• CHESAPEAKE
On the morning of June 26, the Coast Guard Community Services Command (CGCSC) performed a change of command ceremony, where Commanding Officer Capt. Robert Taylor relieved his leadership position to Capt. Jeffrey Ferlauto after serving in this capacity since June 2023.
The ceremony, with Commander Kate Sullivan, CGCSC executive officer, as the master of ceremonies, included attendance from a number of officials from Coast Guard, Coast Guard Exchange (CGX), Navy Exchange Service Command (NEXCOM), Marine Corps Community Services (MCCS), National Industries For the Blind (NIB) and American Logistics Association (ALA).
The ALA presented Taylor, the outgoing commanding officer, with a citation recognizing him for “his outstanding leadership, strategic vision and steadfast dedication” while serving as commander.
THE CEREMONY
Rear Adm. Zeita Merchant, commanding officer, Coast Guard Personnel Service Center, was the presiding official at the ceremony, which was live streamed on Facebook.
“This event not only reflects our respect for the command, but also the distinguished continuity of leadership that is the hallmark of our service,” Merchant noted.
About the outgoing commander, she noted, “Capt. Taylor, your time here has been a model of steady leadership, service to people … you have truly embodied the philosophy of ‘people always,’ and congratulations on your success.”
She continued, “We welcome Capt. Ferlauto, who is ready to carry your torch. The Coast Guard has entrusted this command to someone who is well suited for this role, someone who brings the right balance of operational insight, commitment to people, and financial expertise to this position.”
TAYLOR
“When I took command of CGCSC in 2023, I said that this was the greatest accomplishment of my career, but I had no idea how rewarding and fulfilling this time would be,” Taylor told attendees.
“I came here to serve and support the men and women of the Coast Guard, and learn how to run a retail organization at the same time,” he continued. “I am grateful to have had the opportunity to positively affect things and have a service-wide impact.”
FERLAUTO
“Thank you for the opportunity to lead the Community Services Command,” Ferlauto told attendees. “I am excited about it all. My primary career has been afloat, but I am excited to be on this side of the fence now.
“Our service members and their families deserve the best customer service, and I am excited to bring that to them,” he continued. “I know my role here. I know people don’t want to hear me talk, so let’s get right after this. Let’s buckle up!”
RESPONSIBILITIES
According to the U.S. Coast Guard website (https://www.dcms.uscg.mil/Our-Organization/Assistant-Commandant-for-Human-Resources-CG-1/Community-Services-Command-CSC/CSC-bio/) the commanding officer position is responsible for the leadership and operations of the Coast Guard Exchange (CGX) and the Coast Guard’s Morale, Well-Being, and Recreation (MWR) programs.
CGX is a non- appropriated fund instrumentality that provides centralized management for 64 CGX stores, 40 satellite CGX locations, and all vending and concession services.
CGX employs over 800 employees and has average annual sales in excess of $225 million, providing an estimated $40 million in savings to military members and families.
Coast Guard MWR programs are responsible for providing community and recreational programs, activities, and services to Coast Guard members, dependents, and other authorized patrons, contributing to the mission readiness and retention of Service personnel.
Original Press Release: Community Services Change of Command Ceremony
