Public Service Articles in the pursuit of
Recreational Boating Safety

Help Wanted - Watchstander
Willing to Train for FREE!
By Wayne Spivak, ADSO-CS 1SR
United States Coast Guard Auxiliary

-Position Open-

Watchstander; A crucial position in the Coast Guard's VHF-FM Distress Alerting and Command/Control System.
(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).

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

The Watchstander program requires individuals with mature personalities who can operate in what could be very hectic, life and death situations. A good speaking voice, attention to detail and the ability to project calm and reassurance are important attributes. This position is not physically challenging.

Time Frame: Watchstander training is starting at Auxiliary Flotilla's throughout the country. Currently, in many locations, Watchstanders are needed desperately to augment the Active Duty Coast Guard.

Training: Watchstander training is marked by both US Coast Guard Auxiliary and US Coast Guard courses. The first course is AUXCOM, Auxiliary Communications Specialty Course. This course, which can be taken in the classroom or at home highlights the major communication systems, rules, laws and procedures in use at the Coast Guard and by the maritime community. Successful completion (multiple choice test) is required prior to Watchstander training.

Watchstander training consists of learning, practicing, and exhibiting a wide-range of skills that are required of all Watchstanders, regardless of status (i.e.; Active Duty, Reserve or Auxiliary). Training includes: Controlling Communication With Mariner; Operate Radio/Landline Telephone System; Area Familiarization; Respond To Request Four Assistance; and Responding To Mariners Request For Information.

Advancement: Successful work as a Watchstander may (up to the Commanding Officer or Officer-in-Charge) lead to a role as a Watchstander mentor or Instructor.

Please note: Should you decide to enlist in either the Coast Guard or Coast Guard Reserves, Watchstander training and certification, as well as other Auxiliary and Coast Guard courses taken while an Auxiliarist, can 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 be on the water, but also your desire to assist your country, the United States Coast Guard and Coast Guard Auxiliary is the place to be.

For more information on the Coast Guard (http://www.uscg.mil), Coast Guard Reserve (http://www.uscg.mil/jobs/reservejobs2.htm) or Coast Guard Auxiliary (http://www.cgaux.org), contact your local Coast Guard Station or Unit, or visit them on the world wide web.