The Coast Guard Auxiliary Plaque of Merit A honors Coast Guard Auxiliarists who exhibit outstanding skill in the act of an assist or a rescue, typically involving risk of life. A successful rescue is not required.
The United States Coast Guard Auxiliary was created by Congress on June 23, 1939 to provide support for Coast Guard operations in roles that do not entail military engagement or enforcement. Its 2015 numbers were estimated at 32,000 members.
Auxiliary members are permitted to engage in the proceedings listed below:
-Academy Admissions Partner Program (AAPP)
-Administrative Support for Coast Guard Units
-Auxiliary Food Service (AUXFS)
-Bridge Program
-Civil Air Patrol Support
-Coast Guard Unit Support
-Contingency Preparedness
-Health Care Services Assistance
-Language Interpretation
-Legislative Liaison Committee
-Licensing of Merchant Mariners
-Marine Safety, Security, and Environmental Protection
-Maritime Domain Awareness
-Multi-Mission Harbor Safety
-National Safe Boating Week
-Navigation Systems
-Operational Support
-Port Safety and Security
-Program Visitation
-Public Affairs Support
-Public Education
-Recreational Boating Safety
-Recruitment
-Search and Rescue Operations
-State Liaison Officer Program
-Vessel Inspections/ Examinations
-Vessel Safety Check Program
-Waterways Management
The ribbon is red with four evenly spaced thin vertical gray stripes.