11/07/2025
FORMER LAKE HOPATCONG FLOTILLA AUXILIARIST COMMISSIONED AS ENSIGN
Kyra Amber Lay of Long Valley was commissioned as an ensign in the U.S. Coast Guard following graduation from the U.S. Coast Guard Academy (USCGA) in New London, Conn. The ceremony took place on 6 November at the Maritime center on the campus of the Academy.
The commissioning marks the completion of a rigorous four-year program that develops cadets intellectually, professionally, and physically to become leaders in the Coast Guard.
A graduate of West Morris Central High School, Ensign Lay majored in Government during her time at the Academy. At the USCGA, Ensign Lay was involved in Cheerleading, EMT volunteer work, as well as Delta Company duties such as drill, morale, and rifle training. Ensign Lay began her interest in the Coast Guard with the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary Flotilla 15-10 in Lake Hopatcong. There she served as secretary to the flotilla before her appointment to the Academy. FC Kate Swat and past FC Pat DeDeo of Flotilla 15-10 attended the commissioning ceremony.
"Receiving my commission is the culmination of years of hard work and dedication," said Ensign Lay. "I am honored to serve our country and look forward to the challenges and opportunities ahead in the U.S. Coast Guard."
Ensign Lay’s first assignment will be serving at Sector Long Island Sound in New Haven, CT in the Incident Management Division.
About the U.S. Coast Guard Academy:
The U.S. Coast Guard Academy is a public service academy that prepares future leaders for service in the United States Coast Guard. The curriculum focuses on science and engineering, professional development, and rigorous physical training to create officers ready to meet the diverse missions of the Coast Guard.
We are very proud of Kyra's journey and happy that our Flotilla helped spark her interest. Bravo Zulo, Ensign Lay!
