ALCOAST 336/25 - AUG 2025 CELEBRATING 235 YEARS OF SERVICE TO THE AMERICAN PEOPLE

R 041200Z AUG 25   MID180001900473U
FM COMDT COGARD WASHINGTON DC
TO ALCOAST
BT
UNCLAS
ALCOAST 336/25
SSIC 1000
SUBJ: CELEBRATING 235 YEARS OF SERVICE TO THE AMERICAN PEOPLE
1. As we celebrate our 235th birthday, we reflect on pivotal
moments throughout the Coast Guard's history that defined our
legacy and forged our future.
2. On August 4, 1790, Alexander Hamilton's vision became
reality when President George Washington signed the Tariff
Act, authorizing ten revenue cutters to defend our young
Nation and enforce tariff laws: one cutter in each port,
built by American workers and operated by our first crews.
On January 28, 1915, the Revenue Cutter Service and Life-Saving
Service merged to form the modern Coast Guard. During World
War II, Coast Guard heroes bravely fought for our freedom,
cementing our role as a military service and vital
instrument of national power. Each of these transformational
moments - and so many others - built the foundation for
today's unprecedented opportunities.
3. We will look back on this 235th birthday as a defining
moment in Coast Guard history. There has never been a more
exciting time for our Service. We have unprecedented support
from President Trump, Secretary Noem, our civilian leaders,
Congress, and the American people. Through the historic
$24.59B investment in the One Big Beautiful Bill Act and
Force Design 2028, we will execute the President and
Secretary's direction to renew the Service to become a more
agile, capable, and responsive fighting force.
4. For 235 years, the American people have depended on the
Coast Guard to ensure our nation's economic prosperity and
national security. We control, secure, and defend our borders
and maritime approaches, facilitate vital commerce in the
physical domain and cyberspace, and respond to crises or
contingencies that come with little or no warning. Our crews
conduct these missions in a dangerous and unforgiving
maritime environment, often against those who would do us
harm. We do so because the American people are counting on
us.
5. We are proud to stand with you as we write the next
chapter of Coast Guard history. Thank you for your service
and for standing a vigilant watch. Your courage,
professionalism, and dedication ensure we will meet
tomorrow's challenges. The security of the American people
we serve depends on it.
6. Semper Paratus.
7. ADM Kevin Lunday Acting Commandant (CCG), and MCPOCG Phillip
Waldron, Master Chief Petty Officer of the Coast Guard, send.
8. Internet release is authorized.