The Unofficial Coast Guard Blog notes a variety of recent headlines, commentary and policy showing that the Coast Guard is taking on more and more responsibilties in the homeland security environment and, appropriately, gaining in stature and influence inside the Beltway.

Yesterday the Coast Guard announced a new enlisted rating focusing on law enforcement. While I’ve heard talk for two decades on establishing a law enforcement rating, it’s finally here, another indication that the Coast Guard is shaping itself to meet new demands.