Steve Israel: “Americans have always counted on the Coast Guard to enforce maritime law, to secure our waterways and ports, to rescue…”

“Americans have always counted on the Coast Guard to enforce maritime law, to secure our waterways and ports, to rescue those in distress, and to intercept illegal drugs. In this new century, however, we are going to need to count on them even more. In the Iraqi theater, the Coast Guard is protecting key ports and oil platforms and helping speed the delivery of relief supplies to those in need. This year, Petty Officer Third Class Nathan Bruckenthal became the first member of the Coast Guard to die in battle since Vietnam. His bravery and sacrifice shines a light on the often overlooked sacrifices made by our Coast Guard. When I spoke to Nathan's father, he said simply, 'My son served his country.' Mr. Speaker, he did serve, and sacrifice. We have to keep Nathan and his family in our prayers, in our budgets, and keep the Coast Guard the very best in the world. The Coast Guard is always ready to defend our Nation and rescue those in trouble. Now it is our turn. I urge my colleagues to support this conference report and to give the Coast Guard the funds that it needs to meet the national security challenges of the 21st century in honor of the Bruckenthal family which served and sacrificed.”