By By Sonny Callahan, U.S. Representative
If you were fortunate enough to have been among the nearly 115,000 people who visited Mobile during the Parade of Tall Ships over the July 4th holiday, then you witnessed an event that will surely go down as one of the greatest in the history of the Port City.
My family and I were there for many of the events, and I have to say that for the innumerable reasons I have been proud to represent the First Congressional District during the past 18 years, this occasion made me even more so.
Perhaps the highlight for me was having the opportunity to visit with the officers and crew of the Coast Guard Barque Eagle. The young men and women who are responsible for operating and maintaining the flagship of the United States Coast Guard demonstrated exactly why courtesy and professionalism have become hallmarks of this vital organization.
From the time we boarded her until the time we departed, the crew of the Eagle - many of whom are no older than 18 or 19 years of age - demonstrated seamanship and leadership skills that are sometimes only found in members of the military nearly twice their age.
I was also extremely honored to have been presented with the Coast Guard's Meritorious Public Service Award. This honor, presented with the authorization of the Commandant of the Coast Guard, recognizes those individuals who have demonstrated strong support for the mission and personnel of the USCG.