Shield of the Freedom
Founded by Alexander Hamilton as the Revenue Marine, the Coast Guard is the nation’s oldest continuous seagoing service. Today, it remains the only branch of the U.S. military that also holds civil law enforcement authority.
⚓ The "Revenue Cutter Service"
For several years after the Continental Navy was disbanded, the Revenue Marine was the nation’s only armed force afloat, responsible for protecting against smugglers and ensuring customs duties were collected.
Modern Operations & Force
In a typical day, the Coast Guard conducts **45 search and rescue cases**, saves **10 lives**, and seizes over **$20 million worth of illegal drugs**.
250+
Cutters (Ships over 65ft)
1,600+
Small Boats
200+
Aircraft (Fixed & Rotary)
41,000+
Active Duty Members
⚓ The Legend of Douglas Munro
Signalman First Class Douglas Munro is the only Coast Guardsman to receive the Medal of Honor. He was posthumously awarded for his heroic actions in evacuating a detachment of Marines under heavy fire at Point Cruz, Guadalcanal, in 1942.
⚓ Multi-Mission Guardians
While famous for search and rescue, the Coast Guard also maintains thousands of "Aids to Navigation" (buoys and lighthouses) and provides essential port security both at home and in overseas combat zones.
"The law says that we have to go out. It doesn't say anything about having to come back."
— Famous Coast Guard Rescue Saying