[Congressional Record Volume 161, Number 121 (Wednesday, July 29, 2015)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E1163-E1164]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




              HONORING THE COAST GUARD'S 225TH ANNIVERSARY

                                 ______
                                 

                         HON. CANDICE S. MILLER

                              of michigan

                    in the house of representatives

                        Wednesday, July 29, 2015

  Mrs. MILLER of Michigan. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the 
Coast Guard's storied history of service to our nation. Next week, on 
August 4th, the Coast Guard will celebrate its 225th anniversary.
  On that day in 1790, President George Washington signed an act 
establishing ten cutters, known as the Revenue Marine Service. These 
cutters were to be strategically positioned near our ports and used for 
the collection of tariffs. They were essential to our young Nation's 
finances, maritime security and trade activities. Over the years, 
several other services such as the Cutter Service, the Lighthouse 
Service, and the Life-Saving Service joined together to ultimately 
become the U.S. Coast Guard.
  While the service is vastly different than originally established, 
the Coast Guard has evolved with the changing threats to our nation. 
Following the events of September 11, 2001 the Coast Guard proved to be 
an even greater asset to our nation as their role in security 
operations significantly expanded through heightened vigilance in ports 
and increased presence along our coastline.
  As one of the five armed forces of the United States and the only 
military organization within the Department of Homeland Security, the 
Coast Guard protects our Nation's maritime interests at home and 
abroad. Their presence along our rivers, in the ports, coastal regions 
and on the high seas is vital to our national security.
  Right now there are Coast Guard men and women aboard buoy tenders and 
ice breakers keeping shipping lanes open ensuring a steady flow of 
commerce and transportation. National Security Cutters are conducting 
drug interdictions in the Caribbean and Eastern Pacific keeping drugs 
off of our streets. Air stations and small boat stations are on call

[[Page E1164]]

around the clock ready to save mariners in distress. Vessel examiners 
are inspecting commercial ships to keep them operating safely and 
ensuring the environmental stewardship of our waters.
  The Coast Guard has a large presence in my district conducting 
missions vital to the safety and prosperity of the Great Lakes. I am 
proud to represent the Coast Guard men and women at Sector Detroit and 
adjoining stations, as well as Air Station Detroit which operates out 
of Selfridge Air National Guard Base. I know the boaters in Michigan's 
10th district are in good hands.
  Just two weeks ago, I met with the Commandant of the Coast Guard, 
Admiral Paul Zukunft, a superb leader with a bold vision that makes me 
optimistic for the future of this great service.
  The Coast Guard's values of honor, respect, and devotion to duty are 
seen day in and day out by the men and women who proudly wear the 
uniform. We are fortunate that they go to work every day ready to serve 
and protect the American people.
  On behalf of a grateful nation, I want to commend the men and women 
of the Coast Guard for their many years of service and wish them a 
happy 225th anniversary.
  Semper Paratus.

                          ____________________