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The purpose of the Auxiliary is to assist the Coast Guard as authorized by the Commandant in performing any Coast Guard function, power, duty, role, mission, or operation authorized by law."

In addition, legislation expanded the Commandant's authority to use the Auxiliary to assist other federal agencies, state authorities, and local governments in areas other than recreational boating safety .

The United States Coast Guard Auxiliary was established by Congress in 1939 to assist the Coast Guard in promoting boating safety. It boasts nearly 33,000 members from all walks of life who receive special training so that they may be a functional part of Team Coast Guard.

Auxiliarists assist the Coast Guard in non-law enforcement programs such as public education, vessel safety checks, safety patrols, search and rescue, marine environmental protection and Coast Guard Academy introduction programs for youth. Auxiliarists volunteer more than 2 million hours annually to benefit other boaters and their families.

52' Motor Lifeboat Intrepid

Generally regarded by their crews as the "Cadillac" of the motor lifeboats, these boats answer the call when heavy weather conditions are too severe for any other rescue boat. Built in 1960 to replace wooden-hulled ships that carried the same names since the 1930's, these steel-hulled 52-foot motor lifeboats can withstand 100-mile per hour winds and sea swells up to 35 feet.

These are the only Coast Guard vessels under 65 feet that have names. Only four 52-footers are in service, all in the Pacific Northwest.

They are built to withstand the most severe conditions at sea and are capable of effecting a rescue at sea even under the most difficult circumstances. They are self-bailing, self-righting, almost unsinkable, and have a long cruising radius.

Missions: Search and rescue, maritime law enforcement, marine environmental protection, and recreational boating safety.

Good Morning.

This is the fourth day in a row that this is the first place I have come (after wake-up and coffee)...am I addicted?

The USCG...what a great service! And the Coast Guard Academy in New London, CT is a beautiful place.

Thanks for reminding us all...especially on this beautiful Saturday morning as I ponder the Gulf and using the wooden sea kayak or the boat. Either case knowing that if I get myself into a jam dedicated professionals will be there to save my amateur butt (where my brains are sometime).