Everyone has heard of the U.S. Coast Guard, the branch of the U.S. Armed Forces that is primarily responsible for maritime safety, security and environmental protection in the U.S. and waters around the world.
But did you know that Team Coast Guard is also made up of approximately 21,000 uniformed volunteer members of the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary who volunteer more than 3.8 million hours per year?
The U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary was founded by an act of Congress in 1939, and during World War II, nearly 50,000 auxiliarists protected the U.S. coast, often utilizing their own vessels. Today, the Auxiliary’s core mission is promoting and improving Recreational Boating Safety (RBS) through public education courses, Vessel Safety Checks (VSC’s), safety patrols and marine dealer visits.
However, while that is the core mission, you can find Auxiliarists all around the country (and the world) supporting almost every mission of the U.S. Coast Guard, with the exception of direct law enforcement or military action.
Auxiliarists provide qualified augmentation to active-duty Coast Guard units and assist with a diverse list of duties. You can find Auxiliarists standing communication watch in Coast Guard stations, assisting with public affairs, serving in marine and environmental protection roles, and even assisting as chefs at Coast Guard units or on deployed vessels. Auxiliarists can become qualified in roughly two dozen qualifications and are a true force multiplier for Team Coast Guard.
While your local Auxiliary flotilla is always looking for good candidates who wish to volunteer their time, they are also looking for those who wish to take a safe boating class, or get a free Vessel Safety Check (VSC).
To learn more about the Auxiliary, find a safe boating class, or arrange a free VSC, please visit www.cgaux.org. Semper Paratus!
Herbel is public-affairs officer for the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary, Flotilla 25-01, One Washington.
