The Mathews Flotilla 66 of the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary observed its annual Change of Watch ceremony at the Mathews Yacht Club on Dec. 8. Matt Smith took over as commander from Nick Koch.

The occasion marked a celebration of the many accomplishments and thousands of hours of volunteer service the flotilla provided to the USCG Station Milford Haven and the boating public, both ashore and on waters surrounding Virginia’s Middle Peninsula, a release stated.

The Change of Watch program included induction of flotilla staff officers and the recognition of a few auxiliarists with awards. Smith received Auxiliarist of the Year award for his accomplishments, in 2021, while concurrently serving as the assistant flotilla commander, human resources officer and public affairs officer.

Boatswain Mate 1st class (BM1) Nathanial Pounds, Executive Petty Officer at USCG Station Milford Haven, provided closing remarks. He thanked the flotilla for its contributions to the U.S. Coast Guard team ...