FAQ

 

General Questions About the Auxiliary

What is the Coast Guard Auxiliary?
The United States Coast Guard Auxiliary is the uniformed volunteer component of the United States Coast Guard ("USCG") and currently part of Homeland Security. The Auxiliary is authorized to support all USCG missions, other than those related to direct engagement in either law enforcement activities or military combat operations.

Where can I get more online information about the Auxiliary?
Auxiliary Introduction Video

What are the requirements to join?

• United States citizenship
• Minimum 17 years of age
• No criminal background (minor misdemeanors, such as certain traffic violations do not disqualify)
• Willingness to participate in boating, aviation, radio communications, or other areas in support of the U.S. Coast Guard
• Interest in supporting the aims of the U.S. Coast Guard and the Auxiliary

Where and when do you meet?
Except for special events or circumstances, we meet on the FIRST TUESDAY of each month at 1930 hours (7:30PM) and at the at the McKees Point Marina.  Attending a meeting is not mandatory, though, it is the best way to keep up to date with your fellow members.

How much does it cost to join?
Dues vary by flotilla but ours is $32 per year (as of 2016). A small charge may be required by whatever agency you use for the required fingerprint set. In addition, Auxiliarists pay for their own uniforms.

Do I need a uniform?
The uniforms of the United States Coast Guard Auxiliary serve to distinguish Auxiliarists from members of other civilian auxiliaries and of other armed services. Auxiliarists are expected to wear a uniform intended for the situation and mission.

What can I do in the Auxiliary?
There are many, many opportunities to serve effectively in the USCGA. Most Auxiliary training is equivalent to that of the regular Coast Guard. It is rigorous, challenging, and rewarding. One of the most valuable assets we provide to the USCG is that of station watch-standing in which we man the radio for distress and other traffic, take land-line calls, and monitor base security. In addition, we get orders to augment on-water security checks, monitor environmental conditions, confirm aids to navigation, and help protect the public from potential hazards. In addition, we perform free vessel safety checks.

Above and beyond the intrinsic benefits we all receive by volunteering our time and talents, Auxiliarists are privileged to receive many other benefits not available to other volunteer organizations. Both the Coast Guard and the National Board, Inc. provide these benefits as an enhancement to our volunteer service. The following is a listing of some of those benefits.

Base Exchange Shopping Privileges

Auxiliarists in uniform or with proper identification, can purchase anything sold in the Coast Guard Exchange Stores except liquor and cigarettes. Dependents may accompany Auxiliarists to the Exchange, but may not make individual purchases. Members of the Auxiliary are also welcome at Department of Defense Exchanges, but according to policy, only uniform items or accessories may be purchased.

Uniforms and Awards

The pride of wearing the Auxiliary uniform is amplified by awards and advancement, with ample opportunities to receive recognition by completing Auxiliary training courses and participating in programs authorized by your Flotilla leadership.

Tax Deductions

Uniforms, their cleaning and maintenance, and reasonable out of pocket expenses incurred in the performance of your duties are "considered" contributions for tax purposes. The foregoing is not intended to be advice on deductibility. Your should consult your professional tax advisor.

Insurance Coverage

A variety of insurance programs benefit the Auxiliarist operating under Coast Guard orders. This includes medical, hospitalization, disability and death benefits should an accident occur in the performance of your duty. If your boat, aircraft or other authorized Auxiliary facility is damaged or destroyed while legitimately engaged in Auxiliary operations, coverage for repairs or replacement would be provided. Government liability coverage protects the Auxiliarist from third party claims made as a result of actions that occur when the Auxiliarist is performing authorized missions and has been properly assigned to duty.

Coast Guard Federal Credit Union

The Coast Guard Credit Union provides all the services of a bank, but returns profits to the members instead of the stockholders. From savings and checking accounts to home equity lines of credit, the Credit Union has a lot to offer. 

Coast Guard Mutual Assistance

Mutual Assistance provides an emergency fund that can provide fast financial relief when a member faces an unexpected or "impossible" financial burden that would cause personal hardship if no assistance were provided. Auxiliarists may apply for such a loan and are considered as "Sponsor Members" under the program. If approved, the emergency loan is interest free. 

Coast Guard Work-Life

Programs Auxiliarists can take advantage of certain Coast Guard Work-life Programs such as:
Family WellnessDependent ResourcesEmployee AssistanceRelocation Assistance 

Fellowship

One of the Auxiliary's trademarks is good old-fashioned hospitality. Friends, neighbors and interested members of the public are always welcome to attend one of our flotilla meetings. In addition, you will find a special camaraderie among Auxiliarists that is hard to beat. Along with our missions we find time to relax and have fun at Auxiliary outings, training sessions, patrols, CMEs, classes, and conferences. Auxiliarists make lasting, meaningful friendships.