I Just Started Dating a Retired Coastie.?

Question

All I really know about the Coast Guard (sadly) is from the movie, The Guardian and from touring a base once in college. I want to support this man I love but I don't want to ask insensitive questions. What should be a rule of thumb for 'out of bounds' questions? How can I best learn about the CG as I have no basis for Military life? Thanks

Answer 1

I was married to a Chief Bosun's Mate for 15 years. I have to agree, ask him about Search and Rescue or sea stories, you may not be able to shut him up. My ex loved living life on the edge in his search and rescue. Its hard to insult one of these fellas, ask him to tell you what his duties were and the different places that he's been. Most Coasties are very proud men, and they have the right to be. He's probably a keeper. I would of kept mine longer than 15 years, but he couldn't keep his thing in his pants. We remained best friends until his death of AIDS. As long as yours isn't a wanderer, your relationship should be fine. Good Luck

Answer 2

As with NAVY sailors, SEA STORIES bring us 'alive.' Ask him to tell you about his time in the Guard. He'll start, and most likely you won't be able to shut him up. He has a new audience for his sea stories.
Hmmm maybe that's why I enjoy making new friends.
Not all Coasties are involved in daring rescues. I work with a retired Coastie, also. He was a cook.

Answer 3

I did 7 years in Uncles Sam's Confused Group. My best friend did 12 year, Co-workers, and most of my friends are retired from the Coast Guard; And I live in Arizona. There is nothing that you can ask that would offend--so don't worry about it. Just don't mention "BAY WATCH"--those are Life Guards. LOL

Answer 4

Coasties are great people. It would be hard to insult him and a safe start is asking about his duty assignments, what ships he served on, What cities he has seen, and what he did. Just never call him a Shallow Water Sailor. That is a Navy insult.