New York City designated as the 25th Coast Guard City

Photo by Petty Officer 3rd Class Steven Strohmaier

NEW YORK — New York City was officially designated as the 25th Coast Guard City, 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,” said Zukunft.

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.

About the Coast Guard 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.

About the Coast Guard City program

The very nature of the Coast Guard's mission creates a need for understanding between the Coast Guard and the local community. Coast Guard commands seek to develop the kinds of relationships that enable unit commanders to sense public attitudes and interests. In turn, many cities have made special efforts to acknowledge the professional work of the Coast Guard members assigned to their area. Making Coast Guard members and their families feel welcome in their home away from home is an invaluable contribution to morale and service excellence. The Coast Guard is pleased to recognize Coast Guard Cities -- those cities that have extended so many considerations to the Coast Guard family.

More information about Coast Guard cities may be found here.