In late November, Legalman 1st Class Dameon Smith and Lt. John Wilson, from the Naval Air Station Key West staff judge advocate office, proactively arranged a tour of the Coast Guard station in Key West, Fla. to strengthen working relationships. Their guide, Chief Boatswain's Mate Adrian Hunt, provided a first-class tour of the station. He offered an in-depth explanation of the Coast Guard, the local practices and mission, and the station's facilities and capabilities.
"The privilege to spend the day with our brothers and sisters in the Coast Guard was an excellent experience for both Legalman 1st Class Smith and myself," said Wilson. "Consistent with Coast Guard values, they went above and beyond ensure we received a first-class education on how they operate, the challenges they face, and the precision in which they complete their mission."
Hunt was knowledgeable, patient, and professional at all times. He ensured Smith was provided an opportunity to attend an Aids to Navigation Team (ANT) underway to repair a navigation signal. Smith learned about Coast Guard engineering, communication management, Coast Guard military justice and administrative separation procedures, the armory and supply departments, and even an opportunity to go onboard the USCGC William Trump (WPC-1111). Highlighting both the similarities and differences between the branches, the experience provided both Smith and Wilson a more well-rounded view of the joint enterprise to national security and military readiness.
"It was an honor to spend a day with the Coast Guard, seeing their daily tasks, ship evolutions, and hearing their stories was an experience I will never forget," said Smith.