THE Office of the Governor has officially proclaimed Aug. 1 as U.S. Coast Guard Day in the Commonwealth, marking the service’s 235th anniversary and celebrating its steadfast partnership with the CNMI.
At a heartfelt ceremony held on Saipan, Gov. David M. Apatang signed the proclamation and reflected on the Coast Guard’s long and storied history. “It all began in 1790 as the Revenue Marine,” the Governor noted, recognizing the evolution of the service into a vital force for maritime safety and security.
The Governor also extended warm birthday wishes to the men and women of the Coast Guard, saying, “On behalf of the Lt. Governor and myself, we thank you for your years of dedication to our people. Happy 235th birthday!”
The event was both celebratory and solemn as Coast Guard representatives are on island to join local leaders in honoring the late Gov. Arnold I. Palacios, a CNMI leader whose legacy helped strengthen the bond between the Commonwealth and the Coast Guard. “It’s a bittersweet moment,” one representative shared. “We’re celebrating 235 years of service and our long history in the CNMI, but also paying our respects to a leader who, alongside you, truly reinforced our partnership. We couldn’t ask for better allies.”
The Coast Guard emphasized the importance of maritime safety for island communities like the CNMI. “Being surrounded by ocean, our maritime environment is critical,” a representative said. The Coast Guard’s collaboration with CNMI agencies — including the Department of Public Safety, Fish and Wildlife, Homeland Security and Emergency Management, and the Port Authority has been key to ensuring safe and secure waters.
The Coast Guard also praised the Governor’s leadership in fostering cooperation. “Your push for collaboration has propelled us forward. We train together, we operate together, and that unity ensures a safe and prosperous maritime future.”
The partnership extends beyond safety, it’s also helping build the local workforce. The Western Pacific Maritime Academy, which trains CNMI residents for careers at sea, operates with full approval from the U.S. Coast Guard. This shared commitment to education and opportunity is another example of the strong ties between the two entities.
As the ceremony concluded, the Department of Public Safety Commissioner Anthony Macaranas reaffirmed the Commonwealth’s dedication to working hand-in-hand with the Coast Guard. “We’ll continue this collaboration for the safety of our mariners and the strength of our community. The Coast Guard has been a fantastic partner, and we’re proud to stand with them.”
