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Coast Guard Auxiliary – Service With Meaning

When you join the Coast Guard Auxiliary, you could find yourself saving lives, protecting the environment from polluters, guarding our shores from terrorists and much more. That’s our job – 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. That’s life in the Coast Guard Auxiliary. We don’t just train. We train and perform.

Since 1939 the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary has safeguarded our Nation’s maritime interests in the heartland, in the ports, at sea, and around the globe.

We protect the maritime economy and the environment, we defend our maritime borders, and we save those in peril. This history has forged our character and purpose as America’s Maritime Guardian — Always Ready for all hazards and all threats.

FAQs

Who is the ideal candidate for membership? Almost anyone can serve. 

The U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary welcomes both men and women over the age of 17 who are U.S. citizens and can pass a Homeland Security background check. Because our missions are quite varied and often don’t even require on-the-water service, members of all ages and physical abilities are able to volunteer.

Can I serve right here in my local community?

Absolutely. In fact, the Neenah/Menasha Flotilla offers a wide variety of mission activities that can often take place around your busy schedule.

As a new member, what am I required to do?

As a non-military volunteer for the U.S. Coast Guard, the amount of time you choose to serve is up to you. While there are no strict service requirements, Auxiliary members are expected to choose a specific mission area in which to become certified. Mandatory basic training often may take only a week or two to complete and can be done from the comfort of your home. Auxiliarists who complete mandatory training will receive both online and in-person instruction in the mission area of their choice and are partnered with a mission mentor to oversee your training at a pace that works for you.

Can I ever be called to active duty?

No. Volunteers may be offered the opportunity to participate in local, regional, and national missions; however, participation is always at the discretion of each member.

Is there a cost to membership?

Yes, which includes annual membership dues ($60) and the cost of your uniforms (which can range from approximately $150 for the Operational Daily Uniform (ODUs), $250 for the Tropical Blues/Winter Dress Blues, to approximately $300 for the Service Dress Blue blazer). It should be noted that while the cost of the uniforms is meaningful, most Auxiliarists find that a purchase may cover a decade or more of use. Also, many new members often choose to purchase only one uniform at first and add additional uniforms over time.

How do I contact the Auxiliary to join?

 Click on the "Join Us Now" link at the top header of this page. Submit your information on the form and someone will contact you to answer questions or assist you in joining.