The U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) is one of the United States' eight uniformed services and the only military organization within the Department of Homeland Security during peacetime. It was officially established on January 28, 1915, through the merger of the Revenue Cutter Service (founded in 1790) and the Life-Saving Service. The Revenue Cutter Service, established by Alexander Hamilton, is actually considered the Coast Guard's true founding date, making it the oldest continuous seagoing service of the United States.
The Coast Guard is unique among military branches as it serves as both a military force and a law enforcement authority. It has five primary missions:
- Maritime law enforcement
- Maritime safety
- Maritime security
- Maritime mobility
- National defense