Coast Guard celebrates change in Alder’s command

A change-of-command ceremony was held for the U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Alder at Coast Guard Station Duluth, on June 22.

Cmdr. Mary Ellen J. Durley, daughter of Robert and Mary Durley, Potosi, Wis., transferred the duties and responsibilities of commanding officer to Lt. Cmdr. Anthony J. Maffia during the ceremony, in which Rear Adm. Michael Parks, commander of the 9th Coast Guard District served as presiding officer.

“It has been a highlight of my career, serving with such a dedicated and hardworking crew,” said Durley. “It’s hard to believe that three years have gone by so quickly. It feels like yesterday when I moved to beautiful Duluth, and was greeted by that nice “Minnesota” hospitality. My neighbors made me feel right at home with their generosity, kindness, and superior baking talents! I will treasure my time living in Duluth, and am grateful for the support of the community for making my tour here very memorable.”

The ceremony recognized the tremendous efforts accomplished by a very special unified team over the past three years.

“A ship’s captain can do little by him or herself. Ship Captains set the destination and course to steer in most cases, but they don’t make the engines run, man the helm, scrape and paint the hull, or prepare the fine meals that make everyone smile (unless the officers are making pizza during Pizza Night underway). All of the intricate, hard work is done by the crew,” said Durley.

For the past three years, the crew trained, maintained and operated to successfully accomplish missions using Alder’s guiding principles: A-Adaptability, L-Leadership, D-Dedication, E-Enthusiasm, and R-Respect.

In just three short years, Durley acquired unparalleled skills and leadership to last the rest of her Coast Guard career. Durley stated, “It was an unbelievable whirlwind tour. I would never have been able to accomplish this challenging and demanding job without the dedication and hard work of her crew,” and saluted the crew for their outstanding performance.

Upon relief of command, Durley will report to Coast Guard Headquarters in Washington D.C., where she will serve as chief, aids to navigation and icebreaker capabilities division.

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