The Coast Guard Auxiliary employees a color-coding system for its insignia to reflect the two types of roles of personnel who have been advanced beyond the basic membership level. A red “A” either embroidered inside a silver Coast Guard Auxiliary shield or mounted on a metal, pin-on insignia means the wearer has been appointed to their current billet by an Elected Auxiliary leader. A silver “A” is worn by general Auxiliarists or those elected to Official status, such as a Flotilla or District Commander.
Embroidered insignia devices are designed for wear on the sleeves of the Coast Guard Auxiliary Dinner Dress Blue Jacket and the Service Dress Blue coat, and are sewn onto squares of fabric that match the color and material of both uniform types. Despite the name, the Dinner Dress Blue Jacket is made from black material.