The United States Coast Guard was founded on August 4, 1790, when the first Congress authorized the construction of ten vessels to enforce tariff and trade laws and prevent smuggling. Known variously as the Revenue Marine and the Revenue Cutter Service, the Coast Guard expanded in size and responsibilities as the nation grew. The volunteers and staff of USS SLATER will commemorate the 221st Birthday of the United States Coast Guard on Thursday, August 4, 2011 at 9:00 a.m. with a ceremony aboard the ship in Albany. “Coasties” and their friends and families are invited to attend. It is appropriate to celebrate the Coast Guard’s Birthday aboard USS SLATER, as during World War II, the Coast Guard manned hundreds of Navy and Army vessels, including 30 Destroyer Escorts.