At the Hernando County Board of County Commissioners meeting on May 14, the Hernando Beach Coast Guard Auxiliary – Flotilla 15-8 was honored for its five decades of community service. Colonel Ron Lopez and several members of the Auxiliary were present to accept the recognition. The Coast Guard is committed to continuing to serve Hernando County.
The U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary, an all-volunteer branch of the U.S. Coast Guard established by Congress in 1939, boasts over 32,000 members across the U.S. and territories. These volunteers play a crucial role in supporting the Coast Guard in various non-military and non-law enforcement missions, including safety patrols, search and rescue operations, and boating safety education, thereby ensuring the safety of our waters and communities.
Auxiliarists play a crucial role in promoting recreational boating safety and undertake a diverse range of responsibilities, such as vessel inspectors, communications watchstanders, and environmental protection agents. Collectively, they volunteer an impressive over 4.5 million hours annually and conduct nearly 500,000 missions, offering a wide array of opportunities for those interested in serving their community.
Membership in the Auxiliary is open to individuals 17 and older, with the organization divided into 16 districts, 171 divisions, and approximately 980 flotillas nationwide.
