218 Years Young

Photo By Petty Officer 2nd Class Jayme Pastoric | U.S. Coast Guard Cmdr. Bob Grassino, commander of Joint Task Force Guantanamo's Port Security Unit 307, stands by to sound the air horn starting the Coast Guard Birthday 5K, Aug 2, 2008. The Coast Guard run, hosted by PSU 307, was in celebration of the 218th anniversary of the USCG, established on Aug. 4, 1790. Joint Task Force Guantanamo conducts safe and humane care and custody of detained enemy combatants. The JTF conducts interrogation operations to collect strategic intelligence in support of the Global War on Terror and supports law enforcement and war crimes investigations. JTF Guantanamo is committed to the safety and security of American service members and civilians working inside its detention facilities.  

GUANTANAMO BAY, CUBA

08.08.2008

Story by Petty Officer 2nd Class Jayme Pastoric 

Joint Task Force Guantanamo Public Affairs

GUANTANAMO BAY, Cuba - Next time you see a Coast Guardsman make sure you wish them a happy birthday. They just turned 218-years-old.

Like every 218-year-old, the members of Joint Task Force Guantanamo's Coast Guard Port Security Unit 307 decided to run a five kilometer foot race – or at least host one.

"The Coast Guard plays a huge role in patrolling Gitmo's waters," said co-winner of the women's division Jennifer Seese. "Not only does it provide protection to Gitmo's shores and the Caribbean, but also it provides assistance at any time."

Overall winner, Seaman Nathan Brassmassery finished with a time of 12 minutes, 18 seconds, and was happy to see the turnout of supporters for the race.

"It's nice to see everyone come out to support the Coast Guard for this race," said Brassmassery.

Established by Alexander Hamilton under the Department of the Treasury, Aug. 4, 1790, the U.S. Coast Guard's original mission was to collect taxes from a brand new nation of patriot-smugglers. When the Coast Guard was at sea, they were told to crack down on piracy and while they were at it, rescue anyone in distress.

Currently, the Coast Guard falls under the Department of Homeland Security and patrols and maintains the last line of defense on our nation's costal waters. Unlike Department of Defense services the Coast Guard is deployed every day, upholding maritime law and specializing in search and rescue.

While troopers are deployed around the world, they will have one less thing to worry about knowing the Coast Guard has 218-years of experience defending our coastline and protecting our families.

• Date Taken: 08.08.2008
• Date Posted: 08.13.2008 14:42
• Story ID: 22458
• Location: GUANTANAMO BAY, CU