The United States Coast Guard (USCG) is a branch of the United States Armed Forces and one of the country's seven uniformed services. It is a maritime, military, multi-mission service unique among the U.S. military branches for having a maritime law enforcement mission with jurisdiction in both domestic and international waters. Their mission includes safeguarding the coastal borders and waters of the United States, enforcing federal maritime laws, conducting search and rescue operations, protecting the marine environment, maintaining aids to navigation, icebreaking and supporting other branches of the U.S. military. The U.S. Coast Guard operates under the Department of Homeland Security during peacetime and can be transferred to the Department of the Navy during times of war.

1. The USCG is responsible for ensuring the safety, security, and stewardiness of the nation's waters, carrying out various duties such as marine rescue, port security, and law enforcement. 2. In 2012, the USCG played a vital role in rescuing and assisting victims during Hurricane Sandy, displaying their commitment to maritime safety and protection of citizens. 3. The USCG provides continuous patrols to combat drug trafficking in key coastal areas, often collaborating with other agencies to succeed in their mission of maintaining domestic security. 4. As environmental guardians, the USCG is tasked with enforcing ocean conservation laws, equipped to respond to oil spills, hazardous waste discharges, and protect threatened marine species. 5. The USCG Academy offers rigorous training programs, providing a foundation for careers in Coast Guard service and shaping future leaders of the sector.

Fun Fact: The United States Coast Guard (USCG) is not just a military force, but also one of the country's oldest organizations. Established in 1790 by Alexander Hamilton, the USCG has a broad and significant role in maritime law enforcement, including search and rescue, maritime patrol, and port security operations. Despite being less heard in comparison to other U.S military branches like the Army, Navy, or Air Force, the U.S Coast Guard actively works every day to enforce federal laws on the high seas, U.S waters, and in other nations' waters too. Remarkably, In times of peace, it operates under the Department of Homeland Security - but during times of war, it can be transferred to the Department of the Navy, showcasing its crucial role in both peacetime and warfare.