New Delhi: Every August 4, US Coast Guard Day is observed. This occasion honours the brave men and women of the US Coast Guard who have demonstrated exceptional courage and discipline since the organisation’s establishment in 1790. For over two centuries, the US Coast Guard has played a pivotal role in safeguarding the nation’s waterways and enhancing national security.
The US Coast Guard is responsible for patrolling our coastlines to combat various criminal activities such as drug smuggling, human trafficking, and domestic as well as international terrorism. Over the years, the Coast Guard has continuously adapted to the evolving tactics of criminals, developing and employing sophisticated and effective technologies to combat crimes at sea effectively and within our ports. Their dedication to this task is relentless, as they stand guard 24/7, ensuring the safety and security of our waters. In this article, let us learn some facts about the Coast Guard.
Things to know about the Coast Guard
The Coast Guard is a maritime security organisation within a specific country. Its responsibilities vary widely among different countries, ranging from being a heavily armed military force with customs and security duties to a volunteer organisation focused on search and rescue operations without law enforcement powers.
However, regardless of the country, a typical Coast Guard’s functions are separate from those of the Navy (a purely military force) and a transportation police (a civilian law enforcement agency).
These brave men and women devote their lives to ensuring the safety and security of our maritime environments, protecting our national interests, and responding to emergencies with unparalleled courage and resolve.
The Coast Guard’s responsibilities are extensive and diverse, including critical tasks such as search and rescue operations, law enforcement, environmental protection, and homeland security efforts. This significant day highlights the breadth and depth of their crucial tasks. It underscores their vital role in maintaining the safety and well-being of our coastal communities and the environment.
Countless coastal areas nationwide rely on the Coast Guard’s steadfast support and protection.
In times of war, specific national Coast Guard organisations may assume the role of a naval reserve force, undertaking duties such as harbour defences, port security, maritime counterintelligence, and coastal patrols.
Role
The duties and functions that may be assigned to a Coast Guard service include:
1. Search and rescue operations to respond to maritime emergencies and save lives at sea.
2. maritime law enforcement to ensure compliance with shipping, fishing, and environmental protection regulations.
3. Safety of vessels by conducting inspections, providing navigational assistance, and responding to distress calls.
4. Maintenance of seamarks such as buoys and lighthouses to ensure safe navigation for ships and boats.
5. Border control activities to prevent illegal immigration, smuggling, and other illicit activities within the maritime domain.
A coast guard is a maritime security organisation in many countries. In most countries, the coast guard’s role is separate from the navy and transit police, but in some countries, they share similarities. knowledge Knowledge News, Photos and Videos on General Knowledge
