A Coast Guardsman dies in Iraq

[Tamaroa]

Then we were transferred to the Transportation Department. The President has the authority to make us part of the Navy in time of war. However, that has not happened since ww2. We operate independently unless ordered to do so.

Now we are in the Department of Homeland Security. With the Coast Guard's expertise in small boats combined with the fact that we are not subject to the posse comitatus act of 1878, we conduct many joint operations with the Navy. In many cases you will see Navy destroyers stop civilian ships in our waters. That in and of itself is a violation of the posse comitatus act. However, the destroyer will hoist the Coast Guard ensign and a boarding team consisting 100% of coasties will board the offending vessel making everything sneaky but legal. :-)

Rest in Peace Nathan Bruckenthal DC3, USCG age 24 years.

Bill