The East Moriches Coast Guard Auxiliary has earned top recognition for its work in helping keep local waters safe.
Under the leadership of Commodore Vincent Pica, the unit was awarded first place by Auxiliary District 1 for monitoring the system of lights, buoys, and markers essential for safely guiding boaters. The Aids to Navigation network ( ATON), can shift or malfunction due to factors such as severe weather, varying water conditions, and accidental vessel strikes.
The U.S. Coast Guard, responsible for approximately 49,000 ATONs and 47,000 private aids (PATONs) nationwide, relies heavily on the diligent efforts of the Auxiliary to provide timely and accurate reports on how the system is functioning.
Operating primarily from Smith Point to the Shinnecock Canal, the East Moriches Flotilla patrols vital stretches of water. In coordination with three additional flotillas across the division, the Auxiliary monitors routes extending from the Peconics to Shelter Island. Their extensive coverage supports maritime safety for eastern New York, New York City, the Hudson River Valley, Lake Champlain, Montauk Point, parts of Connecticut, western Vermont, and northern New Jersey.
In 2024 alone, Commodore Pica and the Auxiliary Boat Crew identified discrepancies in 17% of the aids inspected, a testament to their rigorous monitoring and preventive measures. “It’s crucial that private aids marking our creeks, coves, and rivers remain reliable,” explained Commodore Pica. “This responsibility is overseen by active-duty personnel and carried out by the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary. Our work begins in early spring and can extend into late summer under the direction of Station Shinnecock.”
This recognition highlights the critical role of the East Moriches unit in safeguarding maritime navigation and underscores the value of community involvement in supporting federal operations. The Auxiliary took on added importance when the Coast Guard transferred operations from its East Moriches base to Shinnecock three years ago.
The Auxiliary is actively recruiting new members to join their dedicated team. For more information on how to get involved, interested parties can contact MorichesAuxiliary@gmail.com.