James M. Milton, holding the rank of Commander, has distinguished himself within the United States Power Squadrons, marked by a plethora of accolades and contributions. His journey includes a series of individual awards such as the Skipper Award, Commodore Award, National Educational Proficiency Award, National Lifesaving Award, D3 Dominick Segrete Memorial Award, and D3 P/R/C Anthony Scimeca, N – Educator of the Year Award.
Throughout his tenure, Commander Milton has held key positions within the squadron, serving as Commander since 2022. He also held roles as Executive Officer, Educational Officer, Assistant Educational Officer, and served on the IT Committee.
His impact extends beyond the squadron, with district roles such as Flag Lieutenant and continuous involvement in the District IT Committee.
Nationally, Commander Milton has left his mark through serving as Asst. Chair Membership from 2021 to 2024 before being elevated to the head position as Chair of the National Membership Committee in 2023 with the Rank of Rear Commander.
His commitment to education is evident in the myriad of courses he has completed, including America’s Boating Course, Leadership Development, Electronic Navigation, and Weather. His certifications as a Certified Vessel Examiner and Certified Instructor underscore his expertise, complemented by proficiency in Adult/Infant CPR/AED/First Aid.
Commander Milton’s dedication to continuous learning is evident in the diverse array of seminars and workshops he has attended, covering topics such as Marine Radar, Advanced Power Boat Handling, Basic Weather and Forecasting, and Mariner’s Compass. His commitment to boating safety and education is further exemplified by his engagement in numerous educational courses and certifications throughout his illustrious career.
U.S. Power Squadron Certifications
Certified Vessel Examiner
Certified Instructor
Adult/Infant CPR/AED/First Aid
On-Water Emergency Response Captain (SERAT)
Individual Awards:
2015 GSB: Skipper Award
2017 GSB: Commodore Award
2017 National: Educational Proficiency Award
2020 National: Lifesaving Award
2021 D3: Dominick Segrete Memorial Award
2023 D3: Educator of the Year Award
Squadron Positions:
Commander (2019, 2022-present)
Executive Officer (2018,2021)
Educational Officer (2016-2017)
Assistant Educational Officer (2015)
IT Committee (2013, 2014)
District Positions:
Flag Lieutenant (2023)
IT Committee (2020-present)
National Positions:
IT Committee (2020-2021)
Asst. Chair Membership (2021-2023)
Chair Membership (2024-present)
Aide to National Flag Lieutenant (2024-present)
Educational Courses:
2007 America’s Boating Course
(NASBLA Safe Boating Course)
2008 Boat Handling (Seamanship)
2008 Marine Navigation (Piloting)
2010 Adv. Marine Navigation (Adv. Piloting)
2015 Leadership Development
2015 Electronic Navigation
2015 Offshore Navigation (Junior Navigation)
2017 Cruising & Cruise Planning
2019 Instructor Development
2022 Weather
Seminars / Workshops
2016 Marine Radar
2017 Advanced Power Boat Handling
2017 Basic Weather and Forecasting
2017 All About VHF/DSC Marine Radio
2017 Emergencies on Board
2017 Man Overboard
2017 How to Use a GPS Chartplotter
2021 Mariner’s Compass
2022 Instructor Recertification
Lieutenant Commander Jeanne Braun joined the United States Power Squadrons in March of 2022 after completing the America’s Boating Course boating course where she earned her boating certificate. She developed a passion for boating and personal watercraft over 20 years ago. Despite her short tenure, Jeanne quickly became an active member and took on the role of Chairman of Public Education, reporting to the SEO. She enrolled in the Boat Handling course
and after obtaining Seaman status, she advanced to and successfully completed the Piloting
Course. As a continuation of her studies, Jeanne completed her Advanced Piloting course in
March of 2024 and is now an Advanced Pilot. Other seminars she completed include the USPS
seminar on Weather, All About VHF/DSC Marine Radio and How to use a GPS Chartplotter. In
addition to education, Jeanne has lead a number of local boat shows, showcasing the many advantages to squadron membership and helping with the Virtual Boat Training Simulator.
Jeanne holds a BA in Community Health and an MPA in Health Care Administration. She also
carries the Associate in Risk Management (ARM) certification from the Insurance Institute of
America. Her 30+ year career has been focused on underwriting, operations, safety and risk
management for not for profit organizations and health care providers. As Executive Officer,
Jeanne will be focused on building relationships with community groups, strengthening ties
with District 3 of the USPS and supporting the squadron’s many activities. She enjoys boating
on the Great South Bay in her Sea Hunt center console.
Lieutenant Commander Michael Boland joined the United States Power Squadrons in March of 2012 after completing the Boat SMART boating course where he earned his boating certificate. Michael added to his education by completing Boat Handling in 2013 earning the grade of Seaman, and Marine Navigation in 2013 earning the grade of Pilot, and Advanced Marine Navigation in 2014 earning the grade of Advanced Pilot. In addition to earning the Grade of Advanced Pilot, he has completed courses on Marine Electrical Systems, and Weather as well as 5 seminars. Michael has earned 10 merit marks which is based on dedication and work that has been accomplished within the Squadron.
The Educational Officer is elected annually by the members of the squadron upon nomination by the Squadron Nominating Committee and approval by the District Educational Officer acting for the National Educational Officer. He is a member of the District Educational Department, the Squadron Bridge
Lieutenant Commander Steven Potestio joined the United States Power Squadrons in March of 1996 after completing the Boat SMART boating course where he earned his boating certificate. Steven added to his education by completing Boat Handling in 1998 earning the grade of Seaman, and Marine Navigation in 1999 earning the grade of Pilot. In addition to earning the Grade of Advanced Pilot, he has completed courses on Engine Maintenance, and Electronic Navigation as well as 2 seminars. Steven has earned 22 merit marks which is based on dedication and work that has been accomplished within the Squadron.
As a Bridge Officer, the Treasurer is expected to attend all district conferences as a squadron Representative. The Treasurer should take Operations Training as soon as practical. The Treasurer is responsible for accurate financial reports and records for policy guidance for the solvent operation of the squadron.
First Lieutenant Marie Wallach joined the United States Power Squadrons in May of 2015. Marie was quickly taken by our educational department and began by completing Boat Handling in 2017 earning the grade of Seaman, and Marine Navigation in 2018 earning the grade of Pilot. In 2018 Marie also completed Advanced Marine Navigation and earned the grade of Advanced Pilot. In addition to advanced grades, Marie has completed 13 seminars and Operations Training. In Marie’s 6 years of membership, she has earned 4 merit marks for her service. Marie has spend the last 3 years serving as our Educational Officer and is helping to pass the torch by serving as the assistant for 2021/2022.
Other contacts:
Public Relations / Public Affairs : Mark Businski [email protected]
Governmental Relations: [email protected]
Vessel Safety Checks: [email protected]
For all other inquiries please e-mail the Commander.
