Organized in 1914, USPS® is a non-profit, educational organization dedicated to making boating safer and more enjoyable by teaching classes in seamanship, navigation and related subjects. Our members are boating families who contribute to their communities by promoting safe boating through education. We enjoy participating with our fellow members on the water and in the classroom. USPS has some 60,000 members organized into 450 squadrons across the country and in some U.S. territories. USPS is America's largest non-profit boating organization and has been honored by three U.S. presidents for its civic contributions.

1. GET SMARTER
As a USPS member, you and your family can enroll in a variety elective courses at a discount and earn advanced grades.

2. NO ASPIRIN NEEDED
When your teenager and their friends complete the USPS Safe Boating course, no more headaches when they beg, “Can I have the boat keys, PLEASE,?”

3. MEET NEW FRIENDS
As a member of a local squadron (1 of over 450 squadrons in the USA), you will join other boaters in your area who know the local waters, the best launch sites and anchorages, the marinas and boat repair shops.

4. ALL DRESSED DOWN WITH SOMEPLACE TO GO
You will be invited to join in the squadron and district cruises, rendezvous, predicted log contests, and other on-water activities. District 9 and its local power squadrons have a full calendar of events for both on- and off-season fun. Come and join us!

5. $$ SAVE MONEY $$
Most marine insurance companies offer a minimum of 5-10% discounts for just completing the Safe Boating course. Higher discounts are given for completion of advanced courses. Ask your insurance carrier! Example, BoatUS Inc. offers a 50% discount on membership and 10% discount for towing to USPS members.

6. FREE DIRECTIONS – IT’S OK TO ASK!
Thinking of boating on a river, lake or ocean far from your home? USPS has a Port Captain program which will provide call-ahead contact info for local USPS members who know the territory. Attention New Boat Owners: District 9’s local power squadrons have lots of friendly people who have “been there and done that.” If you’re a new skipper, we can help you avoid the common pitfalls of boat ownership. Attending just ONE boating safety course puts you way ahead on the learning curve.

7. UP-TO-DATE INFO ON ALL MATTERS NAUTICAL
The official USPS magazine, THE ENSIGN, has articles about safety, maintenance and repair tips, nautical adventure stories, international waters security and customs rules, etc. That dream trip to Canada and the North Channel just got easier.

8. YOUR TAX DOLLARS ARE AT WORK
Take advantage of the many joint programs USPS has with the United States Coast Guard, the CG Auxiliary, and the National Ocean Services division of NOAA. Note the USPS is a private, totally self-supporting organization and is not affiliated with the U.S. Government.

9. LOTS OF FUN AT A VERY LOW PRICE
Family memberships are very affordable!

10. SAILING … TAKES ME AWAY TO WHERE I’M GOING …
USPS membership is not limited to power boaters—more than 40% of our members are sailors. The term “Power Squadrons” in our name dates to our founding in 1914 by the power boat division of the Boston Yacht Club. Following the first World War, our ranks broadened to include all types of boats. Sailors have been a major part of USPS ever since.

BOATING IS FUN … WE’LL SHOW YOU HOW!

Expand your Boating Knowledge through the United States Power Squadrons Educational Curriculum

USPS, its districts, squadrons and members shall at all times observe all federal, state and local Human Rights Laws, regulations and ordinances applicable to any USPS activity, procedure or practice. At no level; National, District or Squadron, may any person be refused membership, denied office or be prevented from participating in any activity because of any fact or circumstance which would identify that person as one of a protected class of individuals under the Human Rights Laws, regulations or ordinances of any governmental jurisdiction where the person resides, or where USPS conducts business.

For more information regarding membership, please contact SEO Lt/C Robert Lang, SN, bob@encoeng.com , (734) 671-5834.