Petty Officer 2nd Class Jim Abels, 28, a boatswain's mate assigned to the 270-foot Coast Guard Cutter Forward, homeported in Portsmouth, Va., is shown here. Abels, a native of Harrisburg, Pa., is the 2008 recipient of the American Legion Spirit of Service Award, given annually to one member from each military service for contributions in volunteer efforts. (U.S. Coast Guard photo/Petty Officer 1st Class Christopher Evanson)

Abels has volunteered numerous, off-duty hours working with national and state parks, historical sites, museums and veteran functions throughout the United States. Abels spends approximately 180-days per year at sea in his job with the Coast Guard.

"It is a great honor to represent the Coast Guard," said Abels. "I believe it is important to know the Coast Guard's roots and where this service has come from."

In addition, Abels is co-founder of the Bluejackets, a World War II maritime living-history group who focus on the wartime efforts of the Coast Guard and Navy. 

Abels will be officially honored during this year's American Legion Annual Nation Convention scheduled Aug. 24-30 in Phoenix.

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The United States Coast Guard -- Proud History. Powerful Future.