Coast Guard Turns 236 as Republicans Deliver Historic Investment in Maritime Security
WASHINGTON, D.C. — On August 4, 1790, President George Washington signed the Tariff Act, authorizing the creation of ten revenue cutters to defend the young nation and enforce maritime commerce laws. 236 years later, that same mission carries on in the men and women of the United States Coast Guard who patrol our maritime borders, intercept cartel smugglers before they ever reach our shores, respond to crises at home and abroad, and keep American commerce moving safely across the water.
President Trump and Congressional Republicans matched that service with the largest investment in Coast Guard history through the Working Families Tax Cuts Act. This once-in-a-generation commitment has helped revitalize American manufacturing and shipbuilding, create new jobs across the country, and modernize the Coast Guard into a more agile and responsive fighting force prepared to meet the challenges of today and tomorrow.
Here’s what Members of the Republican Study Committee (RSC) are saying in honor of the Coast Guard’s proud history and promising future:
“For 236 years, the United States Coast Guard has stood watch over our nation—protecting our maritime borders, safeguarding our waterways, and saving lives. Mississippi is proud to be part of that legacy, from Biloxi and Gulfport to Pascagoula. As Chairman of the Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation Subcommittee, I remain committed to ensuring our Coast Guardsmen have the resources they need to carry out their critical mission. On this anniversary, we honor every Coast Guardsman, past and present, and thank them and their families for their selfless service. Semper Paratus,” said Rep. Mike Ezell (MS-04).
“On the U.S. Coast Guard’s Birthday, we honor the brave men and women who stand watch over our nation’s waters and protect our homeland every day. As Chairman of the House Homeland Security Subcommittee on Transportation and Maritime Security, I have seen firsthand the Coast Guard’s unmatched dedication, courage, and sacrifice. Their mission is essential to our national security, and I will always fight to ensure they have the resources, authorities, and support they need to defend the American people. Happy birthday, and Semper Paratus!” said Rep. Carlos A. Giménez (FL-28).
“From disaster response to patrolling every inch of America's coastline, the Coast Guard has always answered the call. I want to extend my gratitude to every current and former member of the United States Coast Guard for their selfless service. As a proud member of the Air National Guard, I know firsthand the sacrifices our men and women in uniform make, and I will always stand ready to support those who serve in any way possible. Happy birthday to our United States Coast Guard. Semper Paratus!” said Rep. Sheri Biggs (SC-03).
“From protecting commerce to defending our ports and waterways, the Coast Guard is essential to our national and economic security. Our brave Guardsmen have been putting their lives on the line to protect our homeland for over 200 years and for that we are grateful. I am also proud of the $25 billion investment House Republicans made to restore U.S. maritime power through the Working Families Tax Cuts Act. With this major investment the Coast Guard can fulfill its mission to protect our country from drug traffickers, terrorists, and other bad actors. With increased aggression from Russia and China in the Arctic, the Coast Guard's mission is more important than ever. On this anniversary of the U.S. Coast Guard's founding, we thank every past and current Guardsmen for their service,” said Rep. Matt Van Epps (TN-07).