One of the “luxuries” afforded by a conference, such as NACON, is the ability to breakout into separate meetings with your peers. The Area meetings are a great example of this “luxury.”

The National Auxiliary is divided into three Areas, much like the active duty Coast Guard. There are two Atlantic Areas, East and West, and the Pacific Area. Each Area is directed by a National Area Commodore (ARCO) and divided into multiple Districts. Each District has its own Commodore (DCO) and Director of Auxiliary (DIRAUX).

The Area meetings allow an opportunity for each ARCO to hold a private meeting with all of his DCOs and DIRAUXs. The District Vice Commodores (VCO) and Asst. Directors (OTO) are invited to attend. Matters germane to their geographical areas are discussed in this open forum allowing the attendees to share in the knowledge and expertise of each other.

The meeting also affords the ARCO an opportunity to pass on the latest information to the attendees. “A wonderful opportunity for the newer members of senior leadership to get to meet and know their counterparts in other Districts,” said Bob Amort, Vice Commodore D5-NR.