William Kelley

The US Coast and Geodetic Survey (USC&GS), established in 1807 as the Survey of the Coast, was the United States' first scientific agency dedicated to charting the nation's coastlines and navigable waters. Throughout its history, the USC&GS played a critical military role, providing essential hydrographic and topographic data for naval operations, especially during the Civil War, Spanish-American War, World Wars I and II. During wartime, its personnel and vessels were often placed under Navy or Army command, conducting mapping, charting, and reconnaissance missions to support amphibious landings and coastal defense. In 1970, the agency became part of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), ending its independent military role but leaving a legacy of crucial contributions to national defense and maritime safety.