Civil War re-enactors, Civil Air Patrol cadets help commission base in Sylvan Beach

SYLVAN BEACH -- Three volleys of musket fire by Civil War re-enactors and a flag raising by Civil Air Patrol cadets highlighted the base commissioning of U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary Flotilla 26 in Sylvan Beach on Sunday, June 3.

Flotilla Commander Bill Cummings

During the annual commissioning ceremonies that officially opened the Cove Road base for the 2012 boating season, Flotilla Commander Bill Cummings of Utica noted: "For over 50 years Flotilla 26 has answered the call" to serve the boating community of Oneida Lake, offering boating classes, conducting vessel safety checks, patrolling the lake, assisting boaters in distress, and providing search-and-rescue.

Over 50 Coast Guard Auxiliary personnel and special guests attended the ceremonies and a picnic reception.

Awards Galore at District Spring Conference

Conference Session

A number of awards and recognitions highlighted both the luncheon and banquet at the 9th District Eastern Region Spring Conference, held March 24 in Akron, Ohio. 

Six Flotilla 26 members were among those being recognized.

Flotilla Honors Members for 2011 Performance

John Steinbarge

SYLVAN BEACH -- U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary Flotilla 26 based in Sylvan Beach held its Change of Watch banquet in January, swearing in staff officers for 2012 and honoring 2011's top performers.

Division 2 Vice Commander John Steinbarge of Baldwinsville administered the oath of office to newly elected Flotilla Commander William Cummings of Utica and Flotilla Vice Commander Karen Beehm of Hubbardsville, along with a number of appointed staff officers.

Steinbarge, Cummings and Beehm then presented several awards.