Chapter Three - United States Coast Guard Legacy

Adorned with shades of sandy blond hair and beautifully tan skin, Steven easily captured the attention of all the young ladies in town. An all-American-boy – he was genuine, loving and grounded. He recently graduated his senior year of high school and was looking forward to beginning a career in the United States Coast Guard.

The Unites States Coast Guard has always been displayed in grand style in Grand Haven. Grand Haven is only one official "Coast Guard City USA." Every summer, Grand Haven is home to the annual festival for the United States Coast Guard, and is the home of the Coast Guard's National Memorial Service that honors fallen members of the service. The unit is located along the boardwalk of the Grand River harboring the Grand Haven Light, one of the most photographed lighthouses in the nation. The Station was founded in 1932 and maintains a special bond with the community ever since. Steven was very proud to be entering such a renowned and highly exonerated core as a serviceman to the United States Coast Guard.

A Coast Guard legacy, he was the fourth generation of Coast Guardsmen in his family. He grew up in Grand Haven and lived there until two years ago when his parents moved to Ludington, Michigan located approximately an hour north. He was an only child, and the apple of his family’s eye. Deciding to become a Coast Guardsmen gave his family so much pride and happiness. Steven was always there for them and others. Known and referenced as a loyal friend, and caring son — a beautify soul. In May he relocated to Grand Haven to begin his Coast Guard training. He was really looking forward to it, he loved the water and he was determined to make both his family and his country proud. He smiled as he stepped out of the car and walked up the entrance to the Coast Guard quarters. High above him flew old glory and off in the distance atop Dewey Hill sand dune waved another welcoming him home.