My daughter's husband is a commander in the Coast Guard and those boys were like family to them...
-- U.S. Senator Christopher Colles (chapter 2)

Importance: The senator says this to Lucas when he talks to Lucas about taking the case. The quote highlights the existence of different types of family. Biology makes people a family. Colles's daughter is a member of his biological family. The law makes people family members. His daughter's husband is his son by law. Work also creates a family unit. The members of the Coast Guard who died were like family to both his daughter and her husband.

We have Kelly Taylor, a warrant officer from the Coast Guard's Investigative Service. She represents Homeland Security.
-- Dale Weaver (chapter 3)

Importance: Dale says this as he introduces the team to Lucas and Bob. The quote shows the changing role or women in society. A woman is in the role to protect the nation.

Another young woman walked by, wearing...
-- The Narrator (chapter 4)