Washington, DC (Jun 30)--Coast Guard Ensign Secretary of Treasury Oliver Wolcott established the design of the Coast Guard Ensign in a letter in 1799. His father was an original signer of the Declaration of Independence. The design represents the original 13 states that comprised our nation at that time. The only change since then has been the addition of the Coast Guard anchors. As it was intended in 1799, the ensign is displayed as a mark of authority forboardings, examinations and seizures of vessels for the purpose of enforcing the laws of the United States. The ensign is never carried as a parade or ceremony standard. U.S. COAST GUARD PHOTO
