ALAUX 019/26; 2025 AUXILIARY FLOTILLA OF THE YEAR – USCG AUXILIARY EAST DISTRICT NORTHERN REGION

1. I am pleased to announce National Commodore Mary Kirkwood’s selection of the Northeast District – Southern Region’s Flotilla 10-13 (Wyckoff, NJ Flotilla) as the 2025 Auxiliary Flotilla of the Year. This prestigious award is a testament to the flotilla’s outstanding dedication, professionalism, and service.

2. Flotilla 10-13 demonstrated exceptional commitment to Auxiliary missions, particularly in the realm of Recreational Boating Safety (RBS). Their tireless efforts made waterways safer for everyone and set the standard for other flotillas to emulate.

3. The flotilla’s 65 members performed over 30,175 mission hours in 2025, with every single member logging hours in support of Auxiliary missions. This remarkable 100% participation rate underscored the flotilla’s collective spirit and dedication. They excelled in all areas, from public education and vessel safety to operational support and community engagement. Their achievements were nothing short of extraordinary, highlighted by the following:

45 members exceeded 100 hours of activity and mission support, eight members exceeded 1,000 hours, and two members exceeded 2,000 hours.
Recruited and extensively trained 13 new members.
Conducted 1,607 Vessel Safety Checks (VSC), including 346 power vessel VSCs and 1,261 paddle craft VSCs.
Conducted over 870 mission hours in visiting 2,099 marine dealer and RBS partner locations to distribute boating safety information.
Graduated 492 students across a wide range of public education courses including “Boat America,” “Weekend Navigator,” and various youth and paddling classes.
Devoted 509 hours to public affairs events, promoting boating safety within the community.
Conducted 121 operational patrols, totaling 1,897 hours.
Successfully executed 23 Search and Rescue (SAR) cases, assisting 91 boaters and saving over $200,000 in property.
Provided on-water support for numerous events, including Fleet Week in New York Harbor and the New York City Marathon.
Performed 740 hours of member training to ensure high levels of qualification and readiness.
Actively supported community events such as the “Toys for Tots” campaign and “Operation Holiday Cheer” for Coast Guard recruits.
Represented the Auxiliary at several public events, including the New York Boat Show and local memorial ceremonies.

4. Please join me in congratulating the members of Flotilla 10-13 for this well-deserved honor. Their devoted service is an inspiration to us all! Commodore Kirkwood will formally recognize Flotilla 10-13 in person at its monthly meeting in June.

5. Internet release is authorized.

Sincerely,

Brent R. Schmadeke
Captain, U.S. Coast Guard
Chief, Office of Auxiliary and Boating Safety (CG-BSX)