CHARLOTTE, NC, October 13, 2011 – Boat Owners Association of The United States (BoatUS) presented US Coast Guard Auxiliary Division 1 Flotilla 7 in the 8th District, Coastal Region of Pensacola, Florida, with the prestigious “Best Flotilla in the Nation” Award for 2010 at the Auxiliary’s National Convention recently held in Charlotte, North Carolina. The Flotilla bested 1,000 other flotillas across the nation for the top honors.

The criteria for the award is based on outstanding performance in all areas of the Auxiliary’s programs in 2010 which include public education, vessel safety checks, marine dealer visits and operations. The 38 volunteers of Flotilla 7 contributed over 3221 operations-hours providing 42 patrols with 216 hours devoted to aids to navigation or safety functions. In addition, the Flotilla conducted 1040 marine dealer visits, performed 727 Vessel Safety Checks and offered 100 public education classes that taught seamanship to over 2,000 students.

Flotilla 7 Commander Alexander Ilnyckyj said, “With support from Flotillas from around the country, our members put in long hours participating in lengthy missions, dedicating much of their time demonstrating their support to the US Coast Guard, the boating community and Deepwater Horizon efforts. What turned out to be amazing was the high level of fellowship and fun we all enjoyed while staying so busy last year.”

The mission of the all-volunteer US Coast Guard Auxiliary is to contribute to the safety and security of citizens, ports and waterways, balancing the missions of recreational boating safety and US Coast Guard support with maritime homeland security and other challenges that emerged as a result of a post-9/11 era. With nearly 32,000 men and women, the Auxiliary has units in every state.

BoatUS Foundation President Chris Edmonston, who represented BoatUS, said, “The men and women of Flotilla 7 dedicated their time and expertise to help make our waterways safe for boaters. We appreciate the efforts of this outstanding group.”

About BoatUS:

BoatUS is the nation’s leading advocate for recreational boaters providing its over half million members with government representation, services such as boat towing and insurance, boating safety programs and money saving benefits. For membership information visit www.BoatUS.com or call 800-395-2628.