The Auxiliary is the nonmilitary, volunteer portion of TEAM COAST GUARD, working alongside the Active Duty Coast Guard, Coast Guard civilians and Reserve within the sphere of the Coast Guard's civil functions.
The word "volunteer" makes a big difference. Auxiliary authority isn't like the military or business authority. Although we have rules and regulations to follow, we depend completely on support and cooperation. Your leaders are volunteers too, and cooperation is a two-way street.
HOW USCGAUX IS LIKE USCG:HOW USCGAUX DIFFERS: * Represent the federal government * We aren't paid with money * Wear uniforms, observe military "good" manners * We don't enforce the laws * Do not take sides in political activities to raise funds
* We elect our leaders * Activities are limited to approved programs * We furnish and maintain our own equipment * Qualify through training * We can choose to participate or not * We work where we live instead of living where we work
