comdtinst m16114.32c - U.S. Coast Guard

Part 3 – Station Operations
Chapter 4 – Surf Stations
D.4.a. Command
Screening
Command recommendation is the primary method to screen potential
prospective surfman. At a minimum, commands should assess the
following characteristics when preparing a Direct Access endorsement:
(01) Surfman job description. A Surfman is a leader and an expert in
boat handling and Search and Rescue Operations that is expected to
execute Search and Rescue under extreme pressure and weather
conditions. Only time, training, and exposure can give a member the
experience and judgment needed to perform under these conditions,
thus making the training and certification process long and rigorous.
This process should be expected to take up to four years before
initial certification. The certification of Surfman is much more than
just obtaining a competency, it is better described as a career path.
With the follow on tour requirements after initial certification as
outlined in the Reference (aaa), a member seeking to become a
Surfman should expect to dedicate the next 8-10 years or longer to
the surf community.
(02) SOSTAG or Surf unit recommendation. It is highly recommended
that a member desiring placement in the PSP call a SOSTAG
member or Surf station to obtain the perspective of a Surf unit
command (CO/OIC or XPO) on the realities of the duties as
Surfman.
(03) Eligibility. The member shall meet all requirements to enter the
program.
(04) Desire / motivation. The member shall possess the drive to
persevere through a long and difficult qualification process.
(05) Performance. Member shall have been proacti ve in performance of
duties and in pursuing qualifications and advancement.
(06) Judgment. The member shall have exercised good judgment and
decision-making skills. Member shall have shown sufficient
maturity.
(07) Unit Location. Member should be aware of all surf unit locations
and the fact that some are semi-isolated.
D.4.b. Notice of
Selection
Non-surfman BM rated members who receive assignment to a surf station
or NMLBS based upon their request are enrolled in the PSP. A notation to
that effect will be made in the member’s orders.
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