Recreational boating safety in Indian River County remains a top priority as U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary Flotilla 56, serving both Vero Beach and Sebastian, officially welcomed its new leadership team for 2026. The volunteer organization, which plays a crucial role in local maritime safety and education, held its annual Change of Watch ceremony on January 17 to install incoming officers and recognize outstanding service from the previous year.
The “Change of Watch” is a time-honored tradition in the auxiliary, symbolizing the transfer of responsibility and the continuity of the mission to protect boaters on local waterways. Leading the flotilla into the new year is Jim A. Vaughn, who was sworn in as the new Flotilla Commander. Joining him at the helm is Daniel W. Blankenship, who assumed the role of Vice Commander.
The ceremony also marked the installation of numerous staff officers who will oversee specific aspects of the flotilla’s operations, ranging from public education to vessel inspections. The newly installed staff officers include:
- Gary P. Barth
- Terry A. Barth
- Rebecca A. Cohen
- Paul D. Dery
- Frans M. Eyberse
- Elliot B. Green
- Alan E. Kreger
- Michael McCormick
- Patricia L. McCormick
- Carmen R. Miranda
- Donald E. Osiniak
- Francisco J. Picornell
- Darrell L. Williams
One of the evening’s highlights was the presentation of the 2025 Auxiliarist of the Year award to Carmen R. Miranda. Miranda was honored for her significant contributions to community safety, specifically her work enhancing emergency communications systems at the Indian River County Emergency Operations Center. A certified telecommunications and paddlecraft operator, Miranda has been instrumental in advancing the group’s marine safety efforts.
Flotilla 56 supports initiatives including public education on boating, vessel safety inspections, public affairs outreach, visits to marine dealers and patrols on air and water.
Operating under Coast Guard Sector Miami in the Southeast District, Flotilla 56 provides vital assistance to the area covered by Coast Guard Station Fort Pierce. As the uniformed civilian arm of the U.S. Coast Guard since 1939, the Auxiliary supports nearly all Coast Guard missions, with a heavy focus on promoting safety for the recreational boating public.
Residents of Vero Beach and Sebastian rely on these volunteers for complimentary vessel safety checks and boating safety courses, ensuring that our local waters remain safe for everyone to enjoy. With the new leadership team sworn in, Flotilla 56 is poised to continue its dedicated service throughout 2026.
