Press Releases

Congressman Mike Ezell (MS-04), Chairman of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Subcommittee on Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation, recently published an opinion piece recognizing the 236th Anniversary of the United States Coast Guard and highlighting the service's enduring role in protecting America's maritime borders, supporting national security, and safeguarding Mississippi's Gulf Coast.

In the op-ed, Ezell reflects on the Coast Guard's deep roots in Mississippi—from Coast Guard Air Station Biloxi's anti-submarine operations during World War II to lifesaving search and rescue missions following Hurricane Katrina. He also outlines the Coast Guard's modern missions, including securing the nation's maritime borders, combating illegal drug trafficking, protecting America's fisheries, and defending critical infrastructure.

Ezell also discusses recent investments to modernize the Coast Guard, including new cutters, aircraft, facilities, and infrastructure that will strengthen the service for generations to come while supporting Mississippi's shipbuilding industry and workforce.

"The Coast Guard has faithfully protected our nation for 236 years, and Mississippi has proudly been part of that legacy. As Chairman of the Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation Subcommittee, I remain committed to ensuring these brave men and women have the resources they need to defend our nation, protect our waterways, and save lives. Their mission has never been more important, and neither has our commitment to supporting them."

Ezell's full opinion piece, "236 Years of Standing Watch: Honoring the Coast Guard's Past and Investing in Their Future," is available here: Read the full op-ed.

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