I was wondering what is the typical commitment to the Aux. Once you are a member, how much time do you (other than meetings) actually participate in patrols, safety checks, public education and so one. I wonder this because I am a married and a father of two small children. I am over the age limit to join the coast guard active duty and have to many dependents to be the in reserve. I want to serve my country but through the Coast Guard. Can someone tell me how much time is actually spend doing these various things. Thanks.

t realy depends on you. That is one reason I joined the Coast Guard Aux. I was in water rescue and marine firefighting for years. I am 40 now and decided that I was over jumping out of bed at 3 in the morning to run reds and sirens, but I still wanted to serve my community and country. My wife an I are both military brats and our son is Army Strong. Thats why I joined the USCGA

It's completely up to you! I hope something works in your favor. Some people have been having problems contacting their flotilla commander. I have yet to finish my entire application process as I have yet to find time to drive the hour to meet with him. However, as the commander stated "We are a volunteer organization. If you can't make it because of class or family or whatever that is okay. It is as much or as little as you want. But we do enjoy what it is that we do." It sounds like a great organization to be associated with.

I'm sorry to hear of your inability to join the CG reserves! But I hope this works out for you!

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You can do as little or as much as you want. As in everything...it's all in who you know. I'm currently in the process of joining active duty and I'm joining AUX while I wait for my ship date. A friend of mine has taken me to a few meetings. This guy is involved with EVERYTHING. He's qualified to go out on patrols with WPB's, smaller special purpose craft and many other official qualifications that allow him to do many of the things active duty can. Join up, go to meetings, meet as many people as you can and get qualified for as much as you can.

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