How The Coast Guard Serves Our Country

Although you may be familiar as to who the United States Coast Guard is, are you aware of the many responsibilities they have? The Coast Guard happens to be the oldest maritime service in the country since August 4, 1970 (over 200 years!). With almost 40,000 active service members, the Coast Guard is in charge of vital tasks under the Department of Homeland Defense.

How It Started
The United States Coast Guard was created by Alexander Hamilton, the Secretary of the Treasury in 1790. It was initially referred to as the Revenue Marine Service, and later went on to become the Coast Guard.

The Many Duties Of the Coast Guard
The Coast Guard imposes federal laws on the waters within the control of the United States. Doing so allows for the security of both individuals and resources. They assist in navigation by directing ships accordingly, as well as inspecting those vessels for illegal contraband . Search-and-rescue services are carried out through ship and aircraft. Surveillance of ports, icebergs, and vessels allow for safety on U.S. territorial waters.

The Effect
Due to the necessary safety precautions taken, the Coast Guard saves around 3,560 lives a year! They are involved in about 19,790 search-and-rescue cases annually. Not only are precious lives rescued; over $77 million in property is saved as well.

Daily Averages
On an average day, the Coast Guard accomplishes a vast amount of their responsibilities. Daily accomplishments include but are not limited to: over 400 pounds of drugs seized, interception of 14 illegal migrants, and response to 20 chemical spills.

Universal Assistance
The Coast Guard has served in every war pertaining to the United States. However, their servicemen and women serve worldwide. Service members can be found protecting coastlines from countries such as Iraq and Japan.