The U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary
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Our Mission
Established by Congress in 1939, the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary is the civilian, volunteer component of the Coast Guard. There are over 35,000 Auxiliary members in all 50 states and most U.S. territories. The Auxiliary may be called to assist in all Coast Guard missions except military and law enforcement operations.
Historically, the Auxiliary's primary role has been promoting recreational boating safety through activities such as providing public education classes and free Vessel Safety Checks, and operations including marine safety patrols, search and rescue missions, standing radio watches, and assisting in training missions.
Post-9/11, the Auxiliary has assumed an expanded role under the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, participating in such missions as Operation Patriot Readiness and Operation Noble Eagle to help enhance America's maritime security. Locally, the Auxiliary has played a role in emergency response to events such as the I-35W bridge collapse in 2007 and the Fargo/Moorhead flooding in 2009.
The Auxiliary is only able to perform its missions through the dedication of its volunteers. If our missions sound like something you want to be involved in, learn more about becoming a member.
For more information on the history of the Auxiliary, visit the Auxiliary National Website.