Marco Island, FL: The Symbolism of the “Missing Man Table” at the 58th Annual Change of Watch was not lost on the US Coast Guard Auxiliary members and invited dignitaries at this year’s ceremony at the newly renovated Marco Island Yacht Club. As a retired Air Force Colonel, Collier County Commissioner Rick Locastro spoke to the importance of tradition and service as it relates to the Change of Watch ceremony within our military services. Michael Massey and Frank Ciriello were sworn in as the 58th Flotilla Commander and Flotilla Vice Commander, respectively, by Commodore Walter Jaskiewicz. Immediate Past Flotilla Commander, Joe Riccio was the morning’s master of ceremonies.
The event was hosted at the newly renovated Marco Island Yacht Club with more than 50 individuals in attendance, including approximately two dozen Auxiliarists and their spouses. Also in attendance were members of the U.S. Coast Guard’s enlisted personnel who serve as liaisons to the Coast Guard Auxiliary; County and City Officials; and other local community leaders.
In addition to facilitating the formal change of watch, the ceremony was an opportunity for all of Flotilla 95’s Staff Officers—the Flotilla leaders responsible for managing key programs and departments—to be officially sworn in for the current year. Auxiliarists Richard Hurd and Frank Ciriello were also recognized as “Auxiliarists of the Year” in appreciation for their outstanding dedication to service.
As part of this year’s ceremonies, various speakers highlighted how Flotilla 95’s commitment to its mission of promoting recreational boating safety stands out within Southwest Florida. For 2024, Flotilla 95—whose area of operations spans from Rookery Bay to Chokoloskee—ranked first in Division 9 for public education graduates and second in the division for both vessel exams and recreational boating safety partner visits.
The ceremony underscored the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary’s proud tradition of service and continued dedication to upholding the highest standards of safety on the water. New Flotilla leaders Massey and Ciriello emphasized their intention to build upon Flotilla 95’s proud track record of success and commitment to upholding the customs of the Auxiliary.
Individuals interested in making a difference through promoting recreational boating safety can help advance Flotilla 95’s mission by joining the proud men and women of the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary. Visit our website: USCGAuxMarco.org.
