On the recordFebruary 13, 2024
As we celebrate Black History Month, I rise today to recognize U.S. Coast Guard Captain Zeita Merchant, commander of the Port of New York, based in my district in Staten Island. With the announcement that she will be promoted to Rear Admiral in the Coast Guard, Captain Merchant is making history by becoming the highest ranking African-American woman in the U.S. Coast Guard's 233- year history. Throughout her nearly 27-year career, she has commanded maritime operations in Chicago, Texas, Miami, New Orleans, and New York, many times being either the first minority or the first woman to hold her position. In many cases, she was both. On top of her workplace accolades, she has also received more than a dozen academic, community service, and military honors. On Staten Island, Captain Merchant has overseen the busiest port in our Nation to keep our maritime commerce moving, stop the flow of drugs coming over our borders, conduct search and rescue missions, and protect our national security at sea. She has managed more than 1,000 personnel in 12 commands over an area spanning more than 6,000 square miles. On a personal note, I admire Captain Merchant's dedication and commitment to protecting New York City's waters. She will be truly missed by me and our entire community. We know that she will make us proud as she assumes her new role here in Washington, D.C. ____________________
