RESERVIST MAGAZINE THE VIEW FROM THE BRIDGE conceived of things like remote drilling or meeting and conducting training via video conference. We took something that could have been debilitating for the service and found new ways to make W Rear Adm. Todd Wiemers Assistant Commandant for Reserve things work. Granted, we’re still learning how to operate under these conditions, but we’re doing it. We know people still have concerns about safety, their families, their work environments, and their careers. We know some of us have lost loved ones, jobs, and an overall sense of security about the world. Saying this is an incredibly difficult time is an understatement, but we’re an adaptive organization, and we’re always ready. Even during these trying times, the Reserve remains essential. Last month, an all-Reserve boat crew from Station Cape Disappointment stood the watch when their unit was going through tough times following the loss of a shipmate. They went to work when their unit needed them. Even in a district that was a hot spot, the reservists at Cape D showed real devotion to duty. They’re not alone. We know so many of you want to get out there and do your jobs, that’s just a fact; we know there’s people chomping at the bit to get back to normal. Reservists want to work. But safety is always going to be our number one priority. Slowly and, more importantly, safely, the Coast Guard is beginning the process of returning more people to the workplace to ensure seamless operations. This includes the Reserve. The service’s return to the workplace will bring back all aspects of the Coast Guard workforce together. I’m personally excited to see more folks return to the workplace so I can return all of my focus to my primary duties as the Assistant Commandant for Reserve (CG-R). I’ve been double-hatted as Deputy Commandant for Operations-Deputy for Operations Policy and Capabilities ever since Rear Adm. Meredith Austin deployed to the Department of Health and Human Services in February. While much of my work lately has been COVID-19-related, I’ve still got my eye on CG-R staff projects. It’s hard to believe that June marks the one-year anniversary for CG-R, and I couldn’t be prouder "The difference is this: we’re playing in the arena, not reading the scores the day after. We’re playing the game, which makes us much more responsive to opportunities that present themselves. And this is the kind of integration that we need to maximize Reserve effectiveness in accomplishing Coast Guard missions." 6 RESERVIST � Issue 2 • 2020 of what we’ve accomplished. I have to say, we’ve come a long way since that meeting in Phoenix last summer. First, our budget has increased for the first time in many years, and it’s planned to continue to increase in the near term to support the accession and training of our authorized strength of 7,000. Our leadership is taking a hard look at organizational priorities, and they’re integrating the needs of the Reserve Component into their decisions from the start. Second, we’ve broken the mold for how we manage the personnel allowance list, and we will be rolling out FlexPAL around September 1. What was just a concept in the past was brought to the forefront during the Reserve End Strength Action Team and agreed upon by the Vice Commandant for execution. When fully implemented, it’ll be easier to serve closer to home for more reservists than ever before. Another great change: in April, the billet for the Master Chief Petty Officer of the Coast Guard Reserve was moved to be a permanent part of the MCPOCG’s office, further aligning Active and Reserve leadership. All these accomplishments are products of being at the table with the operational folks. This move to CG-R put us in a better place to showcase the ways the Reserve can support operations. We’re speaking the same language now. When we hear the needs from our partners in the DCO community, we can volunteer the right level of support. The difference is this: we’re playing in the arena, not reading the scores the day after. We’re playing the game, which makes us much more responsive to opportunities that present themselves. And this is the kind of integration that we need to maximize Reserve effectiveness in accomplishing Coast Guard missions. I’m excited for what the next year is going to bring. COVID-19 or not, the Reserve has always shined brightest when faced with adversity. Your adaptability is invaluable and very much appreciated. Thank you for your service and your dedication. Together, we remain Semper Paratus. ow. What a world we’re living in right now. When we sent the last edition of Reservist to the printer in March, we never could have imagined the situation we’d be in three short months later. Before COVID-19, we never
