For almost 220 years the Coast Guard has been rescuing distressed mariners, defending our borders, protecting our maritime interests, and responding to environmental threats. With regard to the latter, the Coast Guard is once again demonstrating outstanding leadership in directing the unprecedented national response to the Macondo spill.
I worked closely with Coast Guard personnel throughout my career, both in the field and at the headquarters level, and was extremely impressed with their dedication and professionalism. This military service sometimes goes unnoticed and performs many thankless tasks, like the major spill response it is engaged in today. On Memorial Day, we salute the Coast Guard for its sacrifice and public service. Well done!