Since 1790. the United States Coast Guard has served as the guardian of our shores. It began its service to the Nation as a lifesaving organization. protecting our mariners from the perils of the sea. Over time. its missions have come to encompass additional responsibilities including performing drug and migrant interdiction. enforcing fisheries regulations. and maintaining our Nations waterways and aids to navigation. Following the tragic events of September 11th. 2001. the Coast Guard expanded its role in homeland security operations. becoming the agency charged with protecting our Nation from maritime threats. Though we have expanded the role of this valiant service. we have not upgraded its equipment to the degree necessary to carry out the tasks it has been assigned.