Welcome to the Foundation of Coast Guard History

Our Purpose

The Foundation for Coast Guard History is a nonprofit organization whose purpose is to promote the recognition and prestige of the United States Coast Guard by emphasizing its illustrious past and contributions to the nation.

You can participate by becoming a member. By doing so, you will be showing your special interest in our nation’s oldest continuous naval service, or maritime service. All membership fees are tax deductible.

The Coast Guard Celebrates 234 years of Service to our Nation!

R 041358Z AUG 24
FM COMDT COGARD WASHINGTON DC
TO ALCOAST
BT
UNCLAS
ALCOAST 296/24
SSIC 5700
SUBJ: UNITED STATES COAST GUARD’S 234TH BIRTHDAY
1. Today marks the 234th birthday of the United States Coast Guard.
Today we honor more than two centuries of dedicated service,
resilience, and excellence that has defined our proud history.
Since our founding, the Coast Guard has grown from its origins
as the Revenue Cutter Service into a multi-faceted service with
a critical role in safeguarding our nation’s maritime interests.
2. Earlier this summer, our nation commemorated the 80th anniversary
of D-Day, when brave US and Allied military personnel went into
harm’s way and often made the ultimate sacrifice in Operation
Overlord. On that historic day, scores of Coast Guard “83 footers”
plied the waters of the English Channel and landed our courageous
forces who stormed the beaches at Normandy, ensuring a world safe
for democracy. Indeed, the iconic photo “Jaws of Death” was shot
by Coast Guard Chief Photographer Robert Sargent as the door of
his landing craft opened on the deadly sands of Omaha Beach.
3. As we reflect on our storied past, we also celebrate the
remarkable achievements and unwavering commitment of each and
every member of our service. The Coast Guard has evolved into
a globally deployed force: a force for peace in a hostile
world; a force for stability in uncertain times; a force for
protection against agents that would do harm; a force of recovery
in the wake of maritime incidents. Today, Coast Guard personnel
serve in the homeland and are also deployed throughout the world,
and the demand for our capabilities and skills only grows.
4. On this day, 234 years ago, President George Washington signed
the bill drafted by Treasury Secretary Alexander Hamilton which
authorized the construction of 10 cutters, a small fleet that would
grow to become today’s Coast Guard. This milestone serves as a
powerful reminder of our enduring mission and values. It also
provides an opportunity to emphasize a key priority for our future:
strengthening our culture. This year, we celebrate the 30th
anniversary of our core values of Honor, Respect, and Devotion
to Duty. They remain the bedrock of our success, and the foundation
for nurturing a positive, inclusive, and supportive culture is
essential to our continued excellence.
5. On behalf of the entire Coast Guard leadership team: Thank you.
Your hard work, dedication, and spirit are what make our service
extraordinary. As we celebrate this 234th birthday, let us renew
our commitment to our mission and to one another, embracing the
opportunities and challenges ahead with unity and resolve.
6. Happy 234th Birthday, Coast Guard! Here’s to many more years
of service, honor, and a strengthened culture of excellence.
7. You and yours are the best our country has to offer.
Semper Paratus!
8. ADM Linda Fagan, Commandant (CCG), sends.
9. Internet release is authorized.

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