by Catherine Carlton, volunteer contributor, American Red Cross

The United States Coast Guard protects our shorelines. They keep us safe.

Today, on U.S. Coast Guard Day, and every day, we salute you, U.S. Coast Guard. Happy 226 years!

U.S. Coast Guard members, like my Uncle John, are the ones who lend a hand when boaters are in distress. They are the ones we call on to protect waterways, coasts, international waters, maritime regions and national security.

The Coast Guard, one of our five armed forces, was authorized by Congress with the construction of 10 vessels to enforce tariff and trade laws, prevent smuggling, and protect the collection of federal revenue, according to Military.com. Responsibilities added over the years included humanitarian duties such as aiding mariners in distress.

The service received its present name in 1915 when the Revenue Cutter Service merged with the U.S. Life-Saving Service to form a single maritime service dedicated to the safety of life at sea and enforcing the nation’s maritime laws.

Nearly 42,000 men and women actively serve in the U.S. Coast Guard. Thank you to all of them who serve and have served as well as their families.

Happy 226 from your American Red Cross!

For more U.S. Coast Guard Day articles, visit http://www.military.com/coast-guard-birthday.