A resolution honoring the brave men and women of the United States Coast Guard whose tireless work, dedication, and commitment to protecting the United States have led to the confiscation of over 350,000 pounds of cocaine at sea during 2007.

Whereas the estimated import value of the 350,000 pounds of cocaine confiscated by the United States Coast Guard in 2007 is more than $4,700,000,000, or nearly 1/2 of the Coast Guard's annual budget;

Whereas the Coast Guard's at-sea drug interdictions are making a difference in the lives of United States citizens, as evidenced by the reduced supply of cocaine in more than 35 major cities throughout the United States;

Whereas keeping illegal drugs from reaching our shores, where they undermine American values and threaten families, schools, and communities, continues to be an important national priority;

Whereas, through robust interagency teamwork, collaboration with international partners, and ever more effective tools and tactics, the Coast Guard has removed more than 2,000,000 pounds of cocaine during the past 10 years and will continue to tighten the web of detection and interdiction at sea; and

Whereas the men and women of the Coast Guard who, while away from family and hundreds of miles from our shores, execute this dangerous mission, as well as other vital maritime safety, security, and environmental protection missions, with quiet dedication and without need of public recognition, continue to display selfless service in protecting the Nation and the American people: Now, therefore, be it