DEDICATION

This book is dedicated to Raymond Gillis, CDR (Ret.), the first President of the Chief Warrant and Warrant Officers Association.

Through his hard work and steadfast dedication to the warrant officer corps, Gillis nurtured and guided the Association through its earliest and most formative years. Under his leadership, the organization overcame initial challenges and established a strong foundation for future generations.
Gillis firmly believed that the strength of the Association rested with its members, particularly those active in local Clubs throughout the Coast Guard. On December 26, 1928, he wrote:
“…the life of the Association depends upon the support each member gives to his particular Club.”
When Gillis concluded his tenure as President on September 19, 1930, turning leadership over to Pay Clerk Carlin L. Brinkley, the Association had grown to more than 500 members—at a time when there were just over 700 warrant officers in the entire Coast Guard.
His vision, commitment, and belief in member engagement continue to define the spirit of the Association today.