Well we’re now in the depths of the summer season. For us hardcore, full-time residents, that means daily thunderstorms and heat. Unfortunately, our snowbird members seem to have escaped to worse heat than us “tough guys”. You just can’t win sometimes.
Summer for us full-time residents can mean one of two things as regards our Auxiliary mission – we either kickback and take the summer off, or we stay focused on our goals and prepare for the winter season.
I’m not crazy enough to suggest that any of us forgo vacations; I know I’m not, but we can still stay in touch and keep things moving along. Cell phone, computers and the Internet make staying plugged in pretty painless.
So, what are our goals? There are two customers we have to consider, one is the Flotilla and the other is you. Both need to get something out of the deal. I can talk to you about the Flotilla’s needs and goals, and will momentarily.
You have to decide what you want, and communicate that to your leadership. Both you and the Flotilla will need to look ahead and do a little planning and communicating to make it happen. So, let us know what you’re looking for out of this deal. Don’t be shy, because I’m really bad at reading minds!
The Flotilla primary goals are: new members, member retention, and operational competence. We need new members and younger members to replace those who are either approaching the end of their Auxiliary participation, or leaving the area. All of our members can help. Don’t be shy about talking about your Auxiliary activities with others, when you think appropriate. Keep your “sixty second Auxiliary speech” ready. I just found a new member from an area restaurant that I enjoy. You just never know.
While member retention is usually a more staff officer related activity, you can help here, also. We all develop friendships with other members. Often it is due to shared interests. If you notice that one of our members, particularly a buddy, has been absent from meetings or other flotilla activities; give them a call to see what’s up. If it’s something that requires a staff officer or the Bridge to address, then let us know. We’re not asking for you to be “nosey”, but just take the initiative to be helpful, as your common sense dictates.
Operational competence is usually about boat crew activities, but it can be applied to anything you do in the Auxiliary. There is a big difference between being certified and being competent. The former is the first step in an ongoing process. The latter is the end game, and it’s an ongoing process.
In my former life, we used to say to newly licensed pilots, “Now you have a license to learn.” While the Auxiliary at all levels, including the flotilla, is providing new programs and initiatives to help us on our journey to competence and performance excellence we also need your help. We need you to have the desire to learn more, attend training opportunities when provided, and encourage your colleagues. Learning more can be enjoyable. You not only get the motivation that comes from learning more, but you also enjoy socializing with your friends and others with a common interest.
So, stay plugged in this summer.
We are Semper Paratus.
