NAPLES, Fla. - Representatives of the Coast Guard, along with leaders of local veterans groups, recognized a Naples law firm for its ongoing support of an activated Coast Guard reservist.

In a May 10, 2005 presentation at Naples City Hall, Coast Guard Capt. Bryan Schroder, Seventh District Legal Officer, lauded Bond, Schoeneck and King, P.A. for its unwavering support of reservist Lt. Paul Lehmann, a firm attorney,  called to active duty as a Coast Guard lawyer in the wake of the 9/11 terrorist attacks.

“The support shown by this firm is a great example,” Schroder said.  He noted the firm has kept Lehmann’s position open and redistributed his caseload since Lehmann was called to active duty in July, 2003.  Lehmann is expected to remain on active duty through 2007.

Schroder presented the “Patriot Award” to F. Joseph McMackin III, firm managing partner.  The award, a Department of Defense certificate of appreciation, is presented on behalf of the National Committee for Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve to recognize employers that provide exemplary support of National Guard and Reserve troops.

Lehmann began his military career as an enlisted air crewman in the Coast Guard and subsequently received his law degree in 2001 from the University of Wisconsin.  He nominated his employer for the award.

“It has been great serving as an attorney for the Coast Guard,” he said.  “The best thing is the fast pace and the public service aspect.  Following the terrorist attacks, Coast Guard missions changed and there was a need for additional lawyers.”

Lehmann often works in environmental and marine safety law for the Coast Guard.  While serving as duty attorney for the district, his expertise is often needed for illegal drug and migrant smuggling cases.  That’s a change from his civilian legal work, which revolved around business, real estate and land use law, along with some environmental work. 

“It’s a very different type of practice,” he said.

Schroder was effusive in his praise of Lehmann and his work on the district legal staff.

“He’s a fine young officer and a fine lawyer – a loyal and dedicated person,” Schroder said.  

McMackin also praised Lehmann and said he considered Lehmann’s Coast Guard time to be an investment for the law firm.

“He will come back to us a better lawyer and a better person, with enhanced ethics and skills following his service,” McMackin said.

Naples Vice Mayor Tamela Wiseman added her congratulations to the firm and noted that she was honored to have a part in the proceedings.  She saluted the firm’s and Lehmann’s patriotism.

Among the veterans groups represented at the ceremony were the Veterans Council of Collier County and the Naples/Marco Island Chapter of the Reserve Officers Association.  Former Army officer James Elson, president of the veteran’s council, had been instrumental in coordinating the ceremony and led the council’s contingent.

Navy Capt. Donald Peacock, chapter president of the officer’s association, also expressed his appreciation to the firm for its support of the military.  He noted federal laws require employers hold jobs open for activated reservists but added his conviction that the firm would have supported Lehmann even without the federal mandate.

Schroder wrapped up the ceremony by presenting commemorative coins to McMackin, Wiseman and the veterans groups leaders.

“Employer support is crucial to our Coast Guard reservists who are dealing with the Global War on Terrorism,” he said.

   -uscg-