ALCOAST 267/23 - JUL 2023 ARMED SERVICE DESEGREGATION ORDER 75TH ANNIVERSARY

R 251250Z JUL 23 MID120000323576U
FM COMDT COGARD WASHINGTON DC
TO ALCOAST
BT
UNCLAS
ALCOAST 267/23
SSIC 5350
SUBJ: ARMED SERVICE DESEGREGATION ORDER 75TH ANNIVERSARY
1. On July 26, 1948, President Harry Truman signed Executive Orders
9980 and 9981 to desegregate the Federal Service and Armed Forces of
the United States. He wrote in EO 9981, "It is essential that there
be maintained in the armed services of the United States the highest
standards of democracy, with equality of treatment and opportunity
for all those who serve in our country's defense."
2. These executive orders were significant markers in our Nation's
march towards affirming civil rights for all and served as
precursors to the Civil Rights Movement in the 1950s and 1960s.
Equal significant are those who transformed the Coast Guard from a
segregated organization to an integrated one through service and
persistent action.
3. Seventy-five years later, President Truman's words still ring
true as an enduring reminder of our commitment to equality in the
Coast Guard. Our mission success demands a Coast Guard workforce
with diverse experiences, perspectives, and ideas, where every
voice is heard and valued, and where everyone can perform to their
full potential. You can learn more about the executive orders at the
following websites:
(Copy and Paste URLs Below into Browser)

https://freedomtoserve75th.org/

https://www.defenseculture.mil/Public-Affairs/75th-Anniversary/

4. ADM Linda L. Fagan, Commandant (CCG), sends.
5. Internet release is authorized.