James Goes of Kitty Hawk is retiring from the Coast Guard Auxiliary, Outer Banks Flotilla 1607 after almost 25 years of service.

Goes was raised on a dairy farm in New Jersey and educated at Temple University in Philadelphia and Harvard Business School. He served in the U.S. Navy and the U.S. Army during the Korean War.

In 1988, Goes retired to the Outer Banks after a 30 year career in pharmaceutical production management. During this time he worked in the United States, Mexico, United Kingdom, Canada, Egypt, Zambia, Indonesia and Central America constructing and upgrading pharmaceutical facilities.

He attended the local Coast Guard Auxiliary safe boating class here following his retirement and soon after joined the Outer Banks Flotilla. He qualified as Crew, Coxswain, Vessel Examiner, Radio Operator, and Boating Instructor during the time spent with the Flotilla.

Goes also served as Staff Officer for Vessel Examinations, Operations and as Vice Flotilla Commander.

Goes reflects that the pleasure of assisting in training the public in safe boating and the fellowship with other flotilla members during patrols, search and rescue operations were some of the most enjoyable parts of his service. The highlight of his Auxiliary experience was the chance to work with the exceptional men and women of the U.S. Coast Guard during joint operation and training.

Celebration of Goes’ retirement from the Flotilla was Feb. 27 at the Black Pelican in 
Kitty Hawk.