Capt. John Fitzgerald, USCG (ret.) graduated from the U.S. Coast Guard Academy in 1987 and served on active duty for 25 years. John also received his master's degree in mass communication from Boston University in 1996.A permanent cutterman, he served on four ships: MIDGETT, HAMILTON, LEGARE and commanded the 210-foot cutter CONFIDENCE. Other tours of duty included Commanding Officer of LORAN Station Kure Island, Hawaii; Press Secretary to the Commandant of the Coast Guard; Atlantic Area / Fifth District Public Affairs Officer and the Commandant of Cadets at the U.S. Coast Guard Academy.