Semper paratus

TL;DR -- An little known example of being "prepared" is the U.S. Coast Guard which celebrates its 235th birthday this year (this weekend). The Owasco class cutter is one example from the long history of the Coast Guard.

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Of late, we have mentioned the 250th of the U.S. and its defense organizations: U.S. Army; U.S. Navy; U.S. Marines. With these, we will be studying the history of the Revolution. Today, we start to look at the U.S. Coast Guard and its history. 

DoD's site provided a nice overview of the service provided by the Coast Guard over 235 years. Also, see a definition of "semper paratus" there: always ready. The coast guard got its start with Washington approving expenditures for 10 cutters in 1790. Alexander Hamilton was the founder. 

Much focus might be have an emphasis on the "domestic" duty. But, the Coast Guard supports the U.S. Navy in times of war. And example was use of the Owasco class cutter in Vietnam. Paul Switlik, John's brother, was with the ship on its Vietnam tour. 

See Vietnam service,
"Crew cititation"

Provisioning at sea
off Vietnam

The U.S. Coast Guard birthday will celebrated at The National WII Museum in New Orleans on 4 Oct 2025. 

Remarks: Modified: 08/02/2025

08/02/2025 -