2010 Missouri Safe Boating Week -

Jay Nixon, Governor of the State of Missouri, has proclaimed May 22 – 28, 2010 as Safe Boating Week.  In a proclamation signed on March 19, 2010, the Governor urged boaters to practice safe boating habits and remember the slogan, “Boat Smart. Boat Safe. Wear It,” which reminds all Missourians of the importance of wearing a life jacket when boating.  The Coast Guard Auxiliary joins with the Governor in encouraging the residents of the state of Missouri to engage in safe boating practices.  Click here for a link to this proclamation:

Boating Safety Class Schedule

By Law - Beginning January 1, 2005, every person born after January 1, 1984, who operates a vessel on Missouri lakes shall possess, on the vessel, a boating safety identification card issued by the Missouri State Water Patrol along with a valid photo I.D

What is the Coast Guard Auxiliary?

The Coast Guard Auxiliary was authorized by Congress on June 23, 1939. This act authorized the Coast Guard to use civilian volunteers to promote boating safety on the nation's waterways. During World War II, many Auxiliarists joined the war effort in either active duty branches of the service, or as members of the Temporary Reserve. These Reservists watched waterfronts, performed coastal patrols and rescued survivors from sinking ships.

On October 19, 1996 Congress greatly increased the responsibilities and training of the Auxiliary. The intent of Congress was to expand the ability of the Coast Guard to utilize the Coast Guard Auxiliary for missions not contemplated in 1939. The Coast Guard Authorization Act increased the scope of the Auxiliaries' duties to include any role, mission, or operation that the Commandant of the Coast Guard might envision. Thus, the Auxiliary, traditionally known for its Boating Safely Classes and Vessel Safety Checks, will have greatly increased responsibilities. Currently, the Auxiliary has 35,000 members in all 50 states.
 

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