awarded Auxiliarist of the Year

I want to specifically thank AUX Barth and AUX McAllister, who have been incredible partners throughout my tenure. I also want to congratulate the incoming bridge. I have full confidence that they will continue the great work we all started.

The Upper Manhattan Flotilla is unique in our diversity and the work we provide to our community. With a new year comes new possibilities; remember to continue to lean on each other and pursue new avenues for service.

As my final thought to the incoming Flotilla Commander, AUX Ted Wadsworth: I wish you the best and I stand relieved.

—ALEX RICO, IPFC

***

AUX Michael Barth, Outgoing Vice Flotilla Commander 

It has been a great honor to serve as your Vice Flotilla Commander over the past two years. I am immensely proud of all that we have achieved, from increased presence on our waterways to greater public affairs engagement.

Although we celebrate the achievements of our flotilla, we also mourn the recent loss of our friend and shipmate, AUX Fred Knox. Together, we have weathered significant storms, including a prolonged government shutdown, natural disasters, and a global pandemic. Despite these hurdles, we continued to give back to the American people, and assisted the Coast Guard in addressing these challenges.

The tenacity each of you has shown is a testament not only to our flotilla, but also to the Coast Guard Auxiliary and the Coast Guard as a whole. We are stronger together.

I welcome the incoming bridge, and remain optimistic and excited for our future. I stand relieved.

—MICHAEL BARTH, FSO-MS

We are deeply saddened to announce the passing of our shipmate AUX Fred Knox.

Mr. Knox was a founding member of the Upper Manhattan Flotilla, a consummate volunteer, and a friend to all. In 2006, Mr. Knox joined the Auxiliary and immediately became an enthusiastic and active member.

During his service, he qualified as an Auxiliary Culinary Specialist, Auxiliary Telecommunications Operator, Vessel Examiner, and Program Visitor. Mr. Knox regularly volunteered on U.S. Coast Guard cutters and stations to cook for active duty and reserve personnel.

Mr. Knox also took part in local ceremonies and functions, including critical assistance during a World War I Bicentennial ceremony honoring the 369th Infantry Regiment "Harlem Hellfighters," a decorated African-American unit.

His service to the United States Coast Guard Auxiliary and the American public is in keeping with the highest traditions of patriotism and volunteerism.

For his service, Mr. Knox was awarded the Coast Guard Unit Commendation (3), the Coast Guard Meritorious Team Commendation, the Examiner Program Ribbon (with bronze star), the Operations Program Ribbon (with bronze star), and the Membership Service Award (2).

Mr. Knox was also an active member of Squadron 379, NYC Group of the Civil Air Patrol.

AUX Fred Knox is survived by his wife, sisters, and step-children.

Fair winds and following seas. Rest easy, shipmate. We have the watch.

—ALEX RICO, FC; MICHAEL BARTH, VFC; MIKE MCALLISTER, IPFC

Fred Knox at the center (back row) of a team of Auxiliary Culinary Specialists. 

The Upper Manhattan Flotilla is excited and pleased to announce that Michael A. Barth, our vice flotilla commander, has been named the top Coast Guard Auxiliarist in the nation.

Last week, Admiral Karl Schultz, the commandant of the U.S. Coast Guard, called Mr. Barth to deliver the news that he was selected as the 2019 Auxiliarist of the Year.

This ALCOAST message announcing the award touches on the many program areas Mr. Barth has influenced, including his work on creating and expanding relationships with partner agencies, support of Coast Guard cutters, serving as awards coordinator, and advancing Coast Guard diversity and public affairs efforts, among many other initiatives and achievements.

In 2019, Mr. Barth logged over 2,000 hours of volunteer service—the equivalent of 250 full days of work—to support the Coast Guard's various missions and messages.

Due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, the formal commendation will be presented to Mr. Barth in person at a later date to adhere to pandemic precautions.

Bravo Zulu, Mr. Barth! Your flotilla shipmates are proud of you and honored to serve with you.

—ARUN DAS, FSO-CS 

>VOLUME I, ISSUE 3, MAY-JUN 2020 (PDF)

The Upper Manhattan Flotilla is has released the third issue of our newsletter, The Daymark.

We invite you to download and read the newsletter and welcome your feedback. You can also view back issues and other content on our PUBLICATIONS page.

—ARUN DAS, FSO-CS

>THE DAYMARK, VOLUME I, ISSUE 2, MAR-APR 2020 (PDF)

The Upper Manhattan Flotilla is proud to share the second issue of our newsletter, The Daymark.

This issue has a Commander's Corner message from AUX Michael Barth, our vice flotilla commander, and articles about COVID-19, the flotilla's virtual town hall, Black History Month, and more. Be sure to also check out a note from AUX William Linder, the editor-in-chief.

We invite you to download and read the newsletter and welcome your feedback. You can also view back issues and other content on our PUBLICATIONS page.

—ARUN DAS, FSO-CS

Shipmates, friends, and partners:

I hope you are all healthy and faring well during these unprecedented times. Recent weeks have been stressful and challenging for many; please take care of yourselves and your families.

Flotilla members, I strongly suggest keeping in contact with one another. Phone calls and virtual chats are great ways to stay connected. I urge each of you to follow the instructions and protocols that have been forwarded. 

The office of CAPT Scott Johnson, the Chief Director of Auxiliary, released links to where Coast Guard Auxiliarists and members of the public can get updated information about the coronavirus and how it relates to the Coast Guard.

This is the frequently updated Coast Guard COVID-19 website. The site's FAQ has a section specifically devoted to the Auxiliary.

"Auxiliarists are strongly encouraged to review those FAQs for current and future CG and CG Auxiliary matters related to COVID-19 concerns and considerations," the director's office said.

Here are other important federal government resources:

• CDC COVID-19 portal
• CDC Travel Health Notices
• State Department Travel Advisories

My door is always open—your leadership team is here for you.

Remember, we are a component of the United States Coast Guard. Working through adversity is our business. Together, we will get through this. Semper Paratus.

Warm wishes,

—MICHAEL BARTH, VFC and Acting FC

NEW YORK—Auxiliarist Alex Rico, flotilla commander, and Auxiliarist Michael Barth, vice flotilla commander. (USCG Auxiliary photo by Gary Dawson)

The Upper Manhattan Flotilla is so excited to unveil our brand-new newsletter! The publication is called The Daymark. AUX William Linder, FSO-PA/PB, is the editor-in-chief.

The inaugural issue has a letter from AUX Alex Rico, our flotilla commander, and articles about the New York Boat Show, Alexander Hamilton's birthday celebration, and boating safety tips.

We invite you to download and read the newsletter and welcome your feedback.

—ARUN DAS, FSO-CS

The Upper Manhattan Flotilla is proud of Michael Barth, our flotilla vice commander, for being featured on the U.S. Coast Guard Mid-Atlantic's official Instagram page as part of the "Why I Serve" series.

"I serve to give back to my community, keep our country safe, save lives, and tell the Coast Guard story," Michael said.

NEW YORK — Auxiliarist Michael Barth aboard the USCGC Eagle, Saturday, Aug. 17, 2019. (USCG Auxiliary photo by David Mooney)

"Our Auxiliarists play a huge role in keeping our waterways safe, and their service to the local boating communities is felt throughout the Mid-Atlantic," USCG Mid-Atlantic commented on the post.

Michael is an Auxiliary public affairs specialist (AUXPA3), an Auxiliary marine environmental education specialist (AUXMEES), an operational auxiliarist (AUXOP), and much more. Bravo Zulu, Michael! You are an inspiration and a true leader.

If you are a fellow auxiliarist, share you story! Tell us why you serve and we will feature you on this blog and our Facebook page. #WhyIServeCG

—ARUN DAS, FSO-CS

The Upper Manhattan Flotilla's members worked hard and accomplished a lot last year. Here is a summary of our achievements.

In 2019, the flotilla—

1. Contributed over 7,600 hours of service—second-highest flotilla in Division 5
2. Established a homebase on the Baylander museum ship
3. Increased membership by 20%
4. Adopted a unit logo
5. Gained a USCG Auxiliary operational facility
6. Updated and maintained a website and Facebook page for public viewing
7. Had a member mentioned as runner-up for national Auxiliarist of the Year
8. Left no members in "Pending" status
9. Ended the year with all membership dues paid
10. Ensured all members completed all mandatory training
11. Started outreach to Sea Scouts
12. Strengthened partnerships with community groups
13. Participated in several public affairs events at the Division and District Levels: Boat Show, Fleet Week, Veterans Day and the USCG Barque Eagle's visit to New York
14. Qualified members in vessel safety checks (VE), recreational boating safety program visits (PV), food services (FS), public affairs (PA), and instructor (PE/MT)

—ALEX RICO, FC

The flotilla held its annual elections at its meeting on Oct. 20. Alexander Rico and Michael Barth were reelected as flotilla commander and vice flotilla commander, respectively.

"We are humbled by the support from our members. Our successes are attributed to the great team assembled," Rico said. "Michael and I are excited to continue the great work of our Flotilla and push us to new heights next year."

You can read Alex and Michael's Command Philosophy here.

The Upper Manhattan Flotilla is in great hands for 2020. Congratulations to Alex and Michael!

—ARUN DAS, FSO-CS/PB

NEW YORK — Members of the Upper Manhattan Flotilla set up a HAM radio station on board the Baylander museum ship at the West Harlem Piers, Saturday, Oct. 19, 2019. (U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary photo by John McNamara)

Dozens of Auxiliary members from several flotillas participated in the Special Event Radio Weekend, Oct. 18–20, to help mark the Coast Guard Auxiliary's 80th anniversary this year.

The Upper Manhattan Flotilla manned a radio station at the Baylander museum ship, our symbolic homebase, on Saturday, Oct. 19. The flotilla made contact with 10 radio stations around the world: Eight in the United States, one in Germany, and a Boy Scout troop in England, according to John Kiernan, the flotilla staff officer for communications and an expert HAM radio operator.

Curious about what was going on, several members of the public stopped by the flotilla's radio station. Two young women sat down with Kiernan and helped log the contacts with stations, he said. They also expressed an interest in joining the auxiliary.

Other passersby stopped to ask questions about amateur radio and how they can become HAM operators, Kiernan said.

The flotilla conducted some radio training and demonstrated how to set up a HAM radio station.

“This event is designed to commemorate the 80th anniversary of the Auxiliary, spread the word on the event and the purpose of the Auxiliary, get Auxiliarists involved with communications, provide a hands-on opportunity for members, bring new members into the Auxiliary, enjoy fellowship, and honor our military veterans,” said Auxiliarist Ted Wadsworth, the flotilla staff officer for member training and vessel examinations.

See more photos from the event on our Flotilla's Facebook page.

—ARUN DAS, FSO-CS/PB

Sector New York is holding is holding a full day of training for USCG Auxiliary members.

Session topics include: ATON, navigation, marine safety, public affairs, public education, program visitation, vessel examination, boat crew and coxswain, communications, risk management, and more.

DATE/TIME: 27 JULY 2019 0745–1600

LOCATION: Maritime Academic Center, SUNY Maritime College, 6 Pennyfield Avenue, Bronx, NY 10465

UNIFORM OF THE DAY: ODU or civilian business attire

You can see the training details and registration page here.

—ARUN DAS, FSO-CS/PB

A message from the flotilla commander: I am honored to be a part of the USCG Auxiliary, an organization that has recently celebrated its 80th anniversary. It is humbling to see us recognized nationally by our leadership and I am proud of all the members of this flotilla who devote their volunteer hours to service and to the public. Our history, diversity, and connection to our community distinguish us from other organizations. Each year, we are tasked with more and happily meet that challenge. We proudly serve to assist our neighbors and the U.S. Coast Guard. Semper Paratus.

—ALEX RICO, Flotilla Commander

Below left: President Donald Trump's letter celebrating the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary's 80th anniversary. Below right: ADM Karl Schultz's citation for the awarding of the Coast Guard Unit Commendation to the Coast Guard Auxiliary.

Click here to view larger versions of these letters.

The National Park Service, the Alexander Hamilton Awareness Society, and the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary will be presenting at the Women's History Month Celebration at Hamilton Grange National Memorial in Upper Manhattan, Saturday, March 30, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

The Upper Manhattan Flotilla will speak about the incredibly important role women play in the U.S. Coast Guard.

In addition, historian Nicole Scholet, the president of the AHA Society, will talk about Eliza Hamilton's 50-year mission to preserve the legacy of her husband, Alexander Hamilton, after his death.

Eliza Leigh Vincz, a living history performer, will portray Eliza Hamilton and give an interactive presentation about women's federal attire and more.

—ARUN DAS, FSO-CS/PB