What's New In Response Archives

 

Information on this page is no longer maintained and may be out of date.  It should be used for informational purposes only with the understanding that certain policies and procedures may have changed.  Hyperlinks from these What's New postings may also be no longer valid or available.

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May 2008

The DFSO C School (AUX-14) has been scheduled for August 20-22 at NACON in Orlando, Florida.  This course is open for all DFSO's, FSO's from the active duty side, or those planning to become DFSO's.   Register by submitting a Short Term Training Request via your Districts appropriate procedures.  Information can be found at http://cschool.auxservices.org/.
[Posted 25May 2008. Source: Nevin Lantry, BC-OEW]

USCG Aux Amateur Radio Special Event (See Telecoms page for details.)  Instructional Notice and station requirements can be found at Coast Guard Radio Day 2008
[Posted 15 May 2008 by DVC-OE, Source DVC-OT W.H. Scholz]

April 2008

Update from the Communications Division regarding a crossband communications test on May 10-11, 2008.  See our Telecoms page for details.
[Posted 24 April 2008 by DVC-OE, Source DVC-OT W. H. Scholz]

PWC Carriage Requirements Changes

After careful consideration by the Surface Stan Team, the following PWC OPFAC carriage requirements are changed effective immediately:

  • Throwable PFD is no longer required.
  • Spare spark plugs are only required for 2 stroke engines. They are no longer required for 4 stroke engines.

These items are in Appendix C (Required Facility Equipment) and again in task PWC-03-05-AUX (4.g and 4.r) of the PWC Operator Qualification Guide, COMDTINST 19794.54 (series). They are also found on the PWC Facility Inspection and Offer for Use form, ANSC 7008 in Section VII, items 12 and 20.

These changes will be reflected in the next editions/revisions of these documents.

[Posted 14 April 2008 by DVC-OE, Source DVC-OS Gary Taylor]

UpTop In Operations  Newsletter - March 2008  The March issue includes: Continuity of Community, Maritime Domain Awareness Part III (MDA), DVC Questions, 2007 Surface Operations Review, and Patrol Ready.
[Posted 8 April 2008. Source: Nevin Lantry, BC-OEW]

March 2008

PFD and Hypothermia devices - Important information about PFD and Hypothermia devices.  Please review ALAUX OPM/CVhange 030/07 from 5 November 2007 and an Items of Interest notice on PFD changes effective for all Auxiliary PFDs effective June 1 2009.
[Posted 28 March 2008 by DVC-OE, Source DVC-OS]

Links to Auxiliary Knowledge Base for Surface Operations Questions
[Posted: March 24, 2008, by DVD-OE, Source DVC-OS]

October 2008

Air Operations Call Sign Procedures - Coast Guard Air Operations Call Sign Procedures Document posted or our Air Ops News page.
[Posted 17 Oct 2008, by DVC_OE. Source: DC-O David Elliot]

September 2008

Useful web sites for flight safety - Here are a couple sites worth making available to any USCGAux aviators:

  • United States Bird Avoidance Model (BAM)! - very timely info on bird activity for your area.  Factors in historical data, and current migration and weather info.
  • See and Avoid - info on military bases around the country.  Airspace, training routes, etc., it is part of the Mid-Air Collision Avoidance program

C-School Opportunities - updates posted to our Aviation Page regarding C-School opportunities for Pilots, Air Crew, and Air Observers.
[Posted 05 Sept 2008, Source: DVC-OA Byron Moe]

July 2008

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) regarding the new Telecommunications operator (TCO) personal qualifications standard for the Auxiliary have been posted on the Telecommunications web page under the Comms FAQ link.  These new standards will take effect on 1 August 2008.  This information was provided by Bill Scholz, Chief-Auxiliary Communications. "William.Scholz@uscg.mil" or call (714-292-4271)
[Posted 23 July 2008. Source: Nevin Lantry, BC-OEW]

UpTop In Operations  Error Correction! Nav Rules Test Currency - there was an error in an article in the March edition of UpTop in Operations regarding currency requirements for the Nav Rules test for Coxswains or PWOs.  The article should have stated that for currency maintenance, Nav Rules are now due on the five-year anniversary date of the original test and Coxswains (or PWOs) no longer have until 31 December to do their 5-year requalification.  This means that your currency can and will expire in AUXDATA during a calendar year when you hit this 5 year anniversary date and you will fall automatically into REYR status and not be able to request orders.  If this happens, your local DIRAUX office will have to re-instate you after you have taken the requalification test.  Our apologies for any confusion this may have caused.
[Posted 23 July 2008 by DVC-OE Bruce Pugh]

**** UPDATE - DFSO AUX-14 C School Cancelled *** Due to insufficient attendance the DFSO AUX-14 C School set for Aug 20-22 has been cancelled and will be offered at a later time.
[Posted 01 July 2008, Source: DVC-OA Byron Moe]

June 2008

NEW PERSONAL QUALIFICATIONS STANDARD (TelComPQS)   A new Personal Qualifications Standard (PQS) for Auxiliary Telecommunications has been developed by the Operations (Response) Department and approved by the National Board and CG Head Quarters.  The Chief Director of the Auxiliary has announced the implementation of the new personal qualification standard (PQS) for a Telecommunications Operator (TCO) specialty.   Effective 1 August 2008, all new applicants for fixed land or land mobile radio facility certification and/or operation must be certified as a TCO. Current AUXCOM-rated members will continue to be eligible for facility ownership and operation indefinitely, as long as their AUXCOM was earned prior to August 1, 2008.  Details of this PQS are available on the Chief Director’s Web site at "Auxiliary Telecommunications PQS Announcement 11 June 2008".   The PQS for Auxiliary Telecommunications is posted at "Telecommunications PQS". (See our Telecoms News page for details)

May 2008

The DFSO C School (AUX-14) has been scheduled for August 20-22 at NACON in Orlando, Florida.  This course is open for all DFSO's, FSO's from the active duty side, or those planning to become DFSO's.   Register by submitting a Short Term Training Request via your Districts appropriate procedures.  Information can be found at http://cschool.auxservices.org/.
[Posted 25May 2008. Source: Nevin Lantry, BC-OEW]

USCG Aux Amateur Radio Special Event (See Telecoms page for details.)  Instructional Notice and station requirements can be found at Coast Guard Radio Day 2008
[Posted 15 May 2008 by DVC-OE, Source DVC-OT W.H. Scholz]

April 2008

Update from the Communications Division regarding a crossband communications test on May 10-11, 2008.  See our Telecoms page for details.
[Posted 24 April 2008 by DVC-OE, Source DVC-OT W. H. Scholz]

PWC Carriage Requirements Changes

After careful consideration by the Surface Stan Team, the following PWC OPFAC carriage requirements are changed effective immediately:

  • Throwable PFD is no longer required.
  • Spare spark plugs are only required for 2 stroke engines. They are no longer required for 4 stroke engines.

These items are in Appendix C (Required Facility Equipment) and again in task PWC-03-05-AUX (4.g and 4.r) of the PWC Operator Qualification Guide, COMDTINST 19794.54 (series). They are also found on the PWC Facility Inspection and Offer for Use form, ANSC 7008 in Section VII, items 12 and 20.

These changes will be reflected in the next editions/revisions of these documents.

[Posted 14 April 2008 by DVC-OE, Source DVC-OS Gary Taylor]

UpTop In Operations  Newsletter - March 2008  The March issue includes: Continuity of Community, Maritime Domain Awareness Part III (MDA), DVC Questions, 2007 Surface Operations Review, and Patrol Ready.
[Posted 8 April 2008. Source: Nevin Lantry, BC-OEW]

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March 2008

PFD and Hypothermia devices - Important information about PFD and Hypothermia devices.  Please review ALAUX OPM/CVhange 030/07 from 5 November 2007 and an Items of Interest notice on PFD changes effective for all Auxiliary PFDs effective June 1 2009.
[Posted 28 March 2008 by DVC-OE, Source DVC-OS]

Links to Auxiliary Knowledge Base for Surface Operations Questions
[Posted: March 24, 2008, by DVD-OE, Source DVC-OS]

Up Top in Operations Newsletter - January 2008 Published The January issue includes: Maritime Domain Awareness (MDA), Team Coordination Training (TCT) Enhancement, Water Temperature, and Preflight Briefing. [Posted: 28Feb 2008. Source: Nevin Lantry, BC-OEW]

2008 TCT one hour required refresher session has been released. This annual requirement for operations personnel includes the 2008 TCT Power Point Presention, 2008 TCT Facilitator Resource and the 2008 TCT Participant Reference. This one hour refresher session emphasizes crew problem solving and the seven key components of Team Coordination Training (TCT). [Posted: 7 December 2007. Source: Nevin Lantry, BC-OEW]

2008 OPERATIONS WORKSHOP (Optional) has been released.  This is a voluntary workshop that has been produced by Operations (Response) at the request of the National Board.  It is intended to provide guidance for Districts, Divisions, and Flotillas to update their members on Operations programs for 2008.  This workshop is presented in two parts, "2008 Operations Workshop Facilitator Guide, and the "2008 Operations Workshop Power Point Slides".  A Team Coordination Training (TCT) refresher course is required in 2008.  This material will be released at a later date. [Posted: 30 November 2007. Source: Nevin Lantry, BC-OEW]

Memo on Minimum Altitude for Flight Operations has been posted to the aviation site [Posted 20 Nov 2007.  Source: DVC-OA Bryon Moe]

Up Top in Operations Newsletter - OCTOBER 2007 Published The October issue includes: Maritime Domain Awareness Part 1, Personal Protective Equipment and You, Use Chart,  Visual Lookout, and Surface Operations [Posted: 10 November 2007. Source: Nevin Lantry, BC-OEW]

Updated regulations regarding Navigation Rules Examination currency requirements.  See NotesUpdates page for Navigation Rules Requirement -031/07 [Posted 09 Nov 2007 by DVC-OE]

Updated regulations on hypothermia protection from CHDIRAUX, effective immediately.  See NotesUpdates page for Hypothermia Devices - OPM Change -030/07. [Posted 06 Nov 2007 by DVC-OE]

Inflatable PFD Mysteries Exposed.  Stu Soffers, N-MS, has written a very informative tutorial on inflatable PFDs. This vital document is posted on the Boating Department website. http://auxbdept.org/pdf/InflatablePFDs.pdf  [Posted 05 Nov 2007 by DVC-OE excerpted from 04 Nov 2007 issue if eNEWS]

Notice: In all three Boat Crew Program Qualification Guides, a reference to a Study Guide was inadvertently left in. There are no study guides in any qualification guide. They were removed with the last revision and replaced with reading assignments for each section. We will remove the reference in the next edition. [Posted 15 Oct 2007.  Source: DC-O David Elliot]

OPERATIONS DEPARTMENT ORGANIZATION CHART JULY 2007 has been published and is linked under FROM THE BRIDGE as "Operations Dept  Organizational Chart" [Posted: 30July 2007. Source: Nevin Lantry, BC-OEW]

Up Top in Operations Newsletter - JUNE 2007 Published The June issue includes: What's in a Name, "Dusting Off" the NAVRULES, Lightning, The 2K Hour Pilot, Fire on Board, and Field Test of HF Communications [Posted: 29 July 2007. Source: Nevin Lantry, BC-OEW]

Up Top in Operations Newsletter - May 2007 Published The May issue includes: Personal Protective Equipment and You, Tips to Avoid Grounding, Airport Lights, Question for May, and Along Side Tow [Posted: 11 June 2007. Source: Nevin Lantry, BC-OEW]

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USCG Aux Shared Resources (SHARES) Program - In March of 2007, the Auxiliary National Executive Committee (NEXCOM) and the Office of the Chief Director of the Auxiliary (CG-3PCX) approved participation by CGAUX HF Stations in SHARES (SHAred RESources) which is a part of the National Communications System. For further information click on this link for the announcement memo from DVD-OT Bill Scholz. [Posted: 15 May 2007, by Bruce Pugh DVC-OE]

Up Top in Operations Newsletter - April 2007 Published The April issue includes: AUXMON,  Night Flying  (part 2), and DVC-OA quiz. [Posted: 2 May 2007. Source: Nevin Lantry, BC-OEW]

New FAQ (frequently asked questions) page has been added to the Operations Department site.  [Posted 23Apr2007, Source: Bruce Pugh DVC-OE]

Auxiliary Telecommunications HF Update - Another element has just been added to the Auxiliary Telecommunications HF program. Approved HF operators and stations may now qualify to participate in the SHARES network, the single interagency emergency message handling system. Additional details are available in the Auxiliary SHARES Network Program Policies document. Further details will be available from the DVC-OT, along with the special Auxiliary version of SHARES Form 1.  [Posted 09Apr2007, Source: David Elliot DC-O]

Up Top in Operations Newsletter - March 2007 Published The March issue includes: Night Flying  (part 1), Carbon Monoxide, Pre-Underway Checklist,  and DVC-QE Quiz.[Posted: 6 April 2007. Source: Nevin Lantry, BC-OEW]

Up Top in Operations Newsletter - February 2007 Published The February issue includes: How to Activate Your AN Plan, More Winter Safety Jobs, and Boat Crew Revisions FAQ. [Posted: 1 March 2007. Source: Nevin Lantry, BC-OEW]

Up Top in Operations Newsletter - January 2007 Published The January issue includes: Cautious Curiosity, Surface Operations, and Flight Safety News. [Posted: 19 FEB 2007. Source: Nevin Lantry, BC-OEW]

February 12, 2007 - An ALAUX memo from the Chief Director's office  regarding "Clarification of Incident Command System (ICS)Requirements for USCG Auxiliary Members -002/07" has just been posted.  Click on the link above for more details. [Posted 13 Feb 2006 by DVC-OE Bruce Pugh]

February 2007     -   SURFACE OPERATIONS POLICY EXAM

The Operations Policy Exam is now available and is required for all trainees working on their Coxswain or PWC Operator qualification. This exam must be successfully completed before the QE dockside oral exam and underway check ride can be performed.

The exam, a 30 question open book exam, covers surface operations policies located the Operations Policy Manual COMDTINST M16798.3 (series) and Chapter 4 of the Coast Guard Addendum to the United States National Search and Rescue Supplement (NSS) COMDTINST M16130.2 (series). A score of 90% is required to pass the exam.

The exam is available through the Auxiliary National Testing Center at:  http://cgexams.info/testing/

Upon completing the test, you will receive notice if you have either passed or not. If successful, your DIRAUX should get an electronic notification. Of course, it is always a good idea to print a copy of any electronic notice you receive in case the notice does not get to your DIRAUX for some reason and you will need that notice for your mentor to sign off on that task.

Note: The on-line exams require that you are running Internet Explorer 5.0 or newer, Netscape 6.1 or newer or an equivalent release of AOL's browser. It requires that you have JavaScript installed and enabled and that you have your cookies enabled.

This exam is also available in hard copy from the  Operations Training Officer (OTO) in your district if you prefer. [ 05 February 2007.  Source: Gary Taylor DVC-OS]

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January 2007 - Revised / New Forms.   Available on the National Forms Site, all Facility Inspection forms, Vessel (7003), Radio (7004), Aircraft (7005) and PWC (7008) have been revised to include facility availability questions. All previous editions are obsolete and may not be used. Also added to this group is a new Vehicle Offer for Use form, ANSC-7065. The ATON Verification form (7054), has been updated. The previous edition may not be used. The Membership Application form (7001), has been substantially updated to include all previously-attached forms in a single form. The previous edition may not be used. All of these forms are dated 1-07.  [03 JAN 2007.  Source: Bud Nusly, DVC-IF]

January 2007 - The Operations Department has released the documents and presentation for Team Coordination refresher training for 2007. This 2007 TCT Refresher Training session is MANDATORY for all Crew, Coxswains, & PWC Operators. The Refresher Training session is approximately 1 hour in length. Flotillas and Divisions should plan to present this program. Note - This session is designed to be given at the local level and a 'qualified' TCT Facilitator is NOT required. See the 2007 TCT Facilitator Guide and the optional 2007 TCT Participant Reference guide for more details. This session must be completed prior to December 31, 2007. [Posted 02 January 2007, updated 31 January 2007]

BOAT CREW QUALIFICATION GUIDES The three Qualification Guides (Crew Member, Coxswain, and PWC Operator) have been signed and are now available at http://cgauxsurfaceops.us/manuals.htm and on the CHDIRAUX Website. These manuals became effective 1 Jan 2007.
Previous versions of all three manuals are canceled and should not be use after 1 Jan 07.

Revised Auxiliary Boat Crew Training Manual Released

December 2006 - After almost 2 years of work, the Surface Ops Standardization Team (Stan Team) has completed the revisions to the Auxiliary Boat Crew Training Manual.

The revised Auxiliary Boat Crew Training Manual, COMDTINST M16794.51A has been signed and will become effective as of 01 January 2007.

The manual is being released now to give members as much time as possible to become familiar with the changes made to the Boat Crew Training Program.

Here is the link to the surface operations site: http://cgauxsurfaceops.us/ABCTM.htm

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January 2007 - *** Important *** - New EPIRB regulations, please get the word out to the public during PV, VE, and boating classes.  The monitoring of and support for 121.5/243 MHz EPIRBs is being phased out.  It is recommended that surface vessels stop using EPIRB 121.5/ 243 MHz devices effective December 31, 2006 and upgrade to the 406 MHz devices. Full shutdown of support for the 121.5/243 MHz will not happen until February 1, 2009.    See Press release for further details.

December  2006 - A presentation from our Telecommunications division on the Auxiliary HF Contingency Communications program is now available from our Telecoms home page.

ALAUX
Frm:    CHDIRAUX
Subj:   CLARIFICATION OF AUXILIARY ROLES IN HOMELAND SECURITY -002/06
1.      For your information:
R 192016Z JAN 06 ZUI ASN-A00019000035 ZYB
FM COMDT COGARD WASHINGTON DC//G-OCX//
TO ALCOAST
BT
UNCLAS //N03120//
ALCOAST 033/06
COMDTNOTE 3120
SUBJ: CLARIFICATION OF AUXILIARY ROLES IN HOMELAND SECURITY

A. MARITIME LAW ENFORCEMENT MANUAL, COMDTINST M16247.1D

B. AUXILIARY OPERATIONS POLICY MANUAL, COMDTINST M16798.3

C. COMDT COGARD WASHINGTON DC 011734Z APR 05

1. AUXILIARY INVOLVEMENT IN PORTS WATERWAYS AND COASTAL SECURITY MISSIONS (PWCS) AT THE OPERATIONAL COMMANDER LEVEL HAS BEEN VARIED AND WARRANTS CLARIFICATION. REQUIREMENTS SET FORTH IN REFERENCE A AND FOR OPERATION NEPTUNE SHIELD (ONS) STIPULATE THAT PATROLS AND MOST OTHER ACTIVITIES IN THIS MISSION AREA ARE CONSIDERED FEDERAL LAW ENFORCEMENT. EFFECTIVE IMMEDIATELY, DUE TO THE OBVIOUS INHERENT DANGER ASSOCIATED WITH THESE PATROLS AND THE LACK OF AUTHORITY FOR THE AUXILIARY TO ENGAGE IN DIRECT LAW ENFORCEMENT ACTIVITIES, NO AUXILIARY FACILITIES WILL BE USED FOR THE PWCS MISSION. HOWEVER, AUXILIARY PARTICIPATION IN CERTAIN SIMILAR NON-LE MISSION AREAS WILL CONTINUE AS DISCUSSED BELOW.
2. AUXILIARY FACILITIES MAY BE USED TO CONDUCT THE NEWLY RENAMED MARITIME OBSERVATION MISSION (MOM), FORMERLY DESCRIBED AS PWCS IN SECTION 4.A.8.B OF REF B. THIS IS A NON-LAW ENFORCEMENT MISSION
WHOSE PRIMARY PURPOSE IS TO PROVIDE INCREASED MARITIME DOMAIN AWARENESS BY OBSERVING AREAS OF INTEREST AND REPORTING FINDINGS TO THE OPERATIONAL COMMANDER WHILE MAINTAINING THE SAFETY OF AUXILIARY PERSONNEL. SHOULD AUXILIARISTS OBSERVE ANYTHING SUSPICIOUS DURING THE COURSE OF NORMAL MULTI-MISSION PATROLS, THEY SHOULD RECORD AND REPORT THE SAME IMMEDIATELY VIA MEANS OTHER THAN VHF IF FEASIBLE BUT TAKE NO ADDITIONAL ACTION.
3. ALTHOUGH MOM WILL INCREASE THE COAST GUARD OVERALL PWCS POSTURE, MOM HOURS CANNOT BE CREDITED ON THE ONS SCORECARD WITH THE EXCEPTION OF AVIATION HOURS. AUXILIARY SURFACE FACILITIES ARE UNARMED PLATFORMS THAT CANNOT BE UTILIZED TO CONDUCT ONS MISSIONS THAT SPECIFICALLY REQUIRE ARMED COAST GUARD PATROLS. BECAUSE AIRCRAFT CAN MAINTAIN A SAFE DISTANCE FROM POTENTIAL MARITIME THREATS IN THE VICINITY OF CRITICAL INFRASTRUCTURE AND UNARMED COAST GUARD AVIATION CAPABILITIES NORMALLY CONDUCT ONS MISSIONS, AUX AIR MAY BE UTILIZED FOR AN OPERATIONAL COMMANDER’S ONS SCORECARD WHILE CONDUCTING AERIAL OBSERVATION UNDER MOM.
4. UNDER NO CIRCUMSTANCES WILL AUXILIARY FACILITIES BE USED AS PICKET BOATS FOR SECURITY PURPOSES FOR CRITICAL INFRASTRUCTURE, VESSEL ESCORTS, OR NATIONAL SPECIAL SECURITY EVENTS. SURFACE FACILITIES ARE STILL AUTHORIZED AND ENCOURAGED FOR USE DURING REGATTAS, PARADES, AND PUBLIC EVENTS WHEN THE RISK OF AN AUXILIARIST ENCOUNTERING A MARITIME THREAT IS NO GREATER THAN THAT TO THE BOATING PUBLIC.
5. AUXILIARISTS MAY SUPPORT MARINE SAFETY COMPLIANCE VISITS AND/OR SPOT CHECKS TO SHORESIDE MARINE FACILITIES OR SUPPORT OTHER MISSIONS FOR WHICH THEY ARE QUALIFIED.  HOWEVER, COMPLIANCE VISITS MUST NOT BE CONFUSED WITH LAW ENFORCEMENT ASHORE AT FACILITIES WHICH IS ONLY TO BE CONDUCTED BY ARMED ACTIVE DUTY MEMBERS.
6. THE AUXILIARY MARITIME OBSERVATION MISSION IS IN ACCORDANCE WITH ALL COAST GUARD MANUALS AND DIRECTIVES AND WILL BE REFLECTED IN THE NEXT CHANGE TO REFERENCE B. OPERATIONAL COMMANDERS ARE OBLIGATED TO ENSURE THEIR ASSIGNED AUXILIARY RESOURCES ARE PROPERLY TRAINED, EQUIPPED AND MAINTAINED FOR ANY AUTHORIZED MISSION. A CAREFUL ASSESSMENT MUST BE MADE OF AUXILIARY CREW AND EQUIPMENT CAPABILITIES AGAINST THE OPERATIONAL SCENARIO WHEN DETERMINING WHETHER AND HOW TO EXECUTE A GIVEN MISSION. OPERATIONAL COMMANDERS AND AUXILIARISTS SHALL UNIFORMLY AND CONSISTENTLY APPLY PROPER RISK ASSESSMENT PROCEDURES PRIOR TO AND DURING ALL OPERATIONS.
7. THE COAST GUARD AUXILIARY CONTINUES TO BE A FORCE MULTIPLIER FOR COAST GUARD OPERATIONAL COMMANDERS IN MANY MISSION AREAS. COMMANDERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO USE AUXILIARY ASSETS AND PERSONNEL TO FULFILL NON LAW ENFORCEMENT DUTIES IN THEIR RESPECTIVE AORS.
8. POC IS LCDR KATHRYN DUNBAR (G-OCX-2) AT 202-267-1002.
9. INTERNET RELEASE AUTHORIZED.
10. RDML C.E.BONE, DIRECTOR OF INSPECTIONS AND COMPLIANCE SENDS.
BT
NNNN 

Up Top in Operations Newsletter - November 2006 Published The November issue includes: New Division Chief Appointed, Secret Resources, Off-Season Fitness, Crew Members Should be "critical". [Posted: 23 DEC 2006. Source: Nevin Lantry, BC-OEW]

Updated Operations department Job Descriptions and Organization Chart for 2007 posted.  [Posted 17 November 2007]

Up Top in Operations Newsletter - October 2006 Published The October Issue  includes: Not "Business as Usual" for CG Auxiliary Telecommunications, Jammer Sentenced, and  Making The Switch to Ethanol Based (E10) fuel.  [Posted October 31, 2006]

Up Top In Operations Newsletter- September 2006 Published.  The September  2006 issue includes: OPFAC Readiness, Inflatable Personal Flotation Devices, Lightning Protection and Operations Team at NACON.   [Posted October 3, 2006, source Linda A. Nelson, DC-O]

POMS Concerns.  Your primary POMS contact for access, education and problem
 determination is your local POMS Administration Team. Your POMS  Administration Team can be identified through your Operations Chain of  Administration.  The source of this information is  Gary Taylor <gtaylor@alaska.net> [Posted 14 September 2006 by Nevin L Lantry BC-OEW]

Amateur Radio Special Event Commemorating the U.S. Coast Guard  Auxiliary Anniversary and the ISAR Competition 2006. Special Event Amateur Radio Stations all across the U.S. will operate on Saturday October 28, 2006 to commemorate the Anniversary of the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary and ISAR 2006.  All amateurs are invited to operate Special Event Radio stations on High Frequency (HF) all across the nation.  Amateur Radio stations will be operating “On the Air” all day contacting the International Search and Rescue Radio station and other U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary stations from coast to coast.  All official Special Event Radio Stations will be given Commemorative QSL’s. Last year over 25 USCG Aux. Special Event Stations contacted thousands of other amateurs and USCG Auxiliary members to commemorate the USCG Auxiliary anniversary and support ISAR. If you are interested in becoming an Official Special Event Radio Station, contact Dan Amoroso BA-OTU at nnn0abp@navymars.org. [Posted 16 June 2006. Source Nevin Lantry BC-OEW]

The Auxiliary Air Observer Initial Qualification Syllabus (AV-06-1)  for initial examination of Auxiliary Air Observer candidates has been released for use. Click here to view or download it.  This syllabus is a requirement for qualification as an Air Observer or to enter the Aviation Program.  [Posted 18 May 2006.  Source David A Elliot, DC-Od]

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 IS (ICS) 100 and 700 Courses Available in Paper  Consolidated coursework for IS 100 and IS 700 are available in paper via the MA officer at ANSC for single member distribution.  The packet contains the course summary and test for each course.  Members using this material will still need to go online or work through a local procedure to submit answers at the FEMA web site and receive course credit.  [Posted 18 May 2006.  Source G-PCX LCDR Dunbar]

IS (ICS) Courses Available on CD-ROM  Would you like a CD with all of the coursework (and then some!) for ICS?  The CD’s are available for you…all you need to do is ask!   A CD can be obtained via the ANSC.  This CD contains student courses and tests for IS 100, 200, 700 and 800 as well as instructor courses for 100 and 700. Additionally, there is a history of the ICS system and the graph with deadlines for completing the courses.  E-mail links for taking the courses online are also provided.  The ANSC information for ordering is ANSC# 2009 - CD-ROM, INCIDENT COMMAND SYSTEM (ICS) - Coast Guard and Coast Guard Auxiliary NIMS/NRP/ICS Training.  (MAX 1)   (REV. 03/2006).  These can be obtained via your flotilla Materials Officer shortly.

Unfortunately, FEMA no longer provides CD’s of the Incident Command and National Response Plan coursework.  However, they are available from the FEMA website for download.  The URL is: http://www.training.fema.gov/EMIWeb/IS/crslist.asp   [Posted 5 April 2006.  Source G-PCX LCDR Dunbar

 

Up Top In Operations Newsletter- August 2006 Published.  The August 2006 issue includes Best Practices, OPSEC and COMSEC, PWOIT What's That, and Sinking. [Posted September 9, 2006, source Linda A. Nelson, DC-O]

Up Top In Operations Newsletter - January 2006 issue published  The January 2006 issue includes articles on the announcement of the new Auxiliary aviation training manual, one stop shopping for weather information, and terms all pilots should know.  [Posted 16 January 2006.  Source Linda A Nelson, DC-O]

Contingency Planning Presentation The Auxiliary Contingency Planning Pyramid, a presentation delivered at N-Train 2006, is available for download and use by Auxiliary units. The PowerPoint Show and Notes (in Adobe Acrobat) are available here at    Planning The Contingency Pyramid 2.06  and Contingency Planning 2006 Final.  (Right click here to download this file in .PPT slide presentation).

Frequently Asked Questions on ICS An information  FAQ on ICS, with frequently asked questions about the requirements for training in the Incident Command System (ICS) is available for download at FAQ on ICS.  Please note that the completion dates reflected in this document are based on discussions held with G-RPP-1, ICS/NIMS project team leaders and G-PCX.  These dates should be reflected in a future ALCOAST from CG Headquarters.

Posted 7 May, 2006, Source Linda A. Nelson DC-O].

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2006 Operations Workshop now available (click here) or at the side of this page to download the slides in PowerPoint, the slides in PDF format and the Facilitator Guide in PDF format.  The workshop is not mandatory unless an Auxiliary District makes it so but hopefully will be given in all Districts because of the TCT and MDA values as well as pure operations refresher.  [Posted 4 January 2006.  Source Linda A. Nelson, DC-O]

Up Top In Operations Newsletter - December issue published  The December issue includes articles on  the appointment of Eric Glasscott as the new DVC-OT for telecommunications, From the Boss, Bridges Part III, Links, and Electric Boat Lifters. [Posted 30 December 2005.  Source Linda A. Nelson, DC-O]

New edition of  the Auxiliary Aviation Training Manual now available from the Chief Director’s web site.  It is a very long download but click on  http://www.uscg.mil/hq/cg3/cg3pcx/publications/comdtinst/M16798.5B.pdf This new Manual represents a major revision of the previous Coast Guard Auxiliary Air Operations Training Text which dates back to 1993.  Due to the extensive changes, units and individuals are encouraged to conduct a thorough review of the new  Manual.   [Posted 14 December 2005. Source Robert T. Shafer,  DVC-OA]

WE ALL HAVE A HAND IN SAFETY - A recent mishap on a cutter highlights an important lesson for all of us who participate in surface operations. In this case, while the member was crossing between two cutters, he grabbed a life ring support. Unfortunately, his wedding ring caught on the support bracket as he swung down, causing his finger to be severed.

CG policy is that no jewelry (including wedding rings, watches, earringsor qualification devices...like a coxswain device) be worn while underway. This unfortunate incident points out why the policy is in place. This policy must be strictly enforced during underway operations.

We are all a part of the solution. We all have a hand in ensuring safe operations. Let's remain vigilant to the little things that may spell disability or worse for a shipmate. Little things like a wedding ring...[Posted 30 November 2005.  Source Linda A Nelson, DC-O]

UNCLAS FOUO //N05100//
SUBJ: MISHAP, VESSEL, CLASS C, WPB82/87, INJURY, AMPUTATION
//////////////////////////////////////////////////////////
WHAT FOLLOWS MAY CONTAIN PRIVILEGED SAFETY INFORMATION.
USE FOR MISHAP PREVENTION PURPOSES ONLY.
//////////////////////////////////////////////////////////
1. UNIT: CGC , REPORT NUMBER:
2. TYPE OF BOAT: N/A
3. MISHAP DESCRIPTION: SEVERED LEFT RING FINGER
4. MISSION AT TIME OF MISHAP: PORT SAFETY AND SECURITY
5. MISHAP RELATED TO UNITS OPERATIONAL MISSION: YES
6. DATE:
7. REQUIRED PPE WORN PROPERLY: N/A
8. COXSWAIN DATA: N/A
9. NARRATIVE: CGC WAS TIED OUTBOARD CGC . MEMBER WAS CROSSING BETWEEN CUTTERS.  HE GRABBED HOLD OF A LIFE RAFT SUPPORT BRACKET AND SWUNG DOWN TO THE DECK OF THE CGC . BM1 'S WEDDING RING CAUGHT ON THE SUPORT BRACKET AS HE JUMPED TO THE DECK AND ABRUPTLY SEVERED HIS FINGER AT THE SECOND KNUCKLE.
10. CAUSE: JUDGMENT
11. ADDITIONAL CAUSE: N/A
12. ACTION: REMINDED ALL HANDS OF THE HAZARDS OF WEARING JEWELRY
ONBOARD THE CUTTER. ENSURED ALL HANDS REMOVED ANY JEWELRY. CONDUCTED A SAFETY STAND-DOWN ON 16 NOV 05.
13. PERSONAL INJURY DATA: NUMBER OF INJURIES: 1
      A. FIRST INJURY
          1. GRADE: E-6
          2. RATE: BM
          3. STATUS: ON DUTY RESERVE
          4. PRIMARY INJURY: FINGER, NATURE OF INJURY: AMPUTATION
          5. SECONDARY INJURY: NA, NATURE OF INJURY: N/A
          6. SEVERITY: LOST WORK
          7. PPE USED: N/A
          8. PPE REQUIRED: N/A
          9. DAYS HOSPITALIZED: 2
          10. DAYS LOST WORK (NFFD/SIQ): 3
          11. DAYS RESTRICTED (FFLD): 0
         
14. PROPERTY DAMAGE: N/A.
15. INVESTIGATOR NAME:
16. FIRST LEVEL REVIEW/COMMENTS: MEMBER WAS RECENTLY MARRIED AND UNFAMILIAR WITH WEARING OF RINGS AND RELATED HAZARDS ONBOARD CUTTER. WAS MOORED OUTBOARD ANOTHER CUTTER. MEMBER WAS TRANSITING FROM ONE CUTTER TO THE OTHER, WHICH IS NOT A NORMAL PRACTICE. THE DECKS OF THE TWO CUTTERS WERE AT DIFFERENT HEIGHTS. THIS CAUSED THE CREW MEMBER TO JUMP DOWN ON THE OTHER VESSEL WHEN DEPARTING .
17. FIRST LEVEL REVIEWER:
18. COMMAND REVIEW/COMMENTS: HAS A STRICT REQUIREMENT ABOUT CREW MEMBERS REMOVING ANY JEWELRY PRIOR TO THE CUTTER LEAVING THE DOCK. BM1 WAS RECENTLY WED AND, ALTHOUGH FAMILIAR WITH THE UNIT'S POLICY, HAD FORGOTTEN TO KEEP HIS RING OFF WHEN WAS MOORED AT. . SEVERAL CREW MEMBERS DEPARTED THE CUTTER IN A SIMILAR MANNER PRIOR TO THIS MISHAP. A SAFETY STAND-DOWN WAS HELD ON BOARD ON 16 NOVEMBER AND TRAINING WAS CONDUCTED ON USING RISK ASSESSMENT PRINCIPLES IN THEIR DAILY LIVES. THIS RECENT INCIDENT WAS EXTENSIVELY REVIEWED AND PREVENTATIVE INPUT SOUGHT FROM ALL HANDS. APPRECIATES ALL THE SUPPORT RECEIVED FROM GROUP MEDICAL AND DUTY SECTION.
19. COMMAND REVIEWER:
BT
NNNN

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New Surface Operations Information At CHDIRAUX - The Chief Director's Office has developed a Surface Operations web site linked from the Chief Director's site that has an array of information regarding surface operations (Policy Changes/Updates, SAMA FAQs, POMS, PQS, Training Topics, etc.), with more to come. This web site can be reached at: http://cgauxsurfaceops.us/ [Posted 30 November 2005.  Source DVC-OS]

Up Top in Operations Newsletter - November issue published
 The November issue features articles on Precise Navigation and Flexibility, Managing a Bridge Program, Part II, the MDA checklist and comments from the Chief of the Operations Department. [Posted 30 November 2005.  Source Linda A. Nelson, DC-O]..

Operations Newsletter - October issue published  The October issue features articles on Radio Day Celebrating ISAR and the Auxiliary's 66th Anniversary, Managing a Bridge Program, Part I, and Fire Extinguisher Use.  [Posted 21 October 2005.  Source Linda A. Nelson, DC-O].

MDA Operations Checklist for use in all operations has been posted on this web site.  [Posted 19 October 2005.  Source Linda A. Nelson, DC-O]

Up Top In Operations Newsletter - September issue published  The September issue features articles from the outgoing and incoming Surface Department Chiefs, Awards to David A. Elliot and Robert T. Shafer,  Tips for Planning for the Next Emergency, NIIMS/ICS course information, and CG Applauds AUXAIR.  [Posted 1 October 2005.  Source Linda A Nelson, DC-O]

Up Top In Operations Newsletter- August issue published The August issue features an update on Chart Updating from NOAA and a feature on Auxiliary Operations at the annual Experimental Aircraft Fly-In at Oshkosh, WI.

Calling All Radio Operators:  Announcing  a U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary Amateur Radio Special Event – Special Event Amateur Radio Stations across the U.S. will be on the air on Saturday, October 1, 2005 to commemorate the 66th Anniversary of the U. S. Coast Guard Auxiliary and the Joint U.S. Canadian Search and Rescue Competition (ISAR 2005).  Click here for more information. [Posted 14 September 2005.  Source David A. Elliot, DC-Od]

NACO Gene M. Seibert has written an appeal to all C. G. Auxiliary members requesting that we "strongly consider providing assistance for our members and other Coast Guard family members at this time of need [Hurricane Katrina]" .......through Operation Life Ring. Click on this link to learn how to offer assistance. [Posted 7 September 2005.  Source Linda A. Nelson, DC-O][Life Ring lnk updated 12/2006]

The following websites have been established to provide information on hurricane Katrina relief efforts:

     A. For hurricane KATRINA search and rescue - In order to assist the
     United States Coast Guard in hurricane KATRINA search and rescue efforts,
     submit a missing/stranded person request at: http://homeport.uscg.mil/


     B. For hurricane KATRINA media - For news about hurricane KATRINA
     visit:http://www.uscgstormwatch.com/

 
     C. The hurricane KATRINA official government website for public
     information on finding loved ones, what to do if you are a victim, how to
     help victims, or disaster cleanup and agency resources, visit:
http://www.firstgov.gov/Citizen/Topics/PublicSafety/Hurricane_Katrina_Recovery.s html [Posted 6 September 2005.  Source Linda A Nelson, DC-O]

    

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Up Top In Operations Newsletter- July issue published The July issue features an announcement for POMS training at NACON 2005  and a review of considerations for multi-mission air patrols as well as weight and balance necessities for safe flight.  It is available on the O-Department (this) website. [Posted 8 August 2005.  Source Linda A. Nelson, DC-O]

CG AUXILIARY OPERATIONS POLICY MANUAL:  By this time, all qualified members of the operations and marine safety community should have received a CD with the Auxiliary Operations Policy Manual (OPSPOLMAN).  If you did not receive a CD or if you have members training for qualification, a copy of the CD can be obtained through your Materials Officer from the Auxiliary National Supply Center (ANSC).  Members who require a printed copy of the Auxiliary OPSPOLMAN can request one via the Materials Officer as well.  The printed copy of the OPSPOLMAN is a single issue document and a valid EMPLID is required for distribution. [Posted 1 August 2005.  Source Linda A. Nelson, DC-O]

Heat and Hydration -- For information on your place in the sun and protection from heat and dehydration, read Heat and Hydration [Note the link to Heat and Hydration from the July 2005 Whats New on the national Auxiliary site is no longer functioning 12/2006].  Extreme heat conditions are impacting large areas of the country, and there is an increased potential for heat related illnesses and dehydration.  You may believe that you can tolerate heat.  However, when the weather is so warm and the heat index rises to levels as high as they have been  recently (which are expected to continue), you should take measures to avoid the heat and compensate for increased fluid loss.

 Dehydration can occur insidiously.  When you realize you are thirsty, you are already behind in your drinking and becoming dehydrated.  It may be hard to catch up on your fluids that same day.  So think ahead, avoid the heat if possible, and stay hydrated.
[Posted: 28 July 2005.  Source: National Website and Richard C. Lavy, M.D., Assistant Director, Coast Guard Support - Health and Safety (N-CGS-k)]

ActionMDA  - SpringSummer 2005 Issue Published  The Operations Department has published the Spring-Summer issue featuring information on the dependence of effective MDA on effective communication relative to  Security Services receipt of information related to recent efforts to penetrate medical and other public services

Operations Policy Manual Published and Distributed  The recently published Operations Policy Manual has now been published in both CD-ROM and printed format.  It is available to members by request through the Materials Officer from ANSC.

Up Top in Operations Newsletter -June Issue Published The June issue features an article by David Elliot, DC-Od on genesis of the new Operations Policy Manual.  It also provides tips for crew taking care of themselves during hot weather patrols. 

ActionMDA Newsletter Published  The Operations Department has published ActionMDA -Winter '05 containing an Auxiliary White Paper on Marine Domain Awareness, plus info on Airport Security.
[Posted: 13 March 2005. Source: Nevin Lantry, BC-OEW]
 

The 2005 Operations Workshop is here! -- This year, we feature Operational Security and talk about the issues involved with various threats to our homeland. The "Sea Story", designed to focus on the skills of Team Coordination Training, follows a crew on a regatta patrol for a fireworks display. Download the four files: 2005 AUX WS COMDTNOTE (Adobe Acrobat® 101 KB), 2005 Operations Workshop Facilitator Tips (Adobe Acrobat® 164 KB), 2005 Operations Workshop Guide (Adobe Acrobat® 1 MB) and 2005 Operations Workshop Slides (Adobe Acrobat® 1 MB). The slide presentation is also available as a PowerPoint Show® (943 KB) 2005 Operations Workshop Show.
[Posted: 30 March 2005. Source: Linda A. Nelson, DC-O]
 

 Securing our Future - The Role of Operational Security -- In today’s world of instant information sharing through web sites and email, there are some basic security issues that deserve a few minutes of our time. Although we want to encourage the use of new technologies, we must be careful that we are not distributing sensitive operational information to the wrong people. So how do we improve the security of this information, while still using technology to the fullest? Click here (Adobe Acrobat™ format, 99KB) for a few ideas.
[Posted: 1 January 2005. Source: James M. McCarty, BC-OEI]

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