USPS Honors U.S. Coast Guard Academy with Special Stamp
News related to:U.S. Coast Guard Academy · 2 min read
The United States Postal Service (USPS) has honored the U.S. Coast Guard Academy by featuring it on a new stamp, marking the 150th anniversary of the institution. The stamp, which will be used on millions of letters across the country, celebrates the academy’s dedication to developing future leaders of the U.S. Coast Guard.
Marc McCrery, the USPS's customer experience vice president and dedicating official, expressed pride in the partnership. "We are proud to feature the U.S. Coast Guard Academy on millions of letters that will be sent across the country," McCrery said.
The U.S. Coast Guard Academy, established on July 31, 1876, has a rich history rooted in maritime education and leadership development. Initially named the Revenue Cutter School of Instruction, the academy began its journey aboard the topsail schooner James C. Dobbin in 1877. This marked the start of a tradition that continues to this day, with the sea serving as a crucial proving ground for Coast Guard officers.
Over the years, the academy has evolved and expanded. In 1900, it moved to Fort Trumbull outside of New London, Connecticut. The school became known as the U.S. Coast Guard Academy after the merger of the Revenue Cutter Service and the Life Saving Service in 1915. The academy's current campus, which includes more than 30 buildings across 103 acres, was established in 1932.
Today, the academy enrolls approximately 1,070 cadets who must meet rigorous academic, ethical, and physical standards to gain admission. Cadets can choose from 10 majors, including government, marine and environmental sciences, cyber systems, and several engineering disciplines. All cadets also gain hands-on experience aboard the barque Eagle, the academy’s primary training vessel since 1946.
Upon graduation, cadets commit to at least five years of service and earn both a Bachelor of Science degree and a commission as an ensign in the U.S. Coast Guard. Many graduates choose to serve beyond their initial commitments, taking on leadership roles in various essential Coast Guard missions, such as defending the nation, protecting the marine transportation system, and securing ports and waterways.
The stamp art, designed by Antonio Alcalá, features photographs of the barque Eagle and the USCGC Bertholf, a Legend-class national security cutter. The Eagle photo was taken by Coast Guard Petty Officer 2nd Class Matthew Thieme, and the Bertholf photo was taken by Coast Guard Petty Officer 1st Class Steven Strohmaier.
Rear Admiral Gregory C. Rothrock, the U.S. Coast Guard Academy superintendent, expressed gratitude for the recognition.
The stamps, which come in panes of 20, are available for purchase through The Postal Store at usps.com/shopstamps, by calling 844-737-7826, by mail through USA Philatelic, or at Post Office locations nationwide. For officially licensed stamp products, customers can shop the USPS Officially Licensed Collection on Amazon.