Napolitano to speak at USCG academy graduation

NEW LONDON, Conn. (AP) — Secretary of Homeland Security Janet Napolitano is planning to address graduating cadets next week at the Coast Guard Academy's commencement ceremony.

Her office says she plans to congratulate the 2012 graduating class at Wednesday's ceremony in New London.

Last year President Barack Obama delivered the keynote address at the academy's graduation. U.S. presidents traditionally address the graduating class at one of the federal service academies on a rotating basis.

The academy has about 1,030 cadets in its four-year program. Students graduate with a bachelor of science degree and an obligation to serve five years in the Coast Guard.

The ceremony on Wednesday will be the academy's 131st commencement.

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