The U.S. Coast Guard A Part Of Our Lives

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PRACTICE MAKES PERFECT for Coast Guard small boats and helicopters practicing rescue maneuvers for the up-coming boating season.

The presence of the United States Coast Guard looms large in the lives of Cape May County residents. A major training and operations facility in Cape May; other installations around the county; search, rescue and assistance for boaters and fishermen; maintenance of mariners' aids in the ocean and bay; and much more. But more than anything else, the Coast Guard is people: thousands of service personnel and their families who come to our county - many to stay or later return - who make their contribution to us and become part of us. These photos suggest in small part the varieties of relationship that exist between Cape May County and the United States Coast Guard.

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rescue casks.

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APPRECIATION AWARD-Lieutenant Commander J.C. Griggs. Regimental Branch Chief at Coast Guard Training Center. Cape May. presents letters of appreciation to Fireman Apprentice Todd R. Streeter (18) (left). Seaman Apprentice John T. Monahan (17). and Seaman Apprentice James B. Derrico (19). While on liberty on March 31st, and touring the Wildwood boardwalk the thfee Coast Guardsmen saw two young men being viciously assaulted by seven men. Without ft hesitation the three men rushed to give assistance and to administer first-aid to the young victims. -rw.., n.. v.i.n*. Retires From CG A 24 Yr. Veteran

Many at the U.S. Coast Guard Training Center were honored recently in observing the retirement ceremonies of Chief Boatswains Mate Jesse C. Smith on March 30th. Chief Smith, a recruit Company Commander, concluded his career with the graduation of his final company, Golf 103. Chief Smith’s career began on September 22, 1955, when he enlisted in the Coast Guard. Up until 1970, when he reported to the Training Center, he served at various small boat stations and on board various vessels, including the CGC CHINOOK and the CGC CHEROKEE out of Baltimore and New Orleans respectively. Since reporting to the Training Center. Chief Smith has guided thirty two companies totaling over 1,575 recruits. When asked about his experience as a Company Commander he replied, “I feel that training recruits is the most important job in the Coast Guard. Because without proper training many of the other missions could not be carried out

with the efficiency that is needed.” When asked what wise words he could give to the nev/ recruit, he con-

tinued in saying that, "a proper attitude is the key to success in the Coast Guard."

COMMANDER H.J. MIU.OY. Executive Officer of the Coast Guard Training Center. Cape May. N.J., presents the retirement plaque and congratulates Chief Boatswains Mate Jesse C. Smith after 23 years of service in the Coast Guard. -U.S. Co«*t G«ord W»«o by K*vtn MmM