Press Releases

Last night, Congressman Bill Huizenga (MI-04) honored the life, service, and legacy of Ret. U.S. Coast Guard Commander and Grand Haven Coast Guard Festival Director Michael J. Smith. Video of Congressman Huizenga’s speech on the floor of the U.S. House of Representatives as well as the text of his remarks are available below.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today with a heavy heart to honor the life of friend, retired United States Coast Guard Commander Mike Smith.

Mike is fondly remembered by many as the director of the annual Coast Guard Festival in Grand Haven, Michigan – also known as Coast Guard City USA – a cherished event where our West Michigan community comes together to celebrate the Coast Guard’s service and sacrifice on the Lakeshore and across the country.

Mike lived a life of service both in the Coast Guard and outside of it. In fact, in 2016, he received the Department of Defense’s annual Spirit of Hope Award – an honor that is presented to individuals who embody Bob Hope’s core values of serving and supporting our military members.

He was so proud of that he actually put it on his own challenge coin. Mike exemplified the bold character of the Coast Guard, and its motto Semper Paratus, “Always Prepared.” His influential impact will be forever felt.

Mike is survived by his wife, Cathy, and their six children, Maxwell, Mollie, Moira, Maggie, Matteson, and McHale.

I and so many others remember Mike for his service, but we cherish his friendship and his contributions to the Grand Haven community, to the U.S. Coast Guard, and to our nation. Rest well my friend. Rest well.