The 2025 Windjammer Days will shine a spotlight on the dedicated individuals who have served, are serving, or are preparing to serve in one of the most respected branches of the U.S. military: the Coast Guard. From active-duty members and retired veterans to the bright future leaders currently enrolled at the U.S. Coast Guard Academy, we’ll explore their personal stories, their contributions to the community, and the impact they've made on the nation's maritime security. The 63rd annual Boothbay Harbor Windjammer Days will take place on Sunday, June 22 through Saturday, June 28. Please visit boothbayharborwindjammerdays.org for the full schedule of events.

Growing up in Boothbay Harbor, surrounded by boats, I felt a deep desire to help save people in trouble. Also, my uncle Bill Parmenter USCG (ret.) took me to his units when I was a kid. This passion led me to a 22-year career in the U.S. Coast Guard, during which I was transferred to various units and stations.

I was stationed in Boothbay Harbor for about five years and even served as Officer in Charge on a few occasions while waiting for a Chief to assume the role. When I first arrived, the Coast Guard Station was located across the street from where the station is now.

My initial assignment was aboard the CGC Acushnet, a 213-foot ocean-going tugboat. After that, I was stationed at Boothbay Harbor Station before transferring to other units, including Kennebec River Station, CGC Shackle, and then back to Boothbay Harbor. I made Chief at Boothbay Harbor Station and was transferred to the CGC Yankton, Portland Lightship, and French Frigate Shoals, where George Crocker from Boothbay told me he built that island while he was in the Navy Seabees. Then to Base Charleston in South Carolina where I made Senior Chief and transferred to District One Search and Rescue in Boston. In my role at District One, I was responsible for all boats 65 feet and under, from Eastport to Newport, Rhode Island. It was during this time that the 41-foot boats were being assigned and I was asked where the next one was going. I said, Boothbay Harbor Station. I made Master Chief in the District and transferred to the CGC Point Batan in Point Pleasant Beach, New Jersey.

My final assignment was on the CGC Point Batan, an 82-foot cutter, where I served as Officer in Charge. While doing patrol in Key West, I had the honor of taking out the Coast Guard Commandant Jack Hayes. When he came aboard, I handed him a copy of the Boothbay Register. Surprised, he asked how I knew. I told him I lived right near him in Boothbay Harbor.

I had six family members in the Coast Guard and three retired, including my daughter Sharon Machon Ames.

My journey through the Coast Guard was filled with varied assignments, each contributing to my growth and dedication to saving lives at sea.