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Sun, 25 May 25
Photo Caption: USCGA 114-01 members in attendance at West Marine Vessel Safety Check Day: (left to Right): Bill Imielski, Ed Lai, George Glover, Ron Mealey, Tom Paine, Dan Dirkes, Mark Holmes
Mission Bay Flotilla led a division-wide boating safety day at West Marine in San Diego on Saturday, May 24 offering free vessel safety checks and boating safety materials to boaters who stopped by the store.
The event was strongly supported by flotillas within Division 1, with members attending from San Diego Harbor, San Diego, Mission Bay, and Oceanside Harbor. In addition, boaters were treated to knot tying demonstrations by Division 1 Commander, Ron Mealey.
Photo Caption: Auxiliarists Bill Imielski and George Glover conducting a vessel safety check on a West Marine customer’s boat.
The United States Coast Guard Auxiliary and West Marine have partnered to promote vessel safety and boating safety education nationwide. As part of this initiative, the Auxiliary conducted free vessel safety checks at select West Marine store locations from May 15-26, 2025. This partnership also includes year-round educational initiatives, including educational events and talks. 
Photo Caption: Ron Mealey, DCDR demonstrating expert knife sharpening and honing skills, along with advanced knot tying, at the Vessel Safety Check and Public Outreach booth.