The Auxiliary Manual M16790.1E describes the Flotillas, “This level is the basic Auxiliary organizational unit and working level which translates programs into action.” To accomplish the above definition the Flotilla must have the information from the higher organizational levels. New information such as directives, new programs, and changes that occur must be passed quickly through the chain of command so that the necessary action can be accomplished.

Fortunately we have many forms of communications, for example, radios, television, computers(websites,email) and of course telephones. So in analysis we have many ways to communicate. The necessity for writing this article is not because we are not aware of the types of communications we have, the question is are they being utilized so our counterparts are receiving the newest information quickly?

I had the pleasure of sitting in a division meeting that was a well run and or ganized. I was particularly interested in the communications report. The report consisted of what was transpiring in the division area. Nothing was mentioned in regard to the new PEN/INK changes in the OPERATIONS POLICY MANUAL M16798.3 series, and the Memorandum of Understanding signed by the COAST GUARD/DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION (FEDERAL HIGHWAY ADMINISTRATION)/ AUXILIARY. At the Flotilla meeting none of the above were discussed in the communications report. This was to be expected, how would the Flotilla know about situations that the division was not aware of? Without the Flotilla radios the Federal highway program would not be successful.

We in National, for the first time, have the good fortune of having all of our DSO/CMS on email. This should expedite that all new material will be forwarded to them very rapidly. This in turn should make communications of new material more of a reality to their counterparts.

In conclusion to maintain continuity, we must all have the same knowledge that is released by Diraux, and the various Auxiliary departments. If this was accomplished an elected or appointed officer whether in a Flotilla, Division, District or National would have the knowledge to carry out the responsibilities of that office. Let us be certain that we communicate for the benefit of our counterparts and the entire Auxiliary.

Communications maybe addressed to:

February 2000