18 Proceedings Spring 2025 fixing a computer-based watering system for hydro- ponic gardening technology aboard the CGC Polar Star to providing videography and editing services for a video showcasing oil spill response research at the Joint Maritime Test Facility in Mobile, Alabama. The auxiliarist documented the experimental design and setup process, safety processes, execution, oil residue collection and analysis, and cleanup, interviewing technical experts, senior RDC personnel, and Great Lakes-area stakehold- ers to create a robust record of the work. Perhaps the most significant collaboration between the RDC Auxiliary Unit and the RDC was the develop- ment of a computer application to streamline the process of verifying and reporting on private aids to navigation (PATON). The Coast Guard administers 41,000 PATON nationwide, and that number is expected to increase as the Marine Transportation System continues to evolve. PATON use has expanded to include restricting space launch zones and marking offshore wind turbines. Consequently, auxiliarists in South Florida developed and implemented a new PATON inspection and verifi- cation application in their district, the Aid Verification Assistant (AVA). AVA is a mobile app created by a District 7 Auxiliary member to streamline the collection of pri- vate aid to navigation information. The app simplifies a formerly complex process, previously managed with handwritten notes or Excel spreadsheets, into an intui- tive, user-friendly series of tasks. In short, the application automates multiple steps in the reporting process and eliminates paper documentation. The use of new tools like AVA and a streamlined PATON reporting process will allow Coast Guard and Auxiliary users to more efficiently use limited resources to address current and future waterways demands and challenges. The RDC project report, part of the AVA development program, also summarizes findings on current reporting processes used nationwide and over- all improvements the Coast Guard could make to further modernize the PATON mission. This PATON inspection application project marks the first start-to-finish collabo- ration between the Auxiliary and the RDC to develop and roll out new state of the art technology. In each of these cases, the Auxiliary has pro- vided specialized skills and experience that have enhanced the RDC’s research and mission execution. RDC Commanding Officer CAPT Michael Chien has praised the impact of the Auxiliary on Coast Guard research, noting that “the words ‘force multiplier’ do not even begin to convey what the Auxiliary has done for the RDC. We’re beyond grateful to them and their amazing skill sets which we use in every single one of our branches.” The impact of the Auxiliary on the RDC’s work can be measured in many ways. However, the greatest testa- ment to this collaboration’s success is the national-level Commodore Viggo C. Bertelsen Jr. and Vice Admiral John P. Currier Auxiliary Integration Award. The close bond between the RDC and the Auxiliary is a testament to the importance of effective commu- nication in successful partnerships. As Coast Guard Commandant ADM Linda L. Fagan said, “Tomorrow looks different. So will we.” The RDC-Auxiliary partnership is a shining exam- ple of the power of collaboration that will ensure the Coast Guard remains ready, relevant, and responsive in a dynamic and ever-changing world. About the author: Auxiliarist Bruce Buckley is a 20-year member of the Coast Guard Aux- iliary and is currently serving in the role as the RDC Auxiliary unit coordinator. He has held numerous workforce qualifications as well as appointed and elected positions of leadership, including national leader- ship training instructor, boat crew, vessel examiner, public affairs officer, and aids to navigation verifier. The U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary supports the Coast Guard Research and Development Center’s insitu burn experiments at Little Sand Island in Mobile, Alabama, by using drones to capture emissions data. Coast Guard photo
