COMO Folkerts and RADM Olson with Member Cert

District 17 has discovered that recruiting Auxiliary members from the active duty Coast Guard has definite benefits. Not only does it bring varied experience to our ranks, but it can also strengthen the relationship with our parent organization.

One of the newest members of the District 17 Coast Guard Auxiliary in Alaska was sworn in by District Commodore Michael R. Folkerts at the Annual Awards Banquet held during the 2006 District Conference in February. The Juneau Flotilla's newest member comes to us with just a "little bit of experience."

He is Rear Admiral (RADM) James C. Olson, Commander, District 17 United States Coast Guard. After being sworn in, he commented that he joined to primarily participate in the operations program... more specifically the personal watercraft program. The orientation ride last summer must have made an impression. Patricia Olson, RADM Olsen's wife, joined the Juneau Flotilla just over a year ago and has already earned the certification as Personal Watercraft Operator. A 30-year veteran of the Coast Guard and a strong supporter of the Auxiliary in his active duty career, RADM Olson will be a valuable asset as an Auxiliarist.

As we welcome him to our ranks, we will regrettably have to say goodbye to him in District 17 as he retires from the Coast Guard this year. His "career" with the Coast Guard Auxiliary, however, is just beginning!