New York City was officially designated as the 25th Coast Guard City on Thursday during a ceremony at City Hall with Mayor Bill de Blasio and Coast Guard Commandant Adm. Paul Zukunft.
“Today’s designation deepens our historic partnership with the City of New York and is a testament to the critical role the Coast Guard plays in helping to keep the city safe, secure, and resilient,” Zukunft said.
Established by Congress in 1998, a Coast Guard City is an honorary designation recognizing communities’ special efforts to celebrate the service and sacrifice of Coast Guard men and women.
This honor, bestowed by the commandant of the Coast Guard with approval from Congress, recognizes New York City’s longstanding efforts to embrace Coast Guard men, women, and families stationed in Staten Island during their tour of duty in New York City.
From its founding in 1790 by Alexander Hamilton to the present day, the Coast Guard maintains safety and security on New York City’s waterways and protects the City’s residents and tourists. This relationship is demonstrated through events such as the recent helicopter accident on the East River in March 2018, New York City’s and the Coast Guard’s response to Hurricane Sandy in Oct. 2012, and historical moments like the evacuation of over 500,000 people from Lower Manhattan following the terrorist attacks on Sept. 11, 2001. The Coast Guard is always ready – alongside NYPD, FDNY, and the Department of Emergency Management – to safeguard the city.
