Admiral Linda L. Fagan, the 27th Commandant of the United States Coast Guard, recently delivered the annual State of the Coast Guard Address at the Cannon House Office Building. In her address, she expressed pride in the Coast Guard’s recent operations and its growing global impact in safeguarding our economic prosperity and national security. Collaborating with the Department of Homeland Security, federal agencies, interagency partners, and international allies, the Coast Guard is instrumental in saving lives and preventing maritime accidents. The BoatU.S. Government Affairs Team attended along with numerous members of Congress, staff and industry colleagues.

In 2023 the Coast Guard rescued nearly five thousand lives and ensured the safety of many more through proactive operations. This dedicated service is visible daily, protecting our nation’s interests and earning respect worldwide. Admiral Fagan also highlighted challenges faced by the Coast Guard, including evolving threats, workforce issues, and infrastructure maintenance gaps. To address these, she emphasized the need for consistent and reliable funding to maintain readiness.

Recruitment remains a priority, as potential recruits consider the quality of facilities and ships when choosing Coast Guard service. Admiral Fagan underscored the importance of the Coast Guard’s core values: Honor, Respect, and Devotion to Duty.

BoatU.S. partners with the U.S. Coast Guard every day. Boaters count on many of the service's missions such as aids-to-navigation, boating safety programs and search and rescue operations.