Service Aboard USCGC Dallas
While serving as a public affairs staff officer with Flotilla 74 in the Eighth Coast Guard District, Robert Dittman became the first sightless Coast Guard employee to serve aboard a Coast Guard cutter.
On May 22, 2002, he sailed aboard theUSCGC Dallas.
Coast Guard Training Achievement
In July 2003, Robert completed the Coast Guard's Reserve Enlisted Basic Indoctrination course at Coast Guard Training Center Cape May, New Jersey.
The Coast Guard's historical record identifies him as both the first Coast Guard Auxiliarist and the first blind person to complete such a training program in any of the five branches of the United States military.
Historical Recognition
These accomplishments were included by the U.S. Coast Guard Historian's Office in its historical compilation,U.S. Coast Guard Firsts, Lasts and/or Record Setting Achievements.