The Coast Guard Foundation will honor the Coast Guard’s response to Hurricanes Fiona and Ian at its annual South Florida event on April 28. Lisa Lutoff-Perlo, President and CEO of Celebrity Cruises, will also be recognized for her leadership in the maritime industry.

The Tribute to the Coast Guard Seventh District will be held at the Marriott Harbor Beach Resort, starting at 6:30 pm. Attended by Coast Guard members, maritime and defense industry leaders and supporters of the Coast Guard, the annual event raises money for Foundation programs that support service members and families.

The Coast Guard plays a vital role in preparing local communities for impending hurricanes as well as saving lives and ensuring the essential flow of maritime shipping after storms pass. In less than seven days following Hurricane Ian’s landfall near Ft. Myers Beach, Fla., Coast Guard members rescued more than 1,000 people and over 100 pets. They also rushed relief supplies and evacuated residents of coastal islands that were cut off after the storm.

Following Hurricanes Fiona and Ian, the Coast Guard Foundation opened its emergency disaster relief program to assist Coast Guard members and families who suffered losses. More than 160 Coast Guard members received grants of up to $3,000 to cover a variety of needs, including: replacement and repair of household goods, food and necessities, insurance deductibles, temporary housing, and emergency travel.

The Vice Commandant of the Coast Guard, Admiral Steve Poulin, and other national and regional leaders are expected to attend the event, as will Coast Guard members from throughout the southeast United States.