A Proud Tradition Since 1939
So you’re interested in joining the US Coast Guard Auxiliary? We are the uniformed volunteer component of the United States Coast Guard. Originally established by Congress in 1939 as the Coast Guard Reserve and later changed to the Auxiliary in 1941, we continue to serve as America’s preeminent volunteer maritime organization over 75 years later. The Auxiliary exists to support all U.S. Coast Guard missions except roles that require “direct” law enforcement or military engagement. With proper training, Auxiliarists can serve on nearly any Coast Guard asset utilizing an Auxiliarist’s previously acquired skills.
Historically, the primary missions of the Auxiliary have been providing free vessel “safety checks,” boater education and supplementing other USCG operations. The Auxiliary’s four cornerstones are Member Services, Operations and Marine Safety, Recreational Boating Safety and Fellowship (the “glue” which holds the Auxiliary’s missions and its members together).
Auxiliarists can be found on the nation’s waterways, in the air, in classrooms and on the dock, performing maritime domain awareness patrols, safety patrols, vessel safety checks and public education. Additionally, the Auxiliary performs behind the scenes missions in support of USCG operations. Annually, members donate millions of hours in support of USCG missions. This saves the U.S. Coast Guard and taxpayers over $200 million per year.
To become a member, you must:
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Please realize that we are a volunteer organization, not a form of enlistment for the Coast Guard. We are only reimbursed for certain expenses. You will not be paid. This is not a means of employment.
Frequently Asked Questions
As stated before, we’re the civilian volunteer component of the US Coast Guard. Our primary mission is promoting recreational boating safety. Outside of that, we support all Coast Guard functions except military and law enforcement. Current programs in which Auxiliary members are authorized to participate include, but are not limited to:
Administrative Support to the Coast Guard
Aids-to-Navigation (ATON) Verification
Assistance toLocal Government
Augmentation of Coast Guard billets
Bridge Administration
Surface, Air and Radio Operations
Contingency Preparedness
Licensing of Merchant Mariners
Marine Safety and Environmental Protection (MSEP)
Port Safety and Security (PS&S)
Public Affairs (PA)
Program Visitation (PV)
USCG Academy Recruiting (AIM)
Search and Rescue (SAR)
Vessel Examinations (VE)
Waterways Management
As much time as you can give. It is recommended that a new member pursue a qualification as soon as possible. If you come to orientation, you’ll be briefed on what’s available for you to qualify in. We also try and get new members involved by taking them on fellowship trips to Cape May for uniform procurement as well as getting to know flotilla members at fellowship events and meetings We also encourage members to offer help or try to improve a weakness they see in our unit. We’re friendly and welcome anyone who is serious about helping out.
In years past, it used to be that you needed to own a boat, radio, or plane to join. Now we take anyone so far as they qualify for membership. While not required, some of the skills were are on the lookout for are:
Prior military service.
Boat handling/seamanship.
Master’s licensee holders – people who know the rules of the road, legal requirements for equipment, etc.
Technical and trade skills.
Teaching and instructing on a professional level.
Coding/programming/internet technology.
Radio experience (amateur or otherwise).
Certified pilot or air crew.
Administrative skills like taking notes, filing paperwork, and other clerical duties.
Human resources training, especially in recruiting and retention.
Public affairs experience, especially in press releases and public statements.
Publications experiences – editing, writing, journalism, etc.
Fundraising, especially grant writing.
Managerial or leadership experience in any of the above is an extra bonus.
We elect our Flotilla Commander (FC) and Flotilla Vice Commander (VFC). The FC is a mentor, leader, and commanding officer for the flotilla. They are also a chief mentor who is involved in making sure members train, advance, and qualify regularly. They are advocates for their flotilla at the division level and serve as mediators for disputes. The VFC serves as executive officer, chief of staff and is in charge of overall administration and coordination of plans. The VFC is the mediator between the staff and the commander. Below the elected officers are Flotilla Staff Officers (FSOs). These people are appointed by the FC and are in charge of a specific program like Vessel Examinations or Member Training.
4-76 itself is very active and large flotilla relative to most in the region. It is a fast-paced flotilla that prides itself on competence and setting standards. We are highly involved in Member Training, Operations, Public Affairs, Public Education, and Vessel Examinations . We are proud to have been awarded the 2012 Flotilla Meritorious Achievement Award.
As soon as your application clears the Director’s office. You will receive a member number and can start training right away. This takes about 2 weeks on average. In the meanwhile, you can study for your first qualification.
Uniforms are required during authorized activities only – not at the bar or at work (exception is for students who have class right before or after an activity). Depending on your field of interest, you’ll either purchase the Operational Dress Uniform (work uniform, USCG equivalent of utilities) or the Tropical Blue (a year-round undress uniform). We wear uniforms at meetings as a point of uniformity and pride. Uniform wear can be tricky for those without a military background but we will get you squared away. We also have an alternative uniform, the blue blazer outfit, for those who do not make a “seamanlike appearance” in uniform. Some facilities like TRACEN Cape May require that those in uniform meet the USCG’s appearance standards.
You must be capable of performing the mission you wish to participate in safely, without hesitation, without assistance, and confidently. Other than qualifying in certain Coast Guard augmentation positions that require meeting their physical standards, you do not have to run, do push-ups, or sit-ups, although fitness is encouraged! There is no ASVAB, you only have to pass an open-book exam on the Auxiliary and its missions before you join.
USCG Sector Delaware Bay, 1 Washington Ave., Philadelphia, PA 19147. We meet the 4th Tuesday of every month. Meetings start at 19:00, but be there a half hour early to mingle and enjoy refreshments. We meet at an active Coast Guard facility – please be prepared to surrender ID upon entry. Firearms, even those who hold license to carry, must leave them in their vehicle or at home. They are not permitted on base and especially not in uniform.
Yes, you can, although we encourage you join a local flotilla. Visit the national recruiting site’s flotilla finder for your local flotilla.
It depends – it’s all down to the Director of Auxiliary (a Coast Guard officer) and the Security Center in Washington DC (they process your security investigation). We cannot refuse your application as long as you are honest and provide paperwork. Once we submit it for processing, it is out of our hands. Anything that directly violates the Coast Guard’s values or missions will result in slim odds – but we will still process your application.
Join Now
Please download and read the New Member Reference Guide for more information. After filling out the contact form, our HR officer will be in touch. They will invite you to our New Member Training or our flotilla meeting (every 4th Tuesday at 1900) depending on which is closer. There you will receive an application and guidance on completing your membership packet.
If you are serious about joining, please fill out the following form. Our Human Resources officer will be in contact with you shortly.