CHARLESTON, S.C. – Coast Guard Sector Charleston has selected two Guardians as the 2009 active duty and reserve Enlisted Person’s of the Year. Petty Officer 3rd Class Gary Barnum was selected as the Active Duty Enlisted Person of the Year and Petty Officer 1st Class Lawrence Clark the Reserve Enlisted Person of the Year.
Barnum, 31, a native of Newport Beach, Calif., is a marine science technician and a four-year veteran of the Coast Guard. Barnum is the lead pollution investigator in Sector Charleston’s incident management division. He also serves as the marine environmental response branch’s volunteer coordinator officer. In addition he also leads the Auxiliary Trident and SEAPARTNER programs, volunteer organizations after disaster liaison and reserve program training coordinator.
“Barnum has gained the reputation among the Auxiliary members as the ‘go to’ guy when it comes to the Trident program, which is aimed at the further development of Auxiliary personnel so they can be utilized as a force multiplier within marine safety mission specialties,” said Cmdr. Richard Sundland, chief of response, Sector Charleston. ” “Barnum’s work ethic and positive attitude fosters productivity with anyone he works with on a personal or professional level.”
Clark, a native of Newton, Mass., is a 10-year veteran of the Coast Guard and supervises the rescue and survival (R&S) systems staff at Station Charleston.
“He is our subject matter expert for the R&S world. His attention to detail & work ethic is exceptional,” said Senior Chief Petty Officer Robert Young. “Our success during the recent ready for operations inspection was a direct reflection of his efforts and leadership.”
Clark is actively involved in the local fire museum, where he worked on displays and organized special events that educated the public on the fire service. In addition, he volunteers with the National Park Service where he gave tours and performed maintenance to Sullivan’s Island Lighthouse.
To be considered for Enlisted Person of the Year Coast, Guard members must consistently demonstrate exceptional standards of proficiency and conduct, impeccable military appearance and bearing. Nominees reflect the Coast Guard’s core values of honor, respect and devotion to duty.
