Our royal blue U.S. Coast Guard t-shirt stands out like the steadfast beacon of a lighthouse on a moonless night. Its vibrant color is as vast as the oceans the Coast Guard bravely patrols.

In stark contrast, like a lifebuoy thrown to those in need, are the words "COAST GUARD" in bright, bold orange. The letters are not just a declaration, but a declaration of intent—a beacon that says, "Always Ready." This vibrant orange text is topped off by the Coast Guard's motto, "Semper Paratus," which flanks a small, subtle Coast Guard logo.

At the National Archives, researchers can find a wide range of information on the United States Coast Guard and its predecessor agencies. These agencies include the Revenue Cutter Service, which patrolled waterways in the early days of the Republic; the U.S. Life Saving Service, which protected shipwrecked mariners; and the U.S. Lighthouse Service, which kept watch along American shores.

Today, the modern Coast Guard performs all of these functions and more to safeguard the United States and its maritime operations. Coast Guard records are available in National Archives research facilities across the country.

Approved insignia designs and seals are held in trust by the National Archives in the Military holdings.

For more information about veterans' records held in trust by the National Archives, please visit Veterans' Service Records.