NCGMA Newsletter 2025 (Spring)

STORIES
THAT
MATTER
SPRING 2025
WHAT’S INSIDE:
A Legacy of Service: Wayne
Clayborne
Building a Bright Future:
New London’s Growing
Investment and Community
Transformation
SPRING 2025
Elks’ Legacy of Service
Continues: Major Gift to
PAGE 1
National Coast Guard Museum

PRESIDENT OF THE NATIONAL
COAST GUARD MUSEUM
ASSOCIATION
The National Coast Guard Museum Association has embarked on a monumental 2025
as it prepares for the Museum grand opening in less than two years. President Wes Pulver
shares insights into the goals for this critical period as we continue to Anchor our Legacy,
driving to the opening of our National Coast Guard Museum.
Q: As we are less than two years out
from the Museum’s opening, what
do you envision as the primary goals
for 2025?
Pulver: 2025 is a pivotal year as we
finalize our construction plans and transition
to preparations for opening. Our primary
goals include:
• Collaborating with our construction team
to complete the core of the building and
finalize our interior and finishing work.
• Ongoing coordination with the U.S.
Coast Guard as they finalize the exhibit
and programming designs, ensuring an
impactful visitor experience from day
one.
We are also deepening our community
outreach efforts, engaging with Coast
Guard members—past and present— along
with maritime enthusiasts, educators, and
the general public to build excitement and
prepare for a successful opening.
Finally, we are committed to solidifying our
operational plans, ensuring that our staff,
2025 IS A PIVOTAL
YEAR AS WE
FINALIZE OUR
CONSTRUCTION
PLANS AND
TRANSITION TO
PREPARATIONS FOR
OPENING.
PAGE 2
NATIONAL COAST GUARD MUSEUM ASSOCIATION

Aerial view of the National Coast Guard Museum’s construction footprint. Photo shows
the recently completed base-level construction for the elevator shafts and various pile
caps which will soon anchor the steel frame to the underlying bedrock.
SPRING 2025
PAGE 3

volunteers, and infrastructure are ready to
support the U.S. Coast Guard in delivering
an extraordinary visitor experience.
Q: We know the Museum will be free
to the public. Beyond the Coast Guard
exhibits, what else will there be to do
in and around the Museum?
Pulver: While the Coast Guard exhibits
will be the centerpiece of the Museum, the
designed experience is much more than
traditional displays. Visitors can look forward
to interactive simulators, hands-on learning
opportunities for children, and a 180-seat
theater for presentations and film screenings.
New London offers plenty of places to
explore. We’re collaborating with the City
of New London to enhance the waterfront
promenade, which will connect the Museum
to nearby attractions like the historic
waterfront park, local restaurants, and shops.
Additionally, there are several historic points
of interest in New London including Fort
Trumbull, the Customs House, the Nathan
Hale School House and many more. The
Museum entranceway itself will feature the
Argus Promenade, lined with commemorative
pavers, where visitors can see the names
of supporters who have helped bring the
Museum to life.
We’re also planning outdoor events and
activities along the Thames River, as well
as opportunities to host private events
from Coast Guard retirements to local
weddings, as well as collaborations with
nearby attractions and community-based
organizations.
Q: Can you explain the funding
of this Museum and the need for
ongoing private support for a federal
Museum?
Pulver: The National Coast Guard Museum
is a public-private partnership, which
means that while the federal government is
covering a portion of the construction costs
of the building itself, private donations are
critical to support building construction,
fund educational programs, and ongoing
operations. We are not just opening a
building but creating a world-class venue.
Federal funding ensures we have a stateof-the-art
facility, but it’s the private support
that brings the Museum to life. Donations
help us create programming that celebrates
the Coast Guard’s story, provide educational
WE’RE WORKING
WITH THE CITY
OF NEW LONDON
TO ENHANCE THE
WATERFRONT
PROMENADE,
WHICH WILL
CONNECT
THE MUSEUM
TO NEARBY
ATTRACTIONS LIKE
THE HISTORIC
WATERFRONT
PARK, LOCAL
RESTAURANTS,
AND SHOPS.
opportunities for school groups and families,
and maintain the Museum as an everevolving
interactive, engaging, communitybased
resource for everyone.
Even though it will be a free National
Military Museum operated by the Federal
Government, we will need continued private
support to sustain the Museum’s operations,
enhance and develop future special exhibits,
and expand our outreach programs. We
want to ensure that this Museum remains
vibrant and relevant for generations to come,
and that requires a strong base of private
donors and museum members who share
our mission.
Q: What are the biggest challenges
and opportunities for this project in
the year ahead?
Pulver: One of our biggest challenges is
ensuring that we meet our fundraising goals
to complete the programs we envision.
We’ve made incredible progress thanks to
the generosity of our supporters and have
achieved our initial privately funded capital
campaign goal of $50 million, but we still
have work to do to ensure we deliver the
world-class experience we’ve promised.
We recently announced the Anchoring our
Legacy effort, which is our drive to opening
to complement the Coast Guard’s efforts to
make our Museum ‘world-class.’
Another challenge is ensuring we
communicate effectively with all of our
stakeholders—from Coast Guard members
and the local community to future visitors
across the country. It’s essential that everyone
understands the value of this Museum and the
unique stories it will tell. This Museum is not
just for New London, not just for the Coast
Guard, but a National Museum for visitors
of all ages, from sea to shining sea.
The opportunities are numerous. This is a
once-in-a-lifetime project that will honor
more than 230 years of Coast Guard history
and inspire future generations. The Museum
will be a national landmark place where
people can learn about the Coast Guard’s
mission to protect, defend, save and the core
values of honor, respect, and devotion to
duty that guide its members.
We also see an opportunity to strengthen the
connection between the Coast Guard and
the American public. By telling the stories of
bravery, sacrifice, and service, we hope to
foster a deeper appreciation for the Coast
Guard’s contributions to our Nation’s safety
and security. The year ahead will be critical
to making that vision a reality.
For more project updates, be sure
to catch our latest highlight videos
@NationalCGMuseumAssociation
PAGE 4
NATIONAL COAST GUARD MUSEUM ASSOCIATION

Get Your
NATIONAL COAST GUARD MUSEUM ASSOCIATION
2025 CHALLENGE COIN
Today!
JOIN. UPGRADE. SUPPORT.
The National Coast Guard Museum Association honors the Coast Guard’s Aids to Navigation (ATON) mission and
the USCGC Smilax (the “Queen of the Fleet”). The ATON mission is essential to maritime safety, economic stability,
and national security, ensuring the safe and efficient movement of commercial and recreational vessels by maintaining
buoys, waterways, and other critical navigation markers.
Get your ATON coin by becoming an NCGMA Plankowner ($5 per month minimum) or upgrade your current
Plankowner gift ($5 per month) before September 30, 2025.
cgmuseumassociation.org/plankowner
donate@coastguardmuseum.org
cgmuseumassociation.org/plankowner
860-443-4200
SPRING 2025
PAGE 5

A LEGACY
OF SERVICE:
WAYNE
CLAYBORNE
Wayne Clayborne never imagined
that a single decision in his youth
would shape the rest of his life. As
a young man, he chose to enlist in the United
States Coast Guard, seeking opportunity and a
sense of purpose. What he found was not just a
career but a calling—one that would take him
around the world, challenge him in ways he
never expected, and leave him with a deepseated
appreciation for the mission and people
of the Coast Guard.
Today, Clayborne is a proud supporter of the
National Coast Guard Museum, believing that
its construction will ensure future generations
understand the critical role the Service plays
in safeguarding our Nation.
“The Museum is a way for people to see our
legacy, our sacrifices, and our triumphs,”
Clayborne explains. “It’s not just about the
past—it’s about inspiring those who will serve in
YOU DON’T JUST SERVE—YOU
BECOME PART OF SOMETHING BIGGER
THAN YOURSELF, IT’S A FAMILY.
PAGE 6
NATIONAL COAST GUARD MUSEUM ASSOCIATION

A JOURNEY OF
COMMITMENT AND
CAMARADERIE
the future. We have so many incredible stories,
and this is our chance to share them with the
world.”
Clayborne’s Coast Guard journey took him
from the decks of ships to leadership roles that
shaped policy and training. He vividly recalls
his early days, adjusting to life at sea and
embracing the rigorous demands of service.
Each assignment brought new lessons and
challenges, from high-stakes search and rescue
operations to ensuring national/international
maritime trade as a marine safety professional.
“The Coast Guard taught me resilience,
teamwork, and the importance of mission
readiness,” he says. “You never know when
you’ll be called to action, and you have to
be prepared. That’s what makes our Service
so unique—we’re always ready, no matter the
circumstances.”
Over the years, Clayborne forged bonds that
have lasted a lifetime. He speaks passionately
about the camaraderie among Coast Guard
members—a unique blend of mutual trust and
shared experience that binds them together
long after they leave active duty.
“You don’t just serve—you become part of
something bigger than yourself,” he reflects.
“It’s a family. Whether you served for four
years or 40, the Coast Guard stays with you.
That’s what I want the Museum to show: the
heart of the Coast Guard and the brotherhood
and sisterhood we share.”
Left: Helicopter, CG Air Station Travere City summer of 1987
Right: Snow, Training Center Elizabeth City, ASM A School February 1985
SPRING 2025
PAGE 7

PRESERVING THE COAST
GUARD’S STORY FOR FUTURE
GENERATIONS
For Clayborne, supporting the National
Coast Guard Museum is personal. He wants
future generations—especially young people
considering military service—to walk through
its exhibits and see themselves in the stories of
those who came before them.
“We’ve served quietly for over 200 years,”
he notes. “Now, we have a chance to tell our
story in a way that will last for centuries to
come. People need to know what we do, and
this Museum will finally give us a place to tell
our story with pride.”
He envisions a space where families can learn
about the dangers and triumphs of Coast
Guard missions, where veterans can bring
their children and grandchildren to share their
own stories, and where those unfamiliar with
the service can gain a newfound appreciation
for its impact.
“This Museum isn’t just about the past—it’s
about the present and the future,” Clayborne
says. “I want every visitor to leave with a
deeper understanding of who we are and
why we matter.”
He also sees the Museum as a place where
younger generations can be inspired to serve.
“I want a kid to walk in, see a story about a
rescue, and think, ‘I want to do that. I want
to be part of something bigger than myself.’
That’s how we keep the Coast Guard strong—
by inspiring the next generation.”
As the Museum begins taking shape on the
New London waterfront, Clayborne remains
dedicated to seeing its mission realized. He
encourages all those with ties to the service to
support this historic effort. In addition to being
a long-time plankowner, he maximizes his
support with matching gifts from his employer
and he and his wife were our first Legacy
Society (planned giving) donors.
“This Museum is a tribute to every Coastie who
has ever served. It’s our story—let’s make sure
it’s told. If you wore the uniform, if you served, if
answered the call, this Museum is for you. Let’s
build it together.”
Top: Fairfax, VA, May 14, 1985 (Also the 50th wedding anniversary
of my grandparents)
WE’VE SERVED
QUIETLY FOR OVER
200 YEARS. NOW,
WE HAVE A CHANCE
TO TELL OUR STORY
IN A WAY THAT
WILL LAST FOR
CENTURIES TO
COME.
PAGE 8
NATIONAL COAST GUARD MUSEUM ASSOCIATION

WAYNE CLAYBORNE:
A COAST GUARD CAREER
OF DEDICATION
WAYNE’S MUSEUM
PLANKOWNER
INSIGHTS
A. 1980
i. Completes high school and
enlists in the USCG, beginning a
three-decade journey of service
ii.
B. 1990
First assignment at small boat
station followed by four air
stations gaining expertise in
search and rescue operations
i. Completes undergraduate
degree, attends OCS and starts
career as a marine safety/
prevention professional
C. 2000
i. Completes graduate degree and
industry training, advancing
into leadership roles, focusing
on policy, training and
mentoring the next generation
of Coast Guard team members
D. 2010
i. Continues in emergency
management leadership roles
with deployments to Iceland,
Haiti, Deepwater horizon, etc.
... Becoming one of the first
museum plankowner’s and
transitions into retirement.
E. Today
i. Continues as strong advocate
for the Museum, focusing
on corporate matching gifts
to ensure the legacy of the
Service is preserved for future
generations.
The Coast Guard has been an integral part of my life.
When I heard about the National Coast Guard Museum, I
knew I wanted to be a part of it in a meaningful way. Becoming
a Plankowner was my chance to give back to the Service that
shaped me and ensure that future generations understand the
Coast Guard’s extraordinary legacy.
I’ve seen firsthand how the Coast Guard’s work has impacted
lives, from search and rescue missions to maritime law
enforcement. There are so many untold stories of courage,
and this Museum will bring them to light. It’s also a way for
me to stay connected to my shipmates and honor those who
have served before me.
Being a plankowner is a badge of honor.
It means being part of something bigger than myself—helping
to build a place where Coast Guard history, sacrifice, and
service will be preserved and celebrated. Giving monthly as a
Plankowner is my way of ensuring that this Museum becomes
a reality and continues to thrive for generations.
Every month when I make my contribution, I know that I’m
not just donating money—I’m investing in a legacy. This
Museum will educate the public, inspire future recruits, and
provide a space where families can come to reflect on the
sacrifices made by Coast Guard members. It’s an opportunity
to keep our history alive and make sure our Service is never
overlooked.
The Coast Guard’s story is one of bravery, resilience,
and dedication, yet it’s not as well-known as it
should be.
The National Coast Guard Museum will change that. It will
honor the men and women who have served and educate the
public about the Coast Guard’s critical role in protecting our
Nation and saving lives.
Throughout my career, I’ve had countless experiences that
most Americans never hear about. I’ve witnessed rescues in
the dead of night, stood watch during hurricanes, and worked
alongside some of the most dedicated people I’ve ever met.
The Museum will showcase these moments—the ones that
define our Service but often go unnoticed. It will also highlight
the incredible advancements in Coast Guard technology and
training over the years.
SPRING 2025
PAGE 9

View of New London’s downtown
harbor prior to the annual Sailfest
Fetival’s fireworks display. Photo by
Tom Bombria.
BUILDING A
BRIGHT FUTURE:
NEW LONDON’S GROWING
INVESTMENT AND COMMUNITY
TRANSFORMATION
PAGE 10
NATIONAL COAST GUARD MUSEUM ASSOCIATION

As New London prepares to welcome the National
Coast Guard Museum in 2026, the city is
experiencing a remarkable surge of construction,
economic development, and revitalization
efforts. These initiatives are reshaping the city into a vibrant,
interconnected community that celebrates its rich maritime history
while embracing a dynamic future. From major infrastructure
projects to beautification efforts, New London is positioning
itself as a destination that blends cultural heritage with modern
innovation.
BUILDING A BRIGHT FUTURE: NEW
LONDON’S GROWING INVESTMENT
AND COMMUNITY TRANSFORMATION
As New London prepares to welcome the National
Coast Guard Museum in 2026, the city is experiencing a
remarkable surge of construction, economic development,
and revitalization efforts. These initiatives are reshaping the
city into a vibrant, interconnected community that celebrates
its rich maritime history while embracing a dynamic future.
From major infrastructure projects to beautification efforts,
New London is positioning itself as a destination that blends
cultural heritage with modern innovation.
ECONOMIC GROWTH: WIND
FARM, ELECTRIC BOAT, AND NEW
BUSINESSES
New London’s economy is also seeing a significant boost
from the offshore wind industry. The State Pier project, in
partnership with Orsted and Eversource, is transforming the
port into a hub for renewable energy development. This
initiative positions New London as a leader in green energy
while creating jobs and stimulating local businesses.
Electric Boat, a major employer in the region, began growing
their local workforce in 2023 and as a result the City of New
London initiated new housing and apartment developments
to accommodate the influx of employees working on
submarine construction contracts, are contributing to the
city’s economic vitality.
SPRING 2025
PAGE 11

New restaurants, cafes, and retail shops have
been popping up throughout downtown, adding
to the city’s appeal as a lively destination. These
businesses are capitalizing on the anticipated
increase in foot traffic from museum visitors and the
growing local workforce, further adding to New
London’s renaissance as a thriving community.
ENHANCING CONNECTIVITY:
THE GOLD STAR MEMORIAL
BRIDGE AND INTERMODAL HUB
One of the most important signs of transformation
in New London is the ongoing rehabilitation
of the Gold Star Memorial Bridge, which
connects New London to Groton and serves as
a critical transportation artery for the region.
This extensive project aims to improve traffic
flow, enhance pedestrian and bike access, and
ensure the long-term safety and functionality of
this vital bridge.
Complementing this effort is the development
of a new intermodal transportation hub at
Union Station, which is adjacent to our future
Museum. This hub will integrate rail, bus,
ferry, pedestrian pathways, and parking,
making it easier than ever for residents and
visitors to navigate the city and access key
destinations, including the National Coast
Guard Museum. This project highlights New
London’s commitment to sustainable, efficient
transportation solutions that support economic
growth and community connectivity.
PARKING AND ACCESSIBILITY:
NEW GARAGE AND
WAYFINDING SYSTEMS
To support the influx of visitors expected with
the Museum’s opening, New London is investing
in its adjacent downtown parking garage. The
expansion of this facility will provide ample
parking for residents, tourists, and event-goers,
reducing congestion and improving the overall
downtown experience.
Additionally, the city is implementing a
comprehensive wayfinding system to guide
visitors through New London’s historic streets,
cultural landmarks, and waterfront attractions. The
signage will enhance accessibility and promote
local businesses, encouraging exploration
beyond the museum doors.
WATERFRONT RENAISSANCE:
CITY PIER AND
BEAUTIFICATION INITIATIVES
New London’s waterfront is undergoing a
significant transformation, with upgrades to
City Pier that will create a more inviting and
functional public space, as well as serve as the
permanent homeport for the USCGC Eagle.
Enhancements include improved docking
facilities, expanded pedestrian areas, and new
amenities to support maritime activities.
Beautification initiatives throughout the city are
adding to New London’s charm. From vibrant
murals to landscaped public spaces, these
efforts aim to create a welcoming atmosphere
that reflects the city’s artistic and cultural spirit.
The improvements not only enhance New
London’s visual appeal but also foster civic
pride and greater community engagement.
A COMMUNITY UNITED FOR
PROGRESS
The city’s revitalization efforts extend beyond
infrastructure and economic development.
Community organizations, local leaders, and
residents are working together to create a
more resilient New London. Initiatives focused
on education, arts, and social services are
strengthening the city’s social fabric and
ensuring that all residents can benefit from the
city’s progress.
As the National Coast Guard Museum drives
towards opening, New London is well on its
way to becoming a model of modern urban
development. The investments being made
today will not only support the Museum’s
success but also ensure a prosperous future for
the entire community. Visitors will find a city
that honors its past while embracing innovation,
making New London a true maritime gem on
the Connecticut coastline.
PAGE 12
NATIONAL COAST GUARD MUSEUM ASSOCIATION

Hear Mayor Mike Passero discuss the latest improvements
and developments in New London by visiting:
@NationalCGMuseumAssociation
SPRING 2025
PAGE 13

PAGE 14
NATIONAL COAST GUARD MUSEUM ASSOCIATION

ELKS’
LEGACY OF
SERVICE
CONTINUES:
MAJOR GIFT TO
NATIONAL COAST
GUARD MUSEUM
In a powerful testament to their century-long commitment to
America’s veterans, the Connecticut Elks Association of the
Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks of the United States of
America has stepped forward with a leadership gift of $250,000
to the National Coast Guard Museum. This significant contribution
underscores the Connecticut Elks’ unwavering dedication to
honoring service and supporting those who have worn the uniform.
But their generosity doesn’t stop there. In true Elks fashion,
Connecticut members have also rallied behind a commemorative
paver campaign, purchasing 22 personalized pavers that will
become a permanent part of the Museum’s landscape. These
etched tributes—each one a story of service, sacrifice, and pride—
will greet visitors as they walk the Argus Promenade, creating a
tangible and lasting connection between past, present, and future.
The B. P. O. Elks, a non-sectarian and apolitical charitable organization
with nearly 800,000 members and more than 1,900 lodges across
the Nation, have long prioritized service to veterans. Their history of
giving stretches back to World War I, when they built a hospital for
returning soldiers outside of Boston and then gifted it to the federal
government. It was a bold gesture—one that helped shape the
foundation of their modern-day veterans programs. More than a
century later, their support for the National Coast Guard Museum
represents a continuation of that proud legacy.
SUPPORTING THE MUSEUM WAS
A NO-BRAINER FOR US. THE
COAST GUARD DOESN’T GET THE
RECOGNITION IT DESERVES FOR
ALL THE SERVICES IT PROVIDES.
SPRING 2025
PAGE 15

“Supporting the Museum was a no-brainer for
us,” said Richard M. Palanzo, Special Deputy
Grand Exalted Ruler and a 44-year member
of the Danbury, Connecticut Elks Lodge. “The
Coast Guard doesn’t get the recognition it
deserves for all the services it provides. This
is a great opportunity for us to not only help
and support Coast Guard veterans—indeed,
all veterans—but also it’s a great way to honor
all that they have done.”
Palanzo, who has held numerous leadership
roles in the organization—including Past
District Deputy, Past Grand Lodge Committee
Chairman, and Past State President—was
instrumental in encouraging Elks support at
both the local and state levels. He described
the moment the National Coast Guard
Museum was presented to their membership
at their state convention: “It was a unanimous
vote,” he recalled. “When our members
learned about the mission of the Museum, the
lives it would impact, and the role it would play
in educating future generations, the decision
to support it was immediate and enthusiastic.”
The Elks’ commitment is more than financial.
It’s deeply personal and proudly patriotic.
To commemorate their support and spread
awareness among their members, the CT Elks
even created a special Coast Guard-themed
pin, which is now worn with pride among
members statewide. It’s a small symbol of a
big promise—one rooted in honor, gratitude,
and service.
The presence of a local Elks lodge just steps
from the Museum’s future home in New
London, Connecticut, makes this partnership all
the more meaningful. As the Museum prepares
to open its doors, the New London Elks and
others nearby stand ready to welcome
visitors, host events, and share in the mission of
preserving and celebrating the legacy of the
United States Coast Guard.
“We are a charitable and patriotic organization,”
said Palanzo. “We always prioritize helping our
veterans. We have pledged: “ So long as there
are veterans, the Benevolent and Protective
Order of Elks will never forget them”, that’s why
supporting the National Coast Guard Museum
is such a natural fit for us. It reflects who we are
and what we stand for.”
The Elks’ generous gift will support the
creation of immersive exhibits and educational
programs designed to engage and inspire
visitors of all ages. It will help ensure that the
stories of heroism, service, and sacrifice that
define the Coast Guard are never forgotten.
And it will shine a light on the often unsung
but vital work performed by Coast Guard
members at home and around the world.
As the Museum continues its campaign to raise
awareness and support, the Elks’ leadership
serves as a call to action—an invitation to
others to follow their example and be part
of history. Through every dollar donated and
every paver purchased, the Connecticut Elks
are helping to build a lasting legacy for the
men and women of the United States Coast
Guard.
Their motto, “Elks Care, Elks Share,” has never
rung more true.
PAGE 16
NATIONAL COAST GUARD MUSEUM ASSOCIATION

Previous Page: Members of the Elks present a donation
check to the National Coast Guard Museum Association
outside the Garde Theatre ollowing a public awareness
event for the Museum. This contribution secures the Elks
a place in the Ida Lewis Circle on the Museum’s wall
of philanthropy.
This Page - Top: An Air Force flag was presented to
the oldest Air Force veteran of the Groton, CT, lodge in
honor of the Air Force’s birthday.
This Page - Bottom: Render of the museum’s wall of
philanthropy showing the five giving levels.
SPRING 2025
PAGE 17

BRICK BY BRICK
PAVING THE WAY FOR THE
NATIONAL COAST GUARD MUSEUM
Thank you to everyone who has purchased a commemorative paver in support of the National Coast Guard
Museum. These pavers will be permanently set into the Argus Promenade entrance, creating a living tribute that
honors loved ones and preserves treasured memories.
The National Coast Guard Museum Association has been deeply moved by the incredible stories you have shared
with your paver purchases. We hope these tributes bring you as much pride and inspiration as they do to us.
Together, we are building, preserving, and celebrating Coast Guard history—for generations to come.
Generational Pride
My son Gatlin Bender is currently proudly serving in the Coast Guard in
Manistee, MI. My granduncle Chester Bender was Commandant of the
USCG from 1970-1974 and created the current uniform - Bender blues.
The USCG has been a tremendous experience to my son, and I’m very
proud of the responsibilities that he has taken on through the Coast Guard.
—Tim Bender
A Career Dedicated to Local Service
Michael (Mike) and I met in 1986 at a co-sponsored
medical presentation by a visiting MD specialist
in hypothermia. Mike was stationed at the USCG
Support Center Kodiak, Alaska, as the medical admin
officer, and I worked at the local hospital in town.
Halfway through that presentation, a Coast Guard
emergency was called to rescue several individuals
whose boat had capsized at night in the frigid waters
off Kodiak Island. They were successfully rescued in
time and treated for severe hypothermia. They survived
only because of the rapid CG response. Mike and I
eventually married in 1988 and had an adventurous
37-year marriage until his passing in March 2025.
This plaque is dedicated to Mike, his 28 years in the
USCG, and his years of service dedicated to his local
communities.
—Kathryn Brokaw
PAGE 18
NATIONAL COAST GUARD MUSEUM ASSOCIATION

WWII veteran Lois “Coast Guard Lady” Bouton remembered
As most in the Coast Guard community know, Lois Bouton spent many
years sending letters and cards to individuals members of the Coast
Guard, as well as open letters and cards to all serving on various
stations and ships of the Coast Guard. As Lois aged she needed help
to continue sending the letters and cards. Her friend Pauline Lasister
stepped up and provided the help needed so Lois could continue
serving the Coast Guard.
— John Jakubik
At the age of 102, Bouton died in 2022, having written more than
40,000 letters in total.
Guardian of the Sea
One the many missions of the Coast Guard is marine environmental
protection. Over my 29 years of service (both active and reserve) I served
as pollution investigator and federal on-scene coordinator in hundreds of
cases. I’m proud of this positive mission of the Coast Guard and honored
to have had the opportunity to contribute as a guardian of the sea.
—David Leitinger
SPRING 2025
PAGE 19

The National Coast Guard
Museum Association is
recognized as a top-rated
charity with a Gold Seal of
Transparency by Candid
(formerly Guidestar), an
organization that helps
individuals make informed
giving decisions.
PAGE 20
NATIONAL COAST GUARD MUSEUM ASSOCIATION