The Auxiliary is the uniformed, civilian arm of Team Coast Guard. We work alongside the regular Coast Guard and Reserves in all their varied missions. As civilian volunteers, we do not perform direct law-enforcement actions, cannot be called up for military duty and contribute as much or as little time as each of us is able. We conduct safety patrols on Seacoast waterways, during which we might be called upon to do anything from search and rescue to environmental monitoring. We act as the "eyes and ears" of the Coast Guard, providing a force multiplier for this busy Homeland Security agency. Members patrol using their own private recreational boats, or as crew on other members' boats. With more training, Auxiliary members can also qualify for crew positions on Coast Guard boats, cutters and ice breakers. Auxiliary members teach, and attend, a variety of boating-related public education and member training classes. Some people join the Auxiliary primarily for the training opportunities. Many boaters know the Auxiliary as the organization which performs voluntary Vessel Safety Checks, which help save lives through prevention. As the demands on regular Coast Guard units increase during these times of "new normalcy," Auxiliarists contribute to the smooth running of Station Portsmouth Harbor, helping out with everything from facilities and administrative support to watchstanding in the tower. Another way Auxiliarists promote boating safety is through Marine Dealer Visits, meeting with the management of local marinas and boat dealers to provide information and materials to help introduce their customers to safe boating practices. Membership in the Auxiliary can be almost anything the member wishes to make it. Beyond our day-to-day missions, there are many leadership roles at the flotilla, division, district and national level which can be earned. We also have Flotilla members serving in Auxiliary Aviation, a District wide asset. AuxAir Crews, which generally consist of a Pilot and Aerial Observer, fly from local airports on patrols under command of Coast Guard Air Station Cape Cod. For more information go to http://www.auxodept.org/airoperations.htm. Auxiliary members serve to extend the Coast Guard visibility by providing a uniformed presence on a number of commercial ferry and whale watch boats. Regional Hazardous Materials drills and planning are supported by Auxiliary boats and members who are trained to respond in a real environmental emergency to help protect the health and safety of the public and our local wildlife. Auxiliarists provide local input to the Coast Guard and NOAA teams which produce nautical charts and maintain aids to navigation such as bouys, daymarks and bridge lights and signage. Joining the Auxiliary is not all work, however. Along with our missions we find time to relax and have fun at Auxiliary outings, training sessions, classes, and conferences. Auxiliarists make lasting, meaningful friendships.

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