Houston Awards Dinner Highlights

The Coast Guard Foundation’s annual Houston Awards Dinner was held on November 14, 2019.

The more than 550 guests in attendance honored Coast Guard members and spouses, and Coast Guard Auxiliary members from Marine Safety Unit Texas City. The honorees answered the call to assist their fellow Coast Guard members and families during the partial government shutdown earlier this year.

Mr. Greg Garland, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Phillips 66, was recognized for the company’s long-standing support.

The Coast Guard Foundation Distinguished Leadership Award was presented to Admiral Thad Allen, USCG (Ret.).

“I would like to give my heartfelt thanks and appreciation to Admiral Thad Allen,” said Susan Ludwig, president, Coast Guard Foundation. “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.”

Other event highlights:

• The Houston Brass Quintet provided ceremonial music for the evening’s program.

• The Sector Houston-Galveston Color Guard participated in the event and presented colors.

• Admiral Charles W. Ray shared welcoming remarks and Admiral Karl Schultz served as the event’s keynote speaker.

• Phillips 66 served as the event’s dinner sponsor and Kirby Corporation sponsored the cocktail reception.

As a tribute to Admiral Allen’s life of service, the Foundation has established the Admiral Thad Allen Guardian Fund Endowment.

The Admiral Thad Allen Guardian Fund Endowment is an unrestricted endowment and will be used where it is needed most. The new endowment fund will provide the Foundation with the flexibility to fund programs and priorities in a new and exciting way. Growing the endowment fund over time will allow the Foundation the opportunity to guarantee support for projects like scholarships, disaster relief, workforce development programs and full-mission support.