Atlantic Maritime Academy

US Coast Guard Forces

I want to help but don’t know how…

Hello!  I am Vincent Pica.  As you can tell from the title, I am responsible for running a component of the United States Coast Guard Auxiliary, the civilian arm of the United States Coast Guard Forces.  There is an article elsewhere on the website about how and why I joined after “9/11"...

Many people have an urge or calling to serve.  They think about ways that they can, on their own terms and on a time and schedule that works for them, contribute to their Country and to their community, especially if they can have fun doing it and be recognized for whatever they do put in to it.  I believe that the USCGAux is an ideal way achieve all those goals – serve your Country, serve your community, have fun and be recognized.  You don’t need a boat.  We’ll supply.  You don’t need to be a swimmer.  We have many, many roles that are land-based that still provide vital services to the active-duty regulars.  Some worry about it being expensive.  Annual dues are $30.  That’s $2.50/month.  Uniforms are available at low-cost and every penny you spend is tax-deductible.  And, if you offer your boat for use by the USCGAux, your mission-related fuel use is reimbursed, 100%.  Some worry that you will need a tremendous time commitment.  You don’t need gobs of time.  Give us 8 hours a summer and you can be in continuous good standing.  I warn you though.  There is so much enjoyment and satisfaction in this role that you will give well more than that.

This will only be the Land of the Free if it is also the Home of the Brave.  Serve your Nation.  Serve your Neighbors.  On your terms.  Be brave.  Get in this thing.