Public Service Articles in the pursuit of
Recreational Boating Safety

Help Wanted - Aids to Navigation (ATON) Verifier
FREE TRAINING!
By Ed Sweeney, BC-AIP, DSO-PA 11NR
United States Coast Guard Auxiliary

-Volunteer Positions Open-

Aids To Navigation (ATON) Verifier - Assist the Coast Guard, and the Coast Guard Auxiliary's (in a non-law enforcement capacity) with verifying aids to navigation, and assisting the National Oceanographic & Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) in their Chart Updating Program. ATON Verifiers help to maintain the U.S. Aids To Navigation system by reporting discrepancies with buoys, day markers, bridge lighting, and other aids to navigation. These aids are an essential ingredient in that they are the "highway signs " of the waterways, used by both recreational boaters and commercial ships. (Unlimited availability, locations all over the United States, Puerto Rico, and the US Virgin Islands)

Requirements: 17 years of age; US Citizenship; Strong patriotic desire to volunteer your time to serve both the United States and United States Coast Guard/Coast Guard Auxiliary. Willingness to enter free local, regional and national training program(s) - if selected for regional or national training, travel and meals are either reimbursed or subsidized (subject to limitations). ATON Verifiers conduct their work from land, water, and sometimes even from the air. Many, if not most charts are furnished; however, navigation tools, a camera, and a handheld GPS would be extremely helpful in performing the tasks assigned to an ATON Verifier.

Additionally, what is called the Working Blue (Utility) and Tropical Blue Uniforms may be required. These items are not reimbursed, but may be tax deductible; talk with a qualified tax advisor about your specific tax situation.

Time Frame: ATON Verifier training is offered at the local level year round (in most locations).

Training: Training consists of self study and/or classroom training, plus an "internship" with a currently qualified ATON Verifier. Perform the minimum number of aid verifications (usually one per year - determined by District policy), and attend an annual update workshop (if required in your district).

Advancement: Candidates may be appointed as Flotilla, Division, District or National Staff Officers in the ATON program. Advancement is determined by your education, other Coast Guard/Auxiliary qualifications, and experience, and local area needs.

Please note: Should you decide to enlist in either the Coast Guard or Coast Guard Reserves, ATON/Chart Updating training classes and other Auxiliary and Coast Guard courses taken while an Auxiliarist, can/may be used to accelerate your qualifications process in both the active duty Coast Guard and Coast Guard Reserve.

Summary: So if you want an exciting volunteer career, which can not only satisfy your desire to protect and maintain our ATON system, but can also satisfy your desire to serve your country, the United States Coast Guard and Coast Guard Auxiliary may be just right for you!

For more information on the Coast Guard the Coast Guard Reserve, call 1-800-GET-USCG, or visit http://www.uscg.mil or http://www.uscg.mil/jobs/reservejobs2.htm. For information on how to join the Coast Guard Auxiliary, call 1-877-875-6296 or visit http://www.cgaux.org .