Hello all,

I'm in the process of discovery right now, as I have recently decided that I want to become involved with the Coast Guard. Because I have a BS and a 99% completed MBA, my immediate thought was to go the officer route (higher pay, less boot camp = happier wife). However, as I am doing my research, it seems to me that the enlisted route is more along the lines of what I am looking to do. I really want to learn how to make and fix things. The idea of driving a boat, and saving lives also appeals to me. In either case, it isn't the officer doing those things... it is the enlisted personnel.

So to my point. I am not at a financial point where I can just walk away for 8 weeks of boot camp, but I really want to start getting my feet wet if you will. So I sent an information request to the local Auxiliary group to see if I could start working with them as I save up. Has anyone heard of someone successfully transitioning from the Aux to the Reserve group?

Granted, the median age of the Auxiliary force is in their mid 50's, so maybe i'm the exception to the rule here.

Your input is appreciated.

Thanks.

Jimbojambo

Don't kid yourself about the less boot camp for an officer. Boot for enlisted is 8 weeks, OCS for an officer is 17 weeks.

Even with the Aux, you will still attend the 8 week boot camp when you enlist. You will not be paid as an Auxiliary, but will receive full pay while in boot.

Morning Folks,

The officer program that I was originally looking at was the SRDC program. Apparently SRDC officers attend a 3-week Reserve Officer Candidate Indoctrination (ROCI) course at the Coast Guard Academy in New London, CT.

I also know that I will have to complete the full 8 weeks of boot camp for the reserve enlisted option. My issue was transitioning from the Aux to the reserves, and if they will allow you to do that. I need to save up, lose close to 40 lbs, and be in significantly better shape before I can even walk in the door at boot camp. My thoughts were that I could start serving now while getting in shape and saving up.

Working with the Aux first will give me a taste of what I will be working towards, allow me to gain experience on the water, and potentially even gain certification as boat crew/coxswain. I'm the type of person who wants to make an immediate impact once I'm out of boot camp, and I figure if I can learn while I get ready I should be in good standing when I get to Cape May.

The Aux is a volunteer organization that will pose no problem with your enlistment. Go for it!

Excellent! I sent a request for more information. I should hopefully hear from my local flotilla soon.

Thanks again.