The coast guard is a unique branch of the US military, operating under the Department of Homeland Security during peacetime, but able to be transferred to the navy by the president or Congress. They are organized in a way that allows for quick response to crises such as Hurricane Katrina and Tropical Storm Rita. Learning about this special part of the US military will appeal to readers of all abilities! Artwork including full-color photographs and diagrams bring this book to life, and a historical frame of reference is provided on each spread through fascinating fact boxes.