Toronto Police Chief Bill Blair, Toronto Police Services Board members Hamlin Grange and Judi Cohen present Partnership Citation to U.S. Coast Guard Air Wing front: Bob Bialkowski, Bob Fratangelo, Bob (Goose) Hampton rear: Paul Leuchner, Jim Mazel (Photo Courtesy of Toronto Police Service)

October 29, 2006 United States Coast Guard Air Station Detroit was given recognition for its on going Homeland Security missions that support several law enforcement teams along our international border.

The Toronto Police Services Board honored six of Air Station Detroit's crews during its annual awards ceremonies at police headquarters for their selfless devotion to duty while participating in these missions. LT Jim Mazel, USCG; Auxiliarist Bob Bialkowski, Auxiliarist Paul Leuchner, Auxiliarist Bob (Goose) Hampton, Auxiliarist Dave Cidale, and Auxiliarist Bob Fratangelo were awarded the Toronto Police Service "Partnership Citation".

The citation was presented by Police Chief William Blair, Mr. Hamlin Grange, Ms. Judi Cohen of the Toronto Police Services Board, and Master of Ceremonies Inspector Glen Holt.

The citation read, "In recognition of your invaluable assistance to the Toronto Police Service. We commend your spirit of dedication, cooperation, and support which have positively impacted on the operations of the Service. Accept the challenges so that you may feel the exhilaration of success." It was signed by William Blair Chief of Police, Toronto, Ontario and by Dr. Alok Mukherjee Chairman of the Board.

This group of Coast Guard aviators, active duty and Auxiliarists, were specifically recognized for their selfless service, dedication and support of the many homeland security missions that are carried out along the international border between Canada and the United States. U.S. Coast Guard Air Station Detroit routinely engages its Auxiliary Air crews (AUXAIR) in its Homeland Security missions in a support role; especially since September 11 2001. Air Station Detroit's AUXAIR crews reestablished a national precedent when they flew during the six day "national no fly period." They have flown during every increase in maritime security level since then.