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From Coast Guard Auxiliary Flotilla

United States Coast Guard Auxiliary Flotilla 081-08-08 in Clanton recently hosted 17 Cadets from the United States Coast Guard Academy.

The cadets are assigned to Marion Military Institute (MMI) to complete their core academic requirements. After their time at MMI, they will return to the U.S. Coast Guard Academy to complete their education before being commissioned as officers in the United States Coast Guard.

Their day consisted of learning about risk management, the parts of a boat, how to perform Vessel Safety Checks along with food, games and lots of fellowship. After the initial day of fellowship, the Cadets will begin their education by completing the USCG Safe Boating course culminating with the presentation of certificates for completing the course on the Coast Guard’s Birthday, Aug. 4, 2022.

“We are pleased to invest in the future of the Coast Guard, and it was great fun getting to know these exceptional individuals,” said Mike Welborn, division vice commander.

In a statement from Marion Military Institute, Captain (Retired) Todd Gatlain stated, “Marion Military Institute is so grateful to USCG Flotilla 88 for providing these future Coast Guard officers with hands-on introductions to Risk Management and boating safety, as well as welcoming these cadets and their families to the Coast Guard Family.”

The United States Coast Guard Academy presents an unrivaled opportunity to attend an elite professional college that charges no tuition and guarantees a challenging and rewarding career upon graduation.

Marion Military Institute is ranked among the nation’s most prestigious institutions of higher learning, and the U.S. Coast Guard Academy in New London, Connecticut, is proud to educate future leaders of America’s multi-mission, maritime military force. Each year, approximately 200 graduates are commissioned as Coast Guard officers to help ensure the safety, security and stewardship of our nation’s waters.

Marion Military Institute is one of only four military junior colleges in the United States.

Students from all over the nation attend MMI to establish a strong foundation for future study and to take advantage of its leadership development opportunities.

Flotilla 081-08-08 would like to extend its sincere gratitude to Higgins Ferry Park and the City of Clanton for its support of this event by donating the park pavilion.

For more information about the United States Coast Guard Auxiliary, Marion Military Institute, or the US Coast Guard Academy, please feel free to contact Mike Welborn at 205-755-6509.