Blog

Message from Acting Secretary McAleenan on the U.S. Coast Guard 229th Birthday

August 2, 2019 —

On August 4, 1790, the first Congress authorized the construction of 10 ships to enforce tariff and trade laws, prevent smuggling, and protect the collection of federal revenue. This was the start of the long and illustrious history of the U.S. Coast Guard, the only branch of military service charged with enforcing our nation’s laws at sea and guarding her vast coastline. As our nation expanded its borders, the Coast Guard responsibilities expanded with it.