The Vice/Deputy National Commodore insignia is worn as a cap “rank” device on the Garrison Cap (wearer’s right side) and Auxiliary or USCG unit ball caps (centered in front beneath “U.S. COAST GUARD” inscription).
Of the five Coast Guard Auxiliary offices represented by a two-star insignia, only one of them—the Deputy National Commodore-Information Technology and Planning (DNACO-ITP)—is filled by appointment (chosen by the National Commodore with input from the Vice National Commodore and Immediate Past National Commodore) and thus sports a red "A."
The remaining three DNACO slots are held by the winners of elections held by the National Executive Committee to determine the representatives of the Auxiliary’s three areas (Atlantic-East, Atlantic-West, and Pacific) each one is then also appointed head of a program area (Operations, Recreational Boating Safety, and Mission Support). Vice National Commodores (VNACO) are chosen in an election in which National Board Members vote.