USCG Auxiliary Oak Island Flotilla 10-05

04/13/2026

02/06/2026

UNITED STATES COAST GUARD AUXILIARY
DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY
The civilian component of the U. S. Coast Guard
(Authorized by Congress in 1939)

February 1, 2026
Rich O’Donnell
Public Affairs Officer
Southport / Oak Island / Shallotte Flotilla (10-5)
[email protected]
(631)-375-3572
facebook.com/Flotilla10.05
www.Flotilla10-05.org
News Release

United States Coast Guard Auxiliary Installs New Officers and
Recognizes Members for Outstanding Service.

Southport, N.C. - The Southport Flotilla of the United States Coast Guard Auxiliary conducted their annual Change of Watch ceremony on January 29, 2026, at the Members Club in St. James.
Frank Pope, a resident of St. James was installed as flotilla commander for 2026 John Klotsko, a resident of Winding River was installed as the vice flotilla commander. Thirteen other flotilla members were sworn in as flotilla staff officers in various assignments. Robert Kielley, a resident of St. James, was recognized for his service as flotilla commander for 2024 and 2025.

Auxiliarist Gene Belflowers, a long-time member of the Auxiliary was recognized for more than forty years of service and for his assistance to the United States Coast Guard at Station Oak Island. Mr. Belflowers and his late wife Elma, provided years of service at Station Oak Island and performed numerous roles in the Auxiliary and were qualified as boat crew members, coxswain, instructors and operational Auxiliarist. Commander Juan Avila, the Response Department Head for Sector North Carolina, joined with Chief Andrew Waltz of Station Oak Island and Robert Kielley flotilla commander to present the award.

Auxiliarist James McCriskin M.D. was recognized for his years of service to the United States Coast Guard. Dr. McCriskin provided services as a cardiologist to the Coast Guard Air Station in Savannah as well as to the Coast Guard Academy. Kim Curry, the district captain for the Auxiliary in North Carolina joined Commander Avila and Mr. Kielley to present the award.

Auxiliarist Mike Penninger was recognized as the Auxiliarist of the Year for Flotilla 10-5 by Frank Pope the incoming flotilla commander. Auxiliarist Mark Cartret was recognized as the new member of the year by John Klotsko the incoming vice flotilla commander.

For more information about the USCG Auxiliary go to: www.Flotilla10-05.org

01/30/2026

Flotilla 10-05 Change of Watch

11/14/2025

09/01/2025

On Labor Day, the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary emphasizes water safety and encourages responsible boating by reminding the public to wear life jackets, get free vessel safety checks from the Auxiliary, and stay vigilant on the water. The Auxiliary, a volunteer organization, supports the U.S. Coast Guard's mission of keeping waterways safe and provides critical assistance during busy holiday weekends. They also acknowledge the hard work of American workers and thank those who are out on the water providing services and recreation.

Important action items for Labor Day:
• Wear a life jacket
• Get a vessel safety check
• Boating safety basics:
👉 Never boat under the influence of alcohol and always designate a sober skipper.
👉 Make a float plan and leave it with someone on shore.
👉 Check the weather forecast before and during your trip.
👉 Be vigilant and maintain a proper lookout for other boaters and swimmers.

📸: USCG Great Lakes District

08/29/2025

⚠️Carbon monoxide (CO) may be invisible, but the threat is real. ⚠️

This silent, odorless gas can accumulate from engine exhaust, onboard generators, or cooking appliances, creating a lethal environment without warning.

Understanding the risks, proper ventilation, regular engine maintenance, and installing CO detectors are crucial steps to safeguard against this deadly gas while enjoying time on the water.

Don’t let this silent killer sneak up on your boating adventures!

🎨 Safe Boating Campaign.

08/21/2025

Extra, extra, read all about it! 🗞️

The 2025 Second Quarter Edition of The Auxiliarist, the official publication of the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary, is now live on DVIDS!

This quarter’s theme is Safe Boating. As the premier subject matter experts on promoting boating safety, make sure to check out our latest edition to see just how important it is to be safe out on the water.

Enjoy our newest issue now available on DVIDS via https://lnkd.in/dvdKYxDV

07/27/2025

The Coast Guard's 5th Dsitrict will now be known as Coast Guard East District.

The U.S. Coast Guard is renaming its operational districts to more accurately represent the regions they serve. Renaming operational districts revises a numbered system established during World War II. Within the Coast Guard’s renewal through Force Design 2028 – the Service’s largest strategic and structural overhaul since World War II – this change will more clearly align districts with their areas of responsibility and enhance our service to the American public and maritime stakeholders. Now, all of our districts will be known by the geographic regions they serve.

Click here to learn more: https://www.news.uscg.mil/Press-Releases/Article/4234989/coast-guard-district-5-renamed-to-coast-guard-east-district/

Force Design 2028: https://www.uscg.mil/leadership/commandants-initiatives/forcedesign2028/

07/21/2025

Having the right fire extinguisher is critical for several key reasons, primarily revolving around safety and effectiveness in a fire emergency.

Key motivations for having the appropriate fire extinguisher include:

• Effective fire suppression
• Preventing fire escalation
• Protecting lives and property
• Ensuring safety
• Regulatory compliance
• Minimizing property damage

Always make sure that you regularly inspect your fire extinguishers to ensure they are not expired.

📸: National Safe Boating Council.

06/23/2025

Today is our birthday!

We are grateful for the commitment and dedication of all auxiliarists to boating safety and assistance to the U.S. Coast Guard. Thank you for your dedication and for making a difference. May your continued service be filled with positive impact and meaningful experiences.

05/21/2025

📅Day 6 - Wednesday, May 21
Always Follow Navigation Rules

Before you hit the water, remember that boating isn't just fun—it's a responsibility. Navigation rules on the water (a.k.a. the "Rules of the Road") are there to keep you and everyone around you safe during your boating trip.

Keep in mind the following best practices for ensuring you have a safe trip on the water:

Maintain a proper lookout – Stay alert and aware of other vessels, obstacles, and changes in weather.

Safe speed matters – Always operate at a speed that allows time to avoid collisions.

Right of way counts – Know when to give way and when to stand on to avoid confusion or accidents.

Let’s keep our waters safe for everyone!