Commandant
2100 Second Street, S.W.
United States Coast Guard
Washington, DC 20593-0001
(202) 267-1625
COMDTINST 1800.6
30 NOV 1989
COMMANDANT INSTRUCTION 1800.6
Subj: Presidential Recognition Upon Retirement from the Coast Guard
Ref: (a) Department of Defense Instruction 1348.34(NOTAL)
1.
PURPOSE. This Instruction publishes information concerning the issuance of certificates and
letters to members of the Coast Guard, upon retirement, conveying the President's
appreciation for their contribution of honorable service to our country.
2.
BACKGROUND.. The President, in a White House Memorandum, directed the Department
of Defense to initiate a program where he could recognize members of the Armed Forces for
their 20 or more years of honorable service, devotion to duty and sacrifices for their country.
3.
DISCUSSION. Reference (a) establishes policy and procedural guidance for the program. It
specifically states that "A Certificate of Appreciation for Service in the Armed Forces of the
United States (DD Form 2452) shall be presented to each member retiring from the Armed
forces after 20 or more years and attaining eligibility to receive retired pay. In addition,
letters of appreciation, signed by the President, shall be presented to selected personnel
specified in this Instruction." Coast Guard Reservists qualify by being eligible for Ret-1 or
Ret-2 retirement, whichever comes first. The issuance of certificates and letters of
appreciation went into effect on 1 October 1989. However, members who have retired
between 20 January 1989 and 30 September 1989 will also be provided recognition with no
action required on their part.