This week, we celebrate the 235th birthday of the United States Coast Guard. Since its founding, the Coast Guard has been “Semper Paratus”—always ready to protect our shores, stop illicit drug trafficking, rescue civilians, and defend our sovereignty. And we’re making sure they have the resources to do so. 

Just last month, I voted to pass the One Big Beautiful Bill, which delivered nearly $25 billion to rebuild and modernize our maritime forces. 

The investment allows the USCG to: 

• Deploy cutting-edge maritime sensors, drones, and Fast Response & Offshore Patrol Cutters

• Enhance capabilities for illicit drug trafficking interception

• Build 17 new icebreakers, 21 cutters, over 40 new helicopters, and six HC-130J aircraft

• Repair deteriorating shore infrastructure & training facilities

Additionally, as a member of the House Transportation & Infrastructure Committee, I’ve had the chance to work on legislation that supports our Coasties. I voted to pass the Coast Guard Authorization Act, and I recently invited Secretary of Transportation, Sean Duffy, to visit our communities’ own USCG Station Fort Pierce. All of this is a testament to the dedicated service members who stand watch over 95,000 miles of American shoreline every single day. On this 235th year of the United States Coast Guard, please join me in thanking our Coasties for their service to our nation.