Navy League of the United States Citizens in Support of the Sea Services Introducing the Navy League “Resetting Our Maritime Forces” April 11, 2011

Navy League of the United States Citizens in Support of the Sea Services Supporting Sea Services of the United States United States Navy United States Marine Corps United States Coast Guard U. S. Flag Merchant Marine

Navy League of the United States Citizens in Support of the Sea Services The Navy League is a community service organization, like yours, with over 50,000 members worldwide, and 250 councils (chapters) conducting activities in local communities. Theodore Roosevelt promoted the founding of the Navy League in 1902, which was supported by the civilian and business communities – the condition that continues today. Everyone in this room is eligible to be a member. Prior military service is not required. We are all civilians.

Navy League of the United States Citizens in Support of the Sea Services Mission and Goals Educate the men and women in our local communities, our community leaders and elected officials about the importance of our maritime forces to defend the United States and to protect global trade and our local economies Support the men and women of the sea services and their families Foster the education and development of our youth through the Naval Sea Cadet Corps and junior ROTC programs.

Navy League of the United States Citizens in Support of the Sea Services St. Augustine Council Key activities of our 200 members include: Adoption of three Navy ships & 2 Coast Guard units Adoption of USMC / BIC Support 8 local Navy / Coast Guard Commands Sponsor 4 Navy Junior ROTC units Sponsor 1 Naval Sea Cadet Unit Provide legislative affairs briefings for members of Congress Provide maritime public education presentations Co-Hosted 2010 Navy League National Convention

Navy League of the United States Citizens in Support of the Sea Services Navy League of the United States and President Theodore Roosevelt President Theodore Roosevelt supported the founding of the Navy League of the United States in His support came from a desire to build a Navy fleet to protect international commerce over the oceans of the world. As Teddy Roosevelt envisioned we are civilians educating civilians about our national and economic security via the need of our maritime nation.

Navy League of the United States Citizens in Support of the Sea Services Resetting Our Maritime Forces A National Imperative Coast Guard missions were increased after the 9/11 attacks, yet their ability to fulfill these missions has been impacted severely by Aging and deteriorated equipment Insufficient number of personnel Insufficient funding that adversely affects efficient maintenance and operations

Navy League of the United States Citizens in Support of the Sea Services We need more ships to guarantee our maritime security

Navy League of the United States Citizens in Support of the Sea Services Aging fleet Deteriorating aircraft Risks remain

Navy League of the United States Citizens in Support of the Sea Services USCG relief assistance to Haiti

Navy League of the United States Citizens in Support of the Sea Services Coast Guard’s operational budget Decreased by 1% Instead of a needed 4% or more increase

Navy League of the United States Citizens in Support of the Sea Services Proposals to cut personnel, eliminate security teams and decommission ships before replacements are available is not wise. How do we know that these moves will not open long-term capability gaps similar to the ones we have been struggling to fill over the years? Our Concern:

Navy League of the United States Citizens in Support of the Sea Services

Navy League of the United States Citizens in Support of the Sea Services The Navy League strongly believes that America’s sea services are the greatest force for peace in the world Resetting and Recapitalizing our maritime forces to the levels needed for our national security are in our national best interest In closing:

Navy League of the United States Citizens in Support of the Sea Services The Navy League believes having a strong Navy, Coast Guard, Merchant Marine and Marine Corps affects our national economic security and your personal well being.

Navy League of the United States Citizens in Support of the Sea Services 2011 Navy Weeks

Navy League of the United States Citizens in Support of the Sea Services SUPPORT & SERVE the United States Volunteer, Donate, Join Us Thank you for your attention. Q&A

Navy League of the United States Citizens in Support of the Sea Services Contact William E. Dudley President Florida Region Navy League of the United States