[Congressional Record Volume 155, Number 95 (Tuesday, June 23, 2009)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1523]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




          CELEBRATING THE UNITED STATES COAST GUARD ANXILIARY

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. SCOTT GARRETT

                             of new jersey

                    in the house of representatives

                         Tuesday, June 23, 2009

  Mr. GARRETT of New Jersey. Madam Speaker, 70 years ago today, in this 
very room, Congress passed legislation creating what is now known as 
the United States Coast Guard Auxiliary. With volunteer members spread 
across the 50 states, the Coast Guard Auxiliary has played an important 
role in supporting the mission of the United States Coast Guard and 
promoting safe practices within the American boating community.
  From its inception, the Coast Guard Auxiliary has been a leader in 
boating safety and instruction. In addition to educational programs, 
the Auxiliary regularly holds boating safety classes and performs 
vessel safety checks. Since September 11, the Auxiliary has also been 
very involved in securing our ports from foreign threats.
  Every day, the Coast Guard Auxiliary saves one life, assists 28 
people, and participates in more than 100 Coast Guard missions. This is 
in addition to the countless lives saved by their proactive efforts to 
prevent boating accidents and thwart terrorist attacks.
  My district, the Fifth District of New Jersey, is part of one of the 
largest Coast Guard Auxiliary regions--Division 10, First Southern 
Region. This division has been awarded the ``Coast Guard Meritorious 
Team Commendation'' for being the most active Auxiliary Division in the 
nation. In 2008, Division 10 was responsible for 81,000 volunteer 
hours, 1,379 air and surface missions, 313 search and rescue missions, 
and more than 2,500 hours of educational programs. The several 
flotillas that make up this division comprise 360 members from all 
walks of life, all of whom should be proud of their exceptional 
service.
  On this 70th anniversary, I commend the 34,000 men and women of the 
U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary on their service, and recognize the 
important role they play in securing our coastline and promoting 
responsible boating conduct.

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