Coast Guard Awards $68 Million Contract for New HC-130J Hangars at Air Station Barbers Point
PRESS RELEASE | Sept. 16, 2025
The U.S. Coast Guard awarded a contract to the Whiting-Turner Contracting Co. for the design and construction of two new membrane tension hangars and associated facilities at Air Station Barbers Point, Hawaii. The award totaling $68.857 million, will support HC-130J Super Hercules aircraft operations and enhance mission readiness in the Oceania District.
Coast Guard rescues 7 near Fort Myers Beach
PRESS RELEASE | Sept. 15, 2025
CLEARWATER, Fla. – Coast Guard Station Fort Myers Beach rescue crews saved seven boaters after a vessel allision near Fort Myers Beach, Sunday.
Coast Guard repatriates 66 aliens following an unlawful voyage vessel interdiction in Mona Passage waters off Puerto Rico
PRESS RELEASE | Sept. 11, 2025
The crew of Coast Guard Cutter Heriberto Hernandez repatriated 66 aliens to the San Pedro de Macoris, Dominican Republic, Thursday, following the interdiction of an unlawful migration vessel voyage in Mona Passage waters off Puerto Rico.
The repatriated aliens were transferred to awaiting Dominican Republic Navy authorities including 48 individuals (41 men and seven women) who claimed to be of Dominican Republic nationality; 16 individuals (13 men and three women), who claimed to be Haitian and two men, who claimed to be Romanian. No minors were identified in this case.
Coast Guard’s Helicopter Interdiction Tactical Squadron completes 1,000th interdiction
PRESS RELEASE | Sept. 10, 2025
JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — The U.S. Coast Guard’s Helicopter Interdiction Tactical Squadron (HITRON) achieved a significant milestone in its counter-drug mission, completing its 1,000th interdiction of suspected narco-trafficking vessels Aug. 25.
Since October 1, 2024, HITRON has interdicted $3.3 billion in illicit narcotics destined for the United States via maritime routes, a three-fold increase over its historic annual average of $1 billion.
Coast Guard Exercises Contract Option for 10 Additional Fast Response Cutters
PRESS RELEASE | Sept. 10, 2025
The U.S. Coast Guard has exercised a contract option with Bollinger Shipyards of Lockport, Louisiana, to fund initial construction on 10 additional Fast Response Cutters (FRCs), Tuesday. The $507 million option supports ongoing efforts to modernize the fleet and expand the Coast Guard’s global maritime mission.
Coast Guard boat crew rescues 2 people during Operation Dry Water, following overturned personal watercraft near Fajardo, Puerto Rico
PRESS RELEASE | Sept. 3, 2025
A Coast Guard Station San Juan boat crew rescued two persons from the water, Monday, after their personal watercraft was overturned near Icacos Beach off Fajardo, Puerto Rico.
The rescue occurred during Coast Guard and partner agency Operation Dry Water efforts in Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands this past Labor Day weekend.
Coast Guard watchstanders received a report via a VHF Channel 16 radio communication of two people in distress following an overturned personal watercraft, Monday evening. Watchstanders diverted a Coast Guard 33-foot Special Purpose Craft – Law Enforcement vessel and crew that was operating in the vicinity to render assistance. Once on scene, the Coast Guard crew embarked the two boaters and took the personal watercraft in tow to Las Croabas in Fajardo. Following the rescue, both persons were cited for negligent operations and for boating under the influence of alcohol.
Coast Guard Cutter Vigilant returns home after seizing 3,100 pounds in drugs during multi-mission patrol in the Caribbean Sea, Windward Passage
PRESS RELEASE | Sept. 2, 2025
CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. — The crew of Coast Guard Cutter Vigilant (WMEC 617) returned home to Cape Canaveral, Aug. 19, following a 59-day patrol in the Caribbean Sea and Windward Passage.
During the patrol, Vigilant’s crew interdicted 3,100 pounds of illicit drugs in the Caribbean Sea while underway in the Coast Guard Southeast District’s area of operations. Vigilant’s crew deployed in support of the Joint Interagency Task Force – South (JIATF-S) mission of detecting and monitoring illegal drug shipments in the maritime domain for subsequent interdiction and apprehension.
Coast Guard interdicts 6 aliens 10 miles offshore Dana Point
PRESS RELEASE | Sept. 2, 2025
A 45-foot Response Boat-Medium (RB-M) boat crew attached to Coast Guard Station Los Angeles-Long Beach interdicted six aliens aboard a 22-foot pleasure craft approximately 10 miles offshore Dana Point, Saturday afternoon.
Coast Guard ends search for swimmer near Anna Maria Island
PRESS RELEASE | Sept. 1, 2025
CLEARWATER, Fla. – The Coast Guard ended its search for a missing swimmer Monday, after a Longboat Key Police department boat crew located and recovered a deceased individual who reportedly matched the description of the missing swimmer, Abhigyan Patel, one mile west of Anna Maria Island.
Coast Guard Cutter Mohawk returns home to Key West, Florida after 75-day maritime border security patrol
PRESS RELEASE | Aug. 29, 2025
KEY WEST, Fla. — The crew of Coast Guard Cutter Mohawk (WMEC 913) returned to their home port in Key West, Friday, following a 75-day maritime border security patrol in the Windward Passage, Florida Straits and Caribbean Sea.
During the patrol, Mohawk’s crew deployed to the Coast Guard Southeast District (CGD-SE) area of responsibility, where crews conducted multi-mission operations with joint service, international, and interagency partners to protect America’s maritime borders from illegal drug trafficking and prevent unlawful alien migration in the region.
Coast Guard rescues man from downed aircraft near Haines, Alaska
PRESS RELEASE | Aug. 25, 2025
JUNEAU, Alaska — The Coast Guard rescued a man from a downed aircraft near Haines, Sunday.
At approximately 8:30 a.m., watchstanders at the Coast Guard Arctic District Command Center in Juneau received a signal from the aircraft’s Emergency Locator Transmitter (ELT) transmitting in the Chilkat mountains, approximately 35 miles south of Haines.
Coast Guard cautions for hazardous marine and coastal conditions in Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands
PRESS RELEASE | Aug. 25, 2025
The Coast Guard urges recreational boaters, fishermen and beachgoers and water sports enthusiasts in Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands to exercise caution due to hazardous seas, life-threatening rip current risks, and dangerous surf and coastal flooding conditions that are projected to persist, Monday through Tuesday.
Coast Guard watchstanders at Sector San Juan and Coast Guard rescue crews responded to four separate search and rescue cases throughout the northern coast of Puerto Rico, Sunday, in which three persons lost their lives.
“Sunday was a very sad and difficult day for emergency responders and the people in Puerto Rico due to the hazardous sea-state and coastal conditions which resulted in three fatalities during the weekend,” said Capt. Luis J. Rodríguez, Commander of U.S. Coast Guard Sector San Juan. “Our most heartfelt condolences go out to the family, friends and loved ones of the victims, we pray they find strength during this difficult time. We caution the public that dangerous maritime, sea-state and hazardous rip-current conditions continue to affect the northern and southern coasts of Puerto Rico. Please stay informed, check for official weather updates from the National Weather Service so you may keep yourself and your loved ones safe.”
Coast Guard, partners conclude Operation Ika Moana in Samoa
PRESS RELEASE | Aug. 22, 2025
HONOLULU – The U.S. Coast Guard concluded participation in Operation Ika Moana, a maritime surveillance initiative hosted by the Samoan Police Maritime Wing in conjunction with the Pacific Maritime Security Program in Apia, Samoa, Aug. 8-14.
Coast Guard East District units prepare for Hurricane Erin
PRESS RELEASE | Aug. 19, 2025
PORTSMOUTH, Va. – Crews around the Coast Guard’s East District are preparing for the potential impacts of Hurricane Erin, Tuesday.
Aircrews, cutters, boat crews, and command centers across the region are actively staging and preparing to respond to any potential impacts from the storm.
Coast Guard urges caution to offshore mariners and beachgoers as Hurricane Erin expected to remain offshore
PRESS RELEASE | Aug. 19, 2025
NEW YORK — While Hurricane Erin is currently forecasted to track well off the coasts of New York and New Jersey, the Coast Guard is urging mariners operating offshore and beachgoers to exercise caution as the storm passes. Although inshore waters of the Port of New York and New Jersey are not expected to be impacted, the storm is expected to generate hazardous conditions offshore and along the coast from Tuesday through Friday. Click the link above to view full news release.
Coast Guard interdicts 7 aliens off Newport Beach, Calif.
PRESS RELEASE | Aug. 17, 2025
LOS ANGELES — The Coast Guard interdicts seven aliens aboard a 20-foot vessel off the coast of Newport Beach, Calif., Saturday night.
At approximately 9 p.m., watchstanders at Coast Guard Sector Los Angeles–Long Beach received a report from a Station Los Angeles Long Beach boat crew on a routine patrol of a 20-foot vessel with seven people aboard. The Coast Guard boat crew stopped the vessel to conduct a boarding.
Coast Guard sets Port Condition FOUR for all seaports in the U.S. Virgin Islands, and in Puerto Rico
PRESS RELEASE | Aug. 17, 2025
Coast Guard Captain of the Port - San Juan set Port Condition FOUR at 7 a.m., Sunday, for all U.S. Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico seaports following the passing of Hurricane Erin north of the islands.
Ports under Port Condition IV may resume normal cargo and ship operations, and the ports are open to all outbound and inbound vessel traffic. All mariners are advised to use caution due to potential floating debris and report any abnormalities to the Coast Guard. For updated Port Condition status, port facilities and mariners may visit Port Status/Navigation Center online.
The Coast Guard strongly cautions the general public and maritime community in the U.S. Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico to remain vigilant and continue monitoring the weather by visiting official sources of information such as the U.S. National Weather Service. Currently, the National Weather Service has issued a Small Craft Advisory and a High Surf Advisory for the northern coasts of Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands that will be in effect through 6a.m. AST, Monday. Also, there is also a high-risk life-threatening rip currents expected throughout late Sunday.
Coast Guard, agency partners rescue 12 kayakers in distress near Patos Island, Wash.
PRESS RELEASE | Aug. 16, 2025
U.S. Coast Guard, Royal Canadian Mounted Police, and Washington State Park personnel rescued 12 kayakers in distress between Patos Island and Sucia Island Washington, Thursday afternoon.
Watchstanders at Coast Guard Sector Puget Sound issued an urgent marine information broadcast at approximately 1:50 p.m., after being notified via, VHF channel-16 that 12 kayakers, including six children, were in distress between Patos Island and Sucia Island and in need of assistance.
Coast Guard to set Port Condition YANKEE for 2 seaports in the U.S. Virgin Islands, 6 others in Puerto Rico due to Hurricane Erin
PRESS RELEASE | Aug. 15, 2025
Coast Guard Captain of the Port - San Juan has directed the setting of Port Condition YANKEE for two seaports in the U.S. Virgin Islands and six seaports in Puerto Rico due to Tropical Storm Erin.
Port Condition YANKEE will be in effect at 8 p.m., Friday, for the ports of St. Thomas and St. John, U.S. Virgin Islands. Port Condition YANKEE will be in effect at 8 a.m., Saturday, for the ports in the municipalities of Arecibo, San Juan, Fajardo, Ceiba, Vieques and Culebra, Puerto Rico.
All other ports in the U.S. Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico will remain in Port Condition X-RAY until further notice.
Coast Guard suspends search for man missing off Pacific Northwest Coast
PRESS RELEASE | Aug. 14, 2025
The Coast Guard suspended its search for a missing 65-year-old fisherman off the coast of Oregon and Washington, around 1:30 p.m., Wednesday.
Coast Guard crews searched over 18 hours, scouring an area of 2,100 sq. miles, including over 430 miles of trackline.
The man departed alone on his fishing vessel, the Karolee, the week prior and was last heard from at 7:30 a.m., Friday, Aug. 8. The boat could be seen via its automatic identification system (AIS) and was traveling a constant southerly course at approximately four knots for several days.
Coast Guard sets Port Condition X-RAY for seaports in Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands due to Tropical Storm Erin
PRESS RELEASE | Aug. 14, 2025
Coast Guard Captain of the Port - San Juan has directed the setting of Port Condition X-RAY at 4p.m. Thursday for all seaports in Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgins Islands due to Tropical Storm Erin.
The Coast Guard strongly cautions the maritime community to remain vigilant and take the necessary precautions as Tropical Storm Erin approaches the U.S. Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico on a west-northwest track across the Central Atlantic.
Ports and maritime facilities are currently open to all commercial traffic and all transfer and cargo operations may continue while Port Condition X-RAY remains in effect.
Coast Guard sets Port Condition WHISKEY for seaports in Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands due to Tropical Storm Erin
PRESS RELEASE | Aug. 13, 2025
Coast Guard Captain of the Port - San Juan set Port Condition WHISKEY, Wednesday, for all seaports in Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgins Islands due to Tropical Storm Erin.
The Coast Guard strongly cautions the maritime community to remain vigilant and take the necessary precautions as Tropical Storm Erin approaches the U.S. Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico on a west-northwest track across the Central Atlantic.
During Port Condition WHISKEY, port facilities are currently open to all commercial traffic and all transfer operations may continue while WHISKEY remains in effect.
U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Bertholf Returns Home from Deployment in Support of Southern Border Operations
PRESS RELEASE | Aug. 13, 2025
ALAMEDA, Calif. — The U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Bertholf (WMSL 750) crew returned to their home port on Coast Guard Base Alameda, California, Sunday, following a 70-day patrol operating along the Southwest maritime boundary line (MBL) near San Diego. Bertholf deployed in support of Operation Border Trident, Coast Guard District Southwest’s (CGD-SW) standing operation to counter-illicit maritime activity along the Southwest MBL.
Coast Guard suspends search for missing woman near Westport, Wash.
PRESS RELEASE | Aug. 12, 2025
The Coast Guard suspended its search for a missing kayaker near Westport, Washington, at 1:55 p.m., Tuesday.
Missing is a 79-year-old woman.
Watchstanders at Coast Guard Sector Columbia River received a report at approximately 6 p.m., Monday, via Grays Harbor dispatch for an overdue kayaker that had not been seen by her husband for the past hour after getting separated due to weather in the vicinity of Oyhut Bay.
Coast Guard responds to vessel fire near Berkeley
PRESS RELEASE | Aug. 12, 2025
SAN FRANCISCO — U.S. Coast Guard Station San Francisco members respond to a report of a vessel fire with two people aboard near the breakwater at Berkeley Marina, Monday afternoon.
Coast Guard Sector San Francisco watchstanders received a distress call at approximately 3 p.m. from a mariner reporting his vessel was on fire. A Station San Francisco boatcrew was diverted to the scene and issued an urgent marine information broadcast. Berkeley Fire Department also launched a fire boat to assist.
Coast Guard commissions Coast Guard Cutter Earl Cunningham (WPC 1159) in Kodiak, Alaska
PRESS RELEASE | Aug. 11, 2025
KODIAK, Alaska — The U.S. Coast Guard commissioned its newest cutter, Coast Guard Cutter Earl Cunningham (WPC 1159), for official entry into its service fleet during a ceremony held in Kodiak, Monday.
The ceremony was presided over by Troy Edgar, deputy secretary of the Department of Homeland Security. Members of the Cunningham family were also in attendance, including the cutter’s sponsor, Penney Helmer, granddaughter of Earl Cunningham.
“Commissioning the USCGC Earl Cunningham strengthens our ability to control, secure, and defend Alaska's U.S. border and maritime approaches, protect resources vital to our economic prosperity, and respond to crises throughout the Aleutian Islands,” said Adm. Kevin Lunday, acting commandant of the U.S. Coast Guard. “This crew will honor the heroic legacy and selfless devotion to duty exemplified by Petty Officer Cunningham in the years ahead.”
Coast Guard suspends search for missing crewmember near Newport, Ore.
PRESS RELEASE | Aug. 11, 2025
SEATTLE — The Coast Guard suspended its search a missing fisherman near Newport, Oregon, at 10:15 a.m., Monday.
Watchstanders at Coast Guard Sector Columbia River received a report at approximately 4 p.m., Sunday, reporting that the 40-foot fishing vessel Das Bug, with four people onboard, had taken on water and capsized while transiting inbound through the Yaquina Bay Jetty.
Coast Guard, partner agencies rescue 2 people missing from personal watercraft in New York Lower Bay
PRESS RELEASE | Aug. 11, 2025
NEW YORK — The Coast Guard, FDNY and NYPD rescued 2 people Monday morning, who were reported missing on a personal watercraft in New York's Lower Bay. A personal watercraft operator contacted Coast Guard Sector New York command center watchstanders around 1 a.m., Monday, reporting that a friend he had been riding with didn’t follow up letting him know he made it back to the marina as expected. His phone was going straight to voicemail and the friend had last reported that he was near the Verrazano Bridge around 8 p.m., Sunday. Click the link above to view full release.
Coast Guard rescues 4 people from sinking vessel in Gulf of Alaska
PRESS RELEASE | Aug. 4, 2025
KODIAK, Alaska — The Coast Guard rescued four people from a sinking vessel in the Gulf of Alaska, Friday.
Watchstanders at the Coast Guard Arctic District command center in Juneau received a report at approximately 10:17 a.m. that the 110-foot tug vessel Sea Ranger was taking on water 130 miles south of Cordova.
Watchstanders directed the launch of an HC-130 Super Hercules aircrew from Coast Guard Air Station Kodiak to respond.
The aircrew located the vessel at approximately 1:08 p.m. and established communications with the crew.
The vessel crew reported they were not in distress. The aircrew delivered a dewatering pump to the vessel and returned to the air station.
At 3:57 p.m., Coast Guard watchstanders received another report from the vessel stating they were adrift, had smoke in the engine room, were taking on water, and were unable to start their dewatering pumps.
Watchstanders directed the launch of an MH-60 Jayhawk helicopter aircrew and an HC-130 Super Hercules aircrew from Coast Guard Air Station Kodiak.
At approximately 7:42 p.m., the helicopter aircrew arrived on scene and hoisted all four individuals from the vessel.
The survivors were taken to awaiting emergency medical services in Cordova for evaluation where no medical concerns were reported.
“Given its remote location in the Gulf of Alaska, this challenging rescue resulted in the best possible outcome and demonstrated the dedication and professionalism of Coast Guard aircrews,” said Lt. Evan Sutton, search and rescue mission coordinator for the Coast Guard Arctic District. “These mariners were well-equipped and demonstrated the importance of having appropriate lifesaving and communications equipment on hand such as life rafts, survival suits, and long-range distress communication devices.”
MEDIA AVAILABILITY: Coast Guard to discuss boating safety in American Samoa
PRESS RELEASE | Aug. 1, 2025
WHO: Coast Guard Auxiliary American Samoa Flotilla 140-03-28
WHAT: Coast Guard Auxiliary members will discuss safe boating practices, demonstrate safety equipment and conduct life jacket fittings
WHEN: Tuesday, Aug. 5, 9 a.m. to noon
WHERE: Office of Veterans and Military Affairs, M7FM+WRH, Tafuna, Western District 96799, American Samoa
U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Stratton returns home following 134-day Western Pacific patrol
PRESS RELEASE | July 31, 2025
ALAMEDA, Calif. — The U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Stratton (WMSL 752) and crew returned to their Base Alameda home port, Wednesday, following a 134-day patrol in the Indo-Pacific. Stratton’s crew engaged in professional exchanges, cultural events, and joint exercises with Japan, Republic of Korea, and the Philippines, including at-sea search-and-rescue and interdiction exercises.
Coast Guard surface units assist 4 mariners aboard disabled vessel Sueño I off Carolina, Puerto Rico
PRESS RELEASE | July 31, 2025
Coast Guard cutter Joseph Doyle and a Station San Juan boat crew assisted four mariners aboard the disabled vessel Sueño I off Carolina, Puerto Rico, Wednesday.
Assisted are four men, Dominican Republic nationals, who reportedly were on a voyage from Tortola, British Virgin Islands to Samana, Dominican Republic, when the vessel experienced electrical problems and became disabled.
Coast Guard releases report of investigation into Schooner Grace Bailey demasting
PRESS RELEASE | July 31, 2025
The Coast Guard’s Office of Investigations and Casualty Analysis published a report of investigation (ROI) to Marine Casualty Reports regarding the demasting of the Schooner Grace Bailey in Penobscot Bay, Rockland, Maine resulting in the loss of life of one passenger and injuries to five other passengers on October 9, 2023.
Coast Guard medevacs woman from cruise ship 120 miles off Washington coast
PRESS RELEASE | July 30, 2025
A Coast Guard MH-60 helicopter crew from Air Station Astoria, Oregon, medevaced a woman experiencing a health emergency onboard the cruise ship Carnival Legend nearly 120 miles west of Grays Harbor, Washington, Tuesday night.
At the time of the hoist, the cruise ship was transiting from Prince Rupert, British Columbia, to San Francisco, California.
At 6:00 p.m. Tuesday, watchstanders at the Coast Guard Northwest District Command Center received the medevac request from the cruise ship Carnival Legend for a 71-year-old woman experiencing a cardiac event.
Coast Guard rescues 3 persons from a sinking vessel north of San Juan Harbor entrance in Puerto Rico
PRESS RELEASE | July 29, 2025
Coast Guard air and surface units combined efforts with local marine units to rescue three boaters from a sinking vessel north of the entrance of San Juan Harbor, Puerto Rico, Monday.
At approximately 5:50 p.m., Coast Guard Sector San Juan watchstanders received a call from a 911 Emergency Service operator who reported a vessel taking on water, and that the three people who were aboard were in the water wearing personal flotation devices.
U.S. Coast Guard Northwest District holds Change of Command ceremony
PRESS RELEASE | July 27, 2025
U.S. Coast Guard Northwest District held a change of command ceremony at Base Seattle, Friday.
Rear Adm. Arex Avanni assumed the duties and responsibilities of the U.S. Coast Guard’s Northwest District Commander from Rear Adm. Charles Fosse.
Avanni now assumes responsibility for all Coast Guard operations throughout the Northwest region which encompasses the states of Washington, Oregon, Idaho, and Montana. This area includes more than 4,400 miles of coastline, 600 miles of inland waterways, and a 125 nautical mile international border with Canada.
U.S. Coast Guard responds to Chinese Research Vessel off Alaska
PRESS RELEASE | July 26, 2025
JUNEAU, Alaska — The U.S. Coast Guard detected and responded to the China-flagged research ship Xue Long 2 on the U.S. Extended Continental Shelf (ECS) in the U.S. Arctic, approximately 290 NM north of Utqiagvik, Alaska, Friday.
U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Stratton holds change-of-command ceremony
PRESS RELEASE | July 25, 2025
HONOLULU — The U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Stratton (WMSL 752) held a change-of-command ceremony Tuesday at Base Honolulu. Rear Adm. Jeffrey Novak, deputy commander of Coast Guard Pacific Area and commander of the Coast Guard Southwest District, presided over the ceremony in which Capt. Dorothy Hernaez relieved Capt. Brian Krautler as Stratton’s commanding officer.
U.S. Coast Guard, Royal Canadian Air Force medevac man 180 miles west of Astoria
PRESS RELEASE | July 25, 2025
A U.S. Coast Guard aircrew medevaced a man from a fishing vessel approximately 180 miles offshore of Astoria, Oregon, Thursday.
A Royal Canadian Air Force CC-295 Kingfisher crew from 19 Wing Comox in British Columbia, provided assistance overhead with weather reporting and communications. The man was safely flown to Astoria where he was transferred to EMS.
U.S. Coast Guard conducts bilateral maritime law enforcement operations with Republic of Marshall Islands
PRESS RELEASE | July 22, 2025
MAJURO, Republic of the Marshall Islands — The crew of national security cutter USCGC Stratton (WMSL 752) conducted at-sea boardings with the Republic of the Marshall Islands (RMI) Sea Patrol within RMI’s exclusive economic zone from July 9 to 13. Stratton's crew embarked three law enforcement officers from the RMI Sea Patrol, who provided a combined presence and conducted two successful maritime law enforcement boardings of commercial fishing vessels operating in the RMI EEZ. While no violations were initially reported from the boarding, potential issues with the catch emerged later and constituted further inspection from RMI.
Coast Guard national security cutter returns to California following 121-day Bering Sea patrol
PRESS RELEASE | July 22, 2025
ALAMEDA, Calif. —T he crew of the U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Munro (WMSL 755) returned to their Alameda home port Wednesday following a 20,000-nautical-mile, 121-day deployment patrolling the Bering Sea. Munro departed Alameda mid-March and operated throughout the Bering Sea during a months-long Alaska Patrol in support of the Coast Guard’s Arctic District.
Coast Guard Pacific Area holds retirement ceremony
PRESS RELEASE | July 18, 2025
The U.S. Coast Guard Pacific Area held a retirement ceremony for Vice Adm. Andrew J. Tiongson Friday at Coast Guard Base Alameda. Adm. Kevin Lunday, the Coast Guard’s acting commandant, presided over the ceremony in which Vice Adm. Tiongson retired following 40 years of honorable service.
MEDIA AVAILABILITY: Coast Guard Cutter Campbell to hold change-of-command ceremony
PRESS RELEASE | July 18, 2025
Editor’s note: News media interested in attending the ceremony are requested to RSVP no later than 10 a.m., Monday, with Lt. j.g. Addison Stead by emailing Addison.M.Stead@uscg.mil or calling (401) 367-1634. Credentialed media are asked to bring a valid driver’s license and proof of insurance to access the base. It is recommended to arrive at the gate no later than 10:15 a.m., Tuesday, to attend the event as gate processing may take 5–10 minutes.
NAVAL STATION NEWPORT, R.I. — Coast Guard Cutter Campbell (WMEC 909) is scheduled to hold a change-of-command ceremony, Tuesday, at 11 a.m. on Naval Station Newport.
Coast Guard Cutter Reliance (WMEC 615) returns home to Florida after 60-day patrol
PRESS RELEASE | July 18, 2025
PENSACOLA, Fla. — The crew of the Coast Guard Cutter Reliance (WMEC 615) returned to their home port in Pensacola, Friday, following a 60-day maritime border security patrol in the Gulf of America.
Reliance’s crew deployed to the Coast Guard Heartland District's area of responsibility in support of maritime safety, security and environmental protection, where crew members conducted extensive operations along the U.S. – Mexico maritime border to protect American sovereignty and territorial integrity. While at sea, the crew worked to deter illegal migration, fishing and smuggling while increasing awareness of all maritime activity in the region.
U.S. Coast Guard completes historic Quad Sail to strengthen Indo-Pacific maritime partnership
PRESS RELEASE | July 17, 2025
SANTA RITA, Guam — The U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Stratton (WMSL 752) arrived in Guam, July 3, after a landmark multinational sail with representatives aboard from the maritime forces from Australia, India, and Japan—collectively known as the Quad. As four leading maritime nations in the Indo-Pacific, Quad nations are united in our conviction that peace and stability in the maritime domain underpin the security and prosperity of the region. We are committed to a region where all countries are free from coercion and strongly oppose any unilateral actions that seek to change the status quo by force or coercion.
U.S. Coast Guard, Mexican Navy collaborate to disrupt suspected maritime smuggling venture off the coast of San Diego
PRESS RELEASE | July 15, 2025
SAN DIEGO — The crew of the Coast Guard Cutter Robert Ward (WPC 1130) and the Mexican Navy vessel ARM Revolución successfully collaborated to deter a suspected maritime smuggling attempt approximately 11 miles southwest of Point Loma, Sunday.
At approximately 4 p.m., the crew of Robert Ward detected a vessel transiting north from Mexican waters into U.S. territorial waters. As the cutter prepared to deploy its small boat to conduct a boarding, the suspected smuggling vessel suddenly reversed course and fled south at a high rate of speed.
Coast Guard interdicts 3 aliens off the coast of Imperial Beach, Calif.
PRESS RELEASE | July 14, 2025
SAN DIEGO — A San Fransico based Coast Guard Maritime Safety and Security Team interdicts three aliens aboard a 20-foot vessel approximately six miles west of Imperial Beach, Saturday.
At approximately 4 p.m., the MSST SF law enforcement team observed a vessel crossing the maritime boundary line with no indication of navigational lighting.
CORRECTION: Coast Guard assists 11 people aboard flooding catamaran off Dana Point, Calif.
PRESS RELEASE | July 14, 2025
Corrections:
Coast Guard assisted 11 people aboard the charter catamaran. The previous published release stated the people were saved.
The Coast Guard cutter's small boat crew assisted in using dewatering pumps to remove water from the vessel.
The 11 passengers were transferred to another charter vessel operated by the same company and no injuries were reported
DANA POINT, Calif. — U.S. Coast Guard and partner agencies assist 11 people aboard a charter catamaran taking on water approximately 7 miles south of Dana Point Harbor, Saturday evening.
Coast Guard Sector Los Angeles-Long Beach watchstanders received a distress call at approximately 6:20 p.m. from the operator of the 50-foot catamaran Manute’a, reporting flooding while still making way toward Dana Point Harbor. The Dana Point Harbor Patrol and Orange County Sheriff’s Department were monitoring Channel 16 and immediately responded to assist.
Coast Guard Sector Los Angeles-Long Beach assumed command of the search and rescue mission, issued an urgent marine information broadcast, and launched a response boat from Coast Guard Station Los Angeles-Long Beach while diverting the Coast Guard Cutter David Duren. The cutter’s small boat crew, along with partner agency vessels, arrived on scene, and assisted with using dewatering pumps to remove water from the vessel. The 11 passengers were transferred to another charter vessel, operated by the same company.
The charter catamaran operator was able to safely transit back to port under the vessel’s own power with no other assistance needed.
Noem honors Coast Guard heroes in Kerrville ceremony
PRESS RELEASE | July 12, 2025
Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem presented military medals Friday to four U. S. Coast Guard aircrew members for their heroism during catastrophic flash flooding at Camp Mystic on July 4, 2025.
Winner of Coast Guard art program's best in show award named
PRESS RELEASE | July 11, 2025
Leendert van der Pool was named the 2025 George Gray Award for Artistic Excellence winner at the Coast Guard Art Program (COGAP) annual art acceptance ceremony Thursday. The award-winning artwork, "Daring Rescue" oil on canvas was selected from 34 artworks in the 2025 collection.
Coast Guard, Puerto Rico Police crews rescue 6 kite surfers off Ocean Park Beach in San Juan, Puerto Rico
PRESS RELEASE | July 9, 2025
Coast Guard and Puerto Rico Police marine units rescued six kite surfers who were beset by weather off Ocean Park Beach in San Juan, Puerto Rico, Tuesday evening.
Watchstanders at the Coast Guard Sector San Juan’s Command Center received report at 5:17 p.m., Tuesday, of a group of kite surfers who were left adrift, between one to two miles offshore, after their kites reportedly failed due to a sudden drop of wind throughout the area.
No injuries or medical concerns were reported in this case.
Coast Guard terminates 9 illegal passenger-for-hire operations, 2 vessel voyages for boating under the influence in Puerto Rico
PRESS RELEASE | July 7, 2025
Coast Guard Sector San Juan crews, working with local law enforcement units Thursday through Sunday, terminated nine illegal passenger-for-hire operations for marine safety violations and two recreational voyages for boating under the influence in Puerto Rico.
These law enforcement actions were carried out in support of Operation Dry Water national efforts throughout the 4th of July weekend. During the operation, participating units conducted 50 boardings and issued 94 safe boating violations, 14 warnings and seven Captain of the Port Orders.
MEDIA ADVISORY: Coast Guard Southwest District to hold Change of Command Ceremony
PRESS RELEASE | July 5, 2025
ALAMEDA, Calif. – Coast Guard Southwest District is scheduled to host a Change of Command Ceremony at Coast Guard Island, Tuesday.
Rear Adm. Jeffrey Novak will relieve Rear Adm. Joseph Buzzella, as commander of Coast Guard Southwest District with Vice Adm. Andrew Tiongson, commander, Pacific Area, presiding.
WHO: Vice Adm. Andrew Tiongson; Rear Adm. Joseph Buzzella and Rear Adm. Jeffrey Novak
WHAT: Coast Guard Southwest District Change of Command Ceremony
WHEN: Tuesday, July 8 at 10 a.m.
WHERE: Freedom Park on Coast Guard Island
Editor’s Note: Media members are asked to RSVP to PADETSF@uscg.mil or by calling Chief Petty Officer Lauren Steenson at 510-316-4586 by 6 p.m. Monday.
Coast Guard District 1 renamed to Northeast District
PRESS RELEASE | July 3, 2025
BOSTON — The U.S. Coast Guard today announced the renaming of its operational districts from numerical to geographic designations, a key initiative under Force Design 2028 (FD2028). Within this Service-wide renaming initiative, Coast Guard District 1 will now be known as USCG Northeast District.
Coast Guard District 14 renamed to Coast Guard Oceania District
PRESS RELEASE | July 3, 2025
HONOLULU — The U.S. Coast Guard today announced the renaming of its operational districts from numerical to geographic designations, a key initiative under Force Design 2028 (FD2028). Within this Service-wide renaming initiative, Coast Guard District Fourteen will now be known as Coast Guard Oceania District.
Coast Guard District 17 renamed to U.S. Coast Guard Arctic District
PRESS RELEASE | July 3, 2025
JUNEAU, Alaska — The U.S. Coast Guard today announced the renaming of its operational districts from numerical to geographic designations, a key initiative under Force Design 2028 (FD2028). Within this Service-wide renaming initiative, Coast Guard District 17 will now be known as U.S. Coast Guard Arctic District.
Coast Guard District 7 renamed to Coast Guard Southeast District
PRESS RELEASE | July 3, 2025
MIAMI — The U.S. Coast Guard announced, Thursday, the renaming of its operational districts from numerical to geographic designations, a key initiative under Force Design 2028 (FD2028). Within this Service-wide renaming initiative, Coast Guard District 7 will now be known as Coast Guard Southeast District.
Coast Guard District 11 renamed to Southwest District
PRESS RELEASE | July 3, 2025
ALAMEDA, Calif. — The U.S. Coast Guard today announced the renaming of its operational districts from numerical to geographic designations, a key initiative under Force Design 2028 (FD2028). Within this Service-wide renaming initiative, Coast Guard District 11 will now be known as Southwest District.
Coast Guard Cutter Reliance to hold free, public tours in Galveston, Texas
PRESS RELEASE | July 2, 2025
HOUSTON — The crew of Coast Guard Cutter Reliance (WMEC 615), a 210-foot medium endurance cutter homeported in Pensacola, Florida, will visit Galveston, Texas and be open to visitors on July 4 and July 5.
The Reliance will moor at Pier 21 near 2100 Harborside Dr, Galveston, TX and will be open for public tours from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. on Friday, July 4, and from 10 p.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, July 5.
Coast Guard Cutter Vigorous returns home after 51-day counter-migration patrol in the Windward Passage
PRESS RELEASE | July 1, 2025
PORTSMOUTH, Va. — The crew of Coast Guard Cutter Vigorous (WMEC 627) returned to their home port in Portsmouth, Tuesday, following a 51-day patrol in the Windward Passage.
Vigorous deployed in support of Operation Vigilant Sentry to advance the primary missions of safety of life at sea and deterrence of illegal alien ventures in known transit zones. Vigorous’ crew conducted maritime safety and security missions while protecting America’s maritime borders from unlawful entry.
Coast Guard, local law enforcement in Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands to patrol for impaired boating during 4th of July weekend
PRESS RELEASE | July 1, 2025
Coast Guard and local law enforcement crews will increase boating safety patrols in Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands during the Fourth of July weekend in support of Operation Dry Water, a nationwide effort to enforce boating under the influence (BUI) laws.
Boaters can expect an increased presence from the Coast Guard and local law enforcement crews on the water. The increased presence will include dockside safety equipment inspections along with boating safety boardings.
“We look forward to this 4th of July weekend and seeing people out in the water boating responsibly and safely,” said Cmdr. Matthew Romano, Coast Guard Sector San Juan chief of response. “Know that our crews will be enforcing BUI and safe boating laws and regulations so keep in mind, like you should never be out on the road driving your vehicle under the influence, same goes for operating a vessel in the water, if you do so, you will be endangering your life and the life of others.”