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U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary Courses

AUXCOM, the Auxiliary Communications Specialty course, focuses on radio communications for the Auxiliary and Coast Guard, providing broad knowledge of the fundamental principles underlying communications systems in use by both the Coast Guard and the Auxiliary.

AUXNAV, the Auxiliary Navigation Specialty course, prepares a member to become a genuine asset to the Flotilla’s operations activities. The AUXNAV course covers coastal navigation and embraces two basic concepts – location and direction – and three basic disciplines – dead reckoning, piloting and electronic navigation.

AUXPAT, the Auxiliary Patrols Specialty course, is focused upon the complete spectrum of operational patrol activities both on the water and in the air. This includes Safety Patrols, Search and Rescue (SAR), Regatta spectator safety control (powerboat race, sailboat race, rowing race, etc.) and Chart Updating/Aids to Navigation Patrols.

AUXSC&E, Auxiliary Search Coordination and Execution is the Auxiliary version of the Coast Guard’s Search Coordination & Execution (SC&E) course.

AUXSEA, the Auxiliary Seamanship Specialty course, is designed to present the Auxiliarist with a thorough knowledge of vessels and proficiency in their operation. An AUXSEA Specialist has extensive knowledge of how vessels are constructed and operated. The AUXSEA Specialist understands marine engines, how to perform minor repairs, is knowledgeable about vessel handling and knows how to approach distress situations.

AUXWEA, the Auxiliary Weather Specialty course, is designed to present the Auxiliarist with a thorough knowledge of weather, its importance in the marine environment and to the conduct of safe and effective operations. An AUXWEA Specialist is able to make accurate and valuable short range (several hours) weather forecasts to enable crew mates to avoid dangerous weather conditions while performing their patrol activities. Long range (two or more days) forecasts are also developed to assist in planning operational activities.