In 1940, Rear Admiral Russell Waesche, Commandant of the Coast Guard, published his birthday message to the service on its 150th birthday. He noted “the need for unity, industry, intelligent action, and careful planning was never more evident.”
This was a time of unprecedented growth. In 1939, the Coast Guard assumed responsibility for the maintenance and operations of Aids to Navigation. On September 1, 1939, Germany invaded Poland. Over the next two years, the scope of responsibilities of the Coast Guard significantly increased. The Coast Guard undertook the supervision of loading dangerous cargo, including explosives, gasoline, and fuel, and patrolled anchorages. The Battle for the Atlantic developed, the Neutrality Patrol was organized and made effective. Coast Guard cutters were assigned to convoy duty. In cooperation with the Weather Observation Service, Coast Guard vessels patrolled certain weather stations between Bermuda and the Azores.
As the missions of the Coast Guard increased, the expansion of the service was essential. In September 1939, Coast Guard personnel numbered 17,022. By December 7,1941, that number swelled to 29,978. When war was declared, 168 Coast Guard vessels bore names and were over 100 feet in length. During the war, another 156 named vessels were acquired.
Admiral Waesche’s birthday message in 1940 mentioned drastic changes to the organization.
Today, on the 235th birthday of our service, the Coast Guard once again faces fundamental changes to the organization. Force Design 2028 is forging a new path forward. The Coast Guard is acquiring new vessels, to include Polar Security Cutters, Medium Arctic Security Cutters, additional Fast Response Cutters, Waterways Commerce Cutters, as well as additional helicopter and fixed wing assets. Expansion of personnel is planned. Admiral Waesche’s words, written 85 years ago, remain relevant today. “The faith and confidence placed in us will be fully merited.”
A toast to those who came before, and to those currently serving! We look to the future! Happy Coast Guard Day!
For more information reach out to Office of Coast Guard Heritage and History.
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