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What does it
take to become a member of the US Coast Guard Auxiliary?
Introduction
The Auxiliary is a civilian organization of volunteers. Being an
Auxiliarist will add a new dimension to your boating activities and
enable you to share in the worthwhile experience of assisting boaters
and saving lives, as well as being an important part of the U.S. Coast
Guard.
Eligibility
Membership is open to citizens of the United States and its
territories and possessions, who are 17 years of age or older. Facility
(radio station, boat or aircraft) ownership is desirable but not
mandatory. Individuals with special training or experience in any
Auxiliary program are encouraged to join. Membership is also open to all
active duty or former members of any of the uniformed services and their
reserve components.
Benefits
As an Auxiliarist, you have an opportunity to increase your
knowledge of boating safety and acquire special training through
advanced classes or by taking correspondence courses from the Coast
Guard Institute. Instruction in navigation, meteorology, marine engines,
communications, and search and rescue operations enhances the value of
you to the Auxiliary while adding to your own boating pleasure.
You will find great personal satisfaction
in providing a valuable public service to the boaters. The possibility
of saving lives - even one human life - is always in your path as an
Auxiliarist.
Dedication to boating safety provides you
with the atmosphere for getting together to swap boating experiences and
participate in exercises, group outings, etc. You'll find a special
fellowship among Auxiliarists that's hard to beat. There's time to relax
and have fun at Auxiliary outings, rendezvous, cruises and conferences.
Auxiliarists make lasting, meaningful friendships.
Operations
Safety patrols, regatta patrols, search and rescue, and Coast Guard
support missions are part of the Operations mission. As a new member you
could be trained to qualify as Boat Crew, Coxswain, Air Crew,
communications watch standers, work in Coast Guard offices and other
Coast Guard mission areas. Our pilots and aircraft, working with our
radio stations and boats, provide for complete operational support by
working with the U.S. Coast Guard.
Public Education
The Auxiliary is noted for its public education courses which
teach pleasure boaters safe boating principles, practices, and legal
responsibilities. You could be trained to be an Instructor for any
course that we offer - from Boats, Water, and Kids to Advanced Coastal
Navigation..
Vessel Examination
The Vessel
Safety Check program serves to encourage boaters to carry the proper
safety equipment. You could be trained to become a Vessel Examiner and
give the boaters a personal mini-course in boating safety equipment
while performing a vessel examination at your local boating area.
Uniforms
You are entitled to wear a uniform similar to those worn by the
Coast Guard, but with different markings (silver rather than gold,
basically). There are many Auxiliary activities that require you to wear
a uniform in order to participate, especially when you are dealing with
the public. The minimum uniform is not extremely costly.
Dues
Annual dues are set by each Flotilla.
Contact
Michael Willey Flotilla Commander
email
for more information
US Coast Guard Auxiliary - Stones River Flotilla
08E1105
Last edited:
10.29.2007 03:57:56 PM
Copyright © 2000 USCG Aux. Flotilla 11-05. All Rights
Reserved.
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