HARTFORD and NEW LONDON, Conn. (WTNH) — Both of Connecticut’s U.S. Senators have issued a letter to Coast Guard Admiral Paul F. Zukunft, petitioning for the Coast Guard Band to remain at the Coast Guard Academy in New London.
There have been recent reports suggesting that the Coast Guard is considering moving the band to Washington D.C., a move both senators want to stop from happening.
In their letter, Senators Richard Blumenthal and Chris Murphy ask for the Coast Guard Band to remain where it has been since it’s creation 90 years ago. The band performs 20 concerts throughout the year, in addition to other programs used to educate and entertain area students.
“Connecticut has been a proud partner and major facility of the U.S. Coast Guard since its founding days over 225 years ago. Not only is New London the home of the U.S. Coast Guard Academy, but also the U.S. Coast Guard Band since its creation 90 years ago. The U.S. Coast Guard Band is a vital part of the U.S. Coast Guard Academy and the community. As such, we urge you to take into account the effect moving the band would have on our state and the U.S. Coast Guard Academy,” Blumenthal and Murphy said.
