The first Coast Guard Foundation tribute of 2017 took place on March 10 at the National WWII Museum in New Orleans to celebrate today’s Coast Guard heroes in America's Heartland. Coast Guard units that responded to multiple flooding events in 2016 received the Coast Guard Foundation Award.

Ten members from Baton Rouge, New Orleans and the Ohio River Valley represented the Coast Guard’s Western River Flood Punts (WRFP) units and were honored for their heroism and mission excellence.

“2016 was a very big year for our flood punt team. In every case, they sprung into action and saved a lot of lives,” said Rear Admiral David Callahan, commander of the 8th Coast Guard District. "To the flood punt teams, I want to say thank you, we’re proud of you, and we’re proud to call you shipmates," added Callahan.

Coast Guard members from Baton Rouge, New Orleans and the Ohio River Valley receiving the Coast Guard Foundation Award with Commandant of the Coast Guard Admiral Paul F. Zukunft.

Commandant Admiral Paul Zukunft, who was the evening’s keynote speaker, spoke about the Coast Guard Foundation’s impact on the service and thanked the Foundation for the support it provides to service members and their families.

Special guests joining us at the event included Vice Commandant of the United States Coast Guard, Admiral Charles Michel; Commander of the Eighth Coast Guard District, Rear Admiral Dave Callahan; and the 8th District Enlisted Person of the Year, SK3 Chelsea Colson from MSST New Orleans; and the 8th District Reserve Enlisted Person of the Year HS1 Lindsey Peters from Sector Corpus Christi.

The National World War II Museum’s Liberty Bells performed a medley of patriotic songs in tribute to the Coast Guard and other armed services. Coast Guard Foundation trustee Admiral Thad Allen, USCG (Ret.) served as MC for the evening.