The U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary

“The purpose of the Auxiliary is to assist the Coast Guard as authorized by the Commandant in performing any Coast Guard function, power, duty, role, mission or operation authorized by law.” 14 U.S.C. § 822

The U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary was authorized by Congress on June 23, 1939. This act authorized the Coast Guard to use civilian volunteers to promote boating safety on the nation's waterways.

Thus, the Coast Guard Auxiliary, traditionally known for its Boating Safely Classes and Vessel Safety Checks, now has greatly increased responsibilities.

For more information on services provided by the Coast Guard Auxiliary in the Cape Ann area, please use the links provided at the left, or contact us by email with specific questions. Information pertaining to National Programs can be found using the links found at the top and bottom of this site's pages.

An Average Day in the Auxiliary, Nation-Wide

• Educate 929 People on Recreational Boating Safety & Environmental Protection
• Complete 7 Regatta Patrols
• Complete 91 Safety Patrols
• Accomplish 19 Search and Rescue (SAR) Assists
• Save $729,000 Worth of Property
• Assist 56 People in Trouble on the Water
• Complete 15 Recruiting Support Missions
• Perform 615 Vessel Safety Checks
• Participate in 120 USCG Operational Support Missions
• Participate in 42 USCG Administration Support Missions
• Complete 122 Public Affairs Missions
• Save the Life of a Recreational Boater