Blogs

On the next ITKWD, we’re making a virtual-road-trip-stop at the U.S. Coast Guard Training Center in Cape May, NJ. This is where the journey begins for some Coast Guardsmen. For eight weeks, the new seamen recruits learn teamwork, develop physical skills, and are introduced to the Coast Guard’s core values (Honor, Respect, and Devotion to Duty).

The U.S. Coast Guard is made up of over 40,000 active duty soldiers, about 8,000 reservists, and another 40,000+ civilian and auxiliary employees. The Coast Guard is unique in the fact that they are considered a “multi-mission” service. In peacetime, they operate under the department of Homeland Security. This means they act as law enforcement in domestic and international waters. In wartime, the Coast Guard operates under the U.S. Navy. This has happened twice in history: WWI and WWII.

We have been getting so many incredible stories and photos from all of you. The whole team has loved reading your stories about the veterans in your family. One photo caught my eye while I was writing this blog. This is Maurice Pepin, submitted by Jeanne Pepin. He was a Coast Guardsman from August 23, 1960 to August 13, 1964. This picture was taken when he was a new recruit at the Training Center in Cape May, NJ.

Thank you, to all of our Coast Guardsmen, for keeping our waters safe. Please continue to share your stories and your photos. We love to read about your family and we send you our sincere gratitude. ~ Mary QVC