Coast Guard Station Eatons Neck

• Oldest Coast Guard Station in Operation: Coast Guard Station Eatons Neck, located in Northport, New York, is the oldest Coast Guard station in continuous operation in the United States, originally established in 1849 as a Life-Saving Service station. • Strategic Location: The station is situated at the western tip of Eatons Neck, guarding the entrance to Huntington Bay and Long Island Sound, making it a critical point for maritime safety and navigation. • Historic Lighthouse: The station sits beside the Eatons Neck Lighthouse, which was built in 1798 and is the second oldest lighthouse on Long Island, still active and aiding navigation today. • Role in the Civil War: During the Civil War, the station and lighthouse played a role in monitoring for Confederate raiders and keeping shipping lanes safe for Union vessels. • Life-Saving Service Roots: Before merging into the modern Coast Guard, the station was part of the U.S. Life-Saving Service, whose “surfmen” braved treacherous waters to rescue mariners in distress. • Notable Rescues: The station’s crews have participated in countless daring rescues over the centuries, including high-profile shipwreck responses during the 19th and 20th centuries. • WWII Coastal Defense: During World War II, the station supported coastal defense operations and patrolled for German U-boats, a key part of the war effort on the home front. • Modern Missions: Today, the station’s missions include search and rescue, law enforcement, environmental protection, and homeland security, serving the busy waters of Long Island Sound. • Training and Technology: The station has evolved with advances in technology, now operating modern vessels such as the 45-foot Response Boat-Medium and utilizing state-of-the-art communication and navigation tools. • Community Ties: Coast Guard Station Eatons Neck has a strong relationship with the local community, frequently hosting open houses, participating in public safety education, and honoring its long tradition of service.