CGMA’s First Coastal Grit Celebrates CG Community 

Coastal Grit 2025 was a night to remember- a celebration that brought together nearly 300 members of the Tampa Bay Coast Guard community, including active duty personnel, civilian employees, reservists, auxiliarists, retirees, families, and cherished friends. It was an evening of connection, camaraderie, and shared purpose. There, CGMA honored those who went above and beyond during one of the most challenging years on record: 

• Commodore Larry King was honored as Ambassador of the Year for creating the groundbreaking Coast Guard Auxiliary CGMA Ambassador Program. His award, accepted by Commodore Rick Washburn, marked a milestone in CGMA’s growing reach through the CGMA Ambassador Program. 

• WIN Fertility accepted the CGMA Values Award for their generosity and partnership which have made a lasting impact on Coast Guard families, ensuring they have access to the resources they need to build the families they want. 

• In a powerful tribute to frontline leadership, the Superior Support Award was presented to CGMA Representatives Chief Josh Forsyth, Lieutenant Will Meier, and Chief Ryan Shaak for ensuring that CGMA’s mission extends beyond emergencies into the daily rhythms of care and compassionate support. 

• The night’s highest honor—the Lieutenant James Crotty Representative of the Year Award—went to Chief Petty Officer Darcy Crop, who coordinated over $535,000 in financial relief for more than 540 families in the wake of Hurricanes Helene and Milton.  

This remarkable night was made possible by our generous event sponsors: 
First Command (Gold), and the Bob Woodruff Foundation, Bank of America, and USAA (Silver). 

From moving tributes to high-energy celebrations (and a rocking set by the Bearded Brothers Band!), Coastal Grit 2025 was more than an event—it was a reminder of what’s possible when a community comes together. 

If you weren’t in the room, you missed something special. But don’t worry—CGMA’s mission continues, and so can your support. Stay tuned for the announcement of the Coastal Grit 2026 location—this is one event you won’t want to miss!