For 235 years, the United States Coast Guard has secured our waterways and defended our homeland as America's premier maritime law enforcement agency. They never flinch in their mission to patrol and protect. Today, we celebrate the Coast Guard's enduring legacy and the thousands of Coast Guardsmen who heroically live by the motto: "Semper Paratus"-"Always Ready."
Every day, the Coast Guard works to keep America safe and prevent dangerous threats from reaching our borders. In the first six months of 2025, they have already seized more than 240,000 pounds of cocaine, a more than 100 percent increase over the same time period in 2024. Thanks to their work, our streets are safer, our families are protected, and our communities are guarded from the poisonous drugs that have claimed far too many precious American lives.
The Coast Guard's commitment to serving our citizens was once again put on full display last month, when search and rescue crews were deployed to areas of Central Texas ravaged by devastating floods. In the face of tragedy and chaos, our Coast Guardsmen saved hundreds of lives. Their heroism, compassion, and resolve stand as a shining example of what it means to be a Coast Guardsman-and their inspiring devotion to protecting the American people represents the very best of our Nation.
As President, I am steadfastly committed to ensuring that every Coast Guardsman has the support, resources, and capabilities they need to maintain their hard-won dominance, prestige, and respect for future generations. Through Force Design 2028-historic funding delivered in the One Big Beautiful Bill-my Administration is empowering the Coast Guard to accomplish its mission better, stronger, and more efficiently than ever before. As a result, military recruitment levels are skyrocketing, and the Coast Guard is now on pace to exceed recruitment expectations by 110 percent, a stark contrast to their recruitment shortages under the previous administration.
As we commemorate the 235th birthday of the United States Coast Guard, we honor the brave patriots who defend our shores-and we remain eternally indebted to their unwavering dedication to preserving American excellence.
