Newport Rhode Island Navy Sailor USS Constitution 1911 Real Photo Postcard
The U.S. Coast Guard, established in 1915 through the consolidation of the U.S. Revenue Cutter Service and the U.S. Life-Saving Service, represents a unique branch of the armed forces with both military and law enforcement responsibilities. Enlisted sailors wore a distinctive uniform influenced by naval tradition, including the flat hat with a tally band displaying the service name, a jumper top, and bell-bottom trousers, largely consistent throughout the early to mid-20th century.
During the World War I era and the subsequent interwar period, Coast Guard personnel played vital roles in maritime defense, port security, and enforcing Prohibition, while also maintaining their long-standing duties of search and rescue and aid to navigation. Studio portraits like this provided individuals and their families with lasting mementos of service, reflecting personal commitment during a time of significant national and global change.
During the World War I era and the subsequent interwar period, Coast Guard personnel played vital roles in maritime defense, port security, and enforcing Prohibition, while also maintaining their long-standing duties of search and rescue and aid to navigation. Studio portraits like this provided individuals and their families with lasting mementos of service, reflecting personal commitment during a time of significant national and global change.
