tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-77558841263684457162011-08-22T12:31:20.357-05:00Flotilla 4, Des Moines, Iowahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00268850912522553296noreply@blogger.comBlogger1361100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7755884126368445716.post-81499450312350721152010-11-24T15:31:00.004-06:002010-11-24T15:34:50.475-06:00

Auxilarists Wendy Faganel, Gene Kellogg and Nick Critelli meet SSG Salvatore Giunta during a reception in Hiawatha. (U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary photo of Mrs. Carmela Chiafos)On November 16th, Army Staff Sergeant Salvatore Giunta received the Medal of Honor from President Barack Obama during a ceremony at the White House. Staff Sergeant Giunta is the first living recipient to be awarded the

Flotilla 4, Des Moines, Iowahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00268850912522553296noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7755884126368445716.post-53975813600311476612010-10-23T23:16:00.000-05:002010-10-24T13:12:06.166-05:00

Today five members of Flotilla 4 participated in a ham radio special event to commemorate the 701st anniversary of the Coast Guard Auxiliary. This station was located near Rippey, IA and is designed to accommodate events like this. The station operated primarily on three frequencies and logged 315 contacts from 39 states and 9 countries. Operators talked to stations in four Canadian provinces,

Flotilla 4, Des Moines, Iowahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00268850912522553296noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7755884126368445716.post-61401875649947811922010-10-13T14:44:00.003-05:002010-10-23T09:25:13.486-05:00

On Saturday, October 23rd, members of Flotilla 4 in Des Moines will join other Coast Guard Auxilarists to hit the airwaves to commemorate the 71st anniversary of the Coast Guard Auxiliary. We will be one of several other special event stations on the air. Our callsign will be K0G. We will operate from 1400 - 2100 Zulu (9:00 am to 4:00 pm Central).Our assigned frequencies are:• 7.240 Mhz• 14.345

Flotilla 4, Des Moines, Iowahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00268850912522553296noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7755884126368445716.post-53640521243516596932010-06-23T09:16:00.003-05:002010-06-23T09:20:48.923-05:00

On June 23, 2010, the Coast Guard Auxiliary will celebrate seventy-one years of faithful and dedicated service. Our Auxiliary shipmates have once again given generously of themselves to support Coast Guard personnel and missions, and to make our nation’s waterways safer for the more than 83 million recreational boaters who sail them. Coast Guard Auxiliary volunteers have literally taught

Flotilla 4, Des Moines, Iowahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00268850912522553296noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7755884126368445716.post-39655557783753950842010-06-01T17:17:00.003-05:002010-06-01T17:27:15.594-05:00

As our flotilla has increased our presence through safety patrols on local waters we have sought to refine our communications capabilities. Our colleagues in Omaha have the benefit of a permanent base station known as AUX Station Omaha. The benefit to a more permanent and ready communications base for them is evident. It allows them to operate more quickly, with better reliability and in more

Flotilla 4, Des Moines, Iowahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00268850912522553296noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7755884126368445716.post-57740767585519376112010-05-31T11:35:00.003-05:002010-05-31T11:55:02.903-05:00

Unfortunatley this Memorial Day Weekend in Iowa has been quite deadly on the water. Remember that there are a few things that can keep you and your family safe on the water:1. Always wear a life jacket. Remember it is required that all kids 12 and under wear one, but parents and older brothers and sisters should too.2. Do not drink and drive a boat. Alcohol has an even greater effect while

Flotilla 4, Des Moines, Iowahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00268850912522553296noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7755884126368445716.post-54267680806494254862010-05-28T09:13:00.003-05:002010-05-28T09:20:33.752-05:00

Auxilarist Jeff Towle conducts a Vessel Safety Check during Memorial Day Weekend in 2009.(U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary Photo by Brandon Butters)On Saturday, May 29th the Coast Guard Auxiliary will participate in the annual "Spring into Safe Boating” activity at Saylorville Lake. This activity is in conjunction with National Safe Boating Week.Vessel Examiners from the Coast Guard Auxiliary will

Flotilla 4, Des Moines, Iowahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00268850912522553296noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7755884126368445716.post-74522177557666850302010-05-27T09:49:00.003-05:002010-05-27T09:57:46.871-05:00

Auxilarist Roland Newton works on the antennas high on the communications tower at AUX Station Omaha.(U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary Photo by Trevor Henderson)Every year, prior to the start of surface patrols, Division 33 prepares AUX Station Omaha for duty.This year, Flotilla 4 members Chuck Brudtkuhl, Roland Newton and Trevor Henderson, along with the Division 33 Vice Commander Frank Reiss, worked

Flotilla 4, Des Moines, Iowahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00268850912522553296noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7755884126368445716.post-59189350637201172472010-05-26T08:51:00.004-05:002010-05-26T09:02:18.610-05:00

Shipmates,I am honored to serve as the 24th Commandant of the Coast Guard. When I assumed the duties from Admiral Thad Allen at noon today, it concluded a series of key rotations and marked the setting of a new watch to lead our service.Serving with me on this watch are Vice Admiral Sally Brice-O'Hara, Vice Commandant, Master Chief Michael Leavitt, Master Chief Petty Officer of the Coast Guard

Flotilla 4, Des Moines, Iowahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00268850912522553296noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7755884126368445716.post-58520701306521459692010-05-25T09:31:00.001-05:002010-05-25T09:34:01.912-05:00

Guardians,Later today, I will be relieved as Commandant of the U.S. Coast Guard by Admiral Robert Papp. It has been an honor to serve as your Commandant for the past four years and I am confident in Admiral Papp's ability to lead the Service during a period of tremendous changes, challenges, and opportunities. The value of the U.S. Coast Guard has never been greater than it is today and it is the

Flotilla 4, Des Moines, Iowahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00268850912522553296noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7755884126368445716.post-71606503316392622112010-05-18T10:17:00.003-05:002010-05-18T10:35:44.555-05:00

During the District Awards Banquet, Flotilla 4 and its members were recognized for all of their hard work in 2009. The following awards were presented to the members of Flotilla 4:Commodore’s Honor Flotilla StreamerFlotilla 4Travis Daniels, Flotilla CommanderAuxiliary Achievement MedalNick CritelliAuxiliarist of the Year 2nd Runner-UpDoug JansenCompass Rose AwardPresented to members performing

Flotilla 4, Des Moines, Iowahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00268850912522553296noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7755884126368445716.post-17775780980342547922010-05-18T07:06:00.000-05:002010-05-18T10:14:05.746-05:00

Auxilarist Nick Critelli was presented with the Coast Guard Auxiliary Achievment Award at the 8th Western Rivers District Awards Banquet.Nick Critelli was presented this award for "superior performance of duty while serving as the Sector Upper Mississippi River Liaison Officer to the Iowa Army National Guard from June 2009 to February 2010. Nick is a member of Flotilla 4 in Des Moines.Nick

Flotilla 4, Des Moines, Iowahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00268850912522553296noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7755884126368445716.post-90530778374513654922010-04-10T19:22:00.002-05:002010-04-10T19:34:52.093-05:00

Auxilarist Norma Newton (right) inspects Phil Patterson's personal watercraft. (U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary Photo by Doug Jansen) Every year, prior to the start of the operational season, Coast Guard Auxiliary vessels are inspected. Though our vessels are owned and maintained by our members, they are held to a higher standard than many other boats on the water.Flotilla 4 currently has two

Flotilla 4, Des Moines, Iowahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00268850912522553296noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7755884126368445716.post-685343216496122622010-04-10T19:04:00.003-05:002010-04-10T19:15:08.846-05:00

Auxilarist Marty Robey (left) and Trevor Henderson practice throwing a line to a person in distress during boat crew training.(U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary by Doug Jansen) Now that our harsh winter is in the past, members of the flotilla are continuing their training to prepare them for qualification as boat crew members. New boat crew trainees were given an orientation to our Coast Guard

Flotilla 4, Des Moines, Iowahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00268850912522553296noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7755884126368445716.post-18965712765956628842010-03-20T23:10:00.003-05:002010-03-20T23:21:48.746-05:00

As flood waters continue to rise the Army Corps of Engineers has asked the Coast Guard Auxiliary to help them with public safety support around Saylorville Lake. Starting Monday, Coast Guard Auxilarists will support Army Corps of Engineers staff to help make the public aware of the dangers of the high water around the lake and to advise them to stay out for their own safety. Due to the high

Flotilla 4, Des Moines, Iowahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00268850912522553296noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7755884126368445716.post-33120754620516873982010-03-20T18:37:00.005-05:002010-03-20T19:03:18.265-05:00

As Coast Guard flood relief operations continue in North Dakota our deployed Auxilarists are working hard.Roland Newton is in Fargo with the Coast Guard Auxiliary communications team. They are providing communications for the air assets along with strategic High Frequency (HF) radio communications back to Sector Upper Mississippi.Gene Kellogg spent today working alongside the Coast Guard in the

Flotilla 4, Des Moines, Iowahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00268850912522553296noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7755884126368445716.post-15047952947807350842010-03-19T17:07:00.004-05:002010-03-19T17:16:26.968-05:00

Thursday 3 members of Flotilla 4 deployed to North Dakota to help support the Coast Guard flood response. Gene Kellogg of Cedar Rapids, Roland Newton of Ames and Ralph Tomlinson of Humboldt are currently in North Dakota at different locations.Auxilarists Ralph Tomlinson and Gene Kellogg will help augment Coast Guard operations personnel to coordinate responses to requests from local and state

Flotilla 4, Des Moines, Iowahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00268850912522553296noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7755884126368445716.post-89021156235019925192010-03-18T10:57:00.003-05:002010-03-18T11:06:10.487-05:00

The new edition of Above Board is available at AboveBoardJanuaryFebruary2010.pdfThis month's newsletter has articles about the Advanced Coastal Navigation Course, Ralph Tomlinson completing Coast Guard instructor training, DART training and Suzanne Tomlinson and Rob Green being named to the National staff. Thank you to all of our contributors who made this month's edition possible. The submission

Flotilla 4, Des Moines, Iowahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00268850912522553296noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7755884126368445716.post-20925742899897387852010-02-02T11:48:00.000-06:002010-03-12T11:50:42.200-06:00

Auxiliarist Ralph Tomlinson recently completed the Coast Guard Instructor Development Course at TRACON Petaluma. Mr. Tomlinson was a member of the class which consisted of 4 Auxiliarists, 13 active duty Coast Guard members and one Coast Guard civilian employee. This was the premier course for instructors in the Coast Guard. Attendees are expected to become instructors for active duty, reserve,

Flotilla 4, Des Moines, Iowahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00268850912522553296noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7755884126368445716.post-32481740119235938132010-02-01T11:45:00.000-06:002010-03-12T11:47:32.267-06:00

Flotilla 4 member, Suzanne Tomlinson has been appointed as the National Branch Chief of Boating Safety Communications (BC-BSC). This position is part of the Recreational Boating Safety Affairs Department. Mrs. Tomlinson is a teacher in the Humboldt Community School District and has been part of the Coast Guard Auxiliary since 2008.“I am pleased with the confidence that the National Staff has

Flotilla 4, Des Moines, Iowahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00268850912522553296noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7755884126368445716.post-87194500108485590502009-11-16T07:50:00.000-06:002009-11-16T09:15:16.471-06:00

The new edition of Above Board is available at http://www.flotilla4.org/Newsletter/AboveBoardNovember2009.pdfThis month's newsletter has articles about the ham radio special event, the loss of CG 1705, our flotilla election, the upcoming Inland SAR Planning Course and the Iowa DNR Boater Education Course instructors. Thank you to all of our contributors who made this month's edition possible. The

Flotilla 4, Des Moines, Iowahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00268850912522553296noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7755884126368445716.post-26432458907096883002009-11-11T07:47:00.001-06:002009-11-16T09:16:20.791-06:00

After the election Norma Newton (left), Travis Daniels (center) and Trevor Henderson (right) talked with members of Flotilla 4.(U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary Photo by Doug Jansen)During the October flotilla business meeting, elections for the 2010 leadership were held. Flotilla Commander Travis Daniels had held two terms as commander and was ready to pass the torch to new leadership. Norma Newton

Flotilla 4, Des Moines, Iowahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00268850912522553296noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7755884126368445716.post-70918430691498204312009-10-17T20:09:00.002-05:002009-10-17T20:20:10.246-05:00

Today eight members of Flotilla 4 participated in a ham radio special event to commemorate the 70th anniversary of the Coast Guard Auxiliary. This station was located near Rippey, IA and is designed to accommodate events like this. The station operated primarily on two frequencies and, despite poor band quality, logged 294 contacts from 47 states and seven countries. The station contacted 13

Flotilla 4, Des Moines, Iowahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00268850912522553296noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7755884126368445716.post-33586346854298051102009-10-15T18:11:00.003-05:002009-10-15T18:20:50.565-05:00

On Saturday, October 17th, members of Flotilla 4 in Des Moines will join other Coast Guard Auxilarists to hit the airwaves to commemorate the 70th anniversary of the Coast Guard Auxiliary. We will be one of over 60 other special event stations on the air. Our callsign will be K0G. We will operate from 1400 - 2100 Zulu (9:00 am to 4:00 pm Central). Our assigned frequencies are: • 7.240 Mhz •

Flotilla 4, Des Moines, Iowahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00268850912522553296noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7755884126368445716.post-65566786933070880452009-10-15T08:00:00.001-05:002009-10-15T09:51:59.855-05:00

The new edition of Above Board is available at http://www.flotilla4.org/Newsletter/AboveBoardOctober2009.pdfThis month's newsletter has articles about the Fall Conference, Coast Guard Auxiliary Reorganization, our public education activities, three new members and the upcoming ham radio event. Thank you to all of our contributors who made this month's edition possible. The submission deadline for

Flotilla 4, Des Moines, Iowahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00268850912522553296noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7755884126368445716.post-642431880757963072009-10-12T15:26:00.002-05:002009-10-12T16:23:55.415-05:00

Jeff Towle explains what a type I life jacket does during the About Boating Safety course.(U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary Photo by Doug Jansen)A boating safety class is a great way to cap off an operational season. This weekend Flotilla 4 hosted an About Boating Safely class at the Saylorville Lake Oak Woods Learning Center. The class is an introductory course designed to meet the boating education

Flotilla 4, Des Moines, Iowahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00268850912522553296noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7755884126368445716.post-12140882201196152962009-10-02T15:35:00.001-05:002009-10-02T15:40:19.510-05:00

Auxilarist Ralph Tomlinson returned recently from ICS 341 training in San Pedro, California. ICS 341 is an Incident Response Planning Workshop which is a four-day Coast Guard position specific course that presents the concepts, principles, and protocols of the Planning Section duties intended to familiarize students with the process mechanics of planning activities in support of an incident.

Flotilla 4, Des Moines, Iowahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00268850912522553296noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7755884126368445716.post-14587783563028847702009-09-14T14:46:00.003-05:002009-09-14T14:50:37.692-05:00

The Coast Guard Auxiliary will be offering the About Boating Safely class to the public. This class will be held in two parts:Thursday, October 8th from 6:00 to 9:00 pmSaturday, October 10th from 8:00 am to 1:00 pmAbout Boating Safely includes a wide variety of information. Whether you choose a classroom boating class or your state's online course, you'll learn:-General information about boats

Flotilla 4, Des Moines, Iowahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00268850912522553296noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7755884126368445716.post-7597208782998546162009-09-11T08:00:00.000-05:002009-09-11T15:54:13.343-05:00

The new edition of Above Board is available at http://www.flotilla4.org/Newsletter/AboveBoardAugustSeptember2009.pdfThis month's newsletter has articles about our Labor Day and Des Moines River mission operations, our public education activities. Thank you to all of our contributors who made this month's edition possible. The submission deadline for Above Board is the first Friday of each month.

Flotilla 4, Des Moines, Iowahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00268850912522553296noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7755884126368445716.post-51668690268431077422009-09-06T16:05:00.000-05:002009-09-06T21:12:09.294-05:00

Auxilarists Norma Newton (left) and Phil Patterson (right) patrol on Saylorville Lake on Labor Day weekend. This was the first time that Flotilla 4 patrolled with just two PWCs.(US Coast Guard Auxiliary Photo by Doug Jansen)Labor Day Weekend traditionally marks the end of the boating season in Iowa. This Labor Day Weekend Flotilla 4 made it a point to make an effort to push boating safety.A

Flotilla 4, Des Moines, Iowahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00268850912522553296noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7755884126368445716.post-7918875221879099102009-09-04T07:30:00.001-05:002009-09-04T11:00:59.869-05:00

Flotilla 4's boats and PWC line up to pass by the Birdland Marina as they get underway for a safety patrol on the Des Moines River. Auxilarist Norma Newton is on the PWC, John Halbrook and Ron Longnecker are on the Jon Boat, and Travis Daniels and Wendy Faganel are on the Lady Grace.(U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary Photo By Doug Jansen)Flotilla 4 was asked to help with the 8th Annual River Run

Flotilla 4, Des Moines, Iowahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00268850912522553296noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7755884126368445716.post-68188870139022171292009-08-29T17:41:00.005-05:002009-08-29T18:00:06.487-05:00

Auxilarist Jeff Towle at the Recreational Boating Safety Booth at the Bass Pro Shop(Coast Guard Auxiliary Photo by Doug Jansen)Flotilla 4's newest Recreational Safe Boating Program Partner is the new Bass Pro Shop in Altoona. The store had its grand opening this weekend and Auxilarists from Flotilla 4 and Flotilla 6 were there talking to the public about water safety and America's Waterway Watch.

Flotilla 4, Des Moines, Iowahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00268850912522553296noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7755884126368445716.post-71965203187301424582009-08-21T09:51:00.001-05:002009-08-21T11:23:40.122-05:00

Auxilarist John Halbrook backs his flat bottom jon boat off of the trailer and heads to the dock as part of a patrol on the Des Moines River.(U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary Photo By Doug Jansen)

John Halbrooknoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7755884126368445716.post-2478388161922841412009-08-16T11:16:00.000-05:002009-08-17T11:19:48.963-05:00

The new edition of Above Board is available at http://www.flotilla4.org/Newsletter/AboveBoardJuneJuly2009.pdfThis month's newsletter has articles about our mission operations, our public education activities and about Doug Jansen going to the Public Affairs C-School. Thank you to all of our contributors who made this month's edition possible. The submission deadline for Above Board is the first

Flotilla 4, Des Moines, Iowahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00268850912522553296noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7755884126368445716.post-75485778554943879462009-08-12T16:44:00.005-05:002009-08-12T16:48:01.000-05:00

The newest addition to Flotilla 4's fleet of Operational Facilities(U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary Photo by Phil Patterson)As of today Flotilla 4 has another Personal Watercraft (PWC) on the books as an operational facility to serve the missions of the Coast Guard Auxiliary.Auxilarist Phil Patterson's PWC will be used to patrol local lakes and rivers. Its speed and manueverability will help with

Flotilla 4, Des Moines, Iowahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00268850912522553296noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7755884126368445716.post-83776871645637068312009-08-11T15:26:00.006-05:002009-08-12T16:55:20.477-05:00

Here is a before picture of the boat as John received it. (U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary Photo By John Halbrook) Here is an after picture with the boat all decked out with Coast Guard Auxiliary ensigns and signage. (U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary Photo By John Halbrook)After several months of refurbishment and hard work, Flotilla 4 has gained another Operational Facility. John Halbrook's 14' Jon Boat

Flotilla 4, Des Moines, Iowahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00268850912522553296noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7755884126368445716.post-10664207858598949702009-08-11T10:22:00.000-05:002009-08-11T10:23:13.349-05:00

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Iowa DNR and the Coast Guard Auxiliary teamed up to make water safety fun by having a water safety beach party at Sandpiper Beach at Saylorville Lake. The event was aimed at families with children to learn about water safety in a fun way.There were several stations that kids both big and small could enjoy. Kids and parents got to learn how to toss a throw bag

Flotilla 4, Des Moines, Iowahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00268850912522553296noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7755884126368445716.post-60553392463209117792009-07-26T10:08:00.000-05:002009-08-11T10:12:54.234-05:00

Park Ranger Emily Coffin, Saylorville Lake, helps a young Cubs fan try on a life jacket and adjust the straps for proper fit.(U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary Photo by Marty Robey)That do you get when you mix Bobber the Water Safety Dog and baseball? A home run at the Fifth Annual Water Safety Night at the Iowa Cubs game in Des Moines, Iowa.This Annual Water Safety Night at the Iowa Cubs game was a

Flotilla 4, Des Moines, Iowahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00268850912522553296noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7755884126368445716.post-7673617579968476702009-07-25T09:53:00.000-05:002009-08-11T09:59:13.435-05:00

Auxilarists Phil Patterson and Brandon Butters completed their training and have become qualified Coast Guard Auxiliary Boat Crew Members. Their training consisted of seamanship skills; knot tying, basic boating skills, first aid, etc. They also had hours of hands on training of how to rescue people from the water and to tow disabled vessels to safe harbor. To become qualified they were tested

Flotilla 4, Des Moines, Iowahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00268850912522553296noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7755884126368445716.post-59962556167406875332009-07-05T13:48:00.006-05:002009-07-05T14:18:23.721-05:00

Travis Daniels talking to WHO TV 13 Reporter, Emily Carlson, during a safety patrol on Saylorville Lake. For the whole report go to: http://www.tinyurl.com/flotilla4whotvOn the 4th of July, Flotilla 4’s boat crew was able to take out a news crew from WHO TV 13 in Des Moines. Reporter Emily Carlson interviewed the boat crew and was able to learn a little bit more about the Coast Guard Auxiliary

Flotilla 4, Des Moines, Iowahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00268850912522553296noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7755884126368445716.post-73436201137024002162009-06-25T10:17:00.003-05:002009-06-25T10:28:10.250-05:00

The Coast Guard Auxiliary brought safety to the Missouri River Sunday towing a disabled boat to safety, and then helping a local boater learn about boating safety. On a routine safety patrol on the Missouri River near downtown Omaha, a Coast Guard Auxiliary patrol boat discovered a boater and his family, drifting down river in a boat without power. The disabled boat would not start and was

Flotilla 4, Des Moines, Iowahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00268850912522553296noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7755884126368445716.post-23845769129502265002009-06-23T09:25:00.002-05:002009-06-23T09:28:28.216-05:00

Admiral Thad Allen Coast Guard Commandant(U.S. Coast Guard Photo) June 23, 2009, is a significant date for the Coast Guard as it will mark our Auxiliary’s 70th year of dedicated service to the nation. We take tremendous pride in calling these volunteer guardians our shipmates, knowing that their selfless devotion to duty and unwavering pride have given us invaluable support throughout our daily

Flotilla 4, Des Moines, Iowahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00268850912522553296noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7755884126368445716.post-21612079144334994372009-06-23T08:57:00.002-05:002009-06-23T09:11:30.990-05:00

On June 23, 1939, Congress established the Coast Guard Reserve, a volunteer civilian organization, to promote boating safety and to facilitate Coast Guard operations. Initially, members conducted safety and security patrols and helped enforce the provisions of the 1940 Federal Boating and Espionage Acts. In February 1941, the Coast Guard military reserve was established and the volunteers renamed

Flotilla 4, Des Moines, Iowahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00268850912522553296noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7755884126368445716.post-76637056939554825542009-06-23T08:00:00.004-05:002009-06-23T10:24:06.469-05:00

Auxilarist Frank Reiss conducts a Vessel Safety Check for a boater(U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary Photo by Doug Jansen)Auxilarists Norma Newton (left) and Wendy Faganel (right)conduct a stern tow during a patrol(U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary Photo by John Halbrook)Flotilla 4 has a lot of members who are relatively new to the Auxiliary. They bring with them a variety of business, public safety and

Flotilla 4, Des Moines, Iowahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00268850912522553296noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7755884126368445716.post-17597658850928708762009-06-17T11:32:00.002-05:002009-06-17T11:37:37.887-05:00

The new Eighth Coast Guard District Command Cadre have created a video message to all of the members of the Eighth District to discuss their command philosophy:http://www.d8externalaffairs.com/clients/uscghouston/127785.wmvThe Eighth Coast Guard District Command Cadre, (from left), Master Chief Petty Officer Lloyd Pierce, Eighth District command master chief, Rear Adm. Mary E. Landry, commander

Flotilla 4, Des Moines, Iowahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00268850912522553296noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7755884126368445716.post-80402952670761617032009-06-13T08:51:00.003-05:002009-06-13T21:54:14.032-05:00

A Coast Guard Rescue Helicopter Lands at Air Station San Diego(U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary Photo by Doug Jansen)If you have been following our Flotilla4 blog, Facebook feed, or Twitter profile you know that Doug Jansen is attending the AUX-12 Public Affairs C-School in San Diego. This trip has been completely coordinated by the active duty Coast Guard.

John Halbrooknoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7755884126368445716.post-40541602175225526172009-06-13T08:37:00.004-05:002009-06-13T21:55:32.239-05:00

One of the most common questions associated with being involved in the volunteer Auxiliary involves the treatment of volunteers. Does the active duty component support, respect, and most importantly appreciate its Auxiliary? The Coast Guard is very unique in this regard. Not only are Auxiliary members given the chance to directly support the active duty, they are given real jobs to do and

John Halbrooknoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7755884126368445716.post-60313179375801737842009-06-10T11:46:00.002-05:002009-06-10T12:02:19.369-05:00

Auxilarist Travis Daniels (left) talks about the Coast Guard Auxiliary withhost, Rooster McRoberts (right).(Photo Courtesy of Mac’s World Live)Today our Flotilla Commander, Travis Daniels, was able to spend an hour on Mac's World Live talking about the Coast Guard Auxiliary. During the program the video and audio was broadcast live on the internet while he spoke with hosts J. Michael McKoy and

Flotilla 4, Des Moines, Iowahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00268850912522553296noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7755884126368445716.post-55378159180374996482009-06-10T09:59:00.002-05:002009-06-10T10:11:49.678-05:00

Less than a year ago Flotilla 4 embarked into the world of Social Media feet first following the lead of Coast Guard Commandant Thad Allen. Facebook, Twitter, Flickr, Google Calendar and Blogger, just to name a few, have been our applications of choice.After trial and error we have been pleased to have grown quite a following through these outlets. So what have we done?With Facebook we were able

Flotilla 4, Des Moines, Iowahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00268850912522553296noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7755884126368445716.post-90986797309982102212009-06-09T15:50:00.005-05:002009-06-09T15:56:49.083-05:00

Auxilarists Jeff Towle (left), Norma Newton (center) and Ralph Tomlinson (right) speak with students during the Safe Boating Course at Lake Red Rock.(U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary Photo by Suzanne Tomlinson)Severe weather warnings did not deter 15 future mariners from attending the State of Iowa Safe Boating Course taught by members of Coast Guard Auxiliary Flotilla 4.The class was held at the Lake

Flotilla 4, Des Moines, Iowahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00268850912522553296noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7755884126368445716.post-43223279632770852152009-06-08T09:43:00.002-05:002009-06-08T09:50:29.068-05:00

Auxilarist Doug Jansen, Flotilla Staff Officer for Public Affairs, has been selected to attend the Auxiliary Public Affairs C School at Coast Guard Air Station San Diego.AUX-12 Auxiliary Public Affairs C School is basic training for Auxiliary Public Affairs officers. The course teaches the students how to correctly prepare and distribute Press Releases, manage Media Relations, Media Interviews,

Flotilla 4, Des Moines, Iowahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00268850912522553296noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7755884126368445716.post-90418156451878574162009-06-02T09:34:00.003-05:002009-06-02T09:41:30.604-05:00

Auxilarists Roland Newton and Trevor Henderson stood watch at AUX Station Omaha this weekend. The watchstanders maintain a communications watch with the Auxiliary Vessels on the Missouri River to relay information to Sector Upper Mississippi in St. Louis.Auxiliary vessels were able to assist two boaters in distress and make sure that they made it back to port safely. It was also time for some

Flotilla 4, Des Moines, Iowahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00268850912522553296noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7755884126368445716.post-84105692093516027732009-06-02T09:33:00.001-05:002009-06-02T09:34:16.184-05:00

Congratulations to Phil Patterson, Flotilla 4's newest Vessel Examiner! He completed the Vessel Examiner Course and his trainee Vessel Safety Checks and has been approved by the Coast Guard to complete Vessel Safety Checks!

Flotilla 4, Des Moines, Iowahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00268850912522553296noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7755884126368445716.post-18121232391958321182009-06-01T09:50:00.002-05:002009-06-01T09:56:04.557-05:00

The new edition of Above Board is available at http://www.flotilla4.org/newsletter.htmThis month's newsletter has articles about the new boat crew qualifications, the DNR ramp painting project, vessel safety checks, and the Certificate of Recognition for our flotilla from the Iowa House of Representatives.Thank you to all of our contributors who made this month's edition possible.The submission

Flotilla 4, Des Moines, Iowahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00268850912522553296noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7755884126368445716.post-64496004096034610512009-05-26T17:21:00.001-05:002009-05-26T17:25:12.904-05:00

On the Memorial Day Flotilla 4 went to Big Creek State Park near Polk City, IA and had a Vessel Safety Check Day at the Lake. Four Auxilarist Vessel Examiners participated in the activities. Vessel Examiners, Chuck Brudtkuhl, John Hawkinson, Doug Jansen and Phil Patterson, conducted over 20 Vessel Safety Checks throughout the day, educating many boaters on boating safety issues. This was the

Flotilla 4, Des Moines, Iowahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00268850912522553296noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7755884126368445716.post-5100770060746288282009-05-25T08:47:00.003-05:002009-05-25T08:52:04.057-05:00

On the second day of Memorial Day Weekend Flotilla 4 had another busy day. Twelve Auxilarists participated in the activities. Vessel Examiners, Ralph and Suzanne Tomlinson and Phil Patterson, conducted over 25 Vessel Safety Checks throughout the day, educating many boaters on boating safety issues. Vessel Examiner Steve Johnson of Flotilla 6 also conducted over five Vessel Safety Checks.Finally

Flotilla 4, Des Moines, Iowahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00268850912522553296noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7755884126368445716.post-31045517608837522162009-05-24T09:16:00.001-05:002009-05-28T09:23:34.763-05:00

On the first day of Memorial Day Weekend Flotilla 4 had a flurry of activity. Fourteen Auxilarists participated in the activities. To start the day the Auxilarists conducted eighteen Recreational Boating Safety Partner Visits at various marine dealers and boating supply vendors across Central Iowa. Five Vessel Examiners conducted over 35 Vessel Safety Checks throughout the day, educating many

Flotilla 4, Des Moines, Iowahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00268850912522553296noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7755884126368445716.post-52478189586110262372009-05-19T09:12:00.003-05:002009-05-19T09:16:44.750-05:00

On May 17th Flotilla 4 and Flotilla 6 collaberated with the Corps of Engineers for the "Spring into Safe Boating” activity at Saylorville Lake. This activity was in conjunction with National Safe Boating Week. Despite inclement weather, Flotilla 4 and Flotilla 6 conducted over ten Vessel Safety Checks at the Lakeview and Cherry Glen Boat Ramps. A Vessel Safety Check is a free courtesy

Flotilla 4, Des Moines, Iowahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00268850912522553296noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7755884126368445716.post-38434769991971972912009-05-19T08:57:00.003-05:002009-05-19T09:09:45.371-05:00

As part of National Safe Boating Week, Flotilla 4, the Iowa DNR and Corps of Engineers are hosting a free Boater Education Course. The course is being held over three consecutive evenings at the Saylorville Lake Visitor Center on May 18, 19, and 20 from 6:00 to 8:30 pm. The course currently has five students participating.The course is designed to promote safe and responsible boating practices

Flotilla 4, Des Moines, Iowahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00268850912522553296noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7755884126368445716.post-91504368109372194272009-05-18T09:36:00.003-05:002009-05-18T09:37:53.330-05:00

Congratulations to Chuck Brudtkuhl and Doug Jansen, Flotilla 4's newest Vessel Examiners! They both completed the Vessel Examiner Course and their trainee Vessel Safety Checks and have been approved by the Coast Guard to complete Vessel Safety Checks!

Flotilla 4, Des Moines, Iowahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00268850912522553296noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7755884126368445716.post-78334283714307568222009-05-15T09:26:00.004-05:002009-05-15T09:34:19.645-05:00

May 16-22 is National Safe Boating Week this year and Flotilla 4 has a variety of events planned to kick off the boating season."Spring into Safe Boating” is scheduled for May 17th at Saylorville Lake in conjunction with National Safe Boating Week. The event will consist of Vessel Safety Inspections by the United States Coast Guard Auxiliary and WS games by the US Army Corps of Engineers and the

Flotilla 4, Des Moines, Iowahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00268850912522553296noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7755884126368445716.post-47208705172110595522009-05-14T15:08:00.000-05:002009-05-15T15:19:00.619-05:00

Many leaders from the Iowa National Guard first became aware of the existence of the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary when we were providing protection for the public at the scene of the spillway to Saylorville Dam which they happened to pass on their way to the Joint Forces Headquarters. Later they saw us again when we helped staff the State Emergency Operations Center with LTJG Townsend from Sector

Flotilla 4, Des Moines, Iowahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00268850912522553296noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7755884126368445716.post-25107297043948878392009-04-29T08:27:00.005-05:002009-04-29T09:00:30.263-05:00

Brandon Butters enters the water for his PFD Swim. Brandon demonstrated how a manual inflating PFD works for the group.(U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary Photo / photo by Doug Jansen) The group of boat crew member trainees float for fifteen minutes during their training. (Left to right) Phil Patterson, Wendy Faganel, John Halbrook, Chuck Brudtkuhl, Brandon Butters, and John Hawkinson)(U.S. Coast Guard

Flotilla 4, Des Moines, Iowahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00268850912522553296noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7755884126368445716.post-78025833265558797602009-04-15T10:19:00.005-05:002009-04-15T10:31:37.794-05:00

Auxilarists Wendy Faganel (above) and Phil Patterson (below) paint the yellow base for a "Life Jacket Zone" sign at Big Creek State Park.(U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary Photo / photo by Suzanne Tomlinson)The Iowa Department of Natural Resources and the United States Coast Guard Auxiliary have partnered in a program to increase public awareness of boating safety. This spring, signs are being painted

Flotilla 4, Des Moines, Iowahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00268850912522553296noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7755884126368445716.post-4987000541959351272009-04-15T09:34:00.003-05:002009-04-15T09:52:48.888-05:00

The April edition of Above Board is available at http://www.flotilla4.org/newsletter.htmThis month's newsletter has articles about the North Dakota Flooding, John Hawkinson's completion of the AUX-10 Course in California, and members receiving the Coast Guard Meritorious Team Commendation Award.Thank you to all of our contributors who made this month's edition possible.The submission deadline for

Flotilla 4, Des Moines, Iowahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00268850912522553296noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7755884126368445716.post-84392777367620175092009-04-08T11:48:00.002-05:002009-04-08T11:53:35.793-05:00

This weekend members of Flotilla 4 will hit the road to begin a water safety project with the Iowa Department of Natural Resources. These Auxilarists and DNR personnel will travel to various state boat ramps throughout Central Iowa to help paint stencils onto the ramps to encourage boaters that they are entering a “life jacket zone.” "As part of this state-wide project, there are approximately

Flotilla 4, Des Moines, Iowahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00268850912522553296noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7755884126368445716.post-20700880766235947342009-04-07T16:10:00.002-05:002009-04-07T16:15:36.573-05:00

John Hawkinson showing a fellow Auxiliarist how to set up a “field query” in Oracle during the AUX-10 Course in Alameda, CA.(U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary Flotilla 085-33-04 photo / Photo by Mr. Harry McBain, ADSO-PAP, Division 11N)Flotilla 4 member John Hawkinson attended the Coast Guard Auxiliary AUX-10 course at Coast Guard Island in Alameda, CA. The course is designed to take new staff officers

Flotilla 4, Des Moines, Iowahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00268850912522553296noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7755884126368445716.post-65916048963527470392009-04-02T20:47:00.002-05:002009-04-02T21:27:37.780-05:00

With water temperatures raising our crews will soon be hitting the water.  As we prepare for the upcoming season we have realized that many of us have "Wintered Well".  In order to combat these added pounds our Flotilla Commander has challenged us.  The challenge is to meet the active duty PT standards for our age and sex.  This means that we are hitting the gym, and in the next few months we

John Halbrooknoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7755884126368445716.post-41479959458350242932009-04-02T09:12:00.007-05:002009-04-29T08:22:29.574-05:00

From the U.S. Coast Guard:MARVIN, N.D. – Airboat crews from U.S. Coast Guard Station Sturgeon Bay, Wis., and the Fish and Wildlife Department, working with the Grand Forks Sheriffs Department, rescue a stranded man April, 1, 2009, from a home surrounded by flood waters. The man had been helping build dikes around his son’s home when flood waters from the Red River Valley left him trapped, unable

Flotilla 4, Des Moines, Iowahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00268850912522553296noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7755884126368445716.post-50934146766041290182009-04-01T11:08:00.002-05:002009-04-02T09:09:49.961-05:00

“As an Auxilarist, I would like to be deployed to augment the Coast Guard for a mission. What are some things that I should know? “ This is a question we have heard this week and thought we might address.This week our three deployed Auxilarists from Flotilla 4 have learned a lot of lessons. They have sent back information to us here and given some advice.Augmentation is a privilege. Remember that

Flotilla 4, Des Moines, Iowahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00268850912522553296noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7755884126368445716.post-23064112699008030142009-04-01T09:22:00.003-05:002009-04-01T09:28:22.312-05:00

From the U.S. Coast Guard:by Petty Officer 3rd Class Erik Swanson, 11th District Public AffairsFARGO, N.D. - As the workhorses of the Red River flood search and rescue operations, U.S. Coast Guard and the North Dakota Department of Fish and Wildlife airboats coast through the neighborhoods and business districts devastated by record flooding of the Red River. The rescue boat crews move swiftly

Flotilla 4, Des Moines, Iowahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00268850912522553296noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7755884126368445716.post-78039995782247233432009-04-01T09:00:00.000-05:002009-04-01T09:41:08.572-05:00

This is a great story about the aircrews and swimmers that go into the worst conditions to rescue people, just like they are doing up along the Red River in North Dakota.

Flotilla 4, Des Moines, Iowahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00268850912522553296noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7755884126368445716.post-29277007750420467952009-03-31T10:09:00.005-05:002009-03-31T10:20:11.895-05:00

Our deployed Auxilarists are back at it again for another day of hard work with the U.S. Coast Guard.Trevor Henderson is at the North Dakota State Emergency Operations Center (SEOC) working with the Coast Guard. The Coast Guard has brought a tremendous amount of assets to help North Dakota and Minnesota and Trevor gets to see it first hand.Jeff Towle is back at the Minnesota SEOC working with the

Flotilla 4, Des Moines, Iowahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00268850912522553296noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7755884126368445716.post-44279809432878698522009-03-31T10:00:00.000-05:002009-03-31T10:47:23.766-05:00

A boat that you would normally not see this year in Fargo, ND is playing a major role in the operation; the air boat. The Coast Guard is using airboats all over the flooded area because of their ability to float on water or ice. We have seen many pictures this week of our brave Guardians and the airboats that have been doing a lot of the hard work in the flood relief mission.FARGO, N.D. – Petty

Flotilla 4, Des Moines, Iowahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00268850912522553296noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7755884126368445716.post-2842370218104271902009-03-31T07:31:00.002-05:002009-03-31T07:36:18.958-05:00

From Coast Guard Commandant Thad Allen:Coast Guard Supports Local RespondersOriginally uploaded by uscgpressIn light of our current support to flood rescue operations in North Dakota we have received queries that prompted me to share some insights on the Coast Guard's roles and authorities in civil support.The Coast Guard's core roles are to protect the public, the environment, and U.S. economic

Flotilla 4, Des Moines, Iowahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00268850912522553296noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7755884126368445716.post-57294488615610606782009-03-31T07:27:00.002-05:002009-03-31T07:30:10.048-05:00

From the U.S. Coast Guard:ALAMEDA, Calif. - Coast Guard crews from Air Station Sacramento transported five dewatering pumps, pipes, and connectors from Casper, Wyo. to Fargo, N.D., March 27-29, 2009. The two crews departed the air station aboard a Coast Guard C-130 cargo plane Friday morning. Once in Casper, the crews loaded the flood-control equipment onto the aircraft and transported it to

Flotilla 4, Des Moines, Iowahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00268850912522553296noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7755884126368445716.post-3931678426754287592009-03-30T18:57:00.004-05:002009-03-30T19:06:07.299-05:00

From the U.S. Coast Guard:FARGO, N.D. -- Coast Guard crews recorded their 95th rescue today, March 30, 2009, after 6 days of flood response operations along the Red River.The Coast Guard has become increasingly concerned with the number of recreational boaters attempting to transit the dangerous flood waters and has established a safety zone on the Red River from Wahpeton to Pembina that began

Flotilla 4, Des Moines, Iowahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00268850912522553296noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7755884126368445716.post-77244156790451803052009-03-30T09:11:00.004-05:002009-03-30T09:23:15.900-05:00

With the deployment of Auxilarists near the Red River we have received a lot of inquires about the Coast Guard Auxiliary. Most of them center on the fact that most people do not know that their is, in fact, a Coast Guard presence in Central Iowa. First, the Coast Guard Auxiliary is the uniformed volunteer component of the United States Coast Guard. Created by an Act of Congress in 1939, the

Flotilla 4, Des Moines, Iowahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00268850912522553296noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7755884126368445716.post-3025792008885043432009-03-29T23:08:00.003-05:002009-03-29T23:21:29.020-05:00

From the U.S. Coast Guard:FARGO, N.D. -- As of March 29, 2009, Coast Guard crews have rescued 93 people since the commencement of flood response operations along the Red River on March 25. Today, Coast Guard air boats crews are conducting welfare checks of residents in areas isolated by the flood waters to confirm they are not in need of assistance. Those who do need help are being evacuated to

Flotilla 4, Des Moines, Iowahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00268850912522553296noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7755884126368445716.post-29665842659825658312009-03-29T21:42:00.006-05:002009-03-29T22:08:53.481-05:00

After another long day of operation our deployed team has reported back as bad weather is expected over the next 24 hours. Trevor Henderson spent today working alongside the Coast Guard in the North Dakota State EOC. It was another busy day full of operations and coordination. He has been excited to be able to work with the ground assets and air assets of the Coast Guard. He is very impressed by

Flotilla 4, Des Moines, Iowahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00268850912522553296noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7755884126368445716.post-5846235588597166862009-03-29T20:45:00.000-05:002009-03-29T21:50:10.298-05:00

From the U.S. Coast Guard:FARGO, N.D. -- The Coast Guard has established a safety zone on the Red River from Wahpeton to Pembina beginning Sunday, March 29, 2009.All vessel traffic including canoes are restricted from transitting the Red River except for search and rescue and law enforcement vessels due to safety concerns and flooding. This order was placed in effect at 4:30 p.m. today by the

Flotilla 4, Des Moines, Iowahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00268850912522553296noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7755884126368445716.post-15404053984455874522009-03-28T19:44:00.004-05:002009-03-29T10:17:08.921-05:00

As today winds down our deployed Auxilarists have reported back on their experience. Trevor Henderson spent today working alongside the Coast Guard in Bismarck, ND. It was a busy day and he was glad to be of service to help with flood relief operation. Jeff Towle served at the Minnesota State EOC in St. Paul, MN. He said it was a busy day and was he learning how the operation there worked. He is

Flotilla 4, Des Moines, Iowahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00268850912522553296noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7755884126368445716.post-76209783101274725782009-03-28T19:05:00.001-05:002009-03-28T19:10:00.551-05:00

FARGO, N.D. -- Coast Guard crews rescued 3 adults and one dog today, March 28. This brings a total of 85 people, 14 dogs, 14 cats and 3 birds rescued from the flood waters in 4 days of operations along the Red River."In this response, our primary mission is to save and protect the lives of those affected by the flooding," said Capt. Steve Hudson, commander of Sector Upper Mississippi River. "The

Flotilla 4, Des Moines, Iowahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00268850912522553296noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7755884126368445716.post-50638885755851473162009-03-28T16:28:00.001-05:002009-03-28T16:29:15.832-05:00

Division 11 in Minnesota has a blog up regarding their flooding response at http://missions.8wrdiv11.org/

Flotilla 4, Des Moines, Iowahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00268850912522553296noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7755884126368445716.post-38755849177389537702009-03-28T15:48:00.002-05:002009-03-28T16:02:26.997-05:00

U.S. Coast Guard AuxiliaryFlotilla 085-33-04Public AffairsPRESS RELEASEDate: March 28, 2009Contact: Doug JansenPublic Affairs Officer515-291-9625djansen@flotilla4.orghttp://www.flotilla4.orgCentral Iowa Coast Guard Auxiliary Members Deployed For Flood ReliefDes Moines, Iowa - Three local members of the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary have been deployed by the Coast Guard to North Dakota and Minnesota

Flotilla 4, Des Moines, Iowahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00268850912522553296noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7755884126368445716.post-15150716467529350572009-03-28T13:00:00.002-05:002009-03-28T13:54:59.183-05:00

From the United States Coast Guard:FARGO, N.D. -- On the third day of rescue operations, Friday, March 27, 2009, Coast Guard rescue airboat crews rescued 10 people from rising flood waters, for a three-day total of 82 people rescued. In addition to the people rescued, the Coast Guard crews have also rescued approximately 13 dogs, 14 cats and 2 bird.Video of Friday, March 27, 2009 rescues can be

Flotilla 4, Des Moines, Iowahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00268850912522553296noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7755884126368445716.post-44825324523814621232009-03-27T19:03:00.002-05:002009-03-27T19:13:10.308-05:00

Today orders were issued for three members of Flotilla 4 to deploy to North Dakota and Minnesota to help augment the Coast Guard at Emergency Operations Centers (EOCs). Trevor Henderson is deploying to North Dakota. Jeff Towle and Nick Critelli are deploying to Minnesota. They will help augment Coast Guard personnel who will liaison with local and state officials to help with the response to

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After attending the Iowa National Guard Change of Command, Captain Hudson was able to meet members of Flotilla 4 who helped during the flood response in 2008. He praised them for the good job that they did supporting the Coast Guard mission and hopes they continue to serve their community.

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Captain Hudson(Photo Courtesy of the U.S. Coast Guard)Captain Steve Hudson was in Central Iowa this week to attend the Change of Command Ceremony for the Iowa National Guard. The Iowa National Guard was pleasantly surprised to have the Coast Guard represented at this event. Captain Hudson was able to meet with new Iowa Adjutant General, Brigadier General Orr. He was also able to meet Colonel

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From the Coast Guard Public Affairs website:FARGO, N.D. -- On the second day of rescue operations here, Thursday, March 26, 2009, Coast Guard rescue airboat and helicopter crews rescued 48 people from rising flood waters, for a two-day total of 72 people rescued.An HH-65C Dolphin rescue helicopter and crew from Air Station Traverse City, Mich., rescued 15 people, including a family of three and

Flotilla 4, Des Moines, Iowahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00268850912522553296noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7755884126368445716.post-8874929365711165772009-03-26T08:53:00.003-05:002009-03-26T09:03:20.446-05:00

As information comes out our members, and the public are hungry for information on the Coast Guard Response to the flooding in North Dakota. Two sites have good information so far.One is the iCommandant Blog provided by Admiral Allen:http://www.uscg.mil/comdt/blog/Another is the USCG Floodwatch 2009 site:http://www.uscgfloodwatch.com/go/site/1769/OXBOW, N.D. - In this photo by the U.S. Coast

Flotilla 4, Des Moines, Iowahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00268850912522553296noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7755884126368445716.post-44933935785824128302009-03-25T09:00:00.000-05:002009-03-25T14:43:48.746-05:00

Tuesday evening members of Flotilla 4 gathered to finish up work on the Lady Grace for the operational season. Travis Daniels, Paul Faganel, Phil Patterson, and John Halbrook put the finishing touches on the boat to prepare it to go in the water soon.

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Flotilla 4 was represented at the Division 33 Awards Dinner by Norma and Roland Newton, Ralph and Suzanne Tomlinson, and Trevor Henderson.Leading off the awards for the night, Division 33 Commander Jean Goble began the evening with recognition of the National Water Safety Congress Award of Merit that will be presented to Flotilla 4 in April.Flotilla 4 members who took part in the Des Moines River

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In conjunction with the Corps of Engineers, Flotilla 4 will be conducting the Iowa Boater Education Course on May 18-20, 2009 from 6:00 to 8:30 pm. This is during National Safet Boating Week. This safe boating course lets you get your Iowa boating safety certification card so that you can comply with Iowa boater education law.Students must attend all three sessions for certification. To

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Phil Patterson practices handling a line on the Lady Grace during Boat Crew Training in March.Members of the flotilla are continuing their training to prepare them for qualification as boat crew members. On March 14th members practiced knot tying and line handling procedures. Drills were conducted practicing different towing, man overboard, and anchor evolutions.Instructors Jeff Towle and

Flotilla 4, Des Moines, Iowahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00268850912522553296noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7755884126368445716.post-50307548627680492222009-03-17T15:30:00.002-05:002009-03-20T16:42:09.581-05:00

Chuck Brudtkuhl solders a coax connection to prepare a radio on the Lady GraceOn March 15th more work was done on the Lady Grace to prepare it to become a Coast Guard Auxiliary Facility. Flotation devices, lines, tow equipment, lights, radios, GPS, and odds and ends in between have been added to the 23' center console boat to prepare her for service. Just a wash and a coat of wax and she will

Flotilla 4, Des Moines, Iowahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00268850912522553296noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7755884126368445716.post-73901303007487446212009-03-14T11:09:00.001-05:002009-03-16T11:16:29.775-05:00

Flotilla 4 is now on Twitter (search for flotilla4). Twitter is a social media application that allows users to share information through quick, frequent status updates to let others know what you are doing.

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John Hawkinson, Flotilla Staff Officer for Information Systems, will soon be leaving for Alameda, California for the Coast Guard Auxiliary Information Systems (AUXDATA/AUXINFO) Staff Training. This program is designed to provide district, division and flotilla information systems personnel with the knowledge, skills, and abilities to exercise responsibility for all matters pertaining to the

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The March edition of Above Board is now available at www.flotilla4.org/newsletter.This month we increased the size of our newsletter to six pages full of news and information. This month's article features the 8th Western Rivers District Spring Conference, a patrol in Florida with Gene Kellogg, and an update on the Lady Grace.

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Eight members of Flotilla 4 travelled to the 8th Western Rivers District Spring Conference in Peoria, IL. This two day event focused on changes to the Coast Guard Auxiliary and continuing education.Friday’s activities focused on presentation by various Coast Guard and Coast Guard Auxiliary leadership.Saturday had a variety of breakout sessions focusing on a wide variety of topics. Annual

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