What is the primary role of the U.S. Coast Guard?

The primary role of the U.S. Coast Guard is to enforce maritime law. This encompasses a broad range of responsibilities including maintaining safety on the waterways, conducting search and rescue operations, and ensuring the security of maritime borders. By enforcing maritime law, the Coast Guard plays a critical role in preventing illegal activities such as drug trafficking and human smuggling, as well as protecting the marine environment.

The essence of the Coast Guard's mission is tied to its unique position as a military service under the Department of Homeland Security during peacetime, allowing it to operate in both a law enforcement and military capacity. This duality emphasizes the importance of its role in ensuring the safety and security of the nation's waters and coastlines.