Welcome to Team Coast Guard
Congratulations on your decision to "Come Join Us & Help Make a Difference!"

If you have questions after reviewing this information, do not hesitate to ask someone!
This page is not a replacement for interacting with your Mentor, FL23-1 Officers or other Flotilla Members

What to do while in Approval Pending (AP) status - awaiting Personal Security Investigation (PSI) completion:

1) read:

  New Member Reference Guide

  New Member Handbook

2) review:

  New Member Integration - The First Six Months

  New Member - What's Next

  New Member Uniform Guide

3) develop a working knowledge of:

  Auxiliary purpose & functions as well as primary mission & program areas

  Auxiliary Quick Reference & Acronyms

  Auxiliary organization (Districts, Divisions & Flotillas - fundamental operational units)

  Auxiliary Tradition & History

  Flotilla 23-1 Tradition & History

  Auxiliary Cornerstones of Services

4) participate in permitted activities to the fullest extent possible

5) learn about elected & appointed offices as well as associated Program/Mission areas

  Flotilla Elected & Appointed Officers (Bridge)

  National Organization

6) become familiar with the content of key Manuals & the Manual System

  Auxiliary Manual

  Flotilla Procedure Manual

  FL 23-1 Standing Rules

  FL 23-1 Standing Rules (unapproved draft)

  Finding latest online Documents, Manuals & Updates

Go to "Ready to Come Join Us?"

Membership Benefits & Obligations

" Development of Coast Guard leaders is a command priority" -   Admiral Thad W. Allen

Auxiliary membership provides many benefits including training and development, proudly wearing the Auxiliary uniform and flying the patrol bungee while participating in official missions or wearing the distinctive insignia and flying the Auxiliary ensign under appropriate conditions.

Maryland Auxiliary members with at least 36 months active service by December 31 of a tax year may qualify for a $3,500 subtraction from taxable state income  -  Administrative Release 35,  Form  &  Information

CG Exchange System (CGES) has a scholarship program for dependents of active duty, reserve & military retired members, current civilian NAF / APF employees & CGAux Members pursuing undergraduate college studies.

Auxiliary members agree to accept the personal responsibility & obligation to conduct themselves in a polite, respectful, professional & honorable manner when wearing the Auxiliary Uniform or conducting Auxiliary business & to serve to the best of their abilities as time or circumstances permit.

Auxiliary Performance Awards

Uniforms

The Auxiliary uniform is an important symbol of your membership and should be worn with pride.  It is similar to the Coast Guard uniform and should be worn anytime you are representing the Auxiliary or the Coast Guard.  Each member is responsible for purchasing appropriate uniforms required to participate in selected activities such as the Tropical Blue & Operational Dress (ODU) Uniforms.

New members are encouraged to purchase as a minimum the Tropical Blue Uniform.  This uniform can be worn for most Auxiliary activities.  If you would like assistance in this area, check with your Mentor or the FSO-HR.  Typical cost for a Tropical Blue Uniform including the required devices is around $125 to $150.  Used Uniform items may be available from your Flotilla, the Uniform Distribution Center or independent Suppliers. 

For additional information see Auxiliary Manual Chapter 10 (Uniforms) and "Uniform & Insignia" page 

Diversity

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS), US Coast Guard (USCG) and Coast Guard Auxiliary (CGAux) strive to create and maintain an environment where the capabilities, differences and similarities of all members are recognized, understood and valued.  Members are encouraged to participate in missions and activities to the maximize extent time and interests permit and are provided the support needed to achieve their maximum potential.  USCG Diversity Webpage

Dues

Yearly membership dues help support Auxiliary activities at all organization levels (Flotilla, Division, District and National) and are tax deductible.  When you receive your yearly dues notice, you should promptly make your payment directly to the Flotilla Finance Officer (FSO-FN).

Charting a Course for Success

Charting your course in the Auxiliary and the "Qualification Guide" developed by D5NR can help you decide what qualifications, missions, program areas or activities you may wish to pursue such as earning the RBS Insignia or the Proper way to communicate concerns, get questions answered or submit recommendations.

Meetings

Attending Monthly Meetings (Flotilla 23-1) is a good way to keep up-to-date on activities & training opportunities as well as enjoying fellowship & building working relationships / friendships with other members.  Exercising your right to vote will ensure you have a say in Flotilla decisions, operations and development.  Members can also attend all other Flotilla and Division meetings.  Attending Division or District meetings will help provide a broader view of the Auxiliary.

Membership ID Number

Members are issued a Member Number (should be memorized) and official ID Card.  Upon receipt of your Membership Card, verify the information appearing on it is correct.  If not, immediately contact the FSO-HR, Flotilla Commander (FC) or Vice Commander (FVC) so a Member Information correction form can be submitted.  Your Member Number is used to record activities and accomplishments in the Auxiliary Information System (AUXDATA).  

Change of Member Information    -    ID Request Process    -    ID Request Form (Word)    -    ID Request Form (PDF)

Member Training

CGAUX, USCG & DHS are committed to ongoing Member Training & Development and provide access to the resources, education & training required to:

• safely and effectively carryout assigned duties, responsibilities or missions

• develop and maintain the knowledge, skills or expertise required to effectively serve the recreational boating community in a professional, quality and customer-oriented manner

• assist the boating public in being knowledgeable, responsible, confident and safe boaters

• help safeguard and protect the environment and our waterways from hazards and threats

• assist the Coast Guard as requested in carrying out other assigned missions

• develop, enhance or refine your personal boating knowledge, skills or expertise

Within the bounds of defined requirements and training that must be successfully completed in order to participate in some program areas and missions, members are given the freedom and opportunity to choose the area of service and type of training that is of greatest interest to them.

Training opportunities in Specialty Courses such as AUXPAT (Auxiliary Patrol), AUXCOM (Communications), AUXSEA (Seamanship), AUXWEA (Weather), AUXNAV (Navigation) and AUXSC&E (Search Coordination & Execution) are available locally, online or by attending a CG Training Center such as Yorktown. 

Reimbursable Order Procedures

Reimbursable Orders must be received back by issuing authority within 45 days of issue date or orders will be automatically canceled and no payments made  for the mission.  Facilities should be refueled as soon as possible after completion of a mission.  Hours underway and total gallons of fuel used must be filled-in and fuel receipt attached to orders (keep a copy for your records).  

Eligibility Criteria  and  Required Administrative Procedures Course (APC)

Waivers of eligibility requirements may be granted by the Director of the Auxiliary with concurrence of the Division Commander & must be obtained in writing before elections are held for the FC and/or FVC to assume office.

Information & Resources for Newly Elected Officers

The Flotilla Procedures Manual COMDTINST M16791.5, the Auxiliary Manual COMDTINST M16790.1G and
the Flotilla Standing Rules are the primary resources used to guide the FC and FVC activities.

FC / FVC Represent Flotilla at Division, District & National Meetings / Events

Flotilla
Commander
(FC)

A Flotilla Commander (FC) is elected by the Flotilla members each year prior to 15 December for a one year term.  The FC may serve a maximum of two consecutive one-year terms.  After being out of office for one year, an individual may serve as FC again with no limits on how many times this cycle can be repeated.

The FC provides primary leadership and supervision to the Flotilla.  The FC is responsible for assuring overall Flotilla program conform to Coast Guard and Auxiliary policies and procedures as well as being the primary communications link with Division elected officers.

The FC is required to be certified and hold current qualifications in at least one of the Auxiliary three cornerstones of Service (Member Services, Recreational Boating Safety or Coast Guard Support) and be active in the Auxiliary for at least one year prior to nomination.  It is recommended that this individual have previously served as Flotilla Vice Commander.  

Flotilla
Vice Commander
(FVC)

A Flotilla Vice Commander (FVC) is elected by the Flotilla members each year prior to 15 December for a one year term.  The FVC may serve an unlimited number of one-year terms. 

The FVC has the primary responsibility for administration and coordination of Flotilla operational staff, programs, missions and activities (all appointed Flotilla Staff Officers and the programs they oversee) and is essentially the Chief of Staff for the Flotilla.  

The FVC is required to be certified and hold current qualifications in at least one of the Auxiliary three cornerstones of Service ( Member Services, Recreational Boating Safety or Coast Guard Support) and be active in the Auxiliary for at least one year prior to nomination. 

FSO - CM (Communications)

The FSO-CM primary responsibility is to coordinate and oversee all matters pertaining to flotilla communications including the radio Watchstander program.  The FSO-CM should have completed AUXCOM Specialty Course and be a Communications Specialist.

The FSO-CM establishes and maintains contact with USCG units needed to provide qualified Auxiliarists to assist with standing communication and telephone watches at local CG Stations.  The FSO-CM develops, maintains, and publishes a member emergency telephone "calling tree" and an OPFAC (vessel and land mobile radio facilities) "calling tree" that includes unit location, point-of-contact, capabilities, and call signs.   The FSO-CM organizes and oversee the activation of these "calling trees" as part of regularly scheduled exercises aimed at testing, evaluating, and enhancing their effectiveness. 

FSO - CS (Communications Services)

The FSO-CS primary responsibility is to promote use of electronic communication services, act as the Flotilla's webmaster and web watcher.  The FSO-CS needs to maintain a personal e-mail account, Internet access, a personal computer, software programs and tools needed to manage and maintain the Flotilla website.  

The FSO-CS must be flexible and be willing to readily accept changes passed down through the chain of leadership due to dynamic nature of the electronic communications industry.  He/she must posses a good working knowledge of computer systems, software programs, the Internet and electronic communications. 

FSO - FN (Finance)

The FSO-FN primary responsibility is to oversee all Flotilla financial matters and keep accurate, complete and understandable records of all receipts, disbursements, and other financial transactions.

The FSO-FN is responsible for preparing an annual budget for review and approval by the flotilla, manage flotilla checking and/or savings account, make payments or disbursements on approved invoices, present financial reports at flotilla meetings, bill membership for annual dues and encourage prompt payment, and ensure all flotilla financial matters are conducted in accordance with the Standing Rules.  Although there are no prerequisites required to fill this office, a general understanding of financial matters, economics, banking, balancing a checkbook, preparing a financial ledger, audit principles, and creating a balance sheet are necessary to be successful in this role. 

FSO - IS (Information Systems)

The FSO-IS primary responsibility is to oversee all matters pertaining to the collection, recording, and timely processing of the data required to be entered into AUXDATA for the Flotilla and its members including conduct training sessions on appropriately using  AUXDATA forms and AUXINFO for flotilla members. 

The FSO-IS must work closely with the Flotilla elected and appointed officers  to ensure they have access to the reports and information related to their Program Areas and are kept advised of potential problems as well as progress in achieving established goals.  The FSO-IS must understand the AUXDATA system and be knowledgeable in its use including entering data and generating reports required to support Flotilla operations.

FSO - MA (Materials)

The FSO-MA primary responsibility is to oversee the acquisition and management of materials from the Auxiliary National Supply Center (ANSC) required by Flotilla to carry out its missions and activities including stationary, forms, manuals, texts, U.S. Government postage, and Public Education (PE) course material.  

The FSO-MA needs to maintain and disseminate information on available supplies and prices as well as advising all members of any changes or updates to publications and forms as well as working closely with all staff officers to keep them supplied with items necessary to perform their duties and run their programs. 

FSO - MS (Marine Safety & Environmental Protection)

The FSO-MS primary responsibility is to oversee and supervise all matters pertaining to Flotilla's role in Auxiliary Marine Safety and Environmental Protection activities as well as keeping entire Flotilla informed of developments in this area.  This position requires an individual who can develop and foster working relationships with Flotilla, Division, and District staff officers plus local USCG units.  The individual must proactively encourage and oversee appropriate outreach, training, and implementation of MS/MEP programs. 

The FSO-MS will provide assistance and support to environmental outreach programs, USCG MS/MEP missions, formulate emergency planning and response teams, create develop and participate in MS/MEP activities with other agencies, promote participation of MS/MEP activities to other members, and establish goals and objectives and prepare necessary plans to achieve them. 

FSO - MT (Member Training)

The FSO-MT primary responsibility is to oversee all matters pertaining to Flotilla member training programs and activities as well as keeping members informed about development and training opportunities.  The FSO-MT must interface with Division (SO-MT) and District (DSO-MT) Staff Officer for Member Training and other Flotilla Staff Officers to ensure appropriate and timely member training is delivered.  The FSO-MT will foster and promote member interest in Specialty Courses and other member training opportunities within the Flotilla and Division as well as ensure new members receive New Member Training Course, Auxiliary Member Manual (AUXMAN) and other appropriate training opportunities.

The FSO-MT will ensure all member training forms are correctly and promptly completed and forwarded, and will retain custody of any training aids, equipment, audio-visual material, manuals, and other member training aids.  In coordination with other FSO's, he or she will establish individual training programs for Flotilla members to train and qualify candidates for their respective area of responsibility.

The FSO-MT will coordinate with other FSO's to schedule and deliver member training required to maintain certifications and currency. The FSO-MT will encourage members to pursue Specialty Course and develop training programs keyed to member needs. 

FSO - NS (Navigation Systems)

The FSO-NS primary responsibility is to plan, coordinate and oversee verification of private aids to navigation (PTONS) and chart updating activities including prompt reporting of discrepancies in ATON / PTON related information as well as assisting flotilla members with practical and classroom training leading to qualification as Aids To Navigation verifiers.

The FSO-NS establishes and maintains contact with local USCG unit needed to conduct Auxiliary ATON / PTON patrols and render assistance to USCG for emergency ATON servicing.  This position works with other agencies in chart updating, submitting special investigation reports, participating in Auxiliary operations seminars, plus developing and delivering ATON verifier training programs.

FSO - RBSVP (Program Visitor - PV)

The FSO-PV primary responsibility is to oversee all Recreational Boating Safety Visitation Program matters, maintain liaison with Division Officer for Program Visitor program (SO-PV), and encourage members to become qualified program visitors. This officer will develop and maintain close contact with local community Partners, encourage and track program visits, plan and perform workshops, deliver member PV training, and ensure that all forms for PV are correctly completed and promptly forwarded.

The FSO-PV should check that all qualified program visitors conduct their annual required recreational boating safety visits of four (4) per visitor, and that each PV does not lose their qualification status as a result.  He or she will formulate and execute a plan to ensure all community Partners are covered, that they receive an updated schedule of PE courses and VSC stations in their area.

FSO - OP (Operations)

The FSO-OP primary responsibility is to manage and oversee Flotilla operations programs which include search and rescue (SAR), safety patrols, air patrols, boat races/regattas and marine event patrols, and will keep all members informed of developments in this area. The FSO-OP must maintain close liaison with Division Staff Officer of Operations (SO-OP), all operational facility (OPFAC) owners and Coxswains to ensure all patrol related activities are performed in quality and timely manner and to maintain uniformity and high standards among Operational Personnel.

The FSO-OP is responsible for ensuring that all Flotilla operations are performed under Coast Guard reimbursable and non-reimbursable patrol orders and that a copy of the schedule of patrols is provided to the SO-OP.  This officer will encourage and assist with all training and qualification of members in operation programs, encourage participation in search and rescue training, safety patrols, regatta patrols, chart updating patrols, and other Auxiliary operational programs. The FSO-OP will cooperate and coordinate with other Flotilla officers to plan, schedule and deliver briefings, seminars, workshops, and training sessions as well as ensuring inspection of OPFACS are completed in a timely manner as well as maintain a list of members trained as crew and coxswain, regularly report on all patrols, and coordinate with FSO-AN and FSO-MS to make sure qualified crew members serve on patrols needed to implement their programs and missions.

FSO - PA (Public Affairs)

The primary FSO-PA responsibility is to establish effective working relationships with members of the print and broadcast media to facilitate coverage of Flotilla activities and missions, coordinate and oversee all Flotilla public affairs matters, keep members informed of all PA related developments and coordinate with the Division Staff Officer of Public Affairs (SO-PA).

This officer will coordinate and cooperate with Flotilla elected and appointed officers in promoting, advertising, and communicating Flotilla activities to media and public as well as promoting best possible public image of the Auxiliary.  The FSO-PA will originate articles for Flotilla, Division, District and National newsletters and publications, will develop and direct an organized program of activities to obtain Auxiliary publicity, and will assist other officers with the preparation and distribution of advertising and promotional material on Public Education courses, Vessel Safety Checks, and other activities as appropriate.  The FSO-PA will cooperate with the FSO-PB in obtaining action photos of Flotilla activity for publication and for entering Auxiliary photo contests.  This individual will maintain close liaison with the SO-PA to ensure an effective and coordinated program within the Division and will assist or take part in planning and conducting seminars, workshops, forums, and panel discussions.

FSO - PB (Publications)

The FSO-PB primary responsibility is to be editor for a Flotilla newsletter, encourage Flotilla members to contribute articles of interest for inclusion in the newsletter and maintain liaison with Division Staff Officer of Publications to ensure a prompt flow of suitable articles and information of interest to the readership within the Flotilla, Division and District.  The FSO-PB will develop and maintain a library file of photographs of Flotilla activities.

This individual shall assist in obtaining clearance for release and publication of Flotilla articles and will promptly submit articles for publication.  The FSO-PB will coordinate with the FSO-PA in obtaining action photos of Flotilla activity for publication and will maintain a file of all unit newsletters published and/or articles submitted to other publications. The FSO-PB will mail Flotilla and Division newsletters to all Flotilla members, retired members, Director of the Auxiliary, DCO, VCO, RCO, DSO-PBB, ADSO-PB, DCP, VCP, SO-PB and all FCs in the Division.  A copy of the newsletter must also be mailed to: Coast Guard Auxiliary Collection, J.Y. Joyner Library, East Carolina University, Greenville, SC 27858-4353.

FSO - PE (Public Education)

The FSO-PE primary responsibility is to oversee all matters pertaining to Flotilla's public education program including the scheduling, organization and conduct of Flotilla boating safety courses and activities. This officer will maintain a close relationship with the Division Staff Officer of Public Education (SO-PE) in order to implement the public education programs established for nation-wide, district-wide, and division-wide use.

The FSO-PE will coordinate and cooperate with FSO-MT in organizing workshops, training of instructors, and in instructor improvement workshops, FSO-PA in publicizing and promoting boating safety and Auxiliary public education courses, and FSO-PS in promoting Auxiliary membership to students in classes. This individual will forward to SO-PE such methods, training aids, course materials, and other educational tools developed within Flotilla that may have Division-wide application.

The FSO-PE will supervise PE class assistants, keep updated with Auxiliary course content, instructional requirements and course updates, and ensure that all forms relating to PE are correctly completed and forwarded.  The FSO-PE will cooperate with FSO-FN so that a sufficient supply of text books for each course taught by Flotilla are available as well as maintaining an up-to-date inventory and custody of all Coast Guard and Flotilla-owned real property used in conjunction with the public education program (e.g. video tape players, slide projectors, and other audio-visual aids, video tapes, discs, slides, etc.).

FSO - HR (Human Resources)

The FSO-HR primary responsibility is to oversee all matters pertaining to developing, planning and implementing programs to promote growth of the Auxiliary by obtaining new members, guiding and mentoring potential new members through the new member process,  implement programs designed to retain members who may be drifting into inactivity as evidenced by not participating in Flotilla activities and programs and coordinate with Division Staff Officer of Human Resources (SO-HR).

The FSO-HR should consider developing and maintaining biographical files for all Flotilla members.  The FSO-HR should attempt to meet with each member and brief the FC on the outcome prior to any dis-enrollment actions.  In cooperation with Flotilla elected and appointed officers, promote membership in the Auxiliary through public appearances and speaking engagements, providing handouts and literature at PA events and following up on all prospective member leads.   

The FSO-HR takes an active role in the planning and execution of seminars, workshops, forums and panel discussions. The officer should maintain contact with retired Auxiliary members and be certain they receive newsletters and are invited to functions and fellowship activities.  A recommended goal is adding one new prospective member each month with individual name and address added to Flotilla distribution list to keep prospects up-to-date on Flotilla activities.

FSO - SR (Secretary / Records)

The FSO-SR primary responsibility is to record and publish minutes of Flotilla meetings, organize, keep a copy of Division and Flotilla Standing Rules, maintain, administer and supervise pertinent Flotilla records including maintaining up-to-date lists of Flotilla members, officers, committee assignments, FC appointments and Division officers.  The FSO-SR should attend all unit meetings or make arrangements for minutes to be taken if unable to attend.

FSO-SR will coordinate with the FSO-IS to ensure all member's AUXDATA records are correct, conduct a ballot by mail when so directed, submit articles to the unit publication, and take an active part in planning and execution of seminars, workshops, forums, and panel discussions.  The FSO-SR will provide copies of meeting minutes to both FC and FVC and is responsible for sending notices to members concerning meetings and meeting agendas.

FSO - VSC (Vessel Examiner - VE)

The FSO-VE primary responsibility is to oversee all matters pertaining to the Flotilla's Vessel Safety Check program and inspection of Auxiliary OPFACs.  The FSO-VE will maintain liaison with Division and District Staff Officer or Assistant District Staff Officer of Vessel Examinations to ensure uniform implementation of the VSC program at Division, District and National levels.

The FSO-VE coordinates with the FSO-PA on promoting and publicizing VSC activities, with the FSO-MT to recruit and train new VE's, with the FSO-OP to organize annual inspection of all OPFACs and the FSO-IS to monitor that VE's maintain their certification status.  He or she will maintain a record of facility inspections, VSCs decal distributed and do their utmost to ensure the quality and integrity of all VSCs conducted.  Additionally, the FSO-VSC is responsible for ensuring that all required reports are correctly completed and submitted, keeping an account of all VSC decals, arrange for conducting VSC stations at area marinas and boat ramps and providing a written report to the FVC and SO-VSC on each VSC station, location, time and date and number of VSCs conducted at that station.