ALCOAST 341/25 - AUG 2025 ANCIENT ALBATROSS SELECTION (ENLISTED)

R 081652Z AUG 25 MID180001920522U
FM COMDT COGARD WASHINGTON DC
TO ALCOAST
BT
UNCLAS
ALCOAST 341/25
SSIC 1650
SUBJ: ANCIENT ALBATROSS SELECTION (ENLISTED)
A. Recognition Programs, COMDTINST 1650.26B
1. The Ancient Albatross Award was originally established in 1966
to honor the Coast Guard Aviator who held that designation for the
longest period of time. In 1988, the award was augmented to include
the Enlisted Ancient Albatross Award, which was established for the
enlisted member with the earliest graduation date from a class "A"
school with a Coast Guard aviation rating. The award recipient is
the embodiment of the dedication and professionalism associated
with long service to Coast Guard Aviation.
2. I am pleased to announce that AETCM Shawn Burns will
transfer the honor and mantle of the Enlisted Ancient Albatross to
AMTCM Michael Ethridge during a ceremony at AIRSTA Elizabeth City on
29 August 2025. Since its inception in 1966, there have been
16 aviators accorded this recognition.
3. As AETCM Burns transitions to retirement after serving 28 years
within the aviation community, I send my most sincere appreciation
for his long dedicated service to the Coast Guard and to our Nation.
4. I congratulate AMTCM Ethridge on his designation. With 27 years
of service in Coast Guard Aviation, I am certain he will ably
represent the rich traditions of the community and the hundreds of
Coast Guard men and women who fly and provide daily support to
Coast Guard mission accomplishment as the Ancient Albatross.
5. POC: LCDR Brian Michka, COMDT (CG-711) at (571) 608-3519 or
Brian.J.Michka2@uscg.mil.
6. RDML Amy B. Grable, Assistant Commandant for Capability (CG-7),
sends.
7. Internet release is authorized.