The Commandant of the Coast Guard
takes great pleasure in presenting the
COAST GUARD MERITORIOUS TEAM COMMENDATION to:
2004 INTERNATIONAL SEARCH AND RESCUE
COMPETITION COMMITTEE AND SUPPORT TEAM


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For service as set forth in the following:

CITATION

"For meritorious service from October 2002 to November 2004, while serving as a member of the 2004 International Search and Rescue (ISAR) Competition Committee and Support Team. The ISAR Committee and Support Team spent countless hours professionally planning and executing the highly successful international competition held in Portsmouth, Virginia, from 4 through 6 November. Reflecting true Coast Guard spirit, U. S. and Canadian Coast Guard Auxiliarists worked hand-in-hand with their active duty counterparts to plan and execute this annual SAR skills competition. The members' coordination of the multitude of organizations that participated in this event was truly noteworthy. The Team skillfully planned, conducted and judged competition events, arranged media coverage, provided security and transportation, made arrangements for accommodations, and provided logistical, fundraising, and support services. They collaborated with the City of Portsmouth to organize a "Welcome ISAR Parade," adding to the community spirit of this event. Additionally, they employed Atlantic Area and Fifth District Coast Guard cutters as a backdrop, providing an exceptional public affairs opportunity, and the chance to interact with the crews. This greatly enhanced the public's awareness of the Coast Guard's multi-missions, and further emphasized the importance of our auxiliary partnerships. The professionalism, enthusiasm, and attention to detail were evident from the memorable Opening Ceremony, and through the spirited competition, Fun Night, Awards Banquet and culminated with a moving Wreath Laying Ceremony. The Commissioner of the Canadian Coast Guard, the Commanders of USCG Atlantic Area and Fifth District, as well as the senior international, commercial, and volunteer organizations repeatedly praised the competition for its focus on building camaraderie and technical expertise among neighboring SAR responders. Equally important, the hundreds of contestants and attendees gained a greater appreciation for the Coast Guard and Coast Guard Auxiliary. The dedication, pride, and professionalism displayed by the 2004 International Search and Rescue Competition Committee and Support Team reflect great credit upon themselves, their team, and the United States and Canadian Coast Guards and their Auxiliaries."

For the Commandant,

SALLY BRICE-O'HARA
Rear Admiral, U.S. Coast Guard
Commander, Fifth Coast Guard District

COMO Tucker and CDR Contratto accepting for the team.