 The Men and Women of the Sea Services
What Can You See Here?
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Bronze Reliefs United States Coast Guard - Semper Paratus - ``Always Ready'' |
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The United States Coast Guard was founded on August 4, 1790, by Alexander Hamilton and has a dual role that is unique among the services. By statute, organization and operation, the Coast Guard normally operates as part of the Department of Transportation. In time of war or when the President so directs, it operates under control of the Navy. Regardless, it is truly a naval service, and one that has maintained a tradition of professional excellence and dedicated service for 200 years. The Coast Guard fulfills three primary missions: defense readiness, maritime safety and maritime law enforcement. The service operates ships, specialized vessels, rotary and fixed wing aircraft, research and development facilities and shore installations. The distinctive white hulls of Coast Guard vessels, carrying the unique slash-stripes on the bows, are instantly recognized.
As depicted in this bronze relief, the Coast Guard is renowned for its rescues at sea of sailors and recreational boaters in distress. The Coast Guard is also known for its aggressive role in the war on drugs and for disaster relief. The Coast Guard establishes and maintains America's aids to navigation such as lighthouses, radio beacons, buoys and other markers in the channels and sea lanes of bays and rivers. They assist marine commerce by opening ice-blocked channels and ports, and they are the licensing and safety certification authority for the operation of all but the smallest of boats. They are likewise engaged in the prevention and cleanup of pollution and the protection of U. S. fisheries. Sculptor: Robert Summers. Sponsored by past and present members of the United States Coast Guard, with contributions from the Coast Guard Chief Petty Officers Association, General Electric, Arco Marine Inc. and Sealand Service Inc.
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