The Coast Guard Auxiliary created the Operational Auxiliarist Program (AUXOP) to produce more variety in its members’ specialized skills as well as to help the Coast Guard establish a ready supply of personnel highly trained across a range of skill sets. To complete the program Auxiliarists must compile seven credits by completing courses in three categories: Core, Leadership, and Elective. To encourage Auxiliarists during this process, the Auxiliary Specialty Ribbon is awarded to members who have earned a credit toward completion of the AUXOP and the right to wear the AUXOP Device.
The three core courses—Weather, Seamanship, and Communications—are required and form a firm foundation for all Auxiliary operational tasks. Auxiliarists may choose from one of five Leadership Courses to add another credit to their record, and for another three necessary to earn the AUXOP device they can choose from a broad array of electives; some are worth two credits, while others worth one credit have associated Personnel Qualification Standards that also provide one credit.
The Auxiliary Specialty Ribbon is presented to Auxiliarists who have completed their first AUXOP course. With the completion of each additional course, bronze or silver stars are added for each credit they have accrued (silver stars are worn instead of five bronze stars). Upon completion of all mandated AUXOP requirements, the Auxiliarist is entitled to wear the AUXOP Device and the Specialty Ribbon is no longer authorized for wear.