WILMINGTON, N.C. – The Coast Guard bestowed the title of “Coast Guard City, USA” to Wilmington, N.C., during a recertification ceremony today.
The ceremony marks the second time Wilmington has been honored.
“This is the highest honor the United States Coast Guard can bestow upon any city,” said Wilmington Mayor Bill Saffo. “The city truly values its relationship with the Coast Guard and will continue to strive to live up to the honor of being a Coast Guard City.”
Rep. Mike McIntyre, of North Carolina’s 7th congressional district, cited the Coast Guard’s dedicated service to the community of Wilmington and the citizens of North Carolina from the service’s founding on Aug. 4, 1790 through the present day.
“Because of your readiness, you’ve given us a history to be proud of, a heritage to treasure and a hope for tomorrow,” said McIntyre.
The “Coast Guard City, USA” program was established Nov. 13, 1998, after a law (Section 409 of Public Law 105-383) was enacted to formally allow the city of Grand Haven, Mich., to become the first Coast Guard City, USA.
The designation of “Coast Guard City, USA,” recognizes a community’s effort in meeting the needs of local Coast Guard personnel through its many actions, activities and events, while maintaining a robust, on-going relationship between the community as a whole and the local Coast Guard units.
