Each year the U.S. Coast Guard Reserve celebrates its Birthday on February 19th. In June of 1939, Congress gave the Coast Guard Reserve a legislative mandate to allow civilians to join the reserve.

On February 19, 1941, Congress amended the 1939 Act by passing the Auxiliary and Reserve Act of 1941 which officially designated the Reserve as a military branch, with the civilians forming the Auxiliary.

5 Fun Facts About the U.S. Coast Guard Reserve

1. The original Coast Guard Reserve was made of non-military and made up of volunteer U.S. citizens who owned yachts or boats.
2. The Coast Guard Women’s Reserve, nicknamed SPARS, was formed in 1942 and though it was disbanded in 1946, it inspired the success of women in the Coast Guard Reserve today.
3. The Coast Guard Reserve changed in 1994. This downsizing led to the Coast Guard Reserve stopping the operations of its all-reserve units, except for the Port Security Units.
4. The Coast Guard Reserve has it's own Anthem called the ‘Golden Reserve,’ and talks about being ready for the call in all conditions and serving the nation.
5. Many celebrities such as Beau, Jeff Bridges, Ford Rainey, Guy Madison, Patrick Wayne, and others have served in the Coast Guard Reserve.

Why Celebrating The U.S. Coast Guard Reserve’s Birthday is Important

1. It commemorates the sacrifices of Coast Guards. Observing the U.S. Coast Guard Reserve Birthday not only honors their sacrifice but also encourages the youth to understand the rich history of the U.S. Coast Guard Reserve.
2. It encourages civilians to be part of the country and community. As the Coast Guard Reserve offers an opportunity to citizens to serve their country and community on a part-time basis, celebrating its birthday encourages others to do the same. It boosts the community’s morale to see youth participate in duties of maritime safety, mobility, security, national defense, and the protection of natural resources.
3. It celebrates the rich naval history of the U.S. During the U.S. Coast Guard Reserve Birthday, many internal events and activities encourage the community to celebrate.