Traditions: 200 Years of History

The U.S. Coast Guard, this nation’s oldest continuous maritime service, is rich in traditions. The origins of many of these may be traced back many centuries well beyond the establishing of the Service in 1790. Such is the case with the ceremonies of ships and Dining In. Other traditions are more modern such as the Ancient Albatross and the Ancient Mariner awards.

The Coast Guard is one of this nation’s sea services and as such shares with its sister services many traditions. But the Coast Guard is also unique and as such has evolved traditions of its own.