Coast Guard Commandant speaks of new programs during challenging times.
The U.S. Coast Guard has announced new programs to gain recruits after missing signup goals for the past two years. During his State of the Coast Guard address, Commandant of the Coast Guard Admiral Karl Schultz reported initiatives that will increase tuition assistance and offer a shorter enlistment period, among other incentives. A program also launched last year to offer Reserve members training closer to home.
The coronavirus pandemic had closed down the Recruit Training Center Cape May, New Jersey, during the spring and in December of 2020, which impacted the current number of graduates. “If we’re around 3,000 – a little higher, a little lower – I’m going to say we’ve done pretty darn well and in a very difficult environment for close contact training,” stated Admiral Schultz.
The commandant said that the team of active duty, Reserve, Auxiliary members, and civilian employees had given their all during 2020, dealing with the pandemic, and record numbers of wildfires and hurricanes.
“Coast Guard members stood the watch amidst adversity, showcasing what makes our Service special – our people.” Schultz concluded, “The State of the Coast Guard is truly agile, adaptive and resilient. While we continue to face challenges, this past year has reinforced that we are indeed ‘Stronger Together.'”
As the Lord Leads, Pray with Us…
- For Admiral Schultz as he leads the U.S. Coast Guard.
- That the incentives would be effective in encourages recruits to the service.
- For the active duty and Reservists who serve to protect the United States.
Sources: Military.com, U.S. Coast Guard
