What do you refer to your spouse as, when talking to others?

The Coast Guard is intrigued apparently. Maybe they don't necessarily want to hear your pet names for your loved one (or maybe they do, that's not my business). Maybe they don't want to know what your spouses' friends call him or her. What they do want to know is what the folks in blue should be called.

Many of us refer to our spouses (or even ourselves if we are currently in the CG) as "Coasties". More common know is to hear that "Guardians" are emerging from boot camp ready to fight the war on terror, protect our coasts and interdict drug smugglers.

What should they be called going forward? What is the popular term used? What is the meaning and tradition behind certain terms?

SEND YOUR SPOUSE over to the SURVEY and let them have their say. The DHS Leadership Development Center is collecting this information. Ultimately, they are seeking to answer one question, or one phrase, rather:

"Every member of the U.S. Coast Guard is a ..... "

My favorite choices are: Coastie (of course) and Maritime Agent.

After the Tsunami

Our friends over at CGBlog.org made a post about something very important involving some CG familes in American Samoa.

Please read it. Maybe you can lend a hand.

TSUNAMI ASSISTANCE

CGFO Announces 2009 CG Spouse Scholarship Winner

Coast Guard Family Organization, Inc., has announced Coast Guard Spouse Ms. Tracy Feldscher as the winner of the 2009 CGFO Spouse Scholarship. Ms. Feldscher is married to an active duty Coast Guardsman, and she and her family currently reside in Puerto Rico.

Congratulations to Ms. Feldscher!

Piracy in the 21st Century, what say you?

Today, I had the pleasure of hearing a flag officer speak and one of the subjects he touched upon was modern day piracy. I don't know about you all, but it's not something I'd ever really focused on as a concern. Sure, I've been educated in acts of terrorism, included piracy, and understand, but may not be personally fully prepared for (of course I don't sail), the risks of sailing the seas, but pirates?

I'll be honest with you, I didn't really follow the latest and greatest news on the piracy case. I only know bits and pieces. Sorry, I've been a tad preoccupied.

At any rate, the whole act seems so archaic or does it? Maybe that's why pirates are still successful. Folks underestimate the potential for pirates to overtake their vessel and/or take their lives and materials. Why is that the case?

I'd interested to hear your thoughts on the subject.

Also, be sure to check out Rear Admiral William Baumgartner's recent speech on the subject as he spoke on "International Piracy on the High Seas" before the Subcommittee on Coast Guard & Maritime Transportation, Committee on Transportation & Infrastructure, U. S. House of Reprsentatives on February 4, 2009.

BMI Criticism

According to the Center for Disease Control (CDC), "Body Mass Index (BMI) is a number calculated from a person's weight and height. BMI provides a reliable indicator of body fatness for most people and is used to screen for weight categories that may lead to health problems."

Note the "most" people, not all people. Of course, I would even argue that "most" is too generous.

The CDC also explains that, "BMI does not measure body fat directly, but research has shown that BMI correlates to direct measures of body fat, such as underwater weighing and dual energy x-ray absorptiometry (DXA).1, 2 BMI can be considered an alternative for direct measures of body fat. Additionally, BMI is an inexpensive and easy-to-perform method of screening for weight categories that may lead to health problems." To me, I see "cheap" and "lazy". Isn't the use of BMI doing a disservice to servicemembers. What say you? Look, if the CG and/or other services are going to really focus on health and fitness and treat it with extremely high importance than why not do it right?

The CDC, thank goodness, also mentions the following on their website:

"How reliable is BMI as an indicator of body fatness? The correlation between the BMI number and body fatness is fairly strong; however the correlation varies by sex, race, and age. These variations include the following examples:

• At the same BMI, women tend to have more body fat than men.
• At the same BMI, older people, on average, tend to have more body fat than younger adults.
• Highly trained athletes may have a high BMI because of increased muscularity rather than increased body fatness."

So, you are screwed if you are an older athletic female. There will be bells going off all over the place and red flags heralding attention for the fat-police. Again, ridiculous.

Perhaps I am exaggerating a bit. Still, this topic is one that is ever-present today as the Coast Guard recently announced that as of October 2009, it will be modifying the health and fitness program by adopting maximum allowable weight (MAW) and BMI.

ALCOAST 469/08 (internet release authorized) spells it all out. Outside of MAW and BMI, members should note that maximum body fat standards are also being reduced, no matter how old you are or if you are male or female. The CG submits that the use of BMI as it may help screen for health problems. Additionally, the ALCOAST referenced how the DOD adopted the BMI, but so what. Why jump on the bandwagon with something that doesn't make any sense?

Now, surely, a health and fitness program is vital. However, it should be realistic as well.

From Northwestern Health and Sciences University:

"Important Limitations of BMI:
BMI does not distinguish between fat mass and fat free mass. This is important because ACSM defines obesity as a percent of body fat at which disease increases. People with large amounts of lean tissue may have a high BMI while having their body fat percentage in a healthy range. In addition, a healthy BMI does not necessarily mean that body fat is within a healthy range.
BMI does not give any information on the location of the body fat which is important in determining obesity-related risk for disease." (Citing ACSM’s Guidelines for Exercise Testing and Prescription, 6th Ed., 2000 and ACSM’s Resource Manual for Guidelines for Exercise Testing and Prescription, 4th Ed., 2001).

Let's back up, ALCOAST 469/08 referenced above states, "BMI is a number calculated from a person's weight and height. It provides a reliable indicator of body fatness..."

It doesn't though.

Here's something else I'd like to point out. The Coast Guard obviously supports the Mayo Clinic teachings (see the Tobacco Cessation Program). So, I went ahead and did a bit of research on BMI as put forth by the Mayo Clinic. In a web article titled, "A Body Mass Index Puzzle", the Mayo Clinic states, in part, "The study results are not an invitation for heart patients to put on weight, researchers said. Instead they highlight some shortcomings in BMI (a ratio of height to weight) as a measuring tool — especially because it fails to distinguish between excess body fat and muscle mass."

Please read the article. It's brief, but interesting and well-worth the read. CLICK HERE

Seriously, read it!

Alright, so what of the folks who are over BMI. They will be body fat tested, the same way they were before, except that the allowable body fat is now at a lower percentage. Okay, that's a little more understandable than the absurd usage of BMI. So, why even waste the time with anything BMI related. What is the point? Members are currently required to have a physical conducted every five (5) years. If there is that much concern over health problems that may be related to BMI, then why not increase the frequency of physicals. Why not every two years or every year?

I am all ears. What are your thoughts on this program and the changes on the horizon?

A Reader Shares Thanks - Common perspectives

Recently we received a very nice note from one of our newer blog readers. She “wanted to send a quick note of thanks for [the blog]”. Her message touched on how sometimes it’s difficult to deal with the strain the CG life can put on a relationship. I think we’ve all been there at one point or another. I know that for me personally it was more difficult when I didn’t have a strong support group. And, by support group, I mean a bunch of fellow military wives/girlfriends that I could kvetch with about a sour day or with whom I could share news of a looming advancement. They just got it and got me.

Our reader also discussed how she was never exposed to a military lifestyle before and that “[i]t's definitely an adjustment." She said, "This blog has helped me see the positives in being a Coastie wife/girlfriend and (try to) stay flexible.” Isn’t it nice to know you are not alone? I think we all seek that kind of feeling in our lives.

At times, I feel a bit guilty for being able to cope (most of the time). You see having been in the military I was already forced to accept that you there is always a hurry up and wait situation and how flexibility is not an option but rather more of a requirement. If you aren’t flexible, you just might break. And, really, who wants that? Brittle pieces of you scattered all over the map just is not ideal, and it makes a big mess. Perhaps that is why I hear so much about lubrication. Yes, that must be it! The reference must be in regard to lubrication of joints, ligaments and tendons, to ensure that we are pliable and maintain our elasticity.

So, dear reader, even though you mentioned how “it's not [your] first nature for [you] to be flexible” you did say you were trying and that’s what really matters. We get that. It is not easy. I think there is a saying that goes something like Anything that’s worth doing, isn’t always easy. Isn’t that the truth?

I will share with you something a bit comical. Our reader touched upon how it is “hard to stay positive all the time when plans get cancelled or put off because of a last minute deployment”. It is the nature of the beast, but that doesn’t mean it is always that with which we want to deal. Anyway, my father-in-law was planning on a visit. My husband told him he may be sent on orders somewhere, but that he was basically in a standby to standby position. Exasperated, his father (who is an Army vet mind you) actually asked, “Why can’t they give you an answer? Don’t they realize people have lives? How can anyone make plans?” To this the man in blue replied, “Easy, I make plans and if I have to cancel, I just cancel.” That is it. He was just matter-of-fact about it. I will say that not everyone has this attitude. It has taken us awhile to learn to roll with the punches. We chose this life, and we try to remember that when we get frustrated and irritated with how things can go. After all, we know there is not some guy or gal in an Ivory Tower handing down orders to screw up someone’s weekend or holiday plans. It is not personal. It is simply part of this life. (Of course, that doesn’t mean we eagerly accept everything with a happy face; we are human and sometimes our emotions come through in a not-so-pleasant way.)

Just hang in there. It sounds like you are doing your best to support your loved one and applaud his efforts. We hope you keep coming back and even post some comments. We would love to hear from you. And, if I may add one pun (bad as it may be), remember, we are all in this boat together.

Hoping our Gulf Coast CG Families are Safe: Gustav and Hanna

From the Weather Channel online “Gustav is moving northwest, away from the Cayman Islands, but heavy rains, flash flooding, strong, damaging winds and battering waves will continue to impact the islands this morning. Conditions should improve this afternoon…The forecast track continues to indicate that Gustav will swirl into the southeastern Gulf of Mexico early tomorrow and then track northwestward reaching the central Gulf Coast by early Tuesday. Gustav will slow as it nears the coast.”

The Weather Channel also reported that “Tropical Storm Hanna was centered about 310 miles east of Grand Turk Island as of 5 a.m. EDT. Maximum sustained winds were 50 mph.” Eeek!

According to Rear Adm. Joel Whitehead, 8th District Commander recently stated, “"Hurricane preparedness is a year round effort for the Coast Guard.” We knew that, but what of the families left behind?

I have little, if any, experience with hurricanes. I’ve always been fortunate to live out of an area where they were most prevalent or at least evacuate well beforehand if one was headed my way. At any rate, I have no idea how the Coast Guard or other agencies may aid the CG families left behind in horrendous weather. How much hurricane preparedness is there? Do all units have an Ombudsman or at least a phone tree? What sort of liaison exists between ships and families when a cutter is deployed? Do these folks just wait by the phone for world to come down or do is there always a plan of action?

I know that one of our contributors has been offline since yesterday. I’m assuming that she is currently evacuating her home, maybe just laying low and being watchful. She’s not in Louisiana, but I did find this on the web about the National Guard helping to prepare for evacuation in Louisiana: Evacuation in Louisiana. In part, the article reads, “The door-to-door campaign comes less than 24 hours after Gov. Haley Barbour ordered mandatory evacuations today for some residents in Hancock and Harrison counties. Forced to leave will be those living in FEMA trailers, Katrina cottages and residents in designated flood zones.”

In light of all this weather, I figured I’d bump on the post Amber shared with us recently:

Wednesday, August 6, 2008

Are you prepared?
To say the least, disaster doesn't always give warning. Whether you are in California or Texas, Florida or Maine, there are times when nature takes us by surprise. Earthquakes, winter storms, flash floods, tornadoes, hurricanes...the list goes on and on.

My family lives in Texas, and now that I'm back on the Gulf Coast, it's (past) time to think about Hurricane Season. It's in full swing, and two systems have hit the Texas coast all ready. If you live in an area that could be impacted by a hurricane, you MUST have a disaster kit ready. It's so hard when you're dashing in Target or Costco praying that there's a bottle or two of water left, or maybe, hopefully, the batteries or bulbs you need for your flashlight.

Here is a comprehensive list from FEMA's website:

· Three-day supply of non-perishable food.
· Three-day supply of water - one gallon of water per person, per day.
· Portable, battery-powered radio or television and extra batteries.
· Flashlight and extra batteries.
· First aid kit and manual.
· Sanitation and hygiene items (moist towelettes and toilet paper).
· Matches and waterproof container.
· Whistle.
· Extra clothing.
· Kitchen accessories and cooking utensils, including a can opener.
· Photocopies of credit and identification cards.
· Cash and coins.
· Special needs items, such as prescription medications, eye glasses, contact
lens solutions, and hearing aid batteries.
· Items for infants, such as formula, diapers, bottles, and pacifiers.
· Other items to meet your unique family needs.
If you live in a cold climate, you must think about warmth. It is possible that you will not have heat. Think about your clothing and bedding supplies. Be sure to include one complete change of clothing and shoes per person, including:
· Jacket or coat.
· Long pants.
· Long sleeve shirt.
· Sturdy shoes.
· Hat, mittens, and scarf.
· Sleeping bag or warm blanket (per person).
Just as important as putting your supplies together is maintaining them so they are safe to use when needed. Here are some tips to keep your supplies ready and in good condition:
· Keep canned foods in a dry place where the temperature is cool.
· Store boxed food in tightly closed plastic or metal containers to protect from pests and to extend its shelf life.
· Throw out any canned good that becomes swollen, dented, or corroded.
· Use foods before they go bad, and replace them with fresh supplies.
· Place new items at the back of the storage area and older ones in the front.
· Change stored food and water supplies every six months. Be sure to write the date you store it on all containers.
· Re-think your needs every year and update your kit as your family needs change.
· Keep items in airtight plastic bags and put your entire disaster supplies kit in one or two easy-to-carry containers, such as an unused trashcan, camping backpack, or duffel bag.

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.