INDIAN RIVER COUNTY — The U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary Flotilla 56, based in Sebastian and Vero Beach, installed its new officers during the annual Change of Watch ceremony on Jan. 17, marking a transition in leadership for the volunteer group focused on boating safety.
Jim A. Vaughn was sworn in as flotilla commander, with Daniel W. Blankenship taking the role of vice commander. The event also saw the installation of several staff officers: Gary P. Barth, Terry A. Barth, Rebecca A. Cohen, Paul D. Dery, Frans M. Eyberse, Elliot B. Green, Alan E. Kreger, Michael McCormick, Patricia L. McCormick, Carmen R. Miranda, Donald E. Osiniak, Francisco J. Picornell and Darrell L. Williams.
These leaders will guide the flotilla’s members through 2026, overseeing missions that promote recreational boating safety in the region.
In addition to the swearing-in, the ceremony honored Carmen R. Miranda as the 2025 Auxiliarist of the Year for Flotilla 56. Miranda was recognized for enhancing emergency communications systems at the Indian River County Emergency Operations Center and advancing marine safety efforts. A certified telecommunications operator and paddlecraft operator, Miranda has played a key role in the group’s operations.
The Change of Watch is a yearly tradition where the auxiliary acknowledges members’ contributions to community safety. Flotilla 56 supports initiatives including public education on boating, vessel safety inspections, public affairs outreach, visits to marine dealers and patrols on air and water.
The flotilla operates under Coast Guard Sector Miami in the Southeast District and assists the area covered by Coast Guard Station Fort Pierce.
Established by Congress in 1939, the Coast Guard Auxiliary serves as the uniformed civilian arm of the U.S. Coast Guard, contributing to nearly all its mission areas. More details are available at www.cgaux.org.
