Dan Webster: “August 4th marked the 234th birthday of the Coast Guard, and the Service is celebrating that birthday tonight here at…”

Given these immense resources, it should come as no surprise that adversaries, including Russia and China, are working to assert themselves in the region.

The United States has relied on the Coast Guard's persistent presence to demonstrate American sovereignty in the Arctic since the United States acquired Alaska in 1867.

At the same time, our nation has two operational icebreakers, one of which is dedicated to the Service's Antarctic mission in support of the National Science Foundation and is operating well past its intended service life.

Mr. Speaker, we are on the brink of a historic moment. This is a day I have worked toward for a long time. Throughout my time here, I have fought for legislative reforms that will restore a Member-driven process. This is the most…