1. What is your name and what do you do in the Coast Guard? "My name is Gordon Martinez Diaz. I assist in conducting small boat search and rescue missions for STA Cape May. In addition to that I perform safety boarding's and law enforcement as a boarding team member." 2. Describe diversity in a word or two and explain what it means to you. "Unique Path. I believe that people coming together from all walks of life is diversity. "Strength lies in differences, not in similarities." Since the Coast is so diverse, we can look at a problem and see the solution through various thought processes. Using different walks of life, the Coast Guard members have an array of angles to view every situation." 3. How has your experience and background prepared you to be effective at your job? "I am a proud Cuban American, and was raised to have a hard work ethic, strong morals, and to strive for excellence. My background has always pushed me to do my best and never give up. My experiences and hardships have made it easier for me to identify and mitigate hazards that could potentially affect my shipmates in a negative way." 4. Tell me a little bit about your life outside of work. "I like long walks on the beach." U.S. Coast Guard photo by Auxiliarist David Lau