The Coast Guard Auxiliary’s Flotilla Operations Achievement Award was one of six awards the service issued to all the members in a Flotilla if it met its annual goals or objectives. Known as the Goal Achievement Program, or GAP, this award system was the source of some discontent because it offered the same recognition to all Flotilla members with no regard to how much work or time spent by each one in helping the organization meet the award’s eligibility requirements.
Today, the Auxiliary recognizes Auxiliary members for reaching certain performance milestones or acquiring specific qualifications through its Annual Service Performance Awards System. In place of the Flotilla Operations Achievement Award is the
Annual Operations Service Award, which is awarded to Auxiliarists who have supported Coast Guard units and missions.
The key word here is “Operations” rather than “Support”—Auxiliarists whose support is limited to administrative duties such as processing paperwork or handling incoming phone calls does not qualify for this award (although manning the Search-and-Rescue desk does count toward eligibility).
While the Flotilla Operations Achievement Award is now obsolete, the Auxiliary Manual allows its wear provided the decoration is in good condition. It cannot, however, be worn at the same time as the Operations Service Award.