August 4th marks the 222nd anniversary of the U.S. Coast Guard. On this date in 1790 President George Washington signed the Tariff Act. This allowed for the construction of 10 vessels known as "cutters." The history of the Coast Guard has often reflected the growth of maritime interests at home and overseas. Many of their original duties are an essential piece of homeland and port-security duties today. As the oldest continuous maritime service, the Coast Guard once served as our country's Navy. Today, the Coast Guard provides crews and ships in support of the U.S. Navy during times of war.
ISBN: 978-0-7660-2493-9 |