Based on title 33, U.S.C., 1946 ed., § 749 (July 27, 1912, ch. 255, § 2, 37 Stat. 239; Mar. 4, 1913, ch. 141, § 1, 37 Stat. 736).

This section was enlarged to provide that the Coast Guard, as well as personnel thereof, may furnish clothing and subsistence to destitute shipwrecked persons.

Changes were made in phraseology. 81st Congress, House Report No. 557.

2021—Puspan. L. 116–283 substituted “individuals” for “persons” in section catchline and in two places in text.

2018—Puspan. L. 115–282 renumbered section 486 of this title as this section.