A Little Bit of Protocol

Public Affairs Officers often times need to be nonconformists to get the job done.  We like to think big and outside of the proverbial box.  However, there is a time to stay inside that box.

As we make plans for public appearances, launch new campaigns, etc.; we sometimes get a bit exuberant and want to invite senior government officials.  That’s great, but there is a way to extend such invitations.

For example, if you want to invite the Governor of your state to an Auxiliary event, work through your State Liaison Officer and make sure the invitation comes from your District Commodore and the District Commander.  If you want to invite the Commandant of the Coast Guard or any Flag Officer (other than your District Commander), make sure the invitation is extended by the Commodore via your District Commander.  If you want to invite the Secretary of Homeland Security make sure the request comes from your Commodore, via, the District Commander, and the Commandant.  If you want to invite the President or First Lady, add the Secretary of Homeland Security to the chain.

Got the idea?

Thomas Nunes
Deputy Chief, Public Affairs Department
U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary
3614 East Kent Drive
Phoenix, AZ 85044
Tel:  480-759-5548
Cell:  602-617-1979