Hi everyone,

My name is David Eddie, Chief Boatswains Mate (retired) and I am seeking your vote for Region Advisors for the 2024 election process.

I have been on the Gulf Coast for twenty-seven years of my career: Galveston, Texas to Mobile, AL. I was a Junior in High School when I started as a reservist in 1984 with the Dallas Reserve Unit. We retired in 2013 stationed at Maritime Force Protection Unit, Kings Bay, GA, settling in Mobile Alabama. I say “we” because I have been married to my wife Deborah for 35 years and have two grown children.

I have been a member of the CPOA since 2008. Since 2019, I have filled the President position for the Mobile Chapter and I have led this chapter through a government shutdown, COVID, and a rebuild. Mobile Chapter is unique in that it covers several major commands that are spread out through several states. When I assumed office we covered from Panama City, FL to Gulfport, MS. but have since turned over Florida units to the Panhandle Chapter. As Chapter President, I have acquired a chapter seat on the City of Mobile’s Veterans Commission allowing us to have a better voice in the workings of a Coast Guard City and local veterans’ organizations. I am active with my local Chiefs Messes’ which allows me to keep in the loop of current events affecting our members.

We have a Branch under us that we support 100% with monetary and mentor support when needed.

I am the Chairperson of the Long-Range Planning Committee. It is nice to have a small voice in the future of the association.

Being a Region Advisor will give me a better understanding and voice on the direction of the association. I have a good understanding of the old and new ways of doing things, acting as a buffer between them in times when the generational gaps need to be met in the middle. I believe I can give sound advice on the direction to take and lead change when needed. Thinking outside the box is a trait I use when needed to come up with solutions to problems that are new and unique. I believe I will be a great candidate for members to pitch ideas and get sound advice.

I love the CPOA and believe that it is a necessity to the future of the Coast Guard and its members for support during times of need. I am thankful for the National Conventions that I have been able to attend, broadening my support group and better understanding of the workings of the association.

I am a firm supporter of the Coast Guard Enlisted Association as they are the Chiefs of Tomorrow and will take this organization into the future.