The Coast Guard Auxiliary’s Operations Program (OP) ribbon is awarded to Auxiliarists who have achieved qualification in a variety of operations. Its yellow and gray color scheme is highly reminiscent of the now-obsolete Air Observer ribbon, one of the decorations it replaced.
The OP ribbon is authorized for wear by Auxiliarists who have qualified as Auxiliary Air or Boat Crew Members, Aid to Navigation Verifiers, Interpreters (Level A), and Telecommunications Operators (or AUXCOM if qualified before August 1, 2008). Members who have achieved Coast Guard qualification as Boat Crewmen, Boat Engineers, or Coast Guard Watchstanders are also authorized to wear the ribbon.
The Auxiliary Manual (COMDTINST M16790.1G) makes a distinction between Watchstanders and Auxiliary Watchstanders; Auxiliary members who have been designated by the Director as Auxiliary Watchstanders per District requirements are allowed to wear the OP ribbon. The Manual also lists a host of other specialty Operational Programs in which Auxiliarists may train, but it is unclear if earning these qualifications makes the Auxiliarist eligible for the OP ribbon.
Auxiliarists who are currently appointed (or have been appointed) as Qualification Examiners or Flight Examiners are authorized to wear the “E” device on the OP ribbon. There is no miniature “E” device for wear on the suspension ribbon of miniature medals.