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Commemorative Stamp for the U.S. Coast Guard Academy

The U.S. Postal Service (USPS) is set to honor a significant milestone in American military history with the release of a commemorative stamp that celebrates the 150th anniversary of the U.S. Coast Guard Academy. This special stamp release underscores a longstanding tradition of recognizing military service institutions that play a vital role in the nation's security and independence.

Event Details

The first-day-of-issue ceremony will be held on Saturday, September 12, 2026, at 10 a.m. Eastern Time. The ceremony will take place at the Connecticut Maritime Heritage Festival, held at the Custom House Pier in New London, Connecticut. This public event is free for all attendees, making it a perfect occasion for stamp collectors, history enthusiasts, and families alike to partake in the celebration.

Those interested in attending are encouraged to register in advance at the USPS website through the special link dedicated to the event: USPS Coast Guard Stamp.

Feature of the Stamp

The beautifully crafted stamp art features striking photographs of two iconic vessels of the Coast Guard: the USCGC Eagle, a training tall ship that has served since 1946, and the USCGC Bertholf, a state-of-the-art Legend-class national security cutter renowned for its mission of maritime security. Designed by USPS art director Antonio Alcalá, the stamp captures the essence of the Coast Guard's legacy and commitment to protecting American waters and borders.

The Significance of the Coast Guard Academy

Founded in 1876, the U.S. Coast Guard Academy has produced over 12,000 graduates who have gone on to serve their country across numerous capacities in both peacetime and conflict. Their training instills not only maritime skills but also the leadership qualities necessary for service in various military and civilian roles. The Academy's emphasis on integrity, honor, and commitment has played a vital role in shaping the leadership of the U.S. Coast Guard.

The commemorative stamp serves as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by Coast Guard personnel and the importance of marine protection and safety. With the issuance of this stamp, the USPS aims to raise awareness about the role of the Coast Guard in combating maritime threats, drug trafficking, and illicit activities in U.S. waters.

Additional Information

In line with its commitment to the community, the USPS encourages the public to engage with the hashtag #USCoastGuardStamp on social media to spread the word about the event and the commemorative stamp.

Stamps can be purchased by visiting the USPS The Postal Store online at usps.com/shopstamps, by calling the customer service line, or at any participating Post Office locations across the nation. For more philately-related products, the USPS also offers an Officially Licensed Collection on Amazon.

The U.S. Postal Service operates as an independent federal establishment, funding its services through postage sales rather than federal tax dollars. This initiative not only helps in highlighting essential services but also in preserving the legacy of institutions like the U.S. Coast Guard Academy, ensuring that their contributions to American society are never forgotten.

For detailed information about the USPS’s history of commemorative stamps and their significance, readers are encouraged to visit stampsforever.com.

With the upcoming release of this collector's item, it is not just a stamp but a tribute to the enduring spirit of the U.S. Coast Guard Academy and its continuing importance in the safeguarding of maritime interests.