View source for United States Coast Guard Auxiliary

{{Short description|Volunteer auxiliary service of the United States Coast Guard}}
{{Use dmy dates|date=December 2022}}
{{Infobox military unit
| unit_name = United States Coast Guard Auxiliary
| image = Seal of the United States Coast Guard Auxiliary.svg
| image_size = 180
| caption = Seal of the United States Coast Guard Auxiliary
| start_date = {{Start date and age|1939|06|23}}
| country = {{flagu|United States|size=23px}}
| allegiance = 
| branch = {{flagcountry|United States Coast Guard|size=23px}}
| type = [[Uniformed services|Uniformed]] [[Auxiliaries|auxiliary service]]
| role = [[Search and rescue]]<br />[[emergency management|Disaster relief]]<br />Recreational Boating Safety<br />Marine Environmental Safety and Protection
| size = Approximately 21,000 auxiliarists<ref name="Auxiliary Policy Statement">{{cite web |last1=Fagan |first1=Linda |title=The Commandant of the United States Coast Guard – Auxiliary Policy Statement |url=https://media.defense.gov/2022/Aug/12/2003056218/-1/-1/0/AUXILIARY%20POLICY%20STATEMENT.PDF |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221220011938/https://media.defense.gov/2022/Aug/12/2003056218/-1/-1/0/AUXILIARY%20POLICY%20STATEMENT.PDF |url-status=dead |archive-date=20 December 2022 |publisher=The Commandant of the United States Coast Guard |access-date=2022-12-20}}</ref>
| command_structure = {{nowrap|{{flagicon image|Flag of the United States Department of Homeland Security.svg|size=23px}} [[United States Department of Homeland Security|Homeland Security]]}}
| garrison = 
| garrison_label = 
| nickname = 
| website = {{URL|https://cgaux.org}}
| motto = ''Semper Paratus'' (Always Ready)
| patron = 
| colors = White, Red, Blue <br /> {{color box|#FFFFFF}}{{color box|#EE4444}}{{color box|#112266}}
| colors_label = Colors
| march = "[[Semper Paratus (march)|Semper Paratus]]"
| mascot = 
| equipment = 
| equipment_label = 
| battles = [[World War II]]<br />[[September 11 attacks]]
| anniversaries = 
| decorations = [[File:Coast Guard Presidential Unit Citation ribbon.svg|border|22px]] [[Presidential Unit Citation (United States)|Presidential Unit Citation]]<br />[[File:DHS Outstanding Unit Award.png|border|22px]] [[Department of Homeland Security Outstanding Unit Award]]<br />[[File:Coast Guard Unit Commendation ribbon.svg|border|22px]] [[Coast Guard Unit Commendation]]
| battle_honours = <!-- Commanders -->
| commander1 = {{Flagicon image|Flag of the Commandant of the United States Coast Guard.svg|size=25px}} [[Admiral (United States)|ADM]] [[Kevin Lunday|Kevin E. Lunday]] (acting)
| commander1_label = [[Commandant of the Coast Guard]]
| commander2 = [[Captain (United States O-6)|Captain]] Brent Schmadeke,<ref>{{cite web|title=3_OrgChart_11AUG2024|url=https://wow.uscgaux.info/Uploads_wowII/BX-GROUP/3_OrgChart_11AUG2024.pdf}}</ref> USCG
| commander2_label = Chief Director of Auxiliary
| commander3 = [[Commodore (United States)|Commodore]] Mary L. Kirkwood
| commander3_label = [[National Commodore (United States Coast Guard Auxiliary)|National Commodore]]
| notable_commanders = <!-- Insignia -->
| identification_symbol = [[File:U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary Mark.svg|75px]]
| identification_symbol_label = [[United States Coast Guard#Service Mark ("Racing Stripe")|Racing Stripe]]
| identification_symbol_2 = [[File:United States Coast Guard Auxiliary (flag).svg|border|75px]]
| identification_symbol_2_label = [[United States Coast Guard#Coast Guard Ensign|Flag]]
| identification_symbol_3 = [[File:Flag of the United States Coast Guard Auxiliary (1940).svg|border|75px]]
| identification_symbol_3_label = [[United States Coast Guard#Coast Guard Ensign|Flag]] (1940)
| identification_symbol_4 = 
| identification_symbol_4_label = 
}}

The '''United States Coast Guard Auxiliary''' ('''USCGAUX''', '''CGAux''', or '''USCG Aux''') is the uniformed, civilian volunteer component of the [[United States Coast Guard]].<ref name="Title14">{{cite web |title=Title 14, United States Code, Section 821 |url=https://uscode.house.gov/view.xhtml?req=granuleid:USC-2000-title14-section821&num=0&edition=2000 |website=United States Code |publisher=U.S. House of Representatives, Office of the Law Revision Counsel |access-date=6 November 2023}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.uscg.mil/Our-Organization/Auxiliary/ |title=Coast Guard Office of Auxiliary & Boating Safety (CG-BSX) |access-date=2021-01-26}}</ref><ref name="Cornell">{{cite web |title=14 U.S. Code § 3901 - Administration of the Coast Guard Auxiliary |url=https://www.law.cornell.edu/uscode/text/14/3901 |website=Legal Information Institute |publisher=Cornell Law School |access-date=9 October 2023}}</ref> Congress established the [[military organization|unit]] on 23 June 1939, as the [[United States Coast Guard Reserve]]. On February 19, 1941, the entity was renamed the United States Coast Guard Auxiliary. The Auxiliary's purpose is to bolster all USCG undertakings both at sea and in the sky, with the exception of tasks necessitating "direct" law enforcement or military actions. As of 2022, the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary boasted around 21,000 members.<ref name="Auxiliary Policy Statement"/>

The Auxiliary collectively dedicates over 4.5 million service hours annually and has accomplished close to 500,000 missions in aid of the Coast Guard.<ref>[http://www.d11s.org/modules/narrative.mod.php?story=ABOUT About the AUX Contributions]</ref> Annually, members of the Auxiliary are instrumental in saving around 500 lives, aiding 15,000 mariners in distress, performing over 150,000 recreational vessel safety checks, and imparting boating safety knowledge to over half a million learners. Collectively, the Coast Guard Auxiliary's efforts save taxpayers several hundred million dollars every year.<ref>[https://cgaux.org/about.php About the Auxiliary]</ref>

==History==
{{Main|History of the United States Coast Guard Auxiliary}}
{{quote box |width=15em |align=right |bgcolor=#B0C4DE
|title=Historical Departmental<br />Governance
|fontsize=90% |quote={{flagicon image|Flag_of_the_United_States_Department_of_the_Treasury.png}} [[United States Department of the Treasury|USDT]] 1939–1941<br />{{flagicon image|Flag_of_the_United_States_Navy_(official).svg}} [[United States Department of the Navy|DoN]] 1941–1945<br />{{flagicon image|Flag_of_the_United_States_Department_of_the_Treasury.png}} [[United States Department of the Treasury|USDT]] 1945–1967<br />{{flagicon image|Flag_of_the_United_States_Department_of_Transportation.svg}} [[United States Department of Transportation|USDOT]] 1967–2003<br />{{flagicon image|Flag_of_the_United_States_Department_of_Homeland_Security.svg}} [[United States Department of Homeland Security|DHS]] 2003–present
}}

The advent of the single-operator motorboat, followed by the introduction of the outboard engine in the early 20th century, led to a surge in recreational boating on U.S. federal waters. By the time 1939 rolled around, over 300,000 personal watercraft were in use.<ref name="history.auxpa.org">{{cite web |url=http://www.history.auxpa.org/ |title = Welcome to the Public Affairs Web Site}}</ref> In the preceding year, the Coast Guard had been alerted with 14,000 assistance requests and had addressed 8,600 situations where boaters were "in peril."

[[File:Russell_R_Waesche.jpg|thumb|[[Commandant of the Coast Guard|Commandant]] [[Russell R. Waesche|Russell Waesche]] is credited as the founder.]]
[[File:USCGAUXR2E2.jpg|thumb|Auxiliarists in 1967 rescuing a boater off an outboard that had foundered during a storm in [[Long Island Sound|Long Island Sound, New York]].]]

===Prior to World War II===
The U.S. Congress enacted the Coast Guard Reserve Act in 1938, establishing a volunteer reserve unit for the United States Coast Guard. Their primary duties included promoting maritime safety, enhancing boating proficiency among Americans, assisting in legal awareness and adherence, and supporting the active-duty members of the Coast Guard. Boat owners were grouped into flotillas distributed across Coast Guard districts throughout the U.S. These flotillas undertook safety and security patrols and played a role in enforcing the Federal Boating and Espionage Acts of 1940.<ref>[http://wow.uscgaux.info/content.php?unit=A-DEPT&category=history-1 Auxiliary support of the Federal Boating and Espionage Acts]</ref> [[Commandant of the Coast Guard|Commandant]] [[Russell R. Waesche|Russell Waesche]] and Commodore [[Malcolm Stuart Boylan]] are credited as the founders.<ref>[http://wow.uscgaux.info/content.php?unit=A-DEPT&category=cg-auxiliary About the founder Commandant Russell Waesche]</ref>

In 1941, just two years after its creation, Congress passed legislation to reorganize the Coast Guard Reserve. From that point onward, the Coast Guard would maintain two reserve entities. The original volunteer group was rebranded as the Coast Guard Auxiliary. Concurrently, a new Coast Guard Reserve was established, endowed with military and law enforcement duties.<ref>[http://www.reserve.uscg.mil/about/history/1940s/ About the founding of the Coast Guard Reserve in 1941]</ref>

===During World War II===
During [[World War II]], the Coast Guard recognized a distinct class of reservist known as the "Temporary Reservist." Many of these individuals came from the ranks of the Auxiliary. These Temporary Reservists were uniformed and armed but served without pay, akin to a home guard. Additionally, Coast Guard Headquarters set forth directives permitting certain Auxiliarists and their vessels to bear arms. In 1941 the Coast Guard, Coast Guard Reserve, and Coast Guard Auxiliary were transferred from the [[United States Treasury Department]] to the [[United States Department of the Navy]]<ref>{{cite web |title=FDR puts Coast Guard under Navy control, Nov. 1, 1941 |website=[[Politico]] |date=November 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230404004658/https://www.politico.com/story/2012/11/this-day-in-politics-083116 |archive-date=2023-04-04 |url-status=dead |url=https://www.politico.com/story/2012/11/this-day-in-politics-083116}}</ref> and in 1942 the Coast Guard Auxiliary was authorized to wear [[military uniform]]s.<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.uscga-district-7.org/PDF/BUTTONS%20OF%20THE%20UNITED%20STATES%20COAST%20GUARD%20AUXILIARY.pdf |title=Auxiliarists allowed to wear uniforms starting in 1942 |access-date=19 February 2018 |archive-date=20 February 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180220033248/https://www.uscga-district-7.org/PDF/BUTTONS%20OF%20THE%20UNITED%20STATES%20COAST%20GUARD%20AUXILIARY.pdf |url-status=dead }}</ref>

During World War II, Auxiliarists played a pivotal role in assisting the Coast Guard with the recruitment and training of active-duty members. In 1942, due to the escalating threat posed by German [[U-boat]]s, the U.S. Navy sought the acquisition of "as many civilian craft as feasible that were capable of undertaking voyages at sea under fair weather conditions for a duration of at least 48 hours." A significant portion of vessels, both owned and navigated by Auxiliarists and crewed by Coast Guard reservists, constituted the primary American coastal defense against submarines during the initial stages of World War II, forming what was known as the "Corsair Fleet."

However, as newly built war vessels began assuming these roles, the Coast Guard phased out the use of these civilian crafts in anti-submarine warfare. Despite the fact that these 2,000 civilian vessels, equipped with deck-stowed depth charges, never succeeded in sinking a submarine, they did manage to rescue several hundred survivors from torpedo-stricken merchant ships. From 1942 onward and for the remainder of the war, both Auxiliarists and Coast Guard reservists were integral to local Port Security Forces, ensuring the protection of the maritime shipping sector.

===Post World War II activities===
In 1950, Bert Pouncey was elected as the National Commodore, leading to the establishment of the National Board for the Coast Guard Auxiliary. By 1955, Auxiliarists began to engage in initiatives aimed at supporting the recruitment of prospective candidates for the [[United States Coast Guard Academy]].

The North American Boating Campaign was originally known as "Safe Boating Week," observed by the Coast Guard Auxiliary as a courtesy examination weekend in [[Amesbury, Massachusetts]] in June 1952. This tradition continued until 1957 when an official [[United States Federal Observances|National Safe Boating Week]] observation took place sponsored by the United States Coast Guard Auxiliary in various parts of the country.<ref>"About the Auxiliary". U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary. http://www.cgaux.org/. Retrieved 29 July 2009.</ref> As a result, the [[U.S. Coast Guard]] prepared a Resolution, and on 4 June 1958, [[Dwight Eisenhower|President Dwight D. Eisenhower]] signed PL 85-445, to establish National Safe Boating Week as the first week starting on the first Sunday in June.<ref name="atlanticmaritimeacademy.com">{{Cite web | title=Bringing It Home - Safely | publisher=Atlantic Maritime Academy | url=http://www.atlanticmaritimeacademy.com/bringingithomesafely09.html | access-date=2009-07-29}}</ref><ref>{{USPL|85|445}} Retrieved July 29, 2009.</ref>

In the early part of 1973, due to budgetary constraints, seven Coast Guard stations on the [[Great Lakes]] were shut down. Responding to the appeals of the impacted communities, Congress mandated the reopening of these stations, placing them under the operation of the Auxiliary. Local division captains stepped up to manage these stations, ensuring that Auxiliary vessels were constantly on standby to aid vessels in distress. Subsequently, the Auxiliary assumed control of an additional seven stations located on the Mississippi and Ohio Rivers.

In 1976, the Coast Guard initiated a comprehensive assessment of the Auxiliary through a private research entity, the University Sciences Forum of Washington. After conducting interviews with pivotal figures from both the Coast Guard and the Auxiliary and scrutinizing questionnaires completed by approximately two thousand Auxiliarists, the researchers deduced that the Auxiliary was thriving. Their conclusion was succinct: "In summary," they stated, "we view the Auxiliary as the most cost-effective asset readily accessible to the COGARD. Its performance is exemplary, and its members stand out as some of the most dedicated and professional volunteers in the country."

===Enhanced role for the auxiliarist===
In 1996, a legislative act by Congress broadened the Auxiliary's scope, permitting its members to aid in any mission sanctioned by the Commandant of the U.S. Coast Guard. However, present policies prohibit Auxiliary members from holding deputized law enforcement powers or participating in military combat tasks. By 2004, the Coast Guard Auxiliary consisted of 35,000 members, together contributing a total of 2 million hours of service each year.<ref name="Always Ready: The U.S. Coast Guard">{{cite book|last1=Bonner|first1=Kit|title=Always Ready: The U.S. Coast Guard|date=2004|publisher=Zenith|page=25}}</ref><ref>[http://wow.uscgaux.info/content.php?unit=081&category=auxiliary-history The U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary History Highlights] A complete timeline of historical events for the Coast Guard Auxiliary</ref>

===Under the Department of Homeland Security===
In 2003 the Coast Guard, Coast Guard Reserve and Coast Guard Auxiliary were realigned to be under the [[United States Department of Homeland Security]].<ref>[https://cgaviationhistory.org/2003-coast-guard-transferred-to-the-department-of-homeland-security/ USCG as part of DHS]</ref> As of 2004, the Coast Guard Auxiliary had 35,000 members who collectively provided 2 million man hours of service annually.<ref name="Always Ready: The U.S. Coast Guard"/>

On 19 June 2009, the [[Commandant of the Coast Guard]] awarded the [[Coast Guard Unit Commendation]] to Auxiliary members for "performance ... nothing short of stellar" from the period of 24 June 1999, to 23 June 2009.<ref>U.S. Coast Guard's ALCOAST 365/09, COMDTNOTE 16790, 19 June 2009</ref> On the 75th anniversary of the USCG Auxiliary, 23 June 2014, the Commandant awarded another [[Coast Guard Unit Commendation]] ribbon to all Auxiliarists.<ref>{{cite news|last1=Zukunft|first1=Paul F.|title=COAST GUARD UNIT COMMENDATION|url=http://www.uscg.mil/auxiliary/|access-date=2014-08-06|work=USCG Office of Auxiliary and Boating Safety (CG-BSX) Auxiliary Division (CG-BSX1)--Items of Interest|agency=Department of Homeland Security|publisher=USCG—Department of Homeland Security|date=2014-06-24}}</ref>

On 24 June 2014, the [[Commandant of the Coast Guard]] ADML [[Paul F. Zukunft]] awarded the [[Coast Guard Unit Commendation]] to the Coast Guard Auxiliary for "exceptionally meritorious service from June 24, 2009 to June 23, 2014, while providing unprecedented levels of dedicated public service and operational support to the U. S. Coast Guard's missions".

On 16 May 2019, the [[Commandant of the Coast Guard]] ADML[[Karl L. Schultz|Karl Schultz]]  awarded a third [[Coast Guard Unit Commendation]] for "exceptionally meritorious service from June 24, 2014 to June 23, 2019 while providing extraordinary levels of public service and support to the United States Coast Guard".<ref>[https://5nr.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/CGUC-SIGNED-AUX-80TH-ESIGN-002.pdf Coast Guard Unit Commendation 2019]</ref>

On 25 May 2024, the [[Commandant of the Coast Guard]] ADML [[Linda L. Fagan|Linda Fagan]] awarded the [[Coast Guard Unit Commendation]] to Coast Guard Auxiliary for "exceptionally meritorious service from June 24, 2019, to June 23, 2024, while providing extraordinary levels of public service and support to the United States Coast Guard".

==Awards and decorations==
{| style="margin:1em auto; text-align:center;"
|{{Ribbon devices|number=|type=|ribbon=USA - CG PUC Hurricane Katrina.png|width=106}}
|{{Ribbon devices|number=|type=|ribbon=DHS_Outstanding_Unit_Award.png|width=106}}
|{{Ribbon devices|number=6|type=award-star|ribbon=Coast_Guard_Unit_Commendation_ribbon.svg|width=106}}
|}
{| class="wikitable" style="margin:1em auto; text-align:center;"
!1st row
| colspan="3" |[[Presidential_Unit_Citation_(United_States)|Presidential Unit Citation]] with [[Hurricane Katrina]] special clasp
| colspan="3" |Department of Homeland Security Outstanding Unit Award
| colspan="3" |[[Coast Guard Unit Commendation]] with one  3⁄16" Silver Star and one 3⁄16" Bronze Star 
|}

==Programs and missions==
[[File:U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary Patrol Ensign.png|thumb|U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary Patrol Boat Ensign]]
The Auxiliary primarily acts as a force enhancer for the Coast Guard. Auxiliarists are dedicated to fostering safety, security, and aid for the citizens of the United States, whether it's in harbors, seaports, along the coasts, on the country's canals, rivers, or even in the skies. The task of promoting and enhancing recreational boater safety has been fully entrusted to the Auxiliary by the USCG. Furthermore, the Auxiliary actively aids both active-duty members and reservists in executing a range of missions, including search and rescue, marine safety, management of waterways, environmental preservation, and various duties related to homeland security.<ref>[http://wow.uscgaux.info/content.php?unit=170-02-01&category=about-the-cg-auxiliary Mission of the USCG Auxiliary]</ref><ref>[http://join.cgaux.org/whyjoin.php Additional info about the Auxiliary Missions]</ref>

===Missions===
[[File:United States Coast Guard Auxiliary Flotilla 9-3.jpg|thumb|The United States Coast Guard Auxiliary Flotilla 9-3 in Naples, Florida.]]
{{Columns-list|colwidth=20em|
* Maritime Domain Awareness Air Patrols
* Academy Introduction Mission (AIM)
* Active Duty Administrative Support
* Administration of Bridges
* Aids to Navigation
* America's Waterway Watch Program
* Contingency Preparedness
* Inspections of commercial vessels
* Licensing for Merchant Mariners
* Logistic Air Transport
* Management of Waterways
* Air Reconnaissance Ice Patrols
* Marine Environmental Safety and Protection
* Operational Support
* Waterway Security & Safety
* Public Education
* Recreational Boating Safety
* Search and Rescue
* Support for USCG Civil Engineering Units
* Support for Public Affairs
* Auxiliary Chaplain Support
* Support for Recruiting<ref>[http://wow.uscgaux.info/content.php?unit=070-07-05&category=1321473949 About Coast Guard Auxiliary Missions]</ref>
}}

===Recreational Boating Safety===

The Auxiliary's most prominent role is promoting recreational boating safety ("RBS" in Auxiliary parlance).  The Auxiliary has several distinct programs that support this mission, most visibly:
* Providing free Vessel Safety Checks (formerly "Courtesy Marine Examinations") to recreational boaters;
* Delivering a Public Education (or "PE") program, which consists of a range of courses on boating-related topics such as seamanship, knots, laws and regulations related to boating, weather, and navigation; and
* Acting as a liaison to local businesses/organizations (such as [[marina]]s, [[boat club|boating clubs]], civic clubs, etc.) through RBS Partnership Program Visitors (formerly "Marine Dealer Visitors).

===Surface and Air Operations===

The Coast Guard Auxiliary participates in both surface and aerial activities, termed "AUXAIR," to bolster the Coast Guard's efforts in areas like search & rescue, marine safety/security, environmental protection/response, and to some degree, tasks related to law enforcement and national defense. Auxiliarists who possess boats and aircraft have the option to provide them for Coast Guard use, designating them as Auxiliary "facilities." Auxiliarists qualified as boat crewmen, [[coxswains]], [[pilots]], [[air crew]], and air observers can take part in these activities.  Beyond their primary roles, Auxiliary aircraft can also serve as official modes of transportation for active-duty members when commercial travel options are either impractical or not suitable.

===Auxiliary University Programs===
[[File:AUP VMI.jpg|thumb|The badge of the [[United States Coast Guard Auxiliary University Programs|U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary University Programs]] unit at the [[Virginia Military Institute]]]]
{{Main|United States Coast Guard Auxiliary University Programs}}

The [[United States Coast Guard Auxiliary University Programs|Auxiliary University Programs (AUP)]] is a Coast Guard Auxiliary-managed initiative established in 2007. Presently, AUP comprises almost 300 members distributed across 16 units, representing over 30 academic institutions throughout the [[United States]].<ref>[http://www.cgauxedu.us/about/ About AUP]</ref> The AUP, or Auxiliary University Programs, is designed to groom undergraduate and graduate students for prospective roles in public service, both within the Coast Guard and beyond. Drawing inspiration from [[ROTC]] (Reserve Officers' Training Corps) programs, the AUP offers students insights into Coast Guard career paths without mandating a service obligation. Broadly, the program imparts knowledge on seamanship and leadership while promoting the ethos of public service.<ref>[https://www.canton.edu/news/index.php/tag/auxiliary-university-program/ Benefits of AUP]</ref> AUP has a positive track record of getting a large number of its graduates into [[Officer candidate school|Coast Guard Officer Candidate School]] and also offers an Internship Program.<ref>[http://www.cgauxedu.us/about/ AUP into CG OCS]</ref>

===Augmentation===
{{See also|United States Coast Guard Pipe Band|United States Coast Guard Ceremonial Honor Guard}}
In addition to employing vessels and aircraft owned and operated by Auxiliarists, the Coast Guard leverages individual Auxiliarists to directly support active-duty operations. It's common to find Auxiliarists taking on a variety of roles such as manning radio stations, aiding in boat upkeep, handling administrative tasks, cooking, acting as morale officers, and fulfilling other supportive roles at various Coast Guard units, especially at small boat stations. On rarer occasions, Auxiliarists might be stationed aboard cutters, serving as cooks, interpreters for foreign languages, or other similar auxiliary capacities.<ref>{{cite book|title=Coast Guard Auxiliary Interpreter Corps|date=2011|publisher=U.S. Coast Guard|pages=1–4|url=https://icdept.cgaux.org/pdf_files/NACON2011Brochure.pdf}}</ref> The Auxiliary also trains and provides members on an as-needed basis in areas such as emergency management. 

The Coast Guard, equipped with only a singular regular military band and color guard, occasionally calls upon Auxiliarists to step into these roles for significant occasions like ship christenings and change-of-command ceremonies. Moreover, the [[United States Coast Guard Pipe Band]] comprises members from both the Coast Guard Reserve and the Coast Guard Auxiliary.

Auxiliarists with expertise in health care, legal assistance, financial counseling, or clergy roles can leverage their professional qualifications and experience to support active duty/reserve Coast Guard personnel and their families, whether on a continuous or as-needed basis. For instance, health care professional Auxiliarists might offer their services at [[Public Health Service]] clinics catering to the Coast Guard community. Likewise, Auxiliarists with legal expertise often assist Coast Guard members in navigating insurance claims, addressing landlord-tenant disagreements, and managing other civil issues.

Auxiliarists are sometimes also dispatched to support the missions/activities of other federal, state, and local agencies, and civic organizations such as the [[Civil Air Patrol]]. For example, Auxiliarists have voluntarily deployed in support of disaster relief operations (notably [[Hurricane Katrina]]) and to provide support to Immigration and Customs Enforcement at the U.S.-Mexico border.

==Organization==
[[File:USCGAuxOrgMap.png|thumb|The U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary is divided into three geographic areas: Pacific, Atlantic West, and Atlantic East. The three areas are subdivided into district and divisions, with the smallest unit of organization being the flotilla (not represented on this map).]]
The organizational structure of the Coast Guard places the Coast Guard Auxiliary within the Office of Auxiliary and Boating Safety (CG-BSX), specifically in the Auxiliary Division (CG-BSX-1). This is nested under the purview of the office of the Deputy Commandant for Operations (CG-DCO) at Coast Guard Headquarters. Further down the chain, CG-DCO supervises the Assistant Commandant for Marine Safety, Security, and Stewardship (CG-5). CG-5 then oversees the Director of Prevention Policy (CG-54), who subsequently supervises CG-542.<ref>{{cite web|title=United States Coast Guard Headquarters Organization|url=http://www.uscg.mil/top/units/org.asp#dco|publisher=United States Coast Guard|access-date=2012-03-02}}</ref>

The Coast Guard Auxiliary boasts units spread across all 50 U.S. states, as well as in Puerto Rico, the Virgin Islands, American Samoa, and Guam. Functioning under the direct jurisdiction of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security through the Commandant of the U.S. Coast Guard, the Auxiliary's internal operational structure is delineated into four primary organizational tiers: Flotilla, Division, District, and National.<ref>{{cite web|title=United States Coast Guard Auxiliary Organization|url=http://cgaux.org/about.php|publisher=United States Coast Guard Auxiliary|access-date=2015-08-26}}</ref>
* '''Flotillas''': A [[Flotilla]] stands as the foundational unit of the Auxiliary. A flotilla is ideally composed of a minimum of 10 members, but many flotillas can boast memberships exceeding 100 individuals. The bulk of the Auxiliary's routine operations are executed at the flotilla level. Every member enters the Auxiliary through a flotilla and directs their annual membership fees to this foundational unit. Typically, flotillas convene on a monthly schedule, and they often welcome both visitors and those interested in joining.
* '''Divisions''': At least four (4) flotillas form a Division, which provides leadership, direction, and staff assistance to the flotillas so that their programs can run effectively.
* '''Districts/Regions''': There are several divisions in a District. The District provides leadership and staff assistance to the Divisions. Each Auxiliary District is supervised by a Director of the Auxiliary who is an Active Duty Coast Guard officer usually holding the rank of [[Commander (United States)|Commander]]. Auxiliary Districts generally coincide with Coast Guard Districts.<ref name="nwauxorg">{{Cite web |url=http://nws.cgaux.org/flotillafinder/index.html |title=U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary: Auxiliary Unit Directory and Finder |access-date=17 June 2006 |archive-date=15 June 2006 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20060615113254/http://nws.cgaux.org/flotillafinder/index.html |url-status=dead }}</ref>
* '''Areas''': Three Deputy National Commodores are responsible for three geographic areas: Atlantic East, Atlantic West, and Pacific Area, respectively.
* '''National''':  The Auxiliary's governance structure is overseen by national officers who, in collaboration with the Commandant, manage its administration and overarching policy determinations. Central to this architecture is the National Executive Committee (NEXCOM). This includes the Chief Director of Auxiliary (CHDIRAUX) — an active-duty officer, the National Commodore (NACO), the Immediate Past National Commodore (IPNACO), the Vice National Commodore (VNACO), and four Deputy National Commodores (DNACOs). These figures are part of the broader National Staff Operating Committee (OPCOM). OPCOM, in its entirety, consists of twenty-nine members: the eight members from NEXCOM as outlined, an additional eight from the National Executive Staff which includes Assistant National Commodores (ANACO), and a set of fourteen Directorate Directors (DIR). This cohesive structure ensures the effective operation and leadership of the Auxiliary at the national scale.<ref>{{cite web|title=National SOP|url=http://cgaux.org/leadership/documents/National_SOP_2020.pdf}}</ref> The aforementioned individuals, combined with their specific teams in the different national directorates, constitute the Auxiliary Headquarters organization. The Chief Director, a senior officer within the Coast Guard, oversees the administration of the Auxiliary, basing decisions on policies set by the Commandant. The overarching management of the Auxiliary falls to the Deputy Commandant for Operations (CG-DCO), who directly reports to the Commandant (CCG).

==Leadership and staffing==
District Commodores and District Chiefs of Staff are elected to a two-year term. Division Commanders, Division Vice Commanders, Flotilla Commanders, and Flotilla Vice Commanders are elected annually to provide overall organizational leadership. Staff officers are appointed by these elected officers to oversee various program areas.

The Coast Guard Auxiliary does not have a military chain of command; it does, however, have a similar concept called the "Chain of Leadership and Management" (or "COLM"). Auxiliarists are expected to adhere to the COLM when issuing instructions and seeking direction/guidance on policy matters. There are actually two COLMs. Staff officers at each level report to both their own elected unit leader and to the staff officer in the equivalent position at the next highest level of the organization (this is known as "parallel staffing"). For example, a Flotilla Staff Officer (FSO) overseeing the flotilla's public education program (the "FSO-PE") reports to both his/her own Flotilla Commander (through the Flotilla Vice Commander) and the division Staff Officer for public education (the "SO-PE").

===National officers===
The national leadership is elected once every two years. National officer positions include the following:
{{See also|National Commodore of the United States Coast Guard Auxiliary}}
* The National Commodore (NACO) of the United States Coast Guard Auxiliary is the most senior and principal officer of the United States Coast Guard Auxiliary. The NACO represents the Auxiliary and reports to the Commandant of the Coast Guard through the [[Vice Commandant of the United States Coast Guard|Vice Commandant of the Coast Guard]]. Additionally, the NACO represents the Auxiliary with all Coast Guard flag officers and flag officer equivalent civilians at Coast Guard headquarters on Auxiliary matters.   The NACO functions to support the [[commandant of the Coast Guard|Commandant's]] strategic goals and objectives and serve auxiliarists.
* Vice National Commodore (VNACO) – The VNACO is the chief operating officer of the Coast Guard Auxiliary and reports to the National Commodore (NACO). Additionally, the VNACO represents the Auxiliary at the direction of the NACO with all Coast Guard Flag officers and Flag officer equivalent civilians at Coast Guard Headquarters on Auxiliary matters.<ref name="AUXMAN">[http://www.uscg.mil/hq/cg3/cg3pcx/publications/auxman.pdf U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary Manual]</ref>
* Deputy National Commodore (DNACO) – The Auxiliary has four Deputy National Commodores (DNACO) who report to the Vice National Commodore. Three are elected (Mission Support, Operations, and Recreational Boating Safety), and one is appointed (Information Technology and Planning).  Each DNACO has a specific set of operational areas of responsibility to include one or more of the appointed Assistant National Commodores (staff officers). Additionally, each of the three elected DNACOs are the reporting point for approximately one third of the 16 District Commodores, grouped by geographical area, who are elected every two years to lead their local membership.<ref>{{cite web|title=United States Coast Guard Auxiliary Deputy National Commodores|url=http://cgaux.org/leadership/dnaco.php|publisher=United States Coast Guard Auxiliary|access-date=2012-03-02}}</ref>
* Assistant National Commodore (ANACO) – Eight Assistant National Commodores form the National Executive Staff<ref>{{cite web|title=National SOP|url=http://cgaux.org/leadership/documents/National_SOP_2020.pdf}}</ref> and are appointed to either lead multiple national directorates or perform specialized roles (such as Chief Counsel or Diversity).<ref>{{cite web|title=United States Coast Guard Auxiliary National Staffing|url=https://auxofficer.cgaux.org/auxoff/orgcharts/Org_Chart_National_Incumbents.pdf|publisher=United States Coast Guard Auxiliary|access-date=2014-11-06}}</ref> They are expected to consult and coordinate with appropriate Coast Guard Flag officers and program managers in coordination with the Chief Director to determine requirements for Auxiliary resources used within their areas of responsibilities and develop and manage Auxiliary programs consistent with Coast Guard needs and objectives.<ref name="AUXMAN"/>
* Immediate Past National Commodore (NIPCO) – The NIPCO is the most recent predecessor of the National Commodore office and serves on the National Executive Committee.<ref>{{cite web|title=National SOP|url=http://cgaux.org/leadership/documents/National_SOP_2020.pdf}}</ref>
* Director (DIR) – Appointed top officers of the Auxiliary's various National Directorates: Government & Public Affairs (A); RBS Outreach (B); Computer Software & Systems (C); Public Education (E); Human Resources (H); International Affairs (I); Performance Management (M); Prevention (P); Emergency Management & Disaster Response (Q); Response (R); Strategic Planning (S); Training (T); IT User Support & Services (U); Vessel Examination & RBS Visitation (V), and Cybersecurity (Y). 
* Deputy Director (DIRd) – Appointed aide officers of the Auxiliary's various National Directorate Directors. They are the second-highest appointed officers within a Directorate and lead alongside the Directors.<ref name="auxdepts">[http://www.cgaux.org/departments/ U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary: National Directorates (National Site Map page)]</ref>
* Division Chief (DVC) – The DVCs manage a broad program sector within each directorate under the director and deputy director.<ref name="auxdepts"/>
* Branch Chief (BC) – The BCs oversee specialized functions and programs on the National Staff, and are directly responsible for carrying out many of the National Staff functions within their Directorate. They work under the direction of the Division Chief.<ref name="auxdepts"/>
* Branch Assistant (BA) – The BAs serve as support staff under a Branch Chief, carrying out national-level tasks and duties provided by their respective BC.<ref name="auxdepts"/>

===District officers===
* District Director of the Auxiliary (DIRAUX)<ref name="locales">[http://www.uscg.mil/hq/cg3/cg3pcx/cginfo/districtlocale.asp U.S. Coast Guard: Auxiliary Districts, Areas, and Regions]</ref> – An active duty Coast Guard officer, usually a [[commander]], who is dedicated full-time to Auxiliary functions in his or her district. The DIRAUX has sole responsibility for enrolling a new member or for disenrolling an existing member. The DIRAUX is also the final authority in all matters related to his or her Auxiliary district.  Each DIRAUX has small staff of active duty members, Auxiliarists, and civilian employees to assist with these functions.
* District Commodore (DCO) – The highest elected officer within the district, elected by the Division Commanders, the District Commodore supervises all Auxiliary activities within his or her district.
* District Chief of Staff (DCOS) (formerly District Vice Commodore [VCO]) – The district's Chief of Staff and Assistant to the District Commodore. Elected by the Division Commanders in the district.
* District Captains (DCAPT) (formerly District Rear Commodore [RCO]) (two or more per district) – Elected by all Division Commanders and usually supervise a group of divisions in a district. They may also have programmatic responsibilities.
* District Directorate Chiefs (DDC) – Some districts appoint DDCs based on the three major areas of Auxiliary activity (i.e., Prevention, Response, and Logistics). They are appointed by the DCO and approved by DIRAUX.
* District Staff Officers (DSO) – Manage the district's departments and programs; appointed by the DCO and approved by DIRAUX.
* Assistant District Staff Officers (ADSO) – Assist with the management of district departments under the direction and guidance of the DSO; appointed by the DCO with concurrence of DCOS. DSO's report to the DCOS (through a DDC, where applicable).

===Division officers===
* Division Commander (DCDR) (formerly Division Captain) – The highest elected Auxiliary leader within a division. Elected by the Flotilla Commanders in a Division.
* Division Vice Commander (VCDR) (formerly Division Vice Captain) – Division Chief of Staff and assistant to the Division Commander. Elected by the Flotilla Commanders in a division.
* Division Staff Officers (SO) – Manage the division's departments and programs; appointed by the DCDR.

===Flotilla officers===
[[File:USCGAux76emblem.png|thumb|U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary Flotilla 76 Portland, Oregon, Unit Emblem]]
[[File:USCGAUXLAHELO.ogv|thumb|A U.S. Coast Guard [[Eurocopter AS365 Dauphin|Dolphin HH65 helicopter]] trains in basket hoisting with Coast Guard Auxiliary vessels and auxiliarists near [[Los Angeles, California]] in about 2009.]]
Titles and duties of flotilla officers are dictated by the Auxiliary Manual.<ref name="flotoff">[http://www.uscg.mil/hq/cg3/cg3pcx/training/org/flot-officers.asp U.S. Coast Guard: Flotilla Officers Structure]</ref>
* Flotilla Commander (FC) – The highest elected Auxiliary leader within a flotilla. He/she is elected by the members of a flotilla. Recommends new members for enrollment to the DIRAUX.
* Flotilla Vice Commander (VFC) – The flotilla's Chief of Staff and assistant to the Flotilla Commander. Elected by the members of a Flotilla.
* Flotilla Staff Officers (FSO) – Responsible for managing the flotilla's departments and programs; appointed by the FC.
* Detachment Leader (DL) – Serves as the leader for a DIRAUX approved flotilla detachment. This officer is appointed by the FC and wears the insignia of an FSO.

===Staff officers===
To effectively execute the Auxiliary program, Division Commanders (DCDRs) and Flotilla Commanders (FCs) have the authority to appoint staff officers at the flotilla and division levels. At the district level, the District Commodore (DCO) is responsible for appointing district staff officers. The designations for these roles vary based on their level within the organization: at the flotilla level, the abbreviation is FSO; for the division level, it's SO; and at the district level, DSO is used. For instance, the term SO-CS denotes the Division Communications Services officer.

The list of staff officers, with their official abbreviations, is:
* Aviation (AV) ''(district level only)''
* Culinary Assistance (CA)
* Communications (CM)
* Communication Services (CS)
* Diversity (DV) (Discontinued 2025)
* Finance (FN)
* Flight Safety Officer (DFSO) ''(district level only)''
* Food Service (FS) ''(division level and above)''
* Human Resources (HR)
* Information Services (IS)
* Legal/Parliamentarian (LP) ''(district level only)''
* Marine Safety and Environmental Protection (MS)
* Materials (MA)
* Member Training (MT)
* Navigation Systems (NS)
* Operations (OP)
* Public Affairs (PA)
* Publications (PB)
* Public Education (PE)
* Recreational Boating Safety Visitation Program (PV)
* Rescue & Survival Systems (RS)
* [[Sea Scouts (Boy Scouts of America)|Sea Scouts]] ("AUXSCOUT" program) (AS)
* Secretary/Records (SR)
* Vessel Examination (VE)

==Uniforms and insignia==

===Uniforms===
{{Main|Uniforms of the United States Coast Guard Auxiliary}}

While joining the Auxiliary doesn't mandate Auxiliarists to acquire uniforms, specific activities and missions do necessitate wearing them.<ref name="Coast Guard Auxiliary Manual COMDTINST.M16790 1.F">{{Cite web |url=http://www.uscg.mil/directives/cim/16000-16999/CIM_16790_1F.pdf |title=AUXILIARY MANUAL COMDTINST M16790.1F |access-date=2009-01-03 |archive-date=2009-02-27 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090227114630/http://www.uscg.mil/directives/cim/16000-16999/CIM_16790_1F.pdf}}</ref> Each auxiliary uniform is identical to a [[Uniforms of the United States Coast Guard|Coast Guard officer's uniform]], with the exception that the buttons and stripes on dress jackets and shoulder boards are silver in color, rather than gold. On dress uniforms, appointed staff officers wear insignia with a red "A" and elected officers wear insignia with either a silver or a blue "A", while black "A"s are worn on insignia by both elected and appointed officers on the [[Operational Dress Uniform|ODU]] uniform.  Auxiliarists are typically held to similar uniform standards as regular and reserve Coast Guard officers. However, there are certain leniencies in the guidelines. For instance, unlike their regular and reserve counterparts, Auxiliarists are permitted to sport beards.

In scenarios where Auxiliarists are supplementing Coast Guard personnel in an operational setting, such as acting as an interpreter on a cutter at sea, the military-style officer insignia representing an Auxiliary position is typically removed. Instead, the generic "member" insignia is adorned. This adjustment ensures that there's no misconception, especially when interacting with foreign military entities or potential adversaries, that the Auxiliarist holds any command power over the vessel.

===Auxiliary insignia, titles, and military etiquette===
[[File:CGAuxiliaryInsignia-v03.png|400px|thumb|USCG Auxiliary Insignia]]
Auxiliarists wear [[United_States_Coast_Guard#Commissioned_officers|military rank-style insignia]] that signify their leadership position (e.g., a Flotilla Commander wears insignia similar to a [[Lieutenant (navy)|USCG lieutenant]]) but do not hold substantive military ranks and are not typically addressed by their position title. Members of the Coast Guard Auxiliary are typically referred to as "Auxiliarist" (with the abbreviation "AUX"), with the exception of those who occupy or have occupied senior leadership roles equivalent to flag officers (Admirals). These members are addressed as "Commodore" (shortened to "COMO"). Notably, the title associated with the office, such as "Commodore," is placed before the name only for those who are or were Commodores. For instance, "Commodore Lucy Jones" would be the appropriate address for someone who currently holds or once held a position like National Commodore, Deputy National Commodore, Assistant National Commodore, or District Commodore.

For other elected or appointed roles, such as District Chief of Staff, District Captain, and leaders at the division or flotilla levels, the title follows the name. Examples include "Mr. Sam Rosenberg, District Captain," "Ms. Marion Lewis, Division Staff Officer," or "Mr. James Chun, Flotilla Commander."<ref name="USCG Auxiliary" />

Auxiliarists typically don't engage in military customs like saluting when interacting with each other, though there's no rule against it. However, they are expected to begin salutes and demonstrate other suitable courtesies to military officers who rank higher than the equivalent office insignia that the Auxiliarist wears. Additionally, they are anticipated to uphold correct [[flag etiquette]] and similar protocols. While enlisted personnel, Warrant Officers, and Commissioned Officers of the Coast Guard aren't obligated to salute Auxiliarists, they might occasionally do so. In such instances, Auxiliarists should reciprocate by returning the salute.

The rank-style insignia sported by Auxiliarists doesn't denote authority in a military sense but rather identifies an individual's position within the Auxiliary. It's also a means of acknowledging the duties associated with elected and appointed leadership positions as well as those of staff officers. If these leaders have served at least half of the term of their designated role, they are allowed to continuously wear the insignia corresponding to the highest office they've held. However, once an Auxiliarist is no longer in the role represented by their insignia, they must adorn a "Past Officer Device" on the right pocket flap of their uniform shirt or service dress jacket to signify their past position.<ref>{{cite web|title=AUXMAN|url=http://ppgroup.uscgaux.info/manuals/Auxiliary_Manual.pdf|access-date=4 December 2017|archive-date=15 December 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171215025111/http://ppgroup.uscgaux.info/manuals/Auxiliary_Manual.pdf|url-status=dead}}</ref>

==== Office title and insignia ====
{| style="border:1px solid #8888aa; background-color:#f7f8ff; padding:5px; font-size:95%; margin: 0px 12px 12px 0px;"
{{Ranks and Insignia of NATO Armed Forces/OF/Blank}}
{{Ranks and Insignia of NATO Navies/OF/United States (USCGA)}}
|}

====Pledge====
Auxiliarists ascribe to the following pledge during induction:

:''I, (your name), solemnly and sincerely pledge myself, to support the United States Coast Guard Auxiliary, and its purposes, to faithfully execute my duties, and to abide by the governing policies, established by the [[Coast Guard Commandant|Commandant]], of the United States Coast Guard.''<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://ppgroup.uscgaux.info/manuals/Auxiliary_Manual.pdf |title=Pledge |access-date=4 December 2017 |archive-date=15 December 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171215025111/http://ppgroup.uscgaux.info/manuals/Auxiliary_Manual.pdf |url-status=dead }}</ref>

===Medals, awards, and citations===
Auxiliarists may be awarded medals and decorations of the Coast Guard or Coast Guard Auxiliary,<ref>{{cite web |url=http://ribbons.cgaux.info/ |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20071028063641/http://ribbons.cgaux.info/ |archive-date=2007-10-28 |title=USCG CG-5421: Office of the Auxiliary - Ribbon Checker}}</ref> and may wear certain medals and decorations awarded in prior military service based on what is approved in the Auxiliary Manual.<ref name="Auxiliary Manual">Auxiliary Manual.</ref> There are currently 36 medals and ribbons for which auxiliarists are eligible.

United States Coast Guard awards:<ref name="awards">{{cite web |url=http://wow.uscgaux.info/content.php?unit=T-DEPT&category=awards |title=Auxiliary Awards |publisher=United States Coast Guard Auxiliary |access-date=2017-05-29}}</ref>
{{div col}}
* [[File:USCG Aux Distinguished Service Award.png|80px]] USCG Aux Distinguished Service Award
* [[File:USCG Aux Legion of Merit Award.png|80px]] USCG Aux Legion of Merit
* [[File:USCG Aux Plaque of Merit.png|80px]] USCG Aux Plaque of Merit
* [[File:USCG Aux Meritorious Service Medal.png|80px]] USCG Aux Meritorious Service Award
* [[File:USCG Aux Medal of Operational Merit.png|80px]] USCG Aux Medal of Operational Merit
* [[File:USCG Aux Commendation Medal.png|80px]] USCG Aux Commendation Medal
* [[File:USCG Aux Achievement Medal.png|80px]] USCG Aux Achievement Medal
* [[File:USCG Aux Commandant Letter of Commendation.png|80px]] USCG Aux Commandant Letter of Commendation
* [[File:USCG Aux Sustained Service Award.png|80px]] USCG Aux Sustained Service Award
* [[File:USCG Aux Excellence "E" Ribbon.png|80px]] Coast Guard Auxiliary Operational Excellence "E" Ribbon
* [[File:USCG Aux Humanitarian Service Award.png|80px]] USCG Aux Humanitarian Service Award
* [[File:USCG Aux Recruiting Service Award.png|80px]] USCG Aux Recruiting Service Award
* [[File:USCG Aux Specialty Training Ribbon.png|80px]] USCG Aux Specialty Training Ribbon
* [[File:USCG Aux Marine Safety Trident Training Ribbon.png|80px]] USCG Aux Marine Safety Trident Training Ribbon
* [[File:USCG Aux Operations Program Ribbon.png|80px]] USCG Aux Operations Program Ribbon
* [[File:USCG Aux Examiner Program Ribbon.png|80px]] USCG Aux Examiner Program Ribbon
* [[File:USCG Aux Instructor Program Ribbon.png|80px]] USCG Aux Instructor Program Ribbon
* [[File:USCG Aux Public Affairs Ribbon.png|80px]] USCG Aux Public Affairs Ribbon
* [[File:USCG Aux Musician Ribbon.png|80px]] USCG Aux Musician Ribbon
* [[File:USCG Aux Membership Service Ribbon.png|80px]] USCG Aux Membership Service Ribbon
* [[File:USCG Aux Flotilla Meritorious Achievement Medal.png|80px]] USCG Aux Flotilla Meritorious Achievement Medal
* [[File:USCG Auxy Examinations-Marine Dealer Visitation Service.png|80px]] USCG Aux Vessel Examination and RBS Visitation Program Service Performance Award
* [[File:USCG Aux Public Education Service Award.png|80px]] USCG Aux Public Education Service Award
* [[File:USCG Aux Operations Service Award.png|80px]] USCG Aux Operations Service Award
{{div col end}}

Other awards authorized for wear on the Coast Guard Auxiliary uniform:<ref name="awards"/>
{{div col}}
* [[File:Guardian Medal ribbon.PNG|80px]] [[Guardian Medal]]
* [[File:Department of Transportation 9-11 Medal ribbon.svg|80px]] [[Transportation 9-11 Medal]]
* [[File:Coast Guard Presidential Unit Citation ribbon.svg|80px]] [[Presidential Unit Citation (United States)#Coast Guard|Coast Guard Presidential Unit Citation]]
* [[File:DHS Outstanding Unit Award.png|80px]] [[DHS Outstanding Unit Award]]
* [[File:Secretary of Transportation Outstanding Unit Award ribbon.png|80px]] [[Secretary of Transportation Outstanding Unit Award]]
* [[File:Coast Guard Unit Commendation ribbon.svg|80px]] [[Coast Guard Unit Commendation]]
* [[File:Coast Guard Meritorious Unit Commendation ribbon.svg|80px]] [[Meritorious Unit Commendation#Coast Guard|Coast Guard Meritorious Unit Commendation]]
* [[File:Meritorious Team Commendation ribbon.svg|80px]] [[Meritorious Team Commendation]]
* [[File:Bicentennial Unit Commendation ribbon.svg|80px]] [[Coast Guard Bicentennial Unit Commendation]]
* [[File:9-11 Ribbon.svg|80px]] [[Transportation 9-11 Ribbon]]
* [[File:Special Operations Service Ribbon.svg|80px]] [[Special Operations Service Ribbon|Coast Guard Special Operations Ribbon]]
* [[File:Coast Guard Recruiting Service Ribbon.svg|80px]] [[Recruiting Service Ribbon#Coast Guard|Coast Guard Recruiting Service Ribbon]]
{{div col end}}

===Badges===
{{See also|Badges of the United States Coast Guard}}

====Qualification badges====
Qualification Badges of the United States Coast Guard Auxiliary are sanctioned and distributed by the [[United States Coast Guard]]'s DIRAUX. These badges are awarded to auxiliarists who attain specific qualifications during their tenure in the United States Coast Guard Auxiliary. While Auxiliarists have the permission to display qualification badges or insignia obtained from their previous military service, they must adhere to the uniform standards set by the Coast Guard. Specifically, only two such badges are permitted on service uniforms, and just one on Operational Dress Uniforms (ODU's). The following are the qualification badges that the Coast Guard bestows upon Auxiliarists:<ref>[http://www.cgaux.org/training/PDF/MemberTrain-QualGuide-09.pdf Badges available to Auxiliary members]</ref><ref name="USCG Auxiliary">{{cite web|url=https://www.uscg.mil/Portals/0/OurOrganization/auxiliary/publications/AUXMAN.pdf?ver=2017-07-02-093004-213|title=U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary Manual, COMDTINST M16790.1G|date=2011-08-17|access-date=2020-07-25}}</ref>

=====Qualification insignia=====
{| style="border:1px solid #8888aa; padding:5px; font-size:95%; float: left; margin: 0px 12px 12px 0px;"
|align="left"|[[Naval Aviator insignia|Aviator Badge]]
|align="center"|[[File:USCG Auxiliary Aviator Badge.png|150px]]
|-
|align="left"|[[Aircrew Badge (United States)|Aircrew Badge]]
|align="center"|[[File:USCG Auxiliary Aircrew Badge.png|150px]]
|-
| align="left" |[[Boat Force Operations Insignia|Advanced Boat Force Operations Insignia]]
| align="center" |[[File:USCG - Boat Force Operations Advanced BW.png|135px]]
|-
| align="left" |[[Boat Force Operations Insignia]]
| align="center" |[[File:USCG - Boat Force Operations.png|135px]]
|-
| align="left" |[[Coxswain Badge|Coxswain Insignia]]
| align="center" |[[File:Auxiliary Coxswain.jpg|135px]]
|-
| align="left" |[[Cutterman Insignia]]
| align="center" |[[File:Auxiliary Cutterman.jpg|155px]]
|-
| align="left" |[[Marine Safety Insignia]] ("Trident")
| align="center" |[[File:USCG AUX Trident.png|155px]]
|-
| align="left" |Personal Watercraft Operator
| align="center" |[[File:USCG Auxiliary Personal Watercraft Operator Badge.png|95px]]
|-
| align="left" |Recreational Boating Safety Insignia
| align="center" |[[File:USCG Auxiliary Recreational Boating Safety Insignia.png|150px]]
|-
|align="left" |Operational Auxiliarist Device
|align="center" |[[File:USCG Auxiliary Operations Device.png|85px]]
|-
|align="left" |Culinary Assistance Specialist Device 
|-
|}
{{clear}}

====Service identification badges====
All auxiliarists currently on the National Staff may wear the National Staff Badge.<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://cgaux.org/leadership/documents/National_Staff_Guidebook.pdf |title=About the National Staff badge |access-date=21 January 2018 |archive-date=21 April 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170421023323/http://cgaux.org/leadership/documents/National_Staff_Guidebook.pdf |url-status=dead }}</ref> Auxiliarists who volunteer in recruiting offices and satisfy certain requirements may be authorized to wear the Coast Guard Recruiting Badge.<ref name="USCG Auxiliary"/> Auxiliarists who meet the requirements of the Academy Admissions Partner Program and are approved by the [[University President|Superintendent]] of the [[United States Coast Guard Academy]] may also be entitled to wear the Coast Guard Academy Admissions Recruiting Badge.<ref>[http://www.uscga.edu/partners.aspx?id=3062 More info about the Academy Admissions Partner program]</ref>
{| style="border:1px solid #8888aa; padding:5px; font-size:95%; float: left; margin: 0px 12px 12px 0px;"
|align="left"|National Staff Identification Badge
|align="center"|[[File:USCG Auxiliary National Staff Badge.png|105px]]
|-
|align="left"|[[Recruiter Badge|Coast Guard Recruiting Badge]]
|align="center"|[[File:CGrecruiting.jpg|100px]]
|-
|align="left"|U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary Past Officer Badge
|align="center"|[[File:COAST GUARD AUXILIARY PAST OFFICER BADGE.jpg|frameless|100x100px]]
|}
{{clear}}

==Benefits==
{{See also|Coast Guard Mutual Assistance|Coast Guard Foundation}}
The United States Coast Guard Auxiliary offers a number of benefits and fellowship opportunities.<ref>[http://join.cgaux.org/ben.php About Auxiliary benefits and fellowship]</ref> Auxiliarists are allowed access to the [https://shopcgx.com Coast Guard Exchange] and have opportunities for training, awards, and uniforms. Some expenses incurred by the auxiliarist may be [[Tax deduction|tax deductible]].  Auxiliarists are allowed access to the [[Coast Guard Mutual Assistance|Coast Guard Mutual Assistance Program]].<ref>[http://join.cgaux.org/ben.php About benefits]</ref> Auxiliary Flotillas are also supported by the [[Coast Guard Foundation]].<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://www.coastguardfoundation.org/how/coast-guard-auxiliary |title=How the Coast Guard Foundation supports the Auxiliary |access-date=4 December 2015 |archive-date=8 December 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151208110708/http://www.coastguardfoundation.org/how/coast-guard-auxiliary |url-status=dead }}</ref>

If an Auxiliarist is injured or killed in the line of duty while executing official orders, they might be eligible for compensation at a monthly pay rate commensurate with that of a GS-9 on the [[General Schedule (US civil service pay scale)|General Schedule]] [[Pay scale]].<ref>[https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2015/01/23/2015-01045/revision-of-auxiliary-regulations Federal Register info about compensation]</ref><ref>[https://www.gpo.gov/fdsys/pkg/USCODE-2016-title14/html/USCODE-2016-title14-partII-chap21-other-null-sec707.htm US Code Title 14 – Part II on compensation]</ref>

===Identification Card===
Auxiliarists are issued an official [[Identity document|identification card]] from the U.S. Coast Guard by their local Director of Auxiliary (DIRAUX) only after the USCG Security Center completes a [[Background Check|Personnel Security Investigation]] and issues a favorable suitability-for-service determination.<ref>[https://hdept.cgaux.org/pdf/AP-FAQ.PDF Frequently Asked Questions: Auxiliarists in Approval Pending (AP) Status]</ref> The card also serves as an identification that the Auxiliarist falls under the protocols of the [[Geneva Conventions]] (specifically the [[Fourth Geneva Convention]]).<ref>[https://www.loc.gov/rr/frd/Military_Law/pdf/GC_1949-IV.pdf Auxiliarists are protected under the Geneva Conventions]</ref>

===Coast Guard Auxiliary Association===
{{See also|Pentagon Federal Credit Union}}
Based in [[St. Louis, Missouri]], the Coast Guard Auxiliary Association (CGAuxA) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization. Established in 1957, as per its website, the association fundraises and contributes financially to bolster the auxiliary's outreach efforts. It aids the Auxiliary in promoting Recreational Boater Safety, organizing fundraising events, and supplying necessary resources. Additionally, members of the Auxiliary Association can access the services of the [[Pentagon Federal Credit Union]] and the [[Navy Federal Credit Union]].<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.penfed.org/CGAuxA/ |title=Pentagon Federal Credit Union |access-date=16 January 2016 |archive-date=14 March 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160314140400/https://penfed.org/CGAuxA/ |url-status=dead }}</ref>  The Coast Guard Auxiliary has also established a number of national partnerships for discounts on office supplies, hotels, rental cars, prescriptions, and insurance.<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.cgauxa.org/auxa/member-benefits/ |title=CGAuxA Benefits |access-date=2 January 2019 |archive-date=3 January 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190103004908/https://www.cgauxa.org/auxa/member-benefits/ |url-status=dead }}</ref> The Auxiliary Association is led by a ten-member Board of Directors that receives no compensation.<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.cgauxa.org/auxa/whoweare-2/ |title=About the Coast Guard Auxiliary Association |access-date=4 February 2018 |archive-date=5 February 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180205072452/https://www.cgauxa.org/auxa/whoweare-2/ |url-status=dead }}</ref> Auxiliarists are automatically extended a free membership to the Auxiliary Association.<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://forms.cgaux.org/archive/cgaai-10.pdf |title=About Auxiliarist free membership to the Auxiliary Association |access-date=4 February 2018 |archive-date=27 October 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171027185828/http://forms.cgaux.org/archive/cgaai-10.pdf |url-status=dead }}</ref>

==Eligibility for Membership==
Applicants should be a [[United States Citizen|U.S. citizen]], be at least 17 years old, and if they have previously served in the [[U.S. Armed Forces]], they must demonstrate they were discharged [[Military discharge|under honorable conditions]] at the very least. Furthermore, they should not have a [[felony]] on their record and must possess a valid [[social security number]].<ref>[http://wow.uscgaux.info/Uploads_wowII/113-04-09/USCGAUX_Member_Requirements.pdf Auxiliary Membership requirements]</ref> [[Sea Scouts (Boy Scouts of America)|Sea Scouts]] may be eligible to join at age 14, under an exception granted by agreement between both organizations. Although many believe the auxiliary primarily appeals to boat owners and [[veteran]]s of the armed forces, neither is a prerequisite for joining, and such notions are widespread misconceptions.<ref>[http://www.windcheckmagazine.com/_get_me_in_this_thing_joining_the_us_coast_guard_auxiliary Joining the Coast Guard Auxiliary]</ref>

==Status level qualifications==
To be eligible for membership, an individual must submit an application and undergo fingerprinting. As a first step, the prospective member has to complete the new member course and clear the new member examination. Once they pass, they will receive a new member ID number. However, they will be designated as "approval pending" (AP) until their Personnel Security Investigation (PSI) is finalized. As of 1 February 2018, new auxiliarists in AP status are required to clear the Basic Qualification Course II, encompassing seven test modules derived from the Auxiliary Manual, before they can advance to a higher status.<ref>[https://content.govdelivery.com/accounts/USDHSCG/bulletins/1d74c3a#.WnIfNDhUb64.facebook BQ Course II Requirement]</ref>

If the PSI yields a positive outcome, the auxiliarist might qualify for the "initially qualified" (IQ) status. However, an unfavorable PSI result will lead to their disenrollment from the Auxiliary. Members holding IQ status cannot attain "basically qualified" (BQ) status until they complete all mandatory training. Once they fulfill these training requirements, they transition to BQ status. Being in BQ status, often seen as "full membership," is typically a prerequisite for holding elected or appointed positions and for seeking qualifications in most fields. From there, the auxiliarist can aim for the "operational auxiliarist" (AX) qualification, which includes coursework in areas like seamanship, meteorology, radio communications, leadership, and so on.<ref>{{cite web | url=http://wow.uscgaux.info/Uploads_wowII/092-03-02/IndividualDevelopmentPlan0920302y.pdf | title=USCG Auxiliary individual development plan | date=2016-06-01 | publisher=USCG Auxiliary | access-date=2018-02-04}}</ref>
{|class="wikitable"
|-
! colspan="2" | Levels of Status
|-
! Abbreviation !! Definition
|-
| {{center|N/A}} || {{center|Initial Applicant}}
|-
| {{center|AP}} || {{center|Approval Pending}}
|-
| {{center|IQ}} || {{center|Initially Qualified}}
|-
| {{center|BQ}} || {{center|Basically Qualified}}
|-
| {{center|AX}} || {{center|Operational Auxiliarist}}
|}

==Training==

Those Auxiliarists with prior military service typically find a seamless integration into their flotilla, quickly aligning with the current responsibilities and military traditions of the Coast Guard Auxiliary. Any insignia, badges, ribbons, and devices earned during their tenure in the United States Armed Forces can potentially be adorned on the Auxiliary uniform, contingent upon the stipulations laid out in the Auxiliary Manual.<ref>[https://www.uscg.mil/Portals/0/OurOrganization/auxiliary/publications/AUXMAN.pdf?ver=2017-07-02-093004-213. Auxiliary Manual pertaining to prior service awards and training]</ref>

{| style="border:1px solid #8888aa; padding:5px; font-size:80%; float: right; margin: 0px 12px 12px 0px;"
|align="right"|Operational Auxiliarist Device
|align="center"|[[File:USCG Auxiliary Operations Device.png|100px]]
|}

===Operational Auxiliarist===

The "Operational Auxiliarist" (often termed "AUXOP") represents the pinnacle of Auxiliary membership statuses. Achieving this requires members to undergo advanced training in specialized areas that enhance operational proficiency.  This program has been in existence since 1952 and was established under leadership of [[National Commodore|National Commodore Bert Pouncey]].<ref>[http://wow.uscgaux.info/content.php?unit=A-DEPT&category=1951-1970 History of AUXOP]</ref> The AUXOP designation was established to help the Coast Guard address specific skill gaps and support its operational missions more effectively. To earn the Operational Auxiliarist title, one must accumulate seven credits from a trio of course categories: Core, Leadership, and Electives.<ref>[http://wow.uscgaux.info/content.php?unit=T-DEPT&category=auxop-courses About AUXOP]</ref> Specialty courses in weather, seamanship, and communications are required in the core curriculum that are all good for a credit each.  An additional four credits are required under the leadership and elective course types.<ref>[http://wow.uscgaux.info/content.php?unit=140-03&category=1337736015 More info on the AUXOP Requirements]</ref> Once the training program is successfully finished, the Auxiliarist earns the privilege to don the AUXOP Device. Moreover, this advanced AUXOP training enhances the Auxiliarist's capacity and capability to provide more substantial support during the Coast Guard's operational missions.<ref>[https://d11s.org/modules/narrative.mod.php?story=AUXOP More info about AUXOP]</ref>

===Core training===
Within their inaugural year of joining the organization, Auxiliarists must undergo six essential training courses. Subsequently, they need to retake these courses every half-decade. These courses encompass topics like Security Fundamentals, Suicide Prevention, Privacy, Prevention of Sexual Harassment & Assault, and Civil Rights Awareness. Furthermore, Auxiliarists are obligated to complete training in influenza and ethics awareness at least once during their tenure, utilizing the Coast Guard Auxiliary [[Learning Management System]].<ref>{{cite web | url=https://tdept.cgaux.org/mt/ALAUX_AUXMT.pdf | title=USCG Auxiliary Mandatory Training | date=2015-06-03 | publisher=USCG Auxiliary | access-date=2018-02-04}}</ref><ref name="mandatory">{{cite web | url=http://wow.uscgaux.info/content.php?unit=T-DEPT&category=mandatory-training | title=USCG Auxiliary Mandatory Training from Official website | date=2018-02-04 | publisher=USCG Auxiliary | access-date=2018-02-04}}</ref>

Failure to complete the mandatory training may make the auxiliarist ineligible to participate in Coast Guard Auxiliary exercises, drills, or response events.<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://a082.uscgaux.info/FAQonICS5_06.pdf |title=Auxiliary Requirements |access-date=27 November 2015 |archive-date=4 March 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160304212452/http://a082.uscgaux.info/FAQonICS5_06.pdf |url-status=dead }}</ref>

==== Incident Command System training recognized by the Coast Guard Auxiliary ====
[[Image:ICS Structure.PNG|thumb|[[Incident Command System|ICS]] basic organization chart (ICS-100 level depicted)]]
[[Image:FEMA_-_7739_-_Photograph_by_Jocelyn_Augustino_taken_on_03-10-2003_in_Maryland.jpg|thumb|[[Emergency Management Institute]]]]
The Coast Guard Auxiliary requires auxiliarists to take mandatory [[Incident Command System|Incident Command System (ICS)]] courses. Four of the Incident Command System (ICS) courses are offered through FEMA's [[Emergency Management Institute]] (EMI) and another course if offered through the Auxiliary Learning Management System.<ref>[http://wow.uscgaux.info/Uploads_wowII/014-10-13/ICS210_Online.pdf More about USCG ICS Courses]</ref> Auxiliarists are expected to take courses that will help them to understand the Incident Command System's organization, basic [[terminology]] and common responsibilities.  Auxiliarists are required to acquire the skills necessary to perform in an ICS support role.<ref>[https://web.archive.org/web/20100216010218/http://www.uscg.mil/auxiliary/training/ics100.asp USCGA Training requirements]</ref> Officers, certified coxswains, pilots, or those in a leadership role may need to take additional EMI courses pertaining to the National Incident Management System and/or the National Response Framework.<ref>[https://www.cgaux9wr.com/programs/mt/incident-command.php Ninth District Western Region Member Training (MT) Incident Command System (ICS)]</ref>  As part of ICS Training, all auxiliarists must respond immediately to emergency response alerts and participation in mandatory.<ref>[https://www.5nr.org/downloads/misc/Contingency_Emergency_Response_Plan_12-9-11.pdf About Emergency Response Drills]</ref>

===== FEMA courses =====
*IS-100: Introduction to the Incident Command System<ref>{{cite web | url=https://training.fema.gov/is/courseoverview.aspx?code=IS-100.c&lang=en | title=Incident Command System 100 | date=2018-02-04 | publisher=FEMA | access-date=2018-02-04}}</ref>
*IS-200: Basic ICS for Single Resources and Initial Response<ref>{{cite web | url=https://training.fema.gov/is/courseoverview.aspx?code=IS-200.c&lang=en | title=Incident Command System 200 | date=2018-02-04 | publisher=FEMA | access-date=2018-02-04}}</ref>
*IS-700: An Introduction to the National Incident Management System<ref>{{cite web | url=https://training.fema.gov/is/courseoverview.aspx?code=IS-700.b&lang=en | title=Incident Command System 700 | date=2018-02-04 | publisher=FEMA | access-date=2018-02-04}}</ref>
*IS-800: National Response Framework, an Introduction<ref>{{cite web | url=https://training.fema.gov/is/courseoverview.aspx?code=IS-800.d&lang=en | title=Incident Command System 800 | date=2018-02-04 | publisher=FEMA | access-date=2018-02-04}}</ref>

Note: IS-100 and IS-700 are part of the Mandatory Training requirement.<ref name="mandatory"/>

===C-School Training===
The Coast Guard offers over 15 specialized advanced training courses for auxiliarists through C-Schools. Given the limited slots, gaining a spot in a C-School is a competitive process, targeting those auxiliarists aiming for higher roles of responsibility. To participate in a C-School course, an auxiliarist needs endorsement from their DIRAUX, who will subsequently provide the official orders. While attending a C-School, the Coast Guard typically covers the auxiliarist's lodging and daily expenses. Among the C-School training opportunities are three-tiered leadership programs: AUXLAMS (Leadership and Management), AMLOC (Mid-Level Officer course), and AULOC (Upper-Level Officer course).<ref>[http://wow.uscgaux.info/content.php?unit=AUX00&category=c-school-matrix About the C-School courses offered]</ref>

===Center for Homeland Defense and Security Courses===
Auxiliarists have the opportunity to enroll in self-study courses provided by the [[Naval Postgraduate School]]'s Center for Homeland Defense and Security. As of 2023, there are over 30 online courses on offer.<ref>[https://www.chds.us/selfstudy/ NPS CHDS Courses available to Auxiliarists]</ref>

==Legal protection==
When on federal duty, auxiliarists are deemed federal employees in the context of civil liability. This designation shields individual auxiliarists from direct lawsuits in numerous cases related to [[tort]]s, [[property law|property]], and [[personal injury|injuries]] that stem from their official responsibilities.<ref>{{USCSub|14|3904|b}}</ref> Furthermore, during wartime, Coast Guard auxiliarists fall under the protocols of the [[Geneva Conventions]] (specifically the [[Fourth Geneva Convention]]).<ref>[https://www.loc.gov/rr/frd/Military_Law/pdf/GC_1949-IV.pdf Auxiliarists are protected under the Geneva Conventions]</ref>

===Employment protection===
Several states provide limited job protection for auxiliary members who assist in emergency response after a disaster or attend to auxiliary-related duties.

* For instance, in [[Missouri]], auxiliarists employed by the state are granted up to fifteen days of leave annually, with the cap being lifted if they're responding to a state or nationally declared disaster or emergency. Not only are they safeguarded against job termination due to their absence, but they're also ensured against any deduction in pay, loss of regular leave, diminished efficiency ratings, or any other potential disadvantages related to their rights or benefits.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://revisor.mo.gov/main/OneSection.aspx?section=41.1005&bid=1319&hl= |title=Mo. Rev. Stat. § 41.1005 (2012) |author=<!--Not stated--> |date=2012-08-28 |publisher=State of Missouri Revisor of Statutes |access-date=2018-02-15}}</ref>
* In [[Arkansas]], auxiliarists working for the state, city, or county governments are granted up to fifteen days of leave each year to respond to emergencies. During this period, they're shielded from any reductions in seniority rights, performance ratings, promotional status, retirement benefits, and life and disability insurance benefits, along with any other employment-related perks. Moreover, these public employees aren't compelled to use their [[annual leave|vacation days]] to account for this absence.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://law.justia.com/codes/arkansas/2016/title-21/chapter-4/subchapter-1/section-21-4-104/ |title=AR Code § 21-4-104 (2016) |author=<!--Not stated--> |date=2016 |publisher=[[Justia]] |access-date=2018-02-15}}</ref>
* In [[New Jersey]], auxiliarists employed by the state, city, or county have the right to a leave of absence to attend state or national conventions organized by the Coast Guard Auxiliary. The first five days of this leave are paid. Additionally, their position is assured upon their return.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://law.justia.com/codes/new-jersey/2016/title-38/section-38-23-2/ |title=NJ Rev Stat § 38:23-2 (2016) |author=<!--Not stated--> |date=2016 |publisher=[[Justia]] |access-date=2018-02-15}}</ref>

==Gallery==
<gallery perrow="3">
File:2012 Coast Guard Auxiliarist of the Year.jpg|Adm. Robert J. Papp Jr. (right), commandant of the U.S. Coast Guard, presents a Coast Guard auxiliarist with the Coast Guard Auxiliary Commendation Medal in 2013.
File:Members_of_the_U.S._Coast_Guard_Pipe_Band_march_up_Fifth_Avenue_in_the_250th_St._Patrick%27s_Day_Parade,_Manhattan,_N.Y.,_March_17,_2010.jpg|An auxiliarist piper in highland dress uniform performing as part of the Coast Guard Pipe Band. The Coast Guard Pipe Band is composed of active duty, reservists and retired members of the U.S. Coast Guard and members of the U.S Coast Guard Auxiliary.
File:CGAUXSPatrol.png|A Coast Guard Auxiliary safety patrol in [[Portland, Oregon]] in 2014.
File:USCGAUXPQS.png|Two Coast Guard auxiliarists review performance qualification workbooks in Portland, Oregon in 2013.
File:Flotilla 1-2 Helo Ops with MH-65.jpg|Auxiliary units conducting helo ops on the [[San Francisco Bay]].
File:Jose Caban, right, with the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary, translates for Simon Nunez Troncoso, with the Dominican Republic Coast Guard Division, in Castries, St 130522-N-KL795-070.jpg|A U.S. Coast Guard auxiliarist (right) provides English-to-Spanish translation for a member of the [[Dominican Republic]] coast guard during Tradewinds 2013, a U.S.-led multinational military exercise in the Caribbean basin.
</gallery>

==Notable auxiliarists and honorary commodores==
<gallery perrow="4">
File:Ralph_Abraham_official_congressional_photo.jpg|[[Ralph Abraham (politician)|Ralph Abraham]]
File:Beau and lloyd Bridges 1992 cropped.jpg|[[Lloyd Bridges]]
File:Cronkitenasa.PNG|[[Walter Cronkite]]
File:Leif Erickson in Blonde Savage.jpg|[[Leif Erickson (actor)|Leif Erickson]]
File:Olivia_Hooker_DVIDS1101558.jpg|[[Olivia Hooker]]
File:Al Roker crop.jpg|[[Al Roker]]
File:Richard_Snelling_(R-VT).jpg|[[Richard A. Snelling|Richard Snelling]]
</gallery>
{| class="wikitable"
|-
! Name
! Notability
|-
|[[Ralph Abraham (politician)|Ralph Abraham]]
|Member of the [[United States House of Representatives]]
|-
|Ross Baker
|Political Science Professor at [[Rutgers University]]<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://www.theoaklandpress.com/business/20170330/political-science-professor-ross-baker-to-speak-on-the-party-crashers |title=About Auxiliary Member Ross Baker |access-date=20 January 2018 |archive-date=21 January 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180121000011/http://www.theoaklandpress.com/business/20170330/political-science-professor-ross-baker-to-speak-on-the-party-crashers |url-status=dead }}</ref>
|-
|[[Lloyd Bridges]]
|Actor (He was a member of Coast Guard and Coast Guard Auxiliary and did a number of public service announcements for the Coast Guard)
|-
|[[Tim Burton (musician)|Tim Burton]]
|American [[saxophonist]] for the band [[The Mighty Mighty Bosstones]]<ref>{{Cite web | url=http://live.cgaux.org/?p=4286 | title=Celebrities in the U.S. Coast Guard and Auxiliary? | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171014183153/http://live.cgaux.org/?p=4286 | archive-date=2017-10-14 | website=live.cgaux.org}}</ref>
|-
|[[Walter Cronkite]]
|Newscaster, member of the United States Coast Guard Auxiliary and an honorary commodore
|-
|[[Leif Erickson (actor)|Leif Erickson]]
|Actor, Auxiliary and Honorary Commodore for the Coast Guard Auxiliary<ref name=Erickson>{{cite web|title=Leif Erickson and a U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary member in a marina|url=https://digital.lib.ecu.edu/2954|publisher=ECU|access-date=2018-12-21}}</ref>
|-
|[[Preston Foster]]
|Actor and member of the United States Coast Guard Auxiliary and an honorary commodore<ref>[https://digital.lib.ecu.edu/4318 Preston Foster awarded honorary commodore honor]</ref>
|-
|[[Sheila Darcy|Sheila Foster]]
|Actress and member of the United States Coast Guard Auxiliary<ref>[https://www.geni.com/people/Sheila-Foster/6000000033017197076 About Sheila Foster and her service in the Coast Guard Auxiliary]</ref>
|-
|[[Olivia Hooker]]
|American psychologist and professor
|-
|[[Milford, Connecticut|Alan Jepson]]
|Former Mayor of [[Milford, Connecticut]]<ref>[https://patch.com/connecticut/milford/obituary-alan-h-jepson-89-former-milford-mayor-city-clerk-0 About Alan Jepson]</ref>
|-
|[[Freeport, New York|Robert Kennedy]]
|Mayor of [[Freeport, New York]]<ref>[https://liherald.com/stories/incumbents-sweep-in-freeport-village-election,89640 About Mayor Robert Kennedy]</ref>
|-
|[[Michael Kilian]]
|Notable author and writer
|-
|[[College of the Desert|C. Douglas Kroll]]
|Professor at the [[College of the Desert]] and notable author<ref>[https://www.cgaalumni.org/s/1043/images/editor_documents/Bulletin/jun-11/bulletin_servicebeyond_jun_11.pdf?sessionid=4edd5146-1f77-49e5-8927-4445e39a91a6&cc=1 About C. Douglas Kroll]</ref>
|-
|-
|[[Jason Morgan (politician)|Jason Morgan]]
|Member of the [[Michigan House of Representatives]]<ref>{{cite web |title=Two Alumni Appointed to NMU Board |url=https://news.nmu.edu/two-alumni-appointed-nmu-board}}</ref>
|-
|[[Miami-Dade County Public Schools|Lubby Navarro]]
|Current member of the [[Miami-Dade County Public Schools]]<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.flgov.com/2015/02/13/governor-rick-scott-appoints-lubby-navarro-to-the-miami-dade-county-school-board/ |title=About Lubby Navarro |access-date=21 January 2018 |archive-date=22 January 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180122002531/https://www.flgov.com/2015/02/13/governor-rick-scott-appoints-lubby-navarro-to-the-miami-dade-county-school-board/ |url-status=dead }}</ref>
|-
|[[Al Roker]]
|Television personality, Honorary Commodore, Coast Guard Auxiliary<ref name=roker>{{cite web|last1=Wilson|first1=Rande|title=Al Roker – Honorary Commodore – United States Coast Guard Auxiliary|url=http://live.cgaux.org/?p=3515|website=COAST GUARD Auxiliary Live|publisher=U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary|access-date=2014-09-03}}</ref>
|-
|[[Steve Riggs]]
|Former member of the [[Kentucky House of Representatives]]<ref>[https://www.steveriggs.org/about.html About Steve Riggs Auxiliary service]</ref>
|-
|[[Richard A. Snelling|Richard Snelling]]
|Former [[Governor of Vermont]]
|-
|Michael J. Smith
|Long-time Executive Director of the Grand Haven Coast Guard Festival and an honorary commodore
|-
|Mary Kirkwood
|First female [[National Commodore of the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary]]<ref>{{cite web | url=https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/National_Commodore_(United_States_Coast_Guard_Auxiliary) | title=National Commodore (United States Coast Guard Auxiliary) }}</ref>{{Circular reference|date=February 2025}} (2024- Present).
|-
|}

=== Line-of-duty deaths ===

Since the inception of the Coast Guard Auxiliary, several Auxiliarists have lost their lives while serving:<ref>[https://www.check-six.com/lib/Coast_Guard_Aviation_Casualties.htm Active Duty and Auxiliarist casualty information]</ref><ref>[http://library.cg-aux.us/docs2404/safety/jenny.ppt Additional information about Auxiliarists that died in the line of duty]</ref>

{| class="wikitable"
|-
! Auxiliarist's name
! End of watch
|-
| Herman Mau<ref>[http://wow.uscgaux.info/content.php?unit=092-04-02&category=the-coming-of-age Herman Mau]</ref>
| style="text-align:center;" | 8 July 1984{{better|independent source needed|date=July 2024}}
|-
| Madeleine Mau<ref>[http://wow.uscgaux.info/content.php?unit=092-04-02&category=the-coming-of-age Madeleine Mau]</ref>
| style="text-align:center;" | 8 July 1984{{better|independent source needed|date=July 2024}}
|-
| Richard Smilgoff<ref>[https://www.chicagotribune.com/1989/01/22/couple-die-in-small-plane-crash/ Richard Smilgoff]</ref>
| style="text-align:center;" | 21 January 1989
|-
| Linda Smilgoff<ref>[https://www.chicagotribune.com/1989/01/22/couple-die-in-small-plane-crash/ Linda Smilgoff]</ref>
| style="text-align:center;" | 21 January 1989
|-
| Robert Duffield<ref>[https://www.latimes.com/archives/la-xpm-1989-09-20-me-76-story.html Robert Duffield]</ref>
| style="text-align:center;" | 18 September 1989
|-
| Gerard Rene<ref>[https://www.latimes.com/archives/la-xpm-1989-09-20-me-76-story.html Gerard Rene]</ref>
| style="text-align:center;" | 18 September 1989
|-
| Russell Anderson<ref>[https://books.google.com/books?id=Mk1kpP0X3A0C&dq=coast+guard+russell+anderson+1990+death&pg=PA123 Russell Anderson]</ref>
| style="text-align:center;" | 12 May 1990
|-
| Christopher Polimeni<ref>[https://books.google.com/books?id=Mk1kpP0X3A0C&dq=coast+guard+russell+anderson+1990+death&pg=PA123 Christopher Polimeni]</ref>
| style="text-align:center;" | 12 May 1990
|-
| Charlene Huhne<ref>[https://books.google.com/books?id=Mk1kpP0X3A0C&dq=coast+guard+russell+anderson+1990+death&pg=PA123 Charlene Huhne]</ref>
| style="text-align:center;" | 12 May 1990
|-
| Julie Nappi<ref>[https://books.google.com/books?id=Mk1kpP0X3A0C&dq=coast+guard+russell+anderson+1990+death&pg=PA123 Julie Nappi]</ref>
| style="text-align:center;" | 12 May 1990
|-
| Gilbert Feig<ref>[https://web.archive.org/web/20180304173029/http://articles.sun-sentinel.com/1992-01-15/news/9201030400_1_greek-freighter-boca-raton-airport-plane Gilbert Feig]</ref>
| style="text-align:center;" | 13 January 1992
|-
| Frank Lizak<ref>[https://www.newspapers.com/newspage/135056878/ Frank Lizak]</ref>
| style="text-align:center;" | 2 June 1997
|-
| Frederica Lizak<ref>[https://www.newspapers.com/newspage/135056878/ Frederica Lizak]</ref>
| style="text-align:center;" | 2 June 1997
|-
| Casey Purvis<ref>[http://live.cgaux.org/?p=4854 Casey Purvis]</ref>
| style="text-align:center;" | 1 February 2001{{better|independent source needed|date=July 2024}}
|-
| Robert Fuller<ref>[http://live.cgaux.org/?p=4854 Robert Fuller]</ref>
| style="text-align:center;" | 1 February 2001{{better|independent source needed|date=July 2024}}
|}

==See also==
* [[Badges of the United States Coast Guard]]
* [[Civil Air Patrol]]
* [[Commandant of the Coast Guard]]
* [[Incident Command System]]
* [[International Search and Rescue Competition]]
* [[Naval militia]]
* [[North American Safe Boating Campaign]]
* [[State defense force]]
* [[United States Coast Guard Reserve]]
* [[United States Coast Guard]]
* [[United States Department of Homeland Security]]
* [[United States Power Squadrons]]
* [[National Commodore (United States Coast Guard Auxiliary)]]
* [[Uniforms of the United States Coast Guard Auxiliary]]

* [[History of the United States Coast Guard Auxiliary]]

* [[United States Coast Guard Auxiliary University Programs]]

* [[Semper Paratus (march)]]

==References==
{{Reflist}}

==External links==
* [http://www.uscg.mil/ United States Coast Guard]
* [https://digital.lib.ecu.edu/special/ead/findingaids/0559 U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary Records (#559), East Carolina Manuscript Collection, J. Y. Joyner Library, East Carolina University, Greenville, North Carolina, USA]

{{US Coast Guard navbox}}
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{{US military navbox}}
{{Coast guards}}
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[[Category:1939 establishments in the United States]]
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[[Category:Auxiliary military units]]
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