USCGA2013

After one graduates from the Coast Guard Academy and is stationed on a cutter, what would their job be? I have heard that an ensign is just doing paperwork and working behind a desk. Is this true? Also, what is the relationship like between the Coast Guard and the other branches of the military? If an officer in the Navy passes a Coast Guard officer of higher rank, would they still be required to salute them, or is it only in the same branch of the military that you have to salute?

Bossf51

When assigned to a cutter, the new ensign either becomes a deck officer in training or an engineering officer in training. They do everything from standing watch to serving as morale officer, intelligence officer, etc. depending on the needs of the service.

The Coast Guard, while not part of the DOD, is one of the armed services. All military salute superiors regardless of the service. There is a lot of coordination between the CG and Navy. Check out the United States Coast Guard - Home Page web site for more on this.