What is the primary function of the United States Coast Guard?

The primary function of the United States Coast Guard is to ensure the safety, security, and stewardship of the nation's waters. This encompasses a wide range of responsibilities, including search and rescue operations, law enforcement, and environmental protection. The Coast Guard plays a critical role in maritime safety by conducting vessel inspections, providing aids to navigation, and responding to maritime emergencies. This mission also includes securing ports and waterways against threats, ensuring that both commercial and recreational activities can take place safely.

By focusing on safety, security, and stewardship, the Coast Guard upholds its commitment to protecting life at sea, conserving natural resources, and providing a safe navigational environment for all maritime users. As such, this primary function underpins all other operations and initiatives undertaken by the agency. Other roles, like military support, managing wildlife conservation, or enforcing international shipping regulations, are part of broader marine operations but do not capture the essence of the Coast Guard’s essential mission.