The Coast Guard Auxiliary is the volunteer civilian, non-military component of the United States Coast Guard, Department of Homeland Security. The Auxiliary is a service organization providing: Public Education, Vessel Examinations, Patrol Operations, and Fellowship! Public Education offers courses in safe boating skills, seamanship, and navigation for people of all ages. Vessel Exams offer boaters free, annual checks of their boats' safety equipment and a general view of other equipment. The Operations program helps in search and rescue efforts, regatta patrols, boat parades, and similar events.