The Coast Guard is one of our nation’s five military services. The Coast Guard is one of the oldest organizations of the federal government. Established in 1790, the Coast Guard served as the nation's only armed force on the sea until Congress launched the Navy Department eight years later.  Since then, the Coast Guard has protected the US throughout its long history and served proudly in every one of the nation's conflicts.

The Coast Guard is both a federal law enforcement agency and a military force, and therefore is a faithful protector of the US in peacetime and war. In times of peace, the Coast Guard operates as part of the Department of Homeland Security, enforcing the nation's laws at sea, protecting the marine environment, guarding the nation's vast coastline and ports, and performing vital lifesaving missions. In times of war, or at the direction of the President, the Coast Guard serves under the Department of the Navy, defending the nation against terrorism and foreign threats.

Their core values—honor, respect, and devotion to duty, are the guiding principles used to defend and preserve the USA.  They protect the personal safety and security of our people; the marine transportation system and infrastructure; our natural and economic resources; and the territorial integrity of our nation–from both internal and external threats, natural and man-made. They protect these interests in U.S. ports, inland waterways, along the coasts, and on international waters.

To serve in the U.S. Coast Guard, applicants must meet a set of basic requirements that include age, residency, and education standards. Members of the Coast Guard receive a comprehensive benefits package. In addition to their salary, members earn free health, dental, and vision insurance; tuition assistance; housing and meals; 30 days of paid vacation; and much more.