Coast Guard Auxiliary is a branch of the U.S. Coast Guard made up of civilian volunteers. To decide on training, you have to know what flotilla needs you, what job you want and which courses to take.
Some services the auxiliary members perform are vessel safety checks, harbor patrols, safe boating courses, search and rescue and marine environment protection.
In 1939, the auxiliary was known as the Coast Guard Reserve, authorized by the government to use civilians to teach safety and navigation of the high seas. Since June 23, 1941, the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary has trained volunteers to teach boat safety and search and rescue, while also helping with the war effort.