Frequently Asked Questions

Q. I am a Coxswain and own a vessel, may I take non-operationally qualified members who want to do ATON work on patrol with me?

• As long as the OPFAC has an authorized crew other than the ATON guest(s), it is OK to bring them along.  They must have submitted security papers and completed the FEMA tests like every other Operational member.

• They must be reported on the POMS report by the Coxswain.

• If they are not a trainee in the Boat Crew Program, they cannot perform any Boat Crew activity while aboard. So it is better to have completed a single boat crew task, which can be accomplished very quickly before getting underway.

• They will receive credit for underway time by the Coxswain's POMs report so they should only report 15 minutes for their time on the ANSC 7030 reports that they submit.

• Liability is resolved when they are listed aboard by the Coxswain on the POMs report.  They must be listed on the crew report that is sent to the station before getting underway.

Q.  Where do I send my reports?

• PATON (Private) reports are completed online, go here for the PATON database and submit your changes. 
  Note:  The PATON program is the only ATON program that requires a qualification for participation.
• ATON (Federal) reports are sent to you local ANT team.
• Bridge reports are completed online, go here for the Bridge database and submit your changes.
• Small Craft Facility and Chart Updates are mailed directly to Steve Wagner, DSO-NS

Q. I have supporting pictures for an update, what do I do with them?

• Name the photo's with a descriptive file name (Position Locator Number, Bridge Number, etc...) and email them to Steve Wagner, DSO-NS

Q. I'm qualified as an AV, is there a ribbon for the qualification?

• Chapter 11 in the Auxiliary Manual A.13.a. Operations Program
  
  This ribbon recognizes qualifications in the various operations program areas. Auxiliarists who qualify as an Auxiliary crew member, air observer, AtoN verifier, Coast Guard watchstander, Coast Guard boat crewman, or Coast Guard boat engineer may wear the Operations Program Ribbon. Watchstanders and boat engineers are defined as Auxiliarists who have been designated in writing by a Coast Guard unit, or the Director, as qualified in that position. Auxiliarists show multiple qualifications by adding 3/16-inch bronze or silver stars. The “E” device is authorized to be worn on the Auxiliary Operations Program ribbon by Auxiliarists who are currently appointed, or have been appointed, as a QE . No miniature “E”
  device for miniature medals is authorized.   
• 

Q. What do I need to do to remain qualified?

• Submit two PATON or Bridge Verifications or Discrepancies in a calendar year and have your work recorded in the Bridge or PATON system AND in Auxdata2.