NATIONAL COAST GUARD DAY

National Coast Guard Day on August 4th celebrates and honors the courageous work of the service members of Coast Guard. 

The United States Coast Guard is one of the five US Armed Forces. While this maritime service is a branch of the military, they are a multi-missioned service. During peacetime, it operates under the Department of Homeland Security. However, their responsibilities can be transferred to the US Navy by the President of the United States any time deemed necessary, or by Congress during war times.

Always ready, The United States Coast Guard’s official motto in Latin reads Semper Paratus.

Since 1790, the Coast Guard’s missions have changed. As the nation and the military services grew, maritime needs evolved. In 1917, the first Coast Guard aviators graduated from Pensacola Naval Aviation Training School. Today, aviation is a large part of the Coast Guard’s security, enforcement, and defense readiness.

Always ready to protect our shores and waterways, the Coast Guard provides more than search and rescue. They are a large part of the nation’s navigation system and Marine Environmental Protection.

When Hurricane Katrina struck the Gulf Coast of America, the US Coast Guard saved over 33,500 lives. Their maritime efforts rescued an estimated 24,000 lives from peril in severely dangerous conditions.

Since 1790, service members have been at the ready to provide support whatever the mission. Their commitment continues today. 

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NATIONAL COAST GUARD HISTORY

The United States Coast Guard traces its founding to an act of Congress on August 4, 1790.  The Coast Guard consisted of 10 vessels that carried out the enforcement of various trade and humanitarian duties.

HOW TO OBSERVE #NationalCoastGuardDay

In America, thousands of events nationwide honor the Coast Guard. Get involved and show your support. Other ways to celebrate the day include:

  • Taking a tour of one of the many Coast Guard museums in the country.
  • Share stories of Coast Guard experiences.
  • Listen to the U.S. Coast Guard Band.
  • Watch movies featuring the Coast Guard. Find a complete list here.
  • Read about the Coast Guard in The Coast Guard by José Hanson and Tom Beard or So Others May Live: Coast Guard’s Rescue Swimmers: Saving Lives, Defying Death by Marth J. Laguardia-Kotite and Tome Ridge

Post on social media using #NationalCoastGuardDay.

IRISH-AMERICAN HERITAGE MONTH

Irish-American Heritage Month during March in the United States, Americans recognize the numerous contributions of Irish-Americans to the U.S. throughout the years. From the founding fathers to innovative transportation, arts and culture, Irish immigrants for generations left deep roots in the American landscape.

Criss-crossing the country, Irish-American Heritage holds rich traditions and an unmistakable can-do spirit. Their infectious character and indomitable personalities have brought us 22 presidents including Ulysses S. Grant, John F. Kennedy, Ronald Regan, and Barack Obama to name a few.  From inventor and businessman, Henry Ford to journalist Nellie Bly, author F. Scott Fitzgerald and dancer Gene Kelly, their endless talents fill many roles.

IRISH AMERICAN HERITAGE MONTH HISTORY

Since 1991, presidents of both political parties have designated March as Irish-American Heritage Month with a goal to honor the contribution that Irish immigrants and their descendants have played in the formation of the United States. President Donald Trump declared the Month of March as Irish-American Heritage Month in 2017.  Visit www.whitehouse.gov to view the proclamation in its entirety.

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HOW TO OBSERVE #IrishAmericanHeritageMonth

Share stories and Irish-American heritage throughout March. Read about the Irish in America or watch a documentary. We’ve provided a few suggestions below. Explore the archives of your local museum and heritage center to learn their traditions and culture. Discover their language and family bonds. How did they impact the country and what traditions did they bring with them or leave behind?

Out of Ireland: The Story of Irish Emigration to America by Kerby A Miller and Paul Wagner

Out of Ireland: The Story of Irish Emigration to America by Kerby A Miller and Paul Wagner
#IrishAmericanHeritage

The Irish Americans: A History by Jay P. Dolan

The Irish Americans: A History by Jay P. Dolan#IrishAmericanHeritage

The Fitzgeralds and the Kennedys by Doris Kearns Goodwin

The Fitzgeralds and the Kennedys by Doris Kearns Goodwin#IrishAmericanHeritage

The Irish in America: Long Journey Home

The Irish in America: Long Journey Home#IrishAmericanHeritage

Celebrate the enduring contributions of the Irish-American and use #IrishAmericanHeritage to share on social media.