NACON 2008 Coast Guard Awards

Awards

Mr. GROOMS is cited for outstanding achievement while serving as Chief, Information Technology Department from November 2006 to August 2008. As the Auxiliary’s Chief Information Officer, Mr. GROOMS oversaw significant development and modernization of Auxiliary information systems. Employing superior technical and system design skill, he coordinated the installation of new servers, application of increased bandwidth for system transmissions, and negotiation of new equipment contracts that strategically positioned the Auxiliary to accommodate future technological expansion. Under Mr. GROOMS’ ardent leadership and direction, the Information Technology Department developed a new web-based interactive program to track and report all National staff officers including automated organizational charts. This innovative information system eliminated manual updates of staff officer assignments and the need to mail associated change notices thereby saving the Auxiliary considerable printing and mailing costs. Demonstrating exceptional commitment to professional development and member training, he adroitly managed two information technology C-schools, created new student and instructor manuals, and enhanced the Auxiliary’s e-Directory’s ability to protect personally identifiable information. Mr. GROOMS’ dedication, judgment, and devotion to duty are most heartily commended and are in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Coast Guard and the United States Coast Guard Auxiliary.