The 14th Annual Tribute to the United States Coast Guard was held on June 5, 2018 at the National Building Museum in Washington, DC.

The event featured keynote remarks from Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kirstjen M. Nielsen, Secretary of the Navy Richard V. Spencer, Admiral Karl L. Schultz, Commandant, United States Coast Guard, and Admiral Charles W. Ray, Vice Commandant, United States Coast Guard.

“I want to thank everyone here in this room,” said Secretary Spencer. “You are the people who support the men and women of the Coast Guard. Through the tremendous effort that you put forth, you are the light burning on the shore so they can aid those in peril on the sea.”

Veteran news reporters Kyra Phillips and John Roberts served at the masters of ceremonies for the annual event.  

The United States Coast Guard Band performed the National Anthem, a selection of patriotic songs and a medley of the U.S. military service songs.

The evening was highlighted with a tribute to the “Heroes of the Hurricanes” - the Coast Guard members who responded to the record 2017 hurricane season and in particular, those storms that struck Texas, Florida and Puerto Rico.

The event also focused on Coast Guard Foundation relief efforts for those Coast Guard members and families impacted by the natural disasters.

In reflecting on the relief support the Coast Guard Foundation provided in the aftermath of the storms’ devastation, Secretary Nielsen shared, “It was the Coast Guard Foundation that went to work to ensure that families impacted by the hurricanes had the support they needed...most of all, the Coast Guard Foundation gave Coast Guard families the greatest gift- peace of mind.”

Honorary dinner chairs and philanthropists Carly and Frank Fiorina thanked the Coast Guard for their service to our country.

“What it’s really about, is the stories of the people whose lives are saved. For all the numbers, and all the stats, and the incredible organization behind these incredible heroes, it actually always comes down to a person, who makes a choice to save and to serve.  We are truly honored to be able to support those who save and serve us,” shared Carly Fiorina.

The United States Coast Guard presented a Distinguished Public Service Award to the Coast Guard Chief Petty Officers Association “in recognition of its unwavering dedication and support of Coast Guard members and families during the unprecedented hurricane season of 2017...the CPOA’s nationwide coordination and efforts with senior leaders from the service and Coast Guard Foundation were instrumental to ensuring members on the front lines of humanitarian operations remained focused in conducting rescue and port reconstruction missions, resulting in more than 12,000 lives saved.”

National president Kim Lorigan and executive director Randy Reid proudly represented the CPOA in accepting the award.

“While our shipmates were taking care of countless people in need, we helped care for their families.  This award acknowledges the efforts of the CPOA and you, the supporters of the Coast Guard Foundation. At a time of great uncertainty and loss, your generosity proved that there were folks out there who cared.’” shared Lorigan in accepting the award on behalf of the CPOA membership.

Admiral Schultz, at his first Coast Guard Foundation event as Commandant, shared his appreciation for the Coast Guard Foundation.

“It is a distinct pleasure to be here tonight to thank the Coast Guard Foundation, to recognize the Chief Petty Officers Association, and to recognize each and every one of you.”