The Coast Guard It is unique among the U.S. Military branches in that it is also a maritime law enforcement agency, with jurisdiction both domestically and in international waters, and a federal regulatory agency for the country. The US Coast Guard dates back to 1790 when the Revenue Cutter Service was formed by Alexander Hamilton for the purpose of enforcing the customs laws. It remained a maritime law enforcement agency until 1915 when Congress declared it a Military service and branch of our Armed Forces.
This Coast Guard flag is reserved for Military ceremonies and is also flown ashore at Coast Guard Locations, while the USCG Ensign symbolizes their law enforcement jurisdiction flying flag. This Coast Guard flag is white and features the Great Seal of the United States in dark blue. The shield on the eagle's breast in the Great Seal has a blue chief over vertical red and white stripes, which is the only area on that flag that features a color not similar to the ocean waters. The “United States Coast Guard” is written above the Great seal in an arc format, while below it is the Coast Guard motto, "Semper Paratus", which means “Always ready.” 1790 is written at the very bottom of the flag which is the years Alexander Hamilton formed the Revenue Cutter Service.