The Boat Force Operations insignia is intended to identify those Coast Guard personnel currently working in the boat force operations field and to recognize the commitment of Coast Guard members who have repeatedly served in the community. It is awarded in two levels and recognizes those who have achieved a level of qualification, knowledge and experience that includes both practical and operational components, with a broader understanding and appreciation for boat force command, management, support and leadership issues. The insignia may also be earned by Auxiliarists with slightly-modified criteria.
Basic: The basic insignia design and color scheme consists of pewter-tone waves (representative of operations), crossed boathook and oar (representative of boats), and a superimposed compass rose (representing leadership and direction).
Advanced (Pewter-and-Gold-Toned Insignia): The advanced qualification insignia as described above except that the compass rose is a polished gold color, and the crossed boat hook and oar and the stylized waves remain silver.
The basic insignia can be earned by Coast Guardsmen and Auxiliarists meeting three criteria:
Service at present boat force unit for at least 6 months (temportary insignia). Five years cumulative service for permanent award. Boat force units include: Aids to Navigation Teams (ANTS), Centers of Excellence (NMLBS, BFCO, SMTC), MFPU, MSST/MSRT, MSU/MSD, PSU, Sector, Standardization Teams, Stations, Strike Teams, Cutters, and Commandant (CG-731). For Cutters and Sectors, only service in a billet with direct and regular involvement in boat operations qualifies (CO/OIC determination).
Attainment of a Boat Crew Member (BCM) qualification, by completing the Personnel Qualification Standard (PQS).
Command approval.
Qualification requirements for the advanced insignia are as follows:
Attain Boat Crew Member qualification code (enlisted) or certification letter (officer).
Attain Boarding Team Member or Boarding Officer qualification code (enlisted) or certification letter (officer). (Auxiliary members are exempt from this requirement)
Complete the Boat Forces Operations PQS. Command Cadre at a Station or Aids to Navigation Team (ANT), by virtue of their successful service in these positions, have gained the knowledge and experience associated with the PQS and are therefore exempt from this requirement.
Complete five years of cumulative service at Boat Force field units as listed above for permanent entitlement. (There is no temporary entitlement of the advanced insignia.)
Command approval.
