Flotilla 12-3 Uniform Information
Wear it Proudly and Correctly - By Gary A. Kaplan, Operations D11 North
The first topic presented in law enforcement training aboard Coast Guard Cutter ASPEN underscores the proper wearing of uniforms. At first glance, a Coast Guard boarding team and a Coast Guard Auxiliary boat crew may not seem to have much in common. However, there is one very significant similarity. At times, both we and they interact very closely with the public, they while boarding a vessel, and we while rendering assistance.
Behavioral science has shown that within 10 seconds of seeing someone, we formulate opinions of them that are based solely on appearance, and that these impressions are lasting.
“If you want to be taken for a professional, look like a professional.”
When we are operating under orders, we are not Coast Guard Auxiliary, but Coast Guard, and that the facilities upon which we are patrolling are not Coast Guard Auxiliary facilities, but Coast Guard facilities. It is, therefore, our duty to look like professionals. If your uniform is faded, replace it, if it is soiled, wash it. For dress uniforms if it is wrinkled, iron it.
The Coast Guard has accorded us a very high honor by authorizing us to wear what is essentially a Coast Guard officer’s uniform, the primary difference being, the stripes on our shoulder boards are silver and theirs are gold. At the very least, we should repay that honor by wearing the uniform properly.
Regulations for Wearing the Uniform
Auxiliary uniforms are similar to those worn by Coast Guard officers. Silver braid and silver buttons replace the gold braid and buttons worn by Coast Guard Officers. Auxiliarists may also wear other authorized emblems, insignia and ribbons.
All Auxiliarists are authorized and encouraged to wear the various Auxiliary uniforms or the Blue Blazer outfit. Some Coast Guard and Auxiliary programs and activities require that Auxiliarists wear a uniform when participating. Uniforms shall be worn as prescribed in Chapter 11 of the Auxiliary Manual . The ODU and the flight-suite are the newest uniform changes/additions. For further information on all Uniform wear check out the Uniform Division page of the Human Resources Department web site.
POLICY 23-02: AUXILIARY UNIFORM AND APPEARANCE POLICY CHANGES
ALAUX 007/22: COAST GUARD UNIFORM BOARDS 47 AND 48 – IMPACTS ON AUXILIARY
UNIFORM POLICIES
ALAUX 004/18: AUXILIARY UNIFORM WEAR AT FORMAL AND CEREMONIAL OCCASIONS
ALAUX 024/14: COAST GUARD UNIFORM BOARD 46 – IMPACTS ON AUXILIARY UNIFORM POLICIES
AUXILIARY UNIFORM GUIDE & INFORMATION
OPERATIONAL DRESS UNIFORM GUIDE (update forthcoming)
TROPICAL BLUE UNIFORM GUIDE (coming soon)
USCG AUXILIARY RIBBONS & MEDALS GUIDE
PROPER WEAR OF AWARDS & DECORATIONS 2017 PPT
Uniform Acquisition
The Commandant has authorized Auxiliarists to buy uniforms and insignia items in all Coast Guard exchanges and uniform stores. The Auxiliary identification card is the only document required for entry and purchasing ability. Many uniform accessories and special items are also available through the AUXCEN (Auxiliary Association Fulfillment Center). Auxiliarists should only purchase uniforms and accessories from authorized distributors.
Auxiliary Center