U.S. Coast Guard Birthday

U.S. Coast Guard Birthday timeline

1790

Thank Hamilton for the U.S. Coast Guard

Alexander Hamilton, the first Secretary of the Treasury, founded the Revenue Marine — which later became the U.S. Coast Guard.

1915

The U.S. Coast Guard is a name change

The Revenue Cutter Service and U.S. Life Saving Service merged to form a single maritime entity called the U.S. Coast Guard.

2003

Coast Guard moved to Homeland Security

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security took over jurisdiction following the 9/11 terrorist attacks.

U.S. Coast Guard Birthday FAQs

When is U.S. Coast Guard Birthday?

The U.S. Coast Guard Birthday in 2026 falls on Tuesday, August 4. This annual observance commemorates the founding of the Revenue Cutter Service, the precursor to the modern Coast Guard, in 1790.

How many people serve in the U.S. Coast Guard?

As of recent figures, the U.S. Coast Guard comprises approximately 42,000 active duty personnel, 7,000 reservists, and over 31,000 auxiliary volunteers. This combined force ensures comprehensive maritime safety and security.

What are the primary missions of the U.S. Coast Guard?

The U.S. Coast Guard conducts 11 statutory missions, including search and rescue, maritime law enforcement, marine environmental protection, and aids to navigation. They play a critical role in national security and economic prosperity.

Is the U.S. Coast Guard part of the military?

Yes, the U.S. Coast Guard is one of the six branches of the United States Armed Forces. While it operates under the Department of Homeland Security in peacetime, it can be transferred to the Department of the Navy by the President or Congress during wartime.

How to Observe U.S. Coast Guard Birthday

Show up at a Coast Guard event

Neighborhoods often host events which mark the founding of the U.S. Coast Guard. These usually include games, food and music. Learn some Coast Guard history and see why we owe a debt of gratitude to this unique arm of our military.

Indulge in some Lego family fun

There are plenty of Lego sets dedicated to the U.S. Coast Guard, complete with rescue planes and ships. Get a Lego set, assemble some family and friends to lend some creativity, pop some corn and have some fun!

Treat retirees to a special lunch

Do you have U.S. Coast Guard retirees in your neighborhood? Show some appreciation for their service with an outing to their favorite restaurant. Or, go one further and get together with your neighbors and make it a real community event. Invite a group of retirees, cook a special lunch and even get the kids to put on a show!

4 Seaworthy Facts About The U.S. Coast Guard

The oldest serving Coast Guard member was 105

Anthony Christy, who manned the Christiana Lighthouse in Delaware, died while on duty in 1862.

High standards for U.S. Coast Guard rescue swimmers

The qualifying criteria is so tough that 50% of applicants fail every year.

A dog served in the U.S. Coast Guard during World War II

Sinbad was an official member of the crew, complete with his uniform, his own bunk, and paperwork.

U.S. Coast Guard tracks movements of icebergs

The U.S. Coast Guard is a part of the International Ice Patrol, which monitors and reports movements of icebergs around the world.

Why U.S. Coast Guard Birthday is Important

It's America's oldest continuing sea going service

The U.S. Coast Guard, first known as the "Revenue Marine," has been around for more than 200 years. The service is crucial to our national security.

It's the world's 12th largest naval force

The U.S. Coast Guard does a lot more than search and rescue missions. As Commander-in-Chief, the president can transfer U.S. Coast Guard operations to the U.S. Navy when necessary.

It inspires future generations

Celebrating the U.S. Coast Guard on its birthday can help in recruiting young people who want to make a difference in the world. Plus, the intensive training will thoroughly prepare young men and women for the technological challenges and changes in fighting crime on the seas.