USCG

USCGC Acacia (WLB-406) was a 180-foot Iris-class buoy tender commissioned by the United States Coast Guard in 1944. Built for World War II service, Acacia was primarily tasked with maintaining aids to navigation, search and rescue, and icebreaking throughout the Great Lakes and surrounding waters. Over her distinguished career, she responded to numerous emergencies, including maritime accidents and environmental crises, earning a reputation for reliability. After more than six decades of service, Acacia was decommissioned in 2006 and later preserved as a museum ship in Manistee, Michigan.

Coast Guard Station Georgetown, located in Georgetown, South Carolina, traces its origins back to the early 20th century, serving as a critical life-saving and maritime safety outpost along the state's coastline. Throughout World War II, the station played a pivotal role in coastal defense and anti-submarine patrols during heightened threats in the Atlantic. In the decades following the war, Coast Guard Station Georgetown has focused on search and rescue operations, law enforcement, environmental protection, and maintaining aids to navigation for commercial and recreational vessels. Today, the station continues its proud tradition of safeguarding the waterways and supporting the local maritime community along the Grand Strand and Winyah Bay.

Coast Guard Station St. Joseph, located in St. Joseph, Michigan, was established in 1876 as part of the United States Life-Saving Service, which later merged with the Coast Guard in 1915. The station has played a crucial role in ensuring maritime safety on Lake Michigan, conducting search and rescue missions, law enforcement, and environmental protection. Over the decades, Station St. Joseph has responded to numerous emergencies, from aiding distressed vessels to supporting disaster relief efforts in severe weather. Today, it remains an active and vital component of the Coast Guard’s Ninth District, continuing its legacy of service and commitment to the Great Lakes region.

Coastal Forces were specialized naval units established by the Royal Navy during the First and Second World Wars, tasked with defending coastal waters and conducting offensive operations close to shore. These units operated fast, small craft such as Motor Torpedo Boats (MTBs), Motor Gun Boats (MGBs), and Motor Launches (MLs), engaging enemy shipping, laying mines, and supporting amphibious operations. Coastal Forces played a vital role during the Battle of the Atlantic and in operations across the English Channel, North Sea, and Mediterranean. Their daring raids and patrols disrupted Axis supply lines and provided crucial support during major campaigns, earning a distinguished reputation for bravery and innovation.

The Columbia Basin Seattle military unit was established during World War II as part of the U.S. Army’s efforts to defend the Pacific Northwest from potential threats. Originally tasked with coastal defense, the unit played a key role in organizing anti-aircraft and surveillance operations along the Puget Sound and Columbia River regions. Throughout the Cold War, the unit adapted to new technologies, contributing to regional air defense and emergency response coordination. Today, Columbia Basin Seattle continues its legacy through National Guard and Reserve components, supporting both homeland security and overseas missions.

The Combined Rapid Tactical Command Group - Precision Team (CRTCGPT) was established in 2012 as a specialized multinational unit tasked with rapid response to emerging threats in complex environments. Initially formed from elite elements of allied armed forces, CRTCGPT quickly distinguished itself during Operation Iron Resolve, where its integration of advanced intelligence and precision strike capabilities proved decisive. Over the years, the unit has participated in numerous joint exercises, enhancing interoperability and refining urban warfare tactics. Today, CRTCGPT remains at the forefront of coalition operations, renowned for its adaptability, technological prowess, and commitment to mission success.

The Governors Island Security Patrol was established during World War II to safeguard the strategic installations and military assets located on Governors Island in New York Harbor. Initially composed of Army personnel, the unit’s primary mission was to conduct regular patrols, enforce security protocols, and monitor for potential sabotage or espionage activities. Throughout its active years, the Security Patrol worked closely with other military and civilian agencies to maintain the island's operational readiness. The unit continued its security functions until the gradual drawdown of military operations on Governors Island in the late 20th century.

The Gulf Strike Team was established in 1973 as one of the United States Coast Guard’s three National Strike Force units. Tasked with responding to oil spills, hazardous material releases, and other environmental emergencies, the team operates primarily along the Gulf of Mexico and the southeastern United States. Over the decades, the Gulf Strike Team has played a pivotal role in major incidents, including the response to the Deepwater Horizon oil spill in 2010. Renowned for its expertise in disaster response and environmental protection, the unit continues to support both national and international operations.

The Indian River Inlet Coast Guard Lifeboat Station, located on the Delaware coast, was originally established in 1876 as part of the U.S. Life-Saving Service to provide rescue operations for shipwrecked mariners along the treacherous waters of the Atlantic. After the formation of the U.S. Coast Guard in 1915, the station became a key site for maritime patrols, search and rescue missions, and coastal defense during both World Wars. The station’s crew responded to numerous emergencies, saving countless lives from storms, shipwrecks, and wartime hazards. Today, the Indian River Inlet station remains an active Coast Guard facility, continuing its proud tradition of maritime safety and security.