Guardian seals.

You like it? Do you think we could call them that? Sounds like watch dog of the seas, doesn't it? Okay, maybe not.

Photo Source

There has a lot of buzz lately about what Coast Guard members will/should be referred to as and the new career path available to some members.

First, let's start with the whole Guardian matter. Some assume this title stems from the film starring that Punk'd kid (you know, ole what's-his-name). Others assert that it is largely due to the famed Guardian Ethos adopted by the USCG. Well, "Guardian" isn't a new concept. In fact, if you look back through time (go ahead, get your time machine), you will note that in 2002, Publication 1 touted the significance and mission of America's Maritime Guardian. I briefly reviewed Title 14 of the U.S.C. to see if the term Guardian was used anywhere therein, but didn't notice it. Of course, I didn't sift through each and every chapter and paragraph. So, if it's there, feel free to correct me.

Folks, we have some news. I've been corrected and am sure more of you have other dates to share, so please do, if you wish.

Retired SCPO John Willis of Coast Guard News reported the following:

"Back in 1975 when [he] joined up, [Coast Guard members] were called the "Guardians of the Sea" and the 9th District Motto was, and still is, "Guardian of the Great Lakes".Guardian has been around for a long time."

At any rate, Publication 1 closed with the following:

"Whether we are members of a large unit, small station, or crew at sea, whether active duty, reservist, civilian, or auxiliary, we are one Coast Guard. The Coast Guard has many of the positive characteristics of a family-run firm. This permits personnel and units to be nimble and flexible, changing quickly with little effort. Our organization works on the basis of trust among people. In turn, their loyalty, responsibility, and professionalism inspire motivation to excel. As Coast Guard men and women we enthusiastically embrace the heritage of semper paratus and our continuing responsibility to uphold the values of Honor, Respect, and Devotion to Duty. We are heirs to this proud historical tradition. We understand that by their day-to-day attention to these values, our forebears developed and entrusted to us a venerable institution
respected throughout the world for the work we perform as America’s Maritime Guardian.

(Pub. 1, USCG, p. 66)

As you may be aware, some folks aren't keen on the new title. Of course, others scoff at the term "Coasties" too. Be that as it may, we know that the members of the Coast Guard, our family, are so much more than a title. It's merely a word that identifies a group of exemplary service members who sacrifice, fight, teach, patrol, fly and so much more.

While I don't think there needs to be any sort of special title, I do see that the National Guard is using one too: Americans at Their Best. So, should we call them "Best Americans"? Sorry, off topic (sort of). Each and every service has its own titles, nicknames, ethos, core of values, and so on. Despite my opinions or anyone else's, it looks as though "Guardian" is here to stay. Perhaps this is for the better. If you think about it, it might open some eyes. You and I both know there are American citizens who dispute the CG's existence as an armed service and there are a myriad of others who assume the only job of a CG member is to check for liferings and flotation devices on leisure sailing vessels. Maybe when they see "America's Maritime Guardian" they will first say "Ooooo" and then "Ahhhh" and perhaps give a little more credit where credit is due. Then again, maybe not. I'm am optimistic that it will change some attitudes. What do you think?

Cute Sea Creatures or Special Ops?

Photo Source

So, what's the scoop on the SEALS? No, I'm not talking about those loveable creatures you see on the coast line or even at your local aquarium. Rather, I'm referring to the elite maritime force established under JFK. What may surprise some is that it's not only the Navy who has members in the SEALS. According to NavySeals.com, SEALS (Sea, Air and Land Forces) are primarily comprised of Navy, Army and Air Force special ops. And, now, the U.S. Coast Guard! Yes, that's right folks. Read more: Assignment of U.S. Coast Guard Personnel to Train and Serve with U.S. Navy, Naval Special Warfare (SEAL)

Alright, so I'm sure this is hardly news to any of you. However, this seemed blogworthy. Check out the below clip from the Pentagon Channel.




What are the qualifications? Well, among many others, here are a few that might peak your interest:

1) Only active duty male personnel are eligible for this training (uh oh......do I sense the onset of swinging fists of lean and mean ladies?)

2) All selected, (Officers) and (Enlisted) candidates must obligate a minimum of seven years of service prior to the commencement of The Naval Special Warfare (NSW) Preparation course.

3) Applicants must be between the ages of 18-28 years old. For those ages 29-30 years old, an age waiver may be requested within paragraph 7 of the memorandum included in the application and will be reviewed on a case by case basis. (Well, we don't have the option to even entertain this idea in my house. :) )

Seriously, there are many, many more eligibility requirements. So, if you are interested, check out: ALCOAST 367/08 and ALCGPERSCOM 011942Z AUG 08

So, folks, what your thoughts on all of this? Are you calling your guy a Guardian and kicking him in the butt to apply for SEAL training? Do tell.