What is the Link in the Chain Program? The Link in the Chain Program (LITC) provides an informal link between Coast Guard Academy classes spanning 50 years and links CGA alumni with current cadet classes. The bonds and relationships formed between classes are critical to carrying on the history and the value of traditions – all part of the Academy experience and the Long Blue Line. The program was initiated by the Class of 1961, whose members first connected with cadets in the Class of 2011 on their Reporting In Day in 2007. The Link in the Chain Program forms bonds and relationships between current cadets and members of the 50-year alumni LITC class throughout the four years at the Academy and beyond. The cadets are buoyed and encouraged by the physical presence and moral support of the alumni, and members of the 50-year LITC class enjoy working with the current cadets in their development as Coast Guard officers. From Swearing-In Day to Commissioning and beyond, the 50-year LITC class becomes a part of the Coast Guard Academy experience for the Corps.

Significance: A chain has important significance in the Coast Guard. The chain stabilizes a ship when anchored off shore. The chain gripes secure heavy equipment to the decks and hold in heavy seas. It epitomizes the sacrifices, courage, honor, respect, and commitment of Academy graduates. A link in the chain encompasses thousands of grads; it ensures they will never stand alone in the Long Blue Line.

CGA 80 Role in the LITC Project: PLEASE NOTE: some of these actions take place as early as the summer of 2026!! All members of the alumni class approaching their 50th anniversary of graduation are invited to become involved in LITC. Each person’s individual life experiences add value to the program. Members of the 50th year LITC class are first connected with their cadet LITC class at the beginning of Swab Summer on Swearing-In Day. The relationship between the classes grows as the alumni and cadets are given the opportunity to interact and communicate at Academy events. Throughout their four years at the Academy, and beyond, the LITC classes communicate on a personal basis, sharing advice, ideas, stories, and historical perspective on the Academy and the Coast Guard.

There are a number of events that offer excellent opportunities for the classes to connect.

• Swearing-In Day Ceremony (Start of Swab Summer)
• Mystic Flag Ceremony
• Annual New London Swab Run Academy’s Regimental Change of Command & Shoulder Board Ceremonies
• Review & Reception in Crown Park at Completion of Swab Summer
• Class Receptions/Socials
• Homecoming/Reunions
• Formals – 4/c & 3/c (3/c formal includes Golden Legacy Passing of the Rings Ceremony)
• 2/c Ring Dance & Ball
• Billet Night
• Dining-In
• Graduation Week – Reception, Formal, Commencement
• Annual LITC Meeting
• Parents Weekend Events

Golden Legacy/Passing of the Rings: The Academy class ring symbolizes one’s youth, pride, perseverance, and unwavering commitment to the core values of honor, respect, and devotion to duty. Through the Golden Legacy Program, your class ring can also keep you connected to the Long Blue Line forever. This program, which began in 2009, offers members of the 50-Year Link in the Chain class the chance to form a special bond and lasting link with the future officers of the Coast Guard. Rings donated by the 50-year class are melted down and mixed with new gold to forge the class rings for the next generation of Coast Guard officers. Ring donors are recognized at a special ceremony of the passing of the rings and actual melting held each spring during the third class cadet formal. Alumni or family members in possession of a class ring who are interested in donating to the Golden Legacy Program are encouraged to visit www.cgaalumni.org/goldenlegacy or contact Sue Fage at (860) 442-2683 x14 to learn more.