Public Service Articles in the pursuit of
Recreational Boating Safety

Help Wanted - Marine Dealer Visitors
FREE TRAINING!
By Ed Sweeney, BC-AIP, DSO-PA 11NR
United States Coast Guard Auxiliary

-Volunteer Positions Open-

Marine Dealer Visitors - Assist the Coast Guard and the Coast Guard Auxiliary's (non-law enforcement) Marine Dealer Program, working as an "ambassador" for recreational boating safety. Marine Dealer Visitors educate marine dealers and their customers about the benefits of boating safety classes, vessel safety checks, and other Coast Guard/Coast Guard Auxiliary programs, as well as providing them with FREE boating safety literature and other safety materials .(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). Marine Dealer Visitor Candidates should enjoy educating marine dealers, boaters and the general public on boating safety issues, law updates, as well as clean boating practices, responsible environmental practices in marinas, and protection of coastal and marine ecosystems.

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: Marine Dealer Visitor 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 marine dealer visitor. Perform a minimum number of Marine Dealer Visits (four per year), 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 Marine Dealer Visitor 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, Marine Dealer 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 serve as an ambassador of recreational boating safety, 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 .