The Coast Guard Foundation, a non-profit organization dedicated to supporting Coast Guard members and families, will host its annual Tribute to the Seventh Coast Guard District on April 11, 2025, at the Margaritaville Hollywood Beach Resort in Florida. This event honors the dedication and bravery of Coast Guard members serving in the southeastern United States and brings together supporters and maritime leaders to recognize their exceptional service to our nation.

The event will shine a spotlight on a search and rescue case carried out during Hurricane Helene last September, where a man and his dog were rescued when his sailboat capsized. During the same SAR evolution, two boaters were stuck on a causeway with no way to dry land. The helicopter crew safely aided all four and brought them to dry land. All told, Coast Guard crews rescued 21 people and five pets across Florida, South Carolina, and North Carolina.

The annual event also comes after a difficult hurricane season hit the region hard. In September and October 2024, Hurricanes Helene and Milton devastated the Tampa Bay area just 13 days apart. The widespread flooding and wind damage also affected Coast Guard members who live and work in the area. Cars parked on base while members were deployed on a cutter flooded and were deemed total losses. Roofs were ripped from homes and trees fell in yards, leaving gaping holes in ceilings and water intrusion that damaged belongings and destroyed family treasures. With high insurance deductibles required to be paid before repairs could begin, Coast Guard members needed support to meet those financial responsibilities. In some cases, damages were less than deductibles, but still out of reach for many families’ budgets.

That’s where the Coast Guard Foundation’s disaster relief efforts stepped in to provide financial support and a sense stability as they worked to rebuild their homes and lives.

“We heard again and again how much the support meant to Coast Guard members and their families, not just because it helped cover costs, but because it reminded them that they weren’t alone,” said Susan Ludwig, Coast Guard Foundation president.

The Foundation will also recognize Lori Baer, Executive Director of the Port Everglades Association, for her distinguished career in the maritime industry. With over 30 years of experience, Baer has held leadership roles such as Executive Director of the Port of Palm Beach and Vice President at AECOM. Her contributions have significantly advanced port operations and maritime commerce in the region.