Marco Island Sail and Power Squadron Change of Watch

On January 8, 2025, the Marco Island Sail and Power Squadron (dba America’s Boating Club of Marco Island) hosted its 47th Annual Change of Watch at the Marco Lutheran Church. Marco Island Sail and Power Squadron (MISPS) is an educational and social organization promoting boating and watercraft skills, safety and fun.  

MISPS was chartered in 1978 and prior to becoming a Squadron, members interested in taking boating courses became members of the Naples Power Squadron. Today, MISPS is part of the US Power Squadron (USPS), the largest non-profit boating organization started in 1914. MISPS is part of District 22 in Southwest Florida, where there are 16 squadrons from Crystal River to Marco Island.  

The Change of Watch is a very important event. At the Change of Watch, MISPS symbolized the significance of this event by passing the Blue Flag of Command through a long line of previous MISPS Commanders who were present at the event to the NEW Squadron Commander. In this case, the outgoing MISPS Commander, Nanette Rivera, stood next to the new Squadron Commander, Chris Ricci, and she presented him with the Blue nautical Flag. The Blue Flag symbolizes the rich history and leadership of the Marco Island Sail and Power Squadron. 

Commander Rivera turned to District Commander Ron Jones and said, “I dismiss the Squadron’s 2024 Bridge,” while Jones, in turn, relieved Rivera of her Command and relieved the current Bridge of their responsibilities by adding, “You are thus directed to turn over your official flags and various symbols of that office.” 

Chris Ricci was sworn in by D/C Jones and pledged, “I will serve Marco Island Sail and Power Squadron faithfully as Commander.” The 2025 Bridge is as follows: