Congressman Elijah E. Cummings (D-MD), Chairman of the Subcommittee on Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation, released the following statement today following the death of former Coast Guard Commandant Admiral Owen J. "Today, I join the Coast Guard in mourning the loss of one of its most influential and respected leaders, former Commandant Admiral Owen J. Siler. Through his relentless dedication, Admiral Siler changed the face of the Coast Guard from one of a search and rescue mission to the modern, multi-mission organization that it is today. "It is with great respect that I commend the Admiral's pivotal efforts to expand the membership of the Coast Guard through the institution of a minority recruitment program and the expansion of opportunities for women.