Napolitano Addresses Grads

NEW LONDON (AP) —Department of Homeland Security Secretary Janet Napolitano urged graduates of the Coast Guard Academy on Wednesday to have confidence as they enter the service in uncertain times. Napolitano told the 233 graduates that they will be given much responsibility in a world of evolving threats and unconventional enemies.

“There will always be tragedies to respond to and lives to be saved,” Napolitano said. “You are ready. You are prepared. Go forward and meet these challenges.”

She noted that Coast Guard missions include stopping human traffickers, seizing drugs at American ports, overcoming pirate attacks and helping people in danger at sea. Last year, the Coast Guard rescued 3,804 men and women, she said. The Arctic is a new frontier for the US to explore, she said, adding terrorists will continue to adapt and no ship is unsinkable.

The ceremony was held inside Leamy Auditorium due to inclement weather. It was delayed an hour because Napolitano’s plane was diverted to Rhode Island due to the weather.

The academy has about 1,030 cadets in its four-year program. Students graduate with a bachelor of science degree and an obligation to serve five years in the Coast Guard. Wednesday’s ceremony was the academy’s 131st commencement