New London - Wednesday was a day for locals to try to catch a glimpse of the president - or at least his motorcade - or, if they were lucky enough to be invited to the commencement, to watch the Coast Guard Class of 2011 graduate.

About 15 people gathered outside the U.S. Coast Guard Academy's main gate on Wednesday morning with hopes of catching sight of President Obama on his way to the commencement.

Inside, hundreds of invited guests dispersed to several buildings to watch the ceremonies on large screens. City councilors, legislators, retired Coast Guard members and other local dignitaries watched from an auditorium in Dimick Hall. Many brought children.

The guests didn't let the fact that they were watching on screen rather than in person lessen their enthusiasm. They cheered and whistled when the president appeared and gave the graduates many ovations.

Outside the gates before the ceremony, Sokha Tout, of New London, was one of the first to arrive. At one point, he considered running home to grab his camera, but he ultimately decided against it.

He contemplated which entrance and mode of transportation Obama would use.

"I didn't vote for him, but I'd like to see the motorcade come by," Tout said, smiling.

Michelle Allen came walking up to join those gathered by the main gate. Allen said she helped register voters during Obama's 2008 campaign.

Holding an Obama-Biden election poster, she recalled meeting Obama at the Dunkin Donuts in Providence and marveling at how tall he was.

"I've walked the streets for his campaign," Allen said. "I had to be here."

One woman outside the main gate held a sign that read "Welcome President Obama."

She declined to offer her name, but she said she was "promoting civility."

jeff.johnson@theday.com

Day staff writer Lisa McGinley contributed to this article.