The United States Coast Guard Auxiliary is the volunteer organization of the United States Coast Guard. In that role they support the United States Coast Guard in their non-law enforcement and boating safety missions to protect the homeland of the United States. In this timely publication you will explore the brief history of the United States Coast Guard and the origins of the United State Coast Guard Auxiliary as well as their homeland security missions. Through examination of the organization, membership and training requirement of the United States Coast Guard Auxiliary you will have an understanding of what it takes to be a member of this patriotic organization and the important role these volunteers play in support of the United States Coast Guard and the homeland security of the nation. Through the United States Coast Guard America's Waterway Watch program that is run by the United States Coast Guard Auxiliary, you will learn about the signs of criminal activity and terrorism on or near the nation's waterways and ports and role of the maritime industry in this effort.