Flotilla 11-7

The flotilla is the basic organizational unit and heart of the Coast Guard Auxiliary.

Founded in 1939 (as the Coast Guard Reserve), renamed Coast Guard Auxiliary in 1944, and restructured by Congress in 1966 to define internal management and expand its purpose. The Auxiliary supports nearly all Coast Guard missions (except law enforcement and military operations).

The flotilla’s primary customers:

• The recreational boating public
• Its membership
• The Coast Guard

Key Activities Include:

• Vessel safety checks and boating education classes
• Public safety patrols and marine event security
• Environmental protection and pollution response
• Public affairs, recruiting, and outreach
• Radio watchstanding, food service support, and translation services

The success of the flotilla depends on active participation and leadership that recruits, trains, and retains engaged members.

Main goals: Provide operational, administrative, and logistical support to the Coast Guard.