Since its original printing in 2002, Pub 1 has served as the Coast Guard's capstone doctrinal publication. It defines its principles and culture. It describes its history, missions, purpose, and ethos. It communicates who and what the Coast Guard is and how it accomplishes its missions. This May 2009 update includes data on roles and missions, forces, historic evolution, and values.

Recounts the founding of the U.S. Coast Guard, looks at Coast Guard operations and functions, and looks at how it has changed over the last seventy years.

Coast Guard Publication 2-0 Intelligence May 2010 Coast Guard Publication 2-0 (CG Pub 2), Intelligence, describes the theory and philosophy of intelligence as practiced by the Coast Guard. It provides a conceptual framework for understanding and conducting effective intelligence activities. The Coast Guard's view of intelligence is based on our unique role as a military, multi-mission, and maritime force as described in Coast Guard Publication 1, U.S. Coast Guard: America's Maritime Guardian. CG Pub 2, Intelligence, discusses the nature and principles of the Coast Guard's use of intelligence. A proper understanding of the capabilities and limitations of intelligence supports the effective execution of Coast Guard missions and ensures the Coast Guard is Always Ready for all threats and all hazards.