Keeping the City’s Guard Up

By JEREMY MYRTHIL

New York City reached a new milestone on the steps of City Hall Thursday as the city Department of Veterans designated it as the largest Coast Guard city in the U.S.

The distinction was made official when Mayor Bill de Blasio stepped up and accepted the proclamation from Admiral Paul F. Zukunft, Commandant of the Coast Guard.

“As Frank Sinatra would say, ‘Start spreadin’ the news,’” said Admiral Zukunft.

The mayor followed by expressing warm thanks to the council members and city department commissioners who’ve worked with the Coast Guard, including Department of Emergency Management Commissioner Joseph Esposito, and Fire Commissioner Daniel Nigro.

Speeches from the city’s commissioners were followed by a marching performance by the Coast Guard’s Silent Drill Team that closed out the ceremony.

“What a wonderful day for New York City,” said de Blasio.

Staten Island borough president James Oddo spoke highly about the Coast Guard, citing their efforts over the years and declaring his gratitude for their service in his district.

“You’ll only have to spend a couple hours to feel the leadership,” said Oddo. He also indulged in a bit of hyperbole by comparing the excitement of the city’s Coast guard proclamation to a New York baseball team winning the World Series, saying “this isn’t a bad second.”

Previously, San Diego held the largest Coastal Guard in the nation.

“I am proud of the women & men of the US Coast Guard, that Staten Island is home to USCG Sector New York & that our team at Borough Hall played a vital role in garnering this designation,” said Oddo.

The beginning of a new era in New York City also meant the end of another for the Coast Guard as Mayor de Blasio announced that  Zukunft was retiring after 45 years in service and playing a central role in the organization’s expansion.

“We have always been a proud Coast Guard city,” said de Blasio. “We will always be a Coast Guard city.”