HIDDEN VALLEY LAKE, Calif. – On Saturday, Dec. 6, United States Coast Guard Auxiliary Flotilla 8-8 of Lake County held its annual change of watch and awards ceremony with a lunch at the Greenview Restaurant in Hidden Valley Lake. 

This ceremony is held each December to commemorate the changing of the flotilla commanders and the staff officers for the coming year and to recognize those individuals who have distinguished themselves during the year. 

The award for Most Inspirational Auxiliarist was shared by Marisa Chilafoe and Roberto Morfin, who were always ready to say, “Yes, I can do that” when asked to assist. 

The Commitment to Service award was earned by Staff Officer Dane Hayward for his consistent “can do” attitude and the Auxiliarist of the Year award went to Staff Officer Bruce Rogerson, the immediate past flotilla commander, for his continuing support of all aspects of the USCG Auxiliary mission. 

Outgoing staff officers were recognized for their contributions during 2014 and awarded Challenge Coins commemorating 75 years of Auxiliary service to the Coast Guard.

The auxiliary is charged with supporting the United States Coast Guard in all of its missions except law enforcement and to promote recreational boating safety. Auxiliary members are referred to as the “Silver Side.”

Active duty USCG service personnel, referred to as the “Gold Side” in attendance included CWO (BOSN) Command Security Officer Curtis Barthel from Sector Humboldt Bay, and from Motor Lifeboat Station Noyo River were BM1 Operations Petty Officer 1st Class Kevin Cornell, SK2 Petty Officer 2nd Class Henry Robles, MK3 Petty Officer 3rd Class Alex Klebart and SNBM Seaman David McLaren.

The current Flotilla Commander Dan Fish will continue in his role for the ensuing year with Staff Officer Corey Jones serving as the vice flotilla commander for the year 2015.