Shipmates,
We were saddened last week with news of the passing of RADM Bennett S. "Bud" Sparks. Bud was a friend and mentor whose impact on the Active and Reserve Components of the Coast Guard was immense. Beginning with service in World War II, Bud rose from Seaman to Rear Admiral and distinguished himself on active duty and as a Reservist. The Reserve Officer's Association presents two awards annually named after Bud. The description for each from the ROA website are provided below.
RADM Bennett S. "Bud" Sparks Unit Award
Selected by: Headquarters, U.S. Coast Guard
Criteria: Awarded annually to the Coast Guard unit judged to be the most supportive of a totally integrated coast guard force, demonstrated by its effective use of Coast Guard Reservists. Presentation is made at ROA's National Convention.
RADM Bennett S. "Bud" Sparks Coast Guard Reserve Outstanding Junior Officer Award
Selected by: Headquarters, U.S. Coast Guard
Criteria: Must be a drilling Coast Guard Reserve Junior Officer (O-3 or below) or warrant officer and is selected in accordance with criteria contained in Coast Guard directives. ROA provides and presents the award annually at the Mid-Winter Conference.
I am asking that our Active and Reserve colleagues post any personal comments and memories they have about Bud Sparks on this post.
RADM Sparks' obituary: /RADM_SPARKS_OBITUARY.pdf
ADM A
