TODAY'S HOLIDAY is "U.S. Coast Guard Day"

August 4, 2010 is U.S. Coast Guard Day which honors the military branch that protects our waters and shorelines. This day is primarily an internal celebration for all Coast Guard personnel and their families, past and present. But it's also a day when Americans salute those who serve in this important military organization.

"Semper Paratus" (always prepared) is the motto of the United States Coast Guard, a branch of the U.S. Armed Forces.

On August 4, 1790, the Revenue Cutter Service was created by the U.S. Congress. Congress authorized the construction of ten cutters. These ships were built to enforce U.S. tariff laws. The name "Coast Guard" was first used in 1915.

More United States Coast Guard history: http://bit.ly/bJKIWs

U.S. Coast Guard rescue swimmers from Coast Guard Air Station Atlantic City train off the coast of Atlantic Cit, NJ, Sept. 18, 2006.
Photo Credit: U.S. Coast Guard photo by PAC Tom Sperduto