Mary McCormick

I retired in 2017 having served 27+ years on active duty for 12 years in the Army and 15 in Public Health Service (PHS). Despite asking, I never got to serve overseas but spent most of my PHS time working at Indian reservations in North Dakota and Montana. I have 2 grown children and 4 young grandsons and currently live with two cats and a dog.

What are your goals and for our flotilla?

Personal -- To enjoy retirement. Being able to choose how I spend my time is awesome!

For our Flotilla/Division -- To increase our membership, with a focus on younger members. (Over half our Division members are over the age of 55.) 

What inspired you to seek membership in USCGAUX organization?

My dad, Paul Shaver, was a member of this flotilla for many years. After I retired, Bruce Henry asked me about joining, so I did to carry on Dad's legacy. Oddly enough, I'm not a boater, though. 

What is your favorite part of being part of the USCGAUX ?

Interacting with other members, especially at dinner at Hoss's before our monthly flotilla meeting. Hopefully we can get back to that soon!

What is one fun fact that someone may not know about you?

I'm a dietitian, but no, I don't watch what other people eat.  My favorite foods are fresh fish, berries and ice cream. 

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Let's get to know the newest Flotilla Member

Christopher Icenhower

Tell us about your background.

I was born to a military family. My parents served in the Air Force and Air National Guard respectively. My brother and I followed our grandfather's footsteps into the Army. I served in the Army Infantry for four years from 2006-2010 and saw combat in Afghanistan during OEF VIII-IX.  After I left military service I began to drive semi-trucks, eventually becoming an instructor and now overseeing training in a largely administrative role

What are your goals and for our flotilla?

I have a desire to become very active in our flotilla. Public Education and Vessel Examination come naturally to mind because of my background in trucking education, however, I am also interested in Operations (specifically Boat Crew) in the future. Furthermore, I would I would like to take any opportunity I can to edify others about the Auxiliary.

What inspired you to seek membership in USCGAUX organization ?

I have a desire to be involved in my community and to be part of a team that can affect public safety in a positive way. I had considered joining a volunteer fire company, but I have no real interest in running into a burning building. I stumbled across an article about the Auxiliary in a mailing from the VA and it sounded like the perfect organization for me; not only is it a chance to serve my community but it also offers the fellowship of a larger organization.

What is your favorite part of being part of the USCGAUX ?

So far the best part of the Auxiliary is the fellowship. Even with hybrid and Zoom meetings it is fun to commune with a diverse and good-humored group. That being said, I do hope we have the opportunity to get together in person later this summer and, as COVID restrictions lift, begin more in-person meetings as well.

What is one fun fact that someone may not know about you ?

Twenty or so years ago I had an interest in western style horseback riding, and even gained some skill roping cattle. This activity led to an interest in animal husbandry and, after my father retired from the Air Force and we settled in Washington state, I worked at a wildlife park called Northwest Trek until I left in 2006 for the Army. I have not worked in a similar field since.