ALCOAST 264/24 - JUL 2024 OUR NATION'S INDEPENDENCE DAY, 04 JULY 2024

R 021500Z JUL 24 MID120001258917U
FM COMDT COGARD WASHINGTON DC
TO ALCOAST
BT
UNCLAS
ALCOAST 264/24
SSIC 5700
SUBJ: OUR NATION'S INDEPENDENCE DAY, 04 JULY 2024
1. Today, as we celebrate our nation's birth as the United States of
America – and the country's 248th year of independence – I wish all
Members of the Coast Guard – Active, Reserve, Civilian and Auxiliary
– a happy Independence Day.
2. In 1814, from aboard a ship on the Patapsco River near Baltimore,
Francis Scott Key witnessed the British bombardment of Fort McHenry,
and the unwavering American defense which was symbolized by the
American flag flying throughout the night above the battlements.
Inspired by the flag's constancy and it's 15 bright stars, Key
penned the lyrics to what would become our national anthem. 210
years later, and only a few miles away across the waters of the
Chesapeake Bay, our Coast Guard crews have worked tirelessly for the
last several months to respond to the unprecedented challenges of
the collapse of the bridge which bears Key's name. Alongside our
local, state, and federal partners, Coast Guard efforts to reopen a
nationally critical waterway have fortified our nation's economic
strength as a cornerstone of our continued independence and
prosperity, and have demonstrated America's resilience. The success
of our Coast Guard response is as symbolic of our resolve and
national devotion as that battle-worn flag above Fort McHenry.
3. Today our flag bears 50 stars, and our Coast Guard crews shine
brightly as representatives of our nation's commitment to safety,
security, and stewardship on waters across the globe. Our 90,000
Active Duty, Reserve, Auxiliarist, and civilian personnel lead the
way in safeguarding our freedoms by disrupting criminal
organizations' smuggling efforts in the Caribbean and Eastern
Pacific, rescuing mariners across the continental U.S. and in
treacherous waters from Alaska to Hawaii, maintaining our Maritime
Transportation System, and partnering with nations from West Africa
to Micronesia to protect global fish stocks from predatory illegal
fishing. Coast Guard operations and partnerships enable just
governance, careful management of natural resources, and a global
commitment to rights and safety of all peoples via partnerships with
other freedom-minded nations.
4. To all Coast Guard members and families, as you gather to mark
the day with parades, fireworks, cookouts, and celebrations with
friends and family, I invite you to also join me in taking a moment
for two solemn reflections. Remember with gratitude the service and
sacrifice of our forebears, and remember those who are deployed or
standing a watch today, unable to join their families at home.
5. Lastly, to the men and women who are at sea, on watch, or
deployed overseas today, know that you are always in our thoughts,
and that your Coast Guard leadership is forever grateful for your
steadfast service. Semper Paratus and happy birthday to the United
States of America!
6. VADM P. W. Gautier, Deputy Commandant for Operations (CG-DCO),
sends.
7. Internet release is authorized.