Sand Island, Hi (July 30 1999) - CGC Walnut commissioning ceremony. The cutters executive officer, Lt. Erik S. Andersen holds a long glass and the crew is mustered behind him.The long glass symbolizes the authority of the Officer of the deck as the commanding officer's representative. In setting the watch, the duty section will assume watch stations on the bridge, the quarterdeck and the engine room. The hoisting of the pennant, the assumption of command, setting the watch and manning the ship, symbolize the Walnut's entry into the Coast Guard fleet. It is the most important event in a cutter's history.