Q. I see that the head of Portland Sail and Power Squadron is called Commander, that there are Lt/C and P/C and all sorts of military seeming designations. Is the Power Squadron a military or paramilitary organization?
A. The Power Squadron originated in the Northeast part of the U.S. and adopted many of the characteristics of the yacht clubs of that area. These characteristics have a military flavor, but the United States Power Squadrons is a civilian volunteer organization. Its focus is boater safety education. Of historic interest is the fact that the USPS played a pivotal role in training military personnel in maritime skills during World War II.
Q. I have seen Power Squadron members wearing uniforms with sewn insignia and patches and such. Are they part of the military?
A. The uniforms worn at Power Squadron functions are another part of the the yacht club tradition. The insignia indicate what Power Squadron offices a person may have held, how many classes they have taken, or what volunteer work they may have done. Advanced education and volunteer work are a point of pride with many members. Uniforms are not required at any Power Squadron function.
Q. Power Squadron member names are published with letters after their last name. What are these letters.
A. The letters after a name signify the most advanced class the person has passed. Examples are S for Seamanship, P for Piloting, AP for Advanced Piloting, JN for Junior Navigaton, and N for Navigator.
Q. So what is it Power Squadron members really do?
A. The answer depends mostly on the member's interest. Some are most interested in teaching classes. Some are interested in the structure and administration of the organization. Some are most interested in taking classes. Some enjoy joining up with other boaters on cruises. Some like getting together with other boaters at member meetings and talking about boats. Some volunteer to do community service like Vessel Safety Examinations or Geodesic Marker recovery. Some welcome the chance to develop or enhance talents and skills like public speaking, newsletter editing, volunteer coordination, etc.. Some like the teamwork and camaraderie of taking on a project or the shared afterglow upon completion. The Power Squadron offers all sorts of opportunities for fun, learning, and community service. See the Membership page for a more thorough description.
Q. Are members required to go to a lot of meetings?
A. There are no meeting requirements. The Portland Sail and Power Squadron holds Membership meetings 7-8 times a year. The meetings usually entail announcements, a speaker or program related to boating, and refreshments. One meeting is mostly devoted to electing new officers. The officers, or Bridge, meet monthly to plan and coordinate activities. Various committees may meet or do business using the telephone or internet.
Q. I still have questions I would like answered. Whom should I contact?
Q. Where do I get information on classes?
A. Look at our class schedule. Contact information is posted there.