AUXPA3 Study Guide

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What is the purpose of U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary Public Affairs?

To publicize Auxiliary activities and assist the Coast Guard with its public affairs and training programs.

What are the key actions of Auxiliary Public Affairs?

Tell the Auxiliary story, act as persuaders and marketers, develop relationships, enhance the Auxiliary brand, and cultivate strong media relationships.

What can an active public affairs program encourage?

Attendance at PE classes, interest in vessel safety checks, boost Coast Guard and Auxiliary image, build morale for both CG and CGAux, and recruit new members.

Who conducts AUXPA efforts at various levels (flotilla, division, and district)?

Public Affairs Officers (PAOs).

What is the web gateway to the world of PA?

www.auxpa.org.

What is the proactive approach to public affairs?

1. Actively disseminating messages through various communication media.

2. Identify your audience.

3. Know your target media (prepare a contact list).

4. Write articles and promotional materials regularly.

5. Publish announcments in community calendars.

6. Set up displays and safey exhibits at special events.

7. Create public service announcements and video new releases.

8. Distribute posters, fliers, and flotilla newsletters.

What are the steps in the four-step public affairs process?

Planning, Execution, Analysis, Follow-up.

What guidance manuals are used for AUXPA?

USCG Auxiliary Public Affairs Guide and USCG External Affairs Manual.

What are the AUXPA responsibilities of the flotilla commander?

Supervise the PA staff officer, rely on FSO-PA for guidance, represent the unit as spokesperson, and identify public affairs opportunities in various mission areas.

Do flotilla members have AUXPA responsibilities?

Yes, public affairs is the responsibility of everyone in the Auxiliary, because PA, as a function crosses all CG missions.

What channels can be employed to communicate with the public?

Commercial media, the Internet, church or community bulletins, and local boating newsletters.

What types of print media are used internally?

Flotilla (Chicago Six Sentinel), division (Making Way) and district (Currents) newsletters, Navigator magazine, and national e-mail newsletters.

What is the role of the Auxiliary Public Affairs Specialist 3 (AUXPA3)?

To achieve competency in Auxiliary public affairs.

What is the significance of the AUXPA program?

It supports Coast Guard public affairs and outreach efforts.

What is the recommended action for AUXPA3 trainees?

Become familiar with and adhere to the guidelines and content of the PQS.

What is the purpose of the Personnel Qualification Standards (PQS) Study Guide?

To provide training and qualification guidance for Auxiliarists.

What is the impact of the AUXPA program during significant events?

It provides outstanding support of Coast Guard public affairs and outreach.

What is required for Coast Guard Public Affairs Specialists 3 (PA3) regarding AUXPA3 competency?

They may be granted AUXPA3 competency without completing the PQS if they enroll in the Auxiliary within three years of separation.

What is the recommended method for disseminating public affairs messages?

Through a variety of communication media.

What should be included in a public affairs planning process?

Identifying audience, message, and media.

What is the role of the Auxiliary national PA website?

To serve as a resource for Auxiliary public affairs.

What is the importance of cultivating strong media relationships?

To enhance the Auxiliary brand and improve public perception.

What is the purpose of public service announcements in AUXPA?

To promote Auxiliary activities and safety initiatives.

What is the significance of community calendars in public affairs?

To publish announcements and promote events.

What is the goal of the AUXPA program in terms of community engagement?

To build relationships and encourage community participation.

What is the expected outcome of effective public affairs efforts?

Increased awareness and support for Auxiliary activities.

What type of training is provided through the AUXPA program?

Training in public affairs strategies and communication.

How does the AUXPA program contribute to the Coast Guard's mission?

By enhancing public understanding and support of Coast Guard operations.

What is the role of the Auxiliary in public affairs?

To support and enhance the Coast Guard's public affairs efforts.

What is the expected impact of the AUXPA program on morale?

To boost morale among Auxiliary and active-duty personnel.

What is the importance of writing articles and promotional materials in AUXPA?

To regularly communicate and engage with the public.

What is the significance of the Auxiliary Public Affairs Guide?

It provides essential guidance for conducting public affairs.

What is the role of the FSO-PA in a flotilla?

To provide guidance and counsel in public affairs matters.

What are the Auxiliary guidelines for the release of information?

If you did it, or were responsible for it, you can talk about it. If not, then don't. Tell it all...tell it now...tell the truth.

What are some approved social media platforms for the Auxiliary?

Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, Instagram.

What are the different types of broadcast media?

Radio, television, internet based.

What are the major differences between print and broadcast media?

Deadlines: print has days and weeks, while broadcast has hours. Frequency: broadcast is immediate and often 24/7, while print offers in-depth coverage.

What are three staff positions in a broadcast news operation?

News director, Assignment editor, Reporter.

What should you include in a news release to a local radio or TV station?

Safe boating topics, ready-made Public Service Announcements, and localize if possible.

What are suggested topics for a speech about the Coast Guard Auxiliary?

Recreational boating safety, Maritime domain awareness, Auxiliary mission and history, Membership benefits, Local flotilla service.

What are various ways to use static displays?

Bulletin boards, counter displays, portable displays, store window displays, sandwich boards.

What are some new types of electronic displays?

Programmable signs, laptops with projectors, computer screens or iPads.

What are key reasons for participating in National Safe Boating Week (NSBW)?

Highlights boating safety at the start of the boating season and ties local units to a national program.

What is the role of public affairs in NSBW?

Promoting NSBW activities, planning, scheduling, and providing coverage.

What are advantages of photos with a story?

Adds visual interest, gives credibility, increases likelihood of publication.

What is picture composition?

The pleasing arrangement of story-telling elements in a scene.

What is Depth of Field (DOF) and how is it controlled?

DOF is the amount of sharp focus in a scene, controlled by lens focal length, aperture setting, and lens-to-subject distance.

How can cropping create a more dynamic composition?

By eliminating distracting elements, cropping simplifies and strengthens an image.

What is the Rule of Thirds?

Visually divide the viewfinder into thirds and place the main subject on one of these lines for a dynamic composition.

What is the Rule of Thirds in photography?

It is a guideline that suggests placing the subject off-center to create a more appealing composition.

What two camera adjustments control exposure?

Aperture and shutter speed.

How does aperture affect exposure?

It controls the amount of light reaching the sensor through f/stops.

What does a smaller f-stop number indicate?

A larger opening in the aperture.

What does shutter speed control?

The duration of time light enters the camera.

What is one method to increase Auxiliary membership?

Deliver credible and consistent messages that enhance the Auxiliary brand.

What is one way to attract younger members to the Auxiliary?

Visit local high schools and offer to teach boating safety classes.

What is the lowest grade in the Coast Guard enlisted personnel structure?

Seaman Recruit (SR) / E-1.

What is the highest enlisted grade in the Coast Guard?

Master Chief Petty Officer (MCPO) / E-9.

Name a Coast Guard warrant officer rank.

Chief Warrant Officer 2 (CWO-2) / W-2.

What is the rank of a Lieutenant Commander in the Coast Guard?

LCDR / O-4.

What is the highest commissioned officer rank in the Coast Guard?

Admiral (ADM) / O-10.

What is required to become an AUXPA Specialist 3?

Skills in journalism, media relations, and public appearances.

What is the purpose of the PQS Verification?

To show completion of each task with a Verifying Officer.

What must be submitted after completing the PQS?

A documentation packet via e-mail in PDF format.

What happens after successfully completing the oral board?

Your task sign-off sheet is forwarded for endorsement and you receive a certificate.

What is the waiting period between AUXPA levels?

Three months.

What is one responsibility of a mentor in the AUXPA program?

To review qualifications and observe performance.

What is the role of the Auxiliary Public Affairs Directorate?

To oversee the training and qualification of AUXPA Specialists.

What is the significance of a qualification letter in the AUXPA program?

It confirms your qualification and is accompanied by an AUXPA ribbon.

What is the purpose of the oral board in the AUXPA program?

To assess the trainee's knowledge and readiness for the next level.

What is the role of the District Director of Auxiliary (DIRAUX)?

To approve qualifications and manage records.

What is an example of a public outreach method for the Auxiliary?

Setting up PA exhibits at local festivals.

What is the function of the Joint Information Center (JIC)?

To coordinate information during incidents.

What does the term 'Area CMC/MCPOCG' denote?

It refers to the Area Command Master Chief or Master Chief Petty Officer of the Coast Guard Reserve.

What is the significance of the phonetic alphabet in the AUXPA program?

It is essential for clear communication in public affairs.

What is the goal of public affairs in the Coast Guard Auxiliary?

To enhance the visibility and credibility of the Auxiliary.

What is one task that AUXPA Specialists must demonstrate proficiency in?

Media relations.

What does the term 'static displays' refer to in the context of AUXPA?

Exhibits that showcase Auxiliary activities and information.

What is the importance of ethics in public affairs?

To maintain integrity and trust in communications.

What is a speaker's bureau?

A group that sends speakers to various organizations to promote the Auxiliary.

What is the web 'gateway' to the world of AUXPA?

The official AUXPA website.

Do flotilla members have any AUXPA responsibility? Why?

Yes, because all members contribute to the public image and outreach of the Auxiliary.

What channels can we employ to communicate with the public?

Print media, broadcast media, social media, and public appearances.

Discuss different types of print media.

Newspapers, magazines, brochures, and newsletters.

Explain Auxiliary guidelines for release of information.

Information must be accurate, timely, and in line with Coast Guard policies.

What are some advantages of photos with a story?

They engage the audience and provide context to the visual content.

Define picture composition and perspective.

Composition refers to the arrangement of elements in a photo, while perspective is the viewpoint from which the photo is taken.

What is Depth of Field? How do you control it?

Depth of Field is the distance between the nearest and farthest objects in a photo that appear sharp; it is controlled by aperture settings.

Explain the Rule of Thirds.

A composition guideline that suggests dividing the image into thirds, both horizontally and vertically, and placing points of interest at the intersections.

How can public affairs increase Auxiliary membership?

By effectively promoting the benefits and activities of the Auxiliary to the public.

Name Coast Guard enlisted personnel grade structure from lowest to highest.

Seaman, Petty Officer, Chief Petty Officer, Senior Chief Petty Officer, Master Chief Petty Officer.

What is required for AUXPA3 qualification issuance?

Completion of tasks, submission of documentation, and passing an oral board.

What Directorate at the National Level supports the AUXPA Program?

"A" directorate

Does a PAO assist the CG units?

Yes, as needed.

Define what is involved in Planning of the Public Affairs process.

Identify:

1. audience

2. message

3. media

Define what is involved in Execution of the Public Affairs process.

Putting the plan into action

Define what is involved in Analysis of the Public Affairs process.

Determine the impact of your AUXPA Program

Define what is involved in Follow-up of the Public Affairs process.

Adjusting and repeating communication effort.

What type of print media is used externally?

Weekly and daily newspapers, commercial magazines, shopping guides, company newsletters and magazines.

Explain Auxiliary guidelines for release of information.

1. If you did it, or were responsible for it, you can talk about it. If not, then don't.

2. Tell it...tell it now...tell the truth.