To all CGA hands...

[Dene]

This post is in reference to the Coast Guard Auxiliary. Recently, my 22' Campion was approved as an operational facility. It's an ideal CGA boat. Cruises 25 mph at 3-4 mpg. All weather. Etc...etc. Very similar to a 22' C-Dory.

But there could be a problem. The Division Ops guy shows zero interest in using my boat, even though there is a shortage of available boats. He and I have locked horns before. I perceive him as one of these guys who needs to have his ego massaged and I'm not one to do it. Consequently, he may be blackballing me.

Being that I'm fairly new in the organization, shortly to be crew qualified, what advice would you give me that appropriately addresses the problem if my perception proves to be reality. My first step will to talk to him directly. If that fails, what then? I truly joined to serve Country and fellow boaters. I despise politics and ass-kissing. I hope that's not the norm within the Auxiliary.

-Greg

[Steven Dore]

If you can't get any satisfaction from the Division Ops Officer, I would speak to the Division Captain or the District Ops Officer and explain your concerns.

Steve

[wdbrush]

Greg,

I'll second Steve's reply. Use your chain of leadership, be polite and professional, and you should have no worries. Overall my experience in the Auxiliary has been very positive.

We do have the occassional challenging personality to work around, but for the most part things have gone really well.

All the best to you, and don't give up! We need people who are motivated and sincere to stick around and make things better.

-Bill

[Dene]

Thanks! You have no idea how reassuring this was to read these posts. I've been in disfunctional organizations and churches where accountability was limited or non-existent. That's an experience not worth repeating.

-Greg

[ffheap]

Find somebody who is Coxswain with out a boat. Let him or her get your OPFAC on the water.

Fred