Welcome to Flotilla 1808, Marlton, New Jersey!

So, what's in it for you?

Plenty, if you are ready to make the effort.

We offer amazing training opportunities, fellowship, terrific activities and a unique way to serve the United States Coast Guard and the boating public!

Who we are and what we stand for

As the uniformed, volunteer component of the United States Coast Guard we are Semper Paratus, “always ready” to serve the boating public and the Coast Guard on a surpisingly wide range of missions.

Meetings

We normally meet on the second Thursday of each month at the Gibson House, 535 East Main Street, Evesham, (Marlton) NJ. Fellowship begins at 1830; meeting begins at 1900 hrs. In the summer our meeting may involve a pool party and barbecue. At holiday time, we’ll enjoy dinner celebration at a popular restaurant.

Uniforms

Look Sharp! The Coast Guard and the Public are watching! Our uniforms are almost identical to those worn by our regular “Gold Side” colleagues. In fact, the gold is one of the only differences! Our stripes are silver and regular Coast Guard is gold. Yes, we do have to pay for our uniforms, but there are several ways to acquire them for very little cost. You can also defray part of your expenditures with the Flotilla MIP program. Learn more about “lucky bag” and the Uniform Distribution Center (UDC). 

Staff Officers and Members

We do not have actual rank but you can hold appointed or elected office. Check "Flotilla Staff Officer Positions" below.

Website and Social Media

We have a very good website that needs continual updating. However, websites are no longer the preferred by the majority of our potential members and the public at large. It is imperative that we develop a robust Facebook page and Twitter feed. While Steve Preller manages some web content, the Flotilla needs more help in this area. Now's your chance to make an immediate impact!

Everything You Need To Know (almost)

As a new member, one of the best sources of info is the New Member Reference Guide.

Here’s a great general meeting place that you might want to make your home page!   Use your member number and password to log into the dashboard. http://www.cgaux.org/  

Everything You Need to Learn (almost)

With a vast array of available courses you are certain to find one or more areas of interest to specialize in. You can also pursue the highly respected AUXOP classification. You'll need your member number to log in to Check out AUXOP here.

Everbridge

Help us keep up with you! Every month you should receive a message via email, phone and possibly text, from "Everbridge" an automated system designed to help the Auxiliary maintain our manpower strength. It's important for you to respond.

Flotilla Staff Officer (FSO) Job Descriptions

There are many ways you can qualify to contribute to the Flotilla. Check this list of job descriptions.

Flotilla Calling Tree

Don't call us, we'll call you! There have been times when the Coast Guard or Auxiliary has called on us for help. For example, additional patrols were requested for the Democratic National Convention and the visit to Philly by the Pope.

Flotilla activities

Library

Last year we donated a dozen books to the Evesham Library. It was well appreciated by the library and wonderful Public Relations for us. Should we do the same this year? How about other libraries in our area?

COW

Have a COW, man! It's our annual Change of Watch, where we swear in new Flotilla Officers, have a short meeting and a long, enjoyable lunch! Members and significant others are always invited.

Public Education

Those who can, do. We also teach! Public education is one of our primary missions and our Flotilla teaches many boating safety classes each year, helping the boating public earn their New Jersey Boating Safety Certificate. Why not become an instructor? Find out how from our FSO-MT.

Our Flotilla is a leader in public education. Each year we teach numerous boating safety courses and well over 150 boaters receive “basic training” to become safe boaters. We also reach out to the boating public in local media.

Patrols

When you become Patrol qualified, you may find yourself assisting the Coast Guard on the Delaware River, doing towing and Search and Rescue drills and even be underneath an air show at Atlantic City. Our Member Training Officer Joe Mariano can set you up for training and our Paul Whitman, Sr., our Operations Officer will make sure you have all the necessary equipment.

Communications

Did you know the Auxiliary stands ready to provide back-up communications for the Coast Guard? Currently, fellow members Tom Gorman and Mike Slepian are AUXCOM qualified and take advantage of their HAM Radio skills to participate in on-air training, operating on military frequencies. (image) They would be happy to tell you how you can get involved.

Recruitment

New members are always welcome! After all, you’re here! We’ve run newspaper advertising, (link) created signage, (Image) we attend public events, and make presentations to various organizations. Your ideas and energy will certainly help.

Media Releases

In addition to boating safety classes and other normal Flotilla activities, we are always looking for new ideas for media stories. Our Flotilla has developed a basic course to get you started on a Public Affairs position. Formal courses are also available.

Seem like a lot to remember? This is just the beginning! But we’re all here to help. In fact, here’s a link to a “Passport to Success” that will guide you along your way. (link to passport) Think of it as a handy check-off list of things to do now and as you progress in the Auxiliary.

Find the topics that interest you. Seek out the training you’ll need and you’ll be underway!