Obama: Coast Guard 'Never Been More Important'

President Obama gave the commencement address at the U.S. Coast Guard Academy in New London Wednesday afternoon. Although he generally steered clear of policy, the President says the branch has never been more important.

President Obama only mentioned the recent death of Osama bin Laden once during his speech. But he did give the Coast Guard credit as part of the front line for Homeland Security.

"Here at home, we need you to stop those smugglers, and protect our oceans, and prevent terrorists from slipping deadly weapons into our ports," he said.

He also praised the Coast Guard for its help during environmental crises. A portion of the graduating class was dispatched last year to help clean up after the Deepwater Horizon oil spill.

The president handed out 229 diplomas to the 2011 class. It was the Coast Guard Academy's 130th commencement ceremony.