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The AUXOP device is awarded to Coast Guard Auxiliarists who have successfully completed the Operational Auxiliarist Program, an advanced training program available only to members of the Auxiliary.
The AUXOP device identifies members who have demonstrated superior knowledge of specific missions of the Auxiliary.Officially inaugurated in January 1952 the Auxiliary Operational Units (AUXOPS) program were composed of specially trained groups consisting of five boats, two aircraft, two radio stations, and 50 Auxiliarists were organized to assist the Coast Guard in emergencies. During the 1950’s the AUXOP program remained primarily an experimental one. A few years later the program was converted to “Operational Auxiliarist” AUXOP program, a specialized rigorous training curriculum for individual Auxiliarists. A member who passed seven courses consisting of Administration, Communications, Patrols, Piloting, Seamanship, Weather, and Search and Rescue was entitled to the AUXOP status.
Original AUXOP device utilized from 1962 to 1975.
In 1962 the National Board adopted an AUXOP uniform insignia, symbolized by a pinback-style lapel pin incorporating a gold-filled insignia surrounded by a sterling silver wreath of excellence that was only worn on a dress uniform.
As of 1965 there were three basic Auxiliary uniforms for men (dress khaki, dress blue, and working khaki) and four for women (dress white, dress blue, dress light blue, and working blue). By the end of the 1960s the Coast Guard adopted distinctive uniforms of their own which are still in use.
Current style AUXOP device since 1975.
In the 1970s the Coast Guard established a policy for phasing in the Auxiliary version of the current Coast Guard blue uniforms, silver insignia and devices replacing the gold of the active duty, with an official “first wearing date” of January 1, 1975. This resulted in a slight redesign of the AUXOP device to its current style of a gold shield with silver crossed anchors and wreath secured by a tack pin & butterfly clutch, made of metal alloys that appear gold and silver with a polished look.
PHOTOS180223-G-WV696-791 - Original AUXOP device utilized from 1962 to 1975.
150516-G-WV696-063 - Current style AUXOP device since 1975.
