Flotilla 31, Richmond Virginia
3rd Division, 5th CG District, Southern Region
U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary Flotilla 31 is located in Richmond, Virginia and is the oldest flotilla in the nation. This is an all volunteer civilian organization serving the needs of the boating public in the areas of public education, vessel safety inspections, and on the water patrols.
The United States Coast Guard Auxiliary was established by Congress in June, 1939, to assist the Coast Guard in promoting boating safety. It is composed of nearly 35,000 members from all walks of life who are drawn together by their love of the water and a willingness to serve other boaters. Its members receive special training so that they may be a functional part of Team Coast Guard.
Auxiliarists assist the Coast Guard in non-law-enforcement programs such as public education, safety patrols, search and rescue, marine environmental protection, and Coast Guard Academy introduction programs for youth. Auxiliary members volunteer approximately two million hours annually to benefit other boaters and their families.