If you were wondering when is the Coast Guard birthday, you could wonder no more. Also known as National Coast Guard Day, on August 4th, the nation celebrates the U.S. Coast Guard birthday. This incredible organization began in 1790. A part of the United States Armed Forces, though not a part of the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD), the Coast Guard falls under the Department of Homeland Security and is an integral agent of the U.S. military.
Did you know that, when necessary, such as during conflicts or wars, the President can allocate this resource to the U.S. Navy? Not surprisingly, when the U.S. has been involved in recent conflicts, this is exactly what has been done.1
You may not know much about the Coast Guard, so here Marine Diesel Specialists will tell you a bit of history as we prepare for this glorious day.
National Coast Guard Day History
There is much that people don’t know about National Coast Guard Day history. Though not a national holiday, there are reasons one would want to celebrate the Coast Guard birthday.
Back in 1790, Congress permitted the building of ten ships. These vessels were built with the intention of using them to enforce tariff and trade laws. They were also created so that federal revenue collection could be protected and to prevent smuggling. It wasn’t until later that responsibilities, such as humanitarian duties, were added to this unit.1
Per Military.com, the mission “is to protect the public, the environment, and U.S. economic interests in the nation’s waterways, along the coast, on international waters or in any maritime region as required to support national security.”1
Coast Guard Facts
For those of you who enjoy facts and figures, here are some interesting Coast Guard facts you may or may not already know, but you can share with others on August 4th:
- There are approximately 40,500 active duty members.
- Though part of the U.S. military, the Coast Guard serves all across the globe.
- Each year, about 4,000 lives are saved – plus, they go on about 20,000 search and rescue missions.
- For the past 200+ years, the Coast Guard has contributed to every war and conflict affecting the U.S.2
Enjoy sharing these facts with your family and friends as you celebrate this special day.
How to Celebrate the Coast Guard Birthday
Speaking of celebrating, what is a great way to celebrate the Coast Guard birthday?
- Connect with veterans of the Coast Guard and treat them to a nice lunch or dinner. Let them recall tales about their adventures on the high seas.
- If you live by the water, see if there are any local Coast Guard events in your area that you can participate in. At these events, you can often learn some history while you enjoy food and fun.
- Go out on your boat and throw your own party to show your support for this important part of the armed forces.
Contact Our Marine Diesel Engines Experts
Now that you’ve learned a little about the U.S. Coast Guard and how you can celebrate its birthday on August 4th, you’ll want to prepare your vessel to be out on the water. Keep your boat in premium condition with the assistance of Marine Diesel Specialists. Contact our team today or read some of our other articles to learn more from our team of professionals. We specialize in MAN engine maintenance, and with locations in Fort Lauderdale and Punta Gorda, we know that we can make your vessel ship-shape just in time to celebrate.
SOURCE:
1 – Military.com – https://www.military.com/join-armed-forces/coast-guard-mission-values.html
2 – Military.com – https://www.military.com/spousebuzz/blog/2013/05/top-10-things-people-dont-know-about-the-coast-guard.html
Our Marine Diesel Specialists offer a variety of products and services to provide marine diesel solutions in Fort Lauderdale and Punta Gorda. Our authorized MAN Engine dealers can offer expert maintenance, repair, and survey services, as well as complete engine, transmission, and generator overhauls. If you are seeking top-quality marine diesel solutions, products, or services, don’t wait to contact our Marine Diesel Specialists and Gulf Coast Diesel Service.