An Update from LANTAREA
Since assuming the watch as the Atlantic Area Reserve Command Master Chief in November, I have been visiting units both domestically and overseas. It is reassuring to know that such professionals stand the watch throughout the world. I am still amazed whenever I run across a shipmate at a location where you would least expect to see a familiar face. In December, I also had the privilege to attend the change of watch and retirement ceremony for the Reserve Force Master Chief. Best wishes to Master Chief and Mrs. Ingraham as they close out another chapter in their journey. I look forward to working closely with Master Chief Smith as the fourth Reserve Force Master Chief and with the exceptional cadre of Command Master Chiefs, both active and reserve. I am proud to have this opportunity to represent an enlisted work force second to none and look forward to crossing paths with as many Coasties as possible.
As I write this article, reservists continue to answer the call to duty throughout the Coast Guard. For many, this may be their third or fourth recall to active duty. Some challenges may surface from time to time as reservists transition to and from active duty. An extremely valuable resource to help with these and other challenges is your Command Chief, Senior Chief or Master Chief. For enlisted personnel, these members of the Chiefs’ community are your first line advocates, and I ask that you keep them in mind and informed when routing issues and recommendations through the chain of command.
This “Silver Badge” network consists of Chiefs, Senior Chiefs and Master Chiefs assigned the collateral duty as the senior enlisted advisor to the command. In general these individuals advise and consult with the commanding officer on the impact of existing or proposed policy changes and potential situations that can effect the morale and general well-being of Coast Guard personnel and their families. Command chiefs are critical in promoting balance between workforce needs and command goals. Accessible to all crewmembers and their dependents, command chiefs encourage communications affecting personnel and mission accomplishment. In addition, command chiefs network with other resources to resolve unit-level problems and concerns. Working separate from the chain of command, command chiefs report directly to their commanding officers. When necessary, they may communicate directly with their respective Commandant-designated Command Master Chief (“Gold Badge”). I assure you that many such professionals are dedicated to resolving issues brought to their attention. For additional information about the Command Master Chief Program refer to Commandant Instruction 1306.1A.
In addition to the sacrifices made by the recalled member in uniform, often this is the third or fourth time families have made sacrifices to support their loved one’s service to our country. Another resource critical to the success of any unit is the Ombudsman. These valuable resources are volunteer spouses designated by and responsible to the command. Ombudsmen have available to them numerous training opportunities, resources and command support to assist them in helping Coast Guard families. Spouses serving in this position assist families by passing along key information pertaining to military families, providing information about a variety of organizations and programs to assist military families and keeping families informed about unit schedules and events. The Ombudsman also serves as an advisor to the commanding officer — someone who can keep up with the concerns of families. For those seeking guidance about particular problems, the Ombudsman attempts to find the best resources possible to assist the individual or the family. I encourage everyone to seek out your Ombudsman, contact them in time of need, get on the phone tree and/or e-mail list and make sure that the Command and your Ombudsman have your correct mailing address and phone number. For more information about this invaluable program go to the Work Life web page at http://www.uscg.mil/hq/g-w/g-wk/g-wkw/worklife/ombudsman.htm
I am extremely optimistic about the future of the Coast Guard and the Reserve program. Across all services, reservists are more integral to our nation’s security than ever before. Remember the dedicated people that serve as Ombudsmen and Command Chiefs, Senior Chiefs and Master Chiefs. As the service with the smallest Reserve force, I challenge everyone to continue demonstrating the initiative, judgment and moral courage required to perform our missions. I thank each of you and your families for your patience, dedication and sacrifice. I look forward to this tour as the Atlantic Area Reserve Command Master Chief and to being one of your representatives and advocates.
Stay safe and Semper Paratus.
USCGR
Reserve Command Master Chief, LANTAREA
"I am extremely optimistic about the future of the Coast Guard and the Reserve program. Across all services, reservists are more integral to our nation’s security than ever before. "