CITATION TO ACCOMPANY THE AWARD OF
THE AUXILIARY MERITORIOUS SERVICE MEDAL
TO
MR. STUART D. SOFFER
UNITED STATES COAST GUARD AUXILIARY


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Mr. SOFFER is cited for meritorious service in the performance of duty as Special Events Coordinator for the National Auxiliary Marketing Group from 1 January 2004 to 1 December 2004. Demonstrating exceptional organizational and leadership skills, Mr. SOFFER oversaw arrangement, coordination and execution of Auxiliary participation in several outreach initiatives including the Women's Bass Fishing Association tournament in Dardanelle, Arkansas, the Bass Masters Elite 50 Tournament in Columbus, Mississippi, and the Bass Masters Championship in Charlotte, North Carolina. With similar vigor, he identified unique benefits to be gained by Auxiliary participation in the 23 city Discover Boating Tour and its 10 city follow-up Test Drive Tour. Through his direct intervention and coordination, enthusiastic presence by more than 125 Auxiliarists from nine different regions was provided at the tour stops along with program venues and displays that attracted several hundred thousand visitors. Applying keen insight and awareness of Auxiliary needs for outreach materials and guidance, Mr. SOFFER crafted a road show package on effective presentations that provided helpful considerations and suggestions to improve Auxiliary participation in major annual boat shows across the nation. Throughout the period, he maintained a grueling schedule of visitations to special events to coach and counsel the conduct of Auxiliary exhibits, and he personally stepped up to the plate on many occasions to help with their management. Such extraordinary dedication ensured that a vibrant Auxiliary image was always projected to the recreational boating public. Mr. SOFFER's dedication and devotion to duty are most heartily commended and are in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Coast Guard and the United States Coast Guard Auxiliary.

For the Commandant,
R. Dennis Sirois
Rear Admiral, U.S. Coast Guard Assistant Commandant for Operations