THE COMMANDANT OF THE UNITED STATES COAST GUARDWASHINGTON 20593

JUL 29:'lrl'r

The Commandant of the United States Coast Guard takes pleasure in presentingthe COAST GUARD MERITORIOUS TEAM COMMENDATION to:

COAST GUARD STATION CHINCOTEAGUECHINCOTEAGUE, VIRGINIA

for service as set forth in the following

CITATION:

rrFor exceptionally meritorious service from March 2008 through July 2008 whileproviding for the maritime safety and security of Chincoteague Island's 83'd Annual PonySwim. In preparation, Station Chincoteague identified the vast scope of this event andformed a diverse interagency team comprised of members from Sector Hampton Roadssub-units, Coast Guard Auxiliary Division 12 and District Five Waterways Management.This team distinguished themselves in preparing for and overseeing the safe execution ofthis internationally renowned event which drew nearly 501000 visitors. Based on pastexperience of the high probability of mariners engaging in illegal chartering, StationChincoteague personnel developed a compressive preventative strategy, including a timelyeducation program and implemented a collaborative effort to identify, prevent, detect andsuppress violations. This educational community outreach included initiatives such aspublic town hall meetings, radio broadcasts, meetings with local business owners andwalking the docks the morning of the event handing out safety pamphlets. In concert withthe Virginia Marine Resource Commission, the Virginia Department of Game and InlandFisheries and District Five Waterways Management, Station Chincoteague personnelformed an interagency team with the town of Chincoteague, which proved crucial to theoverall success of the event. The first ever establishment of a localized, three-day 'SlowSpeed Zone' resulted in the most well'organized entry and departure of over 300 vessels inrecent memory. Additionally, in the midst of ensuring the safety of the boating public andthe ponies, Station Chincoteague personnel assisted the Virginia Marine ResourceCommission with security for the Governor of Virginia's visit to the Pony Swim. StationChincoteague's persistent efforts achieved outstanding results, providing for a safemaritime event, widely lauded the best Pony Swim since its inception in 1925. Thededication, prideo and professionalism displayed try Station Chincoteague are in keepingwith the highest traditions of the United States Coast Guard.rr

The Operational Distinguishing Device is authorized.

W.E.JRear Admiral, U. I Coast

For

Commander, Fifth t Guard District