CGR National Awards

This award is named after Rear Admiral Bennett “Bud” Sparks, who championed the integration of Reserve and active-duty workforces to achieve overall unit readiness. The award is presented to the unit that is judged to be most supportive of an operationally ready Coast Guard Reserve force, as demonstrated by its effective use and support of the Reserve force during the previous fiscal year.

Category 1: Congratulations to Coast Guard Reserve Unit (CGRU) Joint Staff South (JSS)

CGRU JSS was recognized for its sustained, measurable performance and for forging the next generation of mission-ready leaders. The unit distinguished itself by mobilizing nearly 40% of its members for global exercises and CG missions, sustaining a 97% readiness rate. Its members have adopted an "Action Officer mindset," applying creative, Coast Guard-informed perspectives to solve complex joint-environment problems. This approach has led to CGRU JSS personnel capturing over 70% of Reserve leadership roles within the Joint Staff J-7, despite comprising less than 35% of the Reserve workforce.

Congratulations to U.S. Coast Guard Reserve Unit Joint Staff South!

Category 2: Congratulations to Port Security Unit 308!

PSU 308 set a new standard for Reserve integration and mission execution by flawlessly completing two back-to-back security missions in the INDOPACOM region, earning praise from Navy ship Masters as "superior to any Navy EST." The unit also executed a historic, first-of-its-kind deployment for Operation River Wall, integrating with U.S. Customs and Border Protection to secure 260 miles of the maritime border. Their exceptional performance is matched by a 97% overall readiness score and a command climate that has led to manning levels over 100% of authorized billets.

Congratulations to Port Security Unit 308!

The Reserve Organization of America (ROA) annually presents the Reserve Outstanding Junior Officer Award to the Coast Guard Reserve junior officer judged to exemplify those characteristics expected of an outstanding junior officer during the past fiscal year.

Congratulations to Lt. Joshua R. Mankowski, Port Security Unit 309!

Lt. Mankowski's nomination package emphasizes his extraordinary contributions and leadership, far exceeding the expectations for his rank. He was pivotal in coordinating the inaugural joint Exercise ATLANTIC ALLIANCE, leading 50 members from multiple PSUs. He demonstrated remarkable initiative by establishing a partnership with PSU 308 to close a critical boat crew training gap, resulting in 21 new member certifications. His dedication to community service is demonstrated by his commitment of over 700 volunteer hours annually coaching youth sports and mentoring children with disabilities.

Congratulations, Lt. Mankowski, on his selection as the Reserve Outstanding Junior Officer!

Presented to the Coast Guard Chief Warrant Officer based on the member’s achievements and dedication to service during the past fiscal year. The recipient of the Reserve Outstanding Chief Warrant Officer Award is also selected as the Coast Guard Reserve's nominee for the CWO4 Michael J. Novosel Award for Outstanding Chief Warrant Officer throughout the Department of Defense administered by the ROA.

Congratulations to Chief Warrant Officer John L. Simpson, U.S. Coast Guard Port Security Unit 307

Chief Warrant Officer Simpson was recognized for his masterful operational planning and influential leadership. He was instrumental in the success of Exercise Talisman Sabre 2025, a 19-nation exercise, where he coordinated the complex logistics for over $5 million in equipment. In his civilian role, he leads a team of 18 logistics professionals delivering life-saving equipment to over 400 operational units. His dedication to lifelong learning is evident through his pursuit of an MBA and recent completion of the Navy Staff Planning Course.

Congratulations, Chief Warrant Officer Simpson, on your selection as the Reserve Outstanding Chief Warrant Officer.