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Every year August 4 is observed as US Coast Guard Day. The day commemorates the foundation of the Revenue Cutter Service, the forerunner of the current Coast Guard. It aims to appreciate and honour the hard work and dedication of saviours.
Who are Coast Guards?
It’s a military service under the Department of Transportation, which in peacetime enforces maritime laws, saves lives and property at sea, and maintains aids to navigation, and which in wartime may be placed under the Navy Department to augment the navy.
Origin & History:
The Coast Guard has operated at sea continually since its establishment, although the name didn’t appear until 1915 as the Revenue Cutter Service and the Lifesaving Service were combined till then.
Later, it was then transferred to the newly formed Department of Transportation in 1967 after serving for 177 years under the Treasury Department joined by the Lighthouse Service (1939) and Bureau of Navigation and Steamboat Inspection (1949). Congressional legislation that U.S. President Woodrow Wilson signed into law on January 28, 1915, gave its current name.
Day is a big event for members of the Coast Guard who are on active duty, civilian members, reservists, retirees, auxiliaries, and dependents; nevertheless. Also, it draws the attention of quite a few members of the general public. Grand Haven, Michigan, commonly known as Coast Guard City, holds the Coast Guard Festival every year on this occasion. It is considered a major national celebration of the Coast Guard important.
What is the Significance of US Coast Guard Day?
Its significant for many reasons:
- Recognising unwavering service: Coast Guard members dedicate their lives to ensuring maritime safety, protecting national interests, and responding to emergencies. The day acknowledges their sacrifices and commitment.
- Highlighting diverse roles: The responsibilities are vast, encompassing search and rescue, law enforcement, environmental protection, and homeland security. This day emphasizes the breadth of their duties.
- Inspiring future generations: Celebrating the achievements encourages young people to consider maritime service and public safety careers.
- Strengthening community bonds: Many coastal communities rely on the Coast Guard for protection and assistance. This Day fosters a sense of unity and gratitude between the service and the public.
List of Coast Guard Cities and States:
The Coast Guard’s mission relies heavily on a strong relationship with the communities it serves. To foster mutual understanding and support, the Coast Guard has designated certain cities as “Coast Guard Cities.”
These cities have demonstrated exceptional commitment to the well-being of Coast Guard personnel and their families, creating a welcoming environment that enhances morale and operational readiness. Currently, there are 34 officially recognized Coast Guard Cities across the United States. Here is the complete list.
| No. | City | State | Date Designated |
| 1 | Grand Haven | Michigan | 13-Nov-98 |
| 2 | Eureka | California | 3-Jun-00 |
| 3 | Mobile | Alabama | 4-Jul-02 |
| 4 | Wilmington | North Carolina | 25-Jul-03 |
| 5 | Newport | Oregon | 28-Mar-05 |
| 6 | Alameda | California | 14-Apr-06 |
| 7 | Kodiak | Alaska | 15-Sep-07 |
| 8 | Rockland | Maine | 16-Jun-08 |
| 9 | Portsmouth | Virginia | 17-Nov-09 |
| 10 | Traverse City | Michigan | 7-Apr-10 |
| 11 | Astoria | Oregon | 1-May-10 |
| 12 | Sitka | Alaska | 14-Feb-11 |
| 13 | Clearwater | Florida | 23-Dec-11 |
| 14 | Newburyport | Massachusetts | 23-Dec-11 |
| 15 | Sturgeon Bay | Wisconsin | 23-Jan-14 |
| 16 | Camden County | Georgia | 23-Jan-14 |
| 17 | Cape May County | New Jersey | 8-May-15 |
| 18 | Hull | Massachusetts | 11-May-15 |
| 19 | Ketchikan | Alaska | 11-May-15 |
| 20 | Elizabeth City | North Carolina | 29-May-15 |
| 21 | New London | Connecticut | 24-May-15 |
| 22 | Carteret County | North Carolina | 7-Jul-15 |
| 23 | San Diego | California | 23-Feb-17 |
| 24 | Florence | Oregon | 20-May-17 |
| 25 | New York | NY | 4-Feb-18 |
| 26 | Chatham County | Georgia | 18-Oct-18 |
| 27 | Cordova | Alaska | 30-Sep-19 |
| 28 | Westport | Washington | 30-Sep-19 |
| 29 | Valdez | Alaska | 7-Apr-21 |
| 30 | Key West | Florida | 4-Aug-22 |
| 31 | Bay County | Florida | 15-May-23 |
| 32 | Homer | Alaska | 22-May-23 |
| 33 | Garibaldi | Oregon | 17-Dec-23 |
| 34 | Charleston | South Carolina | 26-Jan-24 |
Day is more than just a celebration; it is a reminder of the unwavering dedication of the men and women who serve in this vital branch of the armed forces. As we honour their service, let us also recommit ourselves to supporting their mission and protecting our nation’s maritime heritage.
