What is the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary?

Established by Congress in 1939, the Auxiliary assists the Coast Guard in promoting boating safety. The Auxiliary's 35,000 plus members are drawn together by their love of the water and a willingness to serve other boaters. Members also receive special training so that they may be a functional part of Team Coast Guard, a role which continues to grow as the Coast Guard expands its mission of Homeland Defense.

Auxiliarists assist the Coast Guard in non-law enforcement programs such as public education, vessel safety checks, safety patrols, search and rescue, marine environmental protection and Coast Guard Academy introduction programs for youth. Auxiliarists volunteer more than 2 million hours annually to benefit other boaters and their families.

The Purpose of the Auxiliary (Title 14 U.S.C. 822) is to assist the Coast Guard by:

·        Promoting safety and to effect search and rescues on and over the high seas and on navigable waters.

·        Promoting efficiency in the operation of motorboats and yachts.

·        Fostering a wider knowledge of, and better compliance with, the laws, rules, and regulations governing the operation of motorboats and yachts through safe boating classes.

·         Facilitating other operations of the Coast Guard.