For too long. the Coast Guard has been given short shrift in funding. while its mandate from Congress continues to grow. Not only does the Coast Guard come within the naval command structure during time of war. but the Coast Guard is also involved with the Navy in coastal defense. antisubmarine warfare. convoy escort. and icebreaking. As well. the Coast Guard is charged with immigration patrol on the high seas. drug interdiction. search and rescue missions. protection of the 200mile fisheries limit. and response to military crises requiring nearshore maritime operations. Yet. the average age of our Coast Guards vessels is more than 27 years. Maintenance problems diminish vessel availability. reliability. and overall readiness.
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