The Coast Guard Foundation and its supporters gathered on Nov. 14 to honor and celebrate the achievements of those serving in the Coast Guard’s Eighth District at the annual Houston Awards Dinner at the Marriott Marquis in Houston.
With more than 550 guests and local dignitaries in attendance, the event resulted in the highest level of donations in the history of the Houston Awards Dinner.
During the gala, the foundation honored Coast Guard members and spouses, and Coast Guard Auxiliary members from Marine Safety Unit in Texas City who assisted fellow Coast Guard members and families during the partial government shutdown earlier this year.
The event also recognized long-standing supporter Phillips 66 and presented the Coast Guard Foundation Distinguished Leadership Award to Ret. Admiral Thad Allen.
As a tribute to Admiral Allen’s service, the foundation established the Admiral Thad Allen Guardian Fund Endowment to fund the foundation’s highest priority needs.
“I would like to give my heartfelt thanks and appreciation to Admiral Thad Allen,” said Coast Guard president Susan Ludwig in a statement. “Your support has meant so much to this organization. Through your leadership and guidance, our partnership with the Coast Guard has never been stronger. Thank you for all you do for the Coast Guard Foundation.”
The new endowment fund will provide the Foundation with the flexibility to fund programs and priorities in a new way. Growing the endowment fund over time will allow the Foundation the opportunity to guarantee support for projects including scholarships, disaster relief, workforce development programs and full-mission support.
