4-8 celebrates 25th anniversary Twenty-five years ago, 18 volunteers came together and formed Flotilla 4-8, an official unit of the United States Coast Guard Auxiliary. They were chartered in Kendall on September 24, 1978. Throughout its 25-year history, members of the Flotilla 4-8 have dedicated their time and energies to public safety through various activities. They perform voluntary safety patrols for the Coast Guard Station to assist boaters in trouble. From conducting education classes in boating skill and seamanship, young boater education and aids to navigation classes, the volunteers are dedicated to educating the public. Vessel examinations and safety checks are performed free of charge. Career counseling has also been offered at high school and college fairs. Commander Richard Myrick, who has been in charge for the past two years and has been a member of the Flotilla since 1996, said the Flotilla is a necessary arm of the Coast Guard operations. "We are the lowest level of the Coast Guard structure but we provide a high level of support for them," he said. The group was originally known as the Eagle Creek Flotilla but are now known as the Hamlin Beach Flotilla - because of their location. "The reason the Flotilla was originally formed was to assist the coast guard in their non-law enforcement missions," Myrick explained. "The reason for our longevity is because we have a unique group of dedicated members who all believe we are performing a very important function." Myrick added the group's direct purpose is not to be a social organization but to pursue and fulfill the specific goals they have set for themselves in supporting the Coast Guard. There are presently 52 members and over the course of the Flotilla's history, it has been home to close to 200 members. "Our membership is growing all the time," he said. Qualifications for membership include the desire to be part of a worthwhile organization, a sincere interest in serving the public and members must be at least 17 years old, he said. A ceremony celebrating the Flotilla's 25th anniversary will be held at the west end of Hamlin Beach State Park on September 21 beginning at 4 p.m. Congresswoman Louise Slaughter and Senator George Maziarz and Hamlin Supervisor Austin Warner will be speaking at the ceremony. Information on becoming a member may be directed to Roger Howlett at 964-2551. |
