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MORICHES NY - On February 28, 2025, the East Moriches Coast Guard Auxiliary 18-06 was awarded 1st place in Auxiliary District 1 South (D1SR) for identifying the most discrepancies with the Aids to Navigation (ATON) system on local waters. Auxiliarist Commodore Vincent Pica identified the most discrepancies earning a 1st Place award, and Auxiliary Division 18 received 2nd place.

D1SR serves the Coast Guard and boaters across eastern New York, New York City, the Hudson River Valley, Lake Champlain, Montauk Point, parts of Connecticut, western Vermont, and northern New Jersey. East Moriches Flotilla patrols the waters from Smith Point to Shinnecock Canal. Together with three additional Flotillas in the Division, the Auxiliary patrols the waters through the Peconics to Shelter Island.

Aids to Navigation (ATON) include lights, buoys, and markers that help boaters navigate safely. These aids can shift or malfunction due to weather, water conditions, and vessel strikes. The U.S. Coast Guard is responsible for verifying about 49,000 ATONs and 47,000 PATONs (private aids) nationwide. The Coast Guard relies on the Auxiliary to assist with verification reports.

Commodore Pica explains: “It’s crucial that private aids marking our creeks, coves, and rivers remain reliable. This responsibility is overseen by active-duty personnel and carried out by the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary. Our work begins in early spring and can extend into late summer under the direction of Station Shinnecock.”

In 2024, Commodore Pica and the Auxiliary Boat Crew identified discrepancies with 17% of the aids inspected. Their diligence helps address ATON issues promptly, preventing maritime incidents.