Dixie on parade.

Flotilla 44 had no idea what they were about to get into when Dixie, a 6-year-old Rottweiler-German Shepherd, joined the Flotilla along with her owner Wayne Reznik. Dixie attended her first meeting and introduced herself as the new flotilla mascot. Everyone, including the Flotilla Commander, had their hearts stolen and accepted her immediately.

Dixie was the runt of the litter and now weighs only 60 pounds. She is the kindest gentlest dog you will ever meet. If you take two seconds out of your day to pet her on top of the head she’ll be your best friend. But don’t you dare stop. She’ll gently nudge your hand with her nose and give you those big puppy eyes until you continue petting her.

Dixie loves the water, boats, and fishing. When Dixie is on a boat or walking around the marina, she wears her DFD (Dog Flotation Device). When heading out for a day of fun on the water you cannot help but notice the crowd of local kids running along the dock screaming to one another, “Look at the dog with the life jacket on!”

This happened numerous times and sparked an idea in Wayne’s head. Wayne went to the pet store to purchase an orange colored DFD and then he sewed on Auxiliary Patches and nametapes.

Dixie, now sporting her new “CGAUX DFD,” made her first rounds through a flotilla meeting. Everyone instantly fell in love with her. She was officially welcomed as our Flotilla Mascot.

Dixie sends her message.

Dixie then began attending the local boat shows. Patrons, vendors, and even the show coordinators loved Dixie. She would literally get lost on the bottom of a pile of kids and adults alike. But no doubt, she loved every second of it.

Dixie’s roles have increased. She assists in public boating courses during the personal safety equipment portion of the class. She makes rounds showing off her DFD. This has sparked students to ask more questions about PFDs for themselves, children, and pets.

Dixie even marches in parades with Flotilla 44. She proudly walks the entire parade route, which can be over 2 miles long. She marches side by side with the other members.

Dixie even has a small fan club. During a stop in one parade, a crowd of kids came running up to Dixie screaming her name. One of the kids was telling a parent, which had been literally dragged over, “I know Dixie from the boat show.” When the parade started to resume, they gave Dixie one last pat on top of her head, and ran back to the sidewalk screaming, “Goodbye Dixie.”

Dixie not only serves as the Flotilla 44 mascot, she also assists in public affairs, vessel safety checks, marine visits and public education. Her next step will be to qualify for crew!

Editor’s note: Auxiliarist Reznik is also a member of the active duty Coast Guard, currently serving aboard the USCG Cutter Katherine Walker (WLM 552) stationed in Bayonne, NJ.

Dixie and admirer.

Dixie sets an example.

Dixie