Shipmates,
If you had the opportunity to speak to a graduating recruit company, what would you say?
If you become a mentor you will have the opportunity.
CWO Amy Cerino made the commitment and last Friday this is what she told the graduating company ... Xray 181.
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Good Morning Admiral Allen, Captain Thomas, Master Chief Bowen, friends and families but of course Recruit Company X-Ray 181 I am extremely honored to be the Company Mentor for this outstanding group of men and women.
I have a few thoughts I would like to share with all of you in the audience today and our new Guardians.
First to the families; Thank you for all of your support and encouragement. I am sure this was probably one of the longest periods of time you have been away from your loved ones. I have a few words of advice for you. First; Learn the Coast Guard Acronyms. You will start hearing words like Leave, liberty, underway, mess-cook, duty, 1 and 4, etc. They are the dialogue with which we speak. Before you know it you will understand exactly what they are talking about and be using the same words. Second. Encourage them to do and see things they never imagined would be afforded to them. It may be outside of their and your comfort zones but it will be worth the memories. Third. Understand that they are now part of a large family where we pride ourselves in taking care of each other. I promise you, they are well prepared; they will be looked out for and will be OK.
To my Company. I am so proud of you! When I first had the opportunity to meet you 6 weeks ago you felt unsure of your decision and what lay ahead. Remember when I told you to take charge of your career and you asked how you could do that here. Well you did it. You followed directions, you listened to your Company Commander's, and you successfully completed the myriad of challenges you were confronted with. Now is the time to continue to take charge. Continue maintaining the simple things like taking pride in your uniform, keeping your hair cut, shining your boots, and working hard to maintain an optimistic attitude and set a positive example for those around you. A positive attitude and work ethic goes so far. When you get to your unit, seek out those who are successful. They will not be hard to find. They will be the ones who are excited about being part of this great service, they will be the ones who take the extra time talk to you about their career and where they came from. They will be more than happy to share their successes and failures with you. Watch how they act and try to emulate it. Also, take the time to figure out what rate you would like to pursue; aviation, support, operational. Don't be in a hurry to go to any A School because it is a quick path to petty officer. You have to be happy in the job you are doing in order to be successful. And once you are on your way never stop reaching for the next higher pay-grade. Take every end of course test and service wide exam as soon as you are eligible. Think about where you want to be in 4 years, 8 years, 20 years; it goes by so quickly. Always look ahead.
And if you ever get stuck in a rut, or feel as though you need some direction or help, do not be afraid to call me. Not only was I your mentor while you were in Boot Camp but I am your mentor for the rest of my and your career.
Remember to believe in yourself because you have unlimited potential. You are the Coast Guard's future, you are my replacement! And when it is time for me to retire I will go to home and know that my country is safe and secure because of you.
I wish you all the best, stay safe, and always remain Semper Paratus.
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I urge our officer and senior enlisted members to ask to become a mentor and find your voice.
ADM A
