The United States Coast Guard Auxiliary is the uniformed volunteer component of the United States Coast Guard. Created by an Act of Congress in 1939, the Auxiliary directly supports the Coast Guard in all missions, except military and law enforcement actions.

The Coast Guard’s philosophy is to be SEMPER PARATUS (ALWAYS READY) against all threats and all hazards. The Coast Guard Auxiliary is an integral part of that philosophy and the Coast Guard Forces.

Auxiliarists conduct safety patrols on local waterways, assist the Coast Guard with homeland security duties, teach boating safety classes, conduct free vessel safety checks for the public, as well as many other activities.

The United States Coast Guard Auxiliary has members in all 50 states, Puerto Rico, the Virgin Islands, American Samoa, and Guam.

Applicants must be U.S. citizens, at least 17 years old, and pass a basic background check. There are no upper age limits or height/weight standards, although for operational activities, you must be physically able to perform certain tasks. There are no minimum service hours – you can serve as little or as much as you want.

You do not have to own a boat, or airplane, or participate in water-based operations to join the Auxiliary.

Finally, the United States Coast Guard Auxiliary supports its members through local unit meetings, national training, and regional conferences. Auxiliarists are able to enjoy fellowship with each other.


Privacy Statement