USCG Observes 218 Years of Service

Posted by Alan Sorum Aug 11, 2008

The Coast Guard is one of the five armed services founded in the United States. Beginning its service to the country on August 4, 1790 as the Revenue Cutter Service, the agency merged with the United States Life Saving Service in 1915 to become the Coast Guard. The resulting service was and is charged with protecting life at sea and enforcing maritime law.

In an announcement marking the 218th anniversary of the service, Coast Guard Admiral Thad W. Allen states, "The Coast Guard has a proud history, and on the occasion of our birthday, we must pay tribute to those who came before us. We must also rededicate ourselves to making the Coast Guard the best it can be for those who will follow in our footsteps."

The Coast Guard has seen a number of changes in its missions and is moving forward with the modernization of its air and water fleet. Milestones in 2008 included the commissioning of the first National Security Cutter - Bertholf, modifications to the service's venerable C-130 aircraft, and introduction of assets like the Response Boat-Medium and the HC-144a Ocean Sentry patrol aircraft. The Coast Guard's goal is to be prepared and able to meet the maritime challenges of the 21st century.