The U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary is a uniformed, civilian volunteer organization that supports the U.S. Coast Guard in non-combatant and non-law enforcement missions. Its primary missions include promoting recreational boating safety, providing trained crews and facilities to augment Coast Guard operations, and enhancing the safety and security of ports, waterways, and coastal regions. The Auxiliary engages in activities such as safety and security patrols, search and rescue, pollution response, homeland security support, recreational boating safety education, and vessel exams. It operates in all 50 states, Puerto Rico, the Virgin Islands, American Samoa, and Guam, with a national membership of approximately 26,000 volunteers.
