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.”
Coast Guard Cutter Kimball holds change of command ceremony
PRESS RELEASE | June 30, 2025
HONOLULU — The U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Kimball (WMSL 756) held a change of command ceremony, Friday, in Honolulu. Vice Adm. Andrew Tiongson, commander of U.S. Coast Guard Pacific Area, presided over the ceremony in which Capt. Craig Allen relieved Capt. Robert Kinsey as Kimball’s commanding officer.
Coast Guard urges paddle craft safety in the Pacific Northwest
PRESS RELEASE | June 28, 2025
SEATTLE — With warm weather luring canoeists, kayakers and stand-up-paddleboarders onto Pacific Northwest waters, the Coast Guard is reminding paddlers to prepare for cold water, wear a properly fitted life jacket and carry at least two waterproof ways to call for help.
U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Eagle holds change of command ceremony
PRESS RELEASE | June 27, 2025
SAN FRANCISCO — The crew of U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Eagle (WIX 327) held a change of command ceremony, Friday, at Pier 17.
Capt. Kristopher Ensley relieved Capt. Jessica Rozzi-Ochs as commanding officer of the Eagle during the ceremony, which was presided over by Vice Adm. Nathan Moore, commander of Coast Guard Atlantic Area.
U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Stratton concludes joint operations with Japan and Philippine Coast Guards
PRESS RELEASE | June 26, 2025
KAGOSHIMA, Japan – U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Stratton (WMSL 752) departed Kagoshima June 20, following in-port and at-sea engagements with Japan Coast Guard (JCG), Philippine Coast Guard (PCG), and Japan government officials. This event marks a significant milestone as the first time the trilateral search and rescue exercise with the Philippine Coast Guard, occurred in a region outside the Philippine territorial seas, emphasizing the growing cooperation among the three nations.
U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Healy departs Seattle for months-long Arctic deployment
PRESS RELEASE | June 25, 2025
SEATTLE — The U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Healy (WAGB 20) departed Seattle Thursday, beginning its annual Arctic deployment. The crew aboard Healy, a 420-foot icebreaker, will support two distinct high-latitude missions to study the formation and movement of sea ice and the pathways followed by Atlantic and Pacific waters in the Arctic, and ocean circulation patterns in the East Siberian and Laptev seas.
Coast Guard assists 2 boaters on Shell Island
PRESS RELEASE | June 24, 2025
CLEARWATER, Fla. — A Coast Guard Station Yankeetown boat crew assisted two boaters, Tuesday, after their vessel allided with a dayboard on Crystal River.
UPDATE 3: Coast Guard responds to vessel fire offshore Adak, Alaska
PRESS RELEASE | June 24, 2025
The Coast Guard has concluded its response to a fire onboard the cargo ship Morning Midas, which capsized and sank in international waters approximately 450 miles southwest of Adak on Monday.
The Coast Guard received notification that the vessel capsized Monday at 5:35 p.m. and sank to a depth of approximately 16,400 feet in international waters.
Coast Guard relieves commanding officer of Coast Guard Cutter Tampa
PRESS RELEASE | June 24, 2025
PORTSMOUTH, Va. — The U.S. Coast Guard temporarily relieved Cmdr. Walter Krolman, commanding officer of Coast Guard Cutter Tampa (WMEC 902), Tuesday.
Vice Adm. Nathan Moore, commander, Coast Guard Atlantic Area, relieved Krolman due to a loss of confidence in his ability to execute the responsibilities of a commanding officer. A thorough investigation is ongoing.
Coast Guard Cutter Campbell returns home after 62-day patrol in the Windward Passage
PRESS RELEASE | June 23, 2025
NEWPORT, R.I. — The crew of Coast Guard Cutter Campbell (WMEC 909) returned to their home port in Newport, Friday, following a 62-day patrol in the Windward Passage.
Campbell 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. Campbell’s crew conducted maritime safety and security missions while protecting America's maritime borders from unlawful entry.
Coast Guard Cutter Stratton Arrives in Kagoshima, Leads Joint Operations with Partner Coast Guards
PRESS RELEASE | June 20, 2025
U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Stratton (WMSL 752) arrived in Kagoshima, Japan, June 16 to conduct the first-ever trilateral operations between the U.S. Coast Guard, Japan Coast Guard (JCG) and Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) within Japan’s territorial waters. This engagement builds on Operation SAPPHIRE, the U.S.-Japan Coast Guard bilateral effort aimed at strengthening interoperability to support maritime governance, peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region.
Coast Guard Cutter Argus holds change of command ceremony
PRESS RELEASE | June 20, 2025
The U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Argus (WMSM-915) held a change of command ceremony, Tuesday, in San Pedro, Calif.
Rear Adm. Joanna Hiigel, deputy commander of Coast Guard Pacific Area, presided over the ceremony in which Cmdr. Andrew Pritchett relieved Capt. Tobias Reid as Argus’ commanding officer.
Coast Guard Cutter Valiant celebrated for over 57 years of service during heritage recognition ceremony
PRESS RELEASE | June 17, 2025
NAVAL STATION MAYPORT, Fla. — The Coast Guard held a heritage recognition ceremony, Tuesday, in Jacksonville to honor the U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Valiant (WMEC 621) and recognize its more than 57 years of exemplary service.
The ceremony was presided over by Rear Adm. Adam Chamie, assistant commandant for operations integration and response policy, Coast Guard Headquarters in Washington, D.C., and served to celebrate Valiant’s contributions to the Coast Guard and nation in the presence of cutter leadership, current and former crew members, families and friends.
Coast Guard conducts three separate tows Saturday
PRESS RELEASE | June 16, 2025
NEW YORK — Coast Guard crews from Station Kings Point, Station New York, and Station Sandy Hook conducted three separate tows for disabled vessels, Saturday. Click the link to read full release.
Coast Guard welcomes new commander to Sector Columbia River
PRESS RELEASE | June 13, 2025
PORTLAND, Ore. — Coast Guard Sector Columbia River held a change of command ceremony Friday morning at the Sector, near Swan Island in Portland.
During the ceremony, Capt. Anthony Migliorini relieved Capt. Justin Noggle as commander of Sector Columbia River.
Rear Adm. Charles Fosse, commander, 13th Coast Guard District, presided over the ceremony.
Sector Columbia River is one of two sectors within District 13 and has an area of responsibility spanning from the California-Oregon border to southern Washington, encompassing 420 miles of coastline. In addition, Sector members operate within the 33 ports along 465 miles of waterways on the Columbia, Snake, and Willamette River systems, extending from the Pacific Ocean to Lewiston, Idaho.
Coast Guard responds to overdue fishing vessel Seahorse in Cape Cod Bay
PRESS RELEASE | June 12, 2025
WOOD’S HOLE, Mass. — After an extensive multi-agency search for the overdue fishing vessel Seahorse led by Coast Guard Sector Southeastern New England, the vessel was found off of Eastham in Cape Cod Bay on Wednesday afternoon. Click the link to read the full release.
Media Advisory: Coast Guard to hold change of command ceremony at Sector San Diego
PRESS RELEASE | June 11, 2025
Media Advisory: Coast Guard to hold change of command ceremony at Sector San Diego
SAN DIEGO — U.S. Coast Guard Sector San Diego is scheduled to hold a change of command ceremony in San Diego, Friday.
Who: Commander of Coast Guard Sector San Diego, Capt. Patrick Dill, Capt. Robert Tucker
What: Coast Guard Sector San Diego Change of Command Ceremony
When: Friday, June 13 at 10:00 a.m.
Where: Hangar 1 at Coast Guard Sector San Diego, 2710 N Harbor Drive, 92101 San Diego, CA
Media is asked to RSVP prior to the event by emailing padetsd@uscg.mil or calling (619) 252-1304. Please arrive no later than 9:00 a.m. at Sector with proper credentials and identification.
Coast Guard Air Station Borinquen receives new commanding officer in Aguadilla, Puerto Rico
PRESS RELEASE | June 11, 2025
Coast Guard Air Station Borinquen celebrated their change of command at the Base Borinquen aircraft hangar in Aguadilla, Wednesday.
In the ceremony, Capt. Jeffrey P. Owens relieved Capt. Lawrence D. Gaillard as Air Station Borinquen’s commanding officer before unit members, aviators, shipmates, partner agency representatives, family and friends, who witnessed the formal transfer of command authority from one commanding officer to the next.
Capt. Willie L. Carmichael, Seventh Coast Guard District chief of staff, presided over the ceremony in which he presented Gaillard with the Coast Guard Meritorious Service Medal (gold star in lieu of a third award) recognizing his achievements during the three-year tour.
Under Gaillard’s leadership, Air Station Borinquen achieved extraordinary success in executing 5,400 flight hours, encompassing 423 Search and Rescue missions with 1,088 lives saved, or assisted. His decisive leadership enabled the successful completion of 49 law enforcement cases, resulting in the interdiction of 729 undocumented aliens and the seizure of 51 million dollars in illegal narcotics.
Coast Guard Cutter Active holds change of command ceremony
PRESS RELEASE | June 11, 2025
The U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Active (WMEC 618) and crew held a change of command ceremony, Sunday, in San Diego.
Cmdr. Earl Potter relieved Cmdr. Adam Disque as Active’s 31st commanding officer during the ceremony. Rear Adm. Joanna Hiigel, deputy commander for Coast Guard Pacific Area, presided over the ceremony.
Coast Guard, Dutch Caribbean Coast Guard, British Virgin Islands Royal Marine Police assist mariner aboard demasted sailing vessel
PRESS RELEASE | June 11, 2025
US Coast Guard, British Virgin Islands Royal Marine Police, and Dutch Caribbean Coast Guard air and surface units rescued a sole mariner aboard demasted sailing vessel in Eastern Caribbean waters northeast of Anegada, British Virgin Islands, Tuesday.
Rescued was French citizen Frank Rouvray, 58, who reportedly was on a voyage to the island of Saint Martin when the vessel became demasted, and the distress signal was transmitted to the Coast Guard.
Coast Guard interdicts 9 aliens near Alamitos Bay, Calif.
PRESS RELEASE | June 11, 2025
PHOTO AVAILABLE: A boat crew from Coast Guard Station Los Angeles-Long Beach interdicted nine aliens aboard a recreational vessel, approximately three miles south of the Alamitos Bay entrance, Sunday evening.
Coast Guard Cutter Stone holds change-of-command ceremony
PRESS RELEASE | June 6, 2025
NORTH CHARLESTON, S.C. — The crew of Coast Guard Cutter Stone (WMSL 758) held a change-of-command ceremony, Thursday, in North Charleston.
Capt. Anne O’Connell relieved Capt. Jonathan Carter as the fourth commanding officer of Stone during the ceremony, which was presided over by Vice Adm. Nathan A. Moore, commander, Coast Guard Atlantic Area.
Correction: Update: Coast Guard responds to vessel fire offshore Adak, Alaska
PRESS RELEASE | June 6, 2025
Correction: This version has been corrected to state that the Morning Midas was located approximately 340 miles southwest of Adak. The previous version incorrectly stated it was located 340 miles southeast of Adak.
KODIAK, Alaska – The Coast Guard is continuing its response to a vessel fire approximately 340 miles southwest of Adak, Thursday.
Update: Coast Guard responds to vessel fire offshore Adak, Alaska
PRESS RELEASE | June 6, 2025
Editor's note: This version has been corrected to state that the Morning Midas was located approximately 340 miles southwest of Adak. The previous version incorrectly stated it was located approximately 340 miles southeast of Adak.
KODIAK, Alaska – The Coast Guard is continuing its response to a vessel fire approximately 340 miles southwest of Adak, Thursday.
A Coast Guard HC-130J Super Hercules aircrew from Air Station Kodiak conducted an overflight of the cargo ship Morning Midas Wednesday and observed the vessel was still on fire.
Currently, there are no visual indications that the ship is taking on water or listing, and the extent of the damage is unknown. Zodiac Maritime, the Morning Midas’s manager, is coordinating to send a team of salvage specialists to the vessel for further assessment.
The Morning Midas’s crew, who evacuated the ship Wednesday, remains aboard the vessel Cosco Hellas transiting to the vessel’s next destination with no reported injuries.
As of 4 p.m. Thursday, the vessel was located approximately 340 miles southwest of Adak.
The Seventeenth Coast Guard District has issued a Broadcast Notice to Mariners to notify mariners in the area of the situation.
The Coast Guard continues to work with Zodiac Maritime to coordinate recovery efforts of the vessel.
Zodiac Maritime’s public information spokesperson can be contacted via email at media@navigateresponse.com or by phone at 44-207-283-9915 or 65-6222-6375.
To receive the most current updates, follow @USCGAlaska on X.
MEDIA AVAILABILITY: Coast Guard participating in Harborfest 2025
PRESS RELEASE | June 5, 2025
The Coast Guard is scheduled to participate in Norfolk Harborfest 2025, which runs June 6-8 at Town Point Park, at the Downtown Norfolk Waterfront.
Norfolk Harborfest is a maritime festival run in partnership between national, state and local organizations to encourage public boating safety.
Coast Guard responds, investigates vessel fire in Fajardo, Puerto Rico
PRESS RELEASE | June 5, 2025
Coast Guard Sector San Juan marine investigators and Incident Management personnel responded, Wednesday, to a fire aboard the 75-foot motor yacht Emilia in Fajardo.
The vessel fire was successfully extinguished by local emergency responders, there are no people missing or injuries reported, and Coast Guard investigators are working to determine the cause of the incident.
Coast Guard Incident Management personnel are working with the Puerto Rico Department of Natural and Environmental Resources and other local authorities to assess the impact of any remaining fuel pollution in the water.
CORRECTION: Coast Guard responds to vessel fire offshore Adak, Alaska
PRESS RELEASE | June 4, 2025
Corrections:
Updated vehicle numbers are 3,048 total vehicles, with 70 being fully electric vehicles and 681 being partial hybrid electric vehicles.
Vessel is Liberian-flagged and U.K.-managed
The crew evacuated aboard a life boat, not life raft
Zodiac Maritime is the vessel's manager, not parent company
KODIAK, Alaska — The Coast Guard is responding to a vessel fire approximately 300 miles south of Adak, Wednesday.
Watchstanders at the Seventeenth Coast Guard District command center received a distress alert Tuesday at approximately 3:15 p.m. reporting a fire aboard the cargo ship Morning Midas, a 600-foot Liberian-flagged and U.K. managed cargo vessel with 22 crew members and reportedly carrying several thousand vehicles.
Watchstanders immediately issued an Urgent Marine Information Broadcast requesting assistance from vessels in the vicinity of the Morning Midas. Three good Samaritan vessels responded to the incident.
Watchstanders also diverted the crew of U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Munro (WMSL 755) to the area, directed the launch of a C-130J Super Hercules aircrew from Coast Guard Air Station Kodiak, and positioned an MH-60T Jayhawk helicopter aircrew in Adak.
All 22 crew members aboard the Morning Midas evacuated the ship aboard a life boat and were subsequently rescued by the crew of motor vessel Cosco Hellas, one of the good Samaritan vessels on scene, with no reported injuries.
The status of the fire is currently unknown, but smoke is still emanating from the vessel.
“As the search and rescue portion of our response concludes, our crews are working closely with the vessel’s manager, Zodiac Maritime, to determine the disposition of the vessel,” said Rear Admiral Megan Dean, commander of the Coast Guard’s Seventeenth District. “We are grateful for the selfless actions of the three nearby vessels who assisted in the response and the crew of motor vessel Cosco Hellas, who helped save 22 lives.”
The Morning Midas is estimated to have approximately 350 metric tons of gas fuel and 1,530 metric tons of very low sulfur fuel oil (VLSFO) onboard. They are also reportedly carrying a total of 3,048 vehicles, with 70 being fully electric vehicles and 681 being partial hybrid electric vehicles. This is based on reports to the Coast Guard and is subject to change pending the development of any new information.
The Coast Guard is working with the Morning Midas's manager Zodiac Maritime to coordinate recovery efforts of the vessel. Zodiac Maritime can be contacted via email at media@navigateresponse.com or by phone at 44-207-283-9915 or 65-6222-6375.
Coast Guard oversees fuel removal efforts from grounded vessel on Icacos Beach, Puerto Rico
PRESS RELEASE | June 4, 2025
Coast Guard Sector San Juan Incident Management personnel, working in consultation with local and federal environmental agencies, are overseeing efforts by specialized companies, Wednesday, to remove a pollution threat from a recreational vessel which grounded ashore on Icacos Beach in Yabucoa, Puerto Rico, Monday.
There were no injuries reported or signs of pollution in the water, however, the vessel owner reported there were approximately 110 gallons of gasoline onboard. The Coast Guard is investigating the circumstances that led to this vessel grounding.
Coast Guard launches 2025 hurricane season with focus on preparedness
PRESS RELEASE | June 4, 2025
PORTSMOUTH, Va. — The Coast Guard reminds mariners and residents of the Atlantic and Gulf of America coast to prepare for the 2025 hurricane season.
The Atlantic hurricane season runs from June 1 to Nov. 30, with the peak occurring between mid-August and late October.
USCGC Storis departs on maiden voyage
PRESS RELEASE | June 4, 2025
The U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Storis (WAGB 21), the Coast Guard’s first polar icebreaker acquired in more than 25 years, departed on its maiden voyage to safeguard U.S. sovereign interests in the Arctic and conduct Coast Guard missions.
Coast Guard urges boating safety ahead of salmon opener
PRESS RELEASE | June 3, 2025
The Coast Guard, alongside fellow federal, state and local agency partners will be actively patrolling the Northern California waterways during the recreational salmon fishery open period scheduled for June 7 to 8, 2025.
Coast Guard terminates 10 vessel voyages, including 8 illegal passenger-for-hire operations in Puerto Rico
PRESS RELEASE | June 2, 2025
Coast Guard Sector San Juan, Customs and Border Protection and Puerto Rico Police units and personnel terminated the voyage of 10 vessels with marine safety deficiencies in San Juan Harbor, Friday, and in Fajardo, Saturday, eight of which were conducting illegal passenger-for-hire operations.
“Over the past year, Coast Guard enforcement efforts resulted in voyage terminations for 30 illegal passenger-for-hire operations,” said Cmdr. Matthew Romano, Sector San Juan chief of response. “We value the joint collaboration between Coast Guard Station San Juan, Sector San Juan Marine Investigators, Coast Guard Miami Marine Investigators, Coast Guard Investigative Service, U.S. Customs and Border Protection Air and Marine Operations and Puerto Rico Police Joint Forces of Rapid Action in this effort to ensure vessels are operating legally in a commercial capacity and in compliance with federal marine safety regulations.”
Vessels El Lindo, Hibiki, The Ivy, Mama Juana, Ohana 2, Master Blaster, Avante and Serenity were found conducting illegal passenger-for-hire operations, two of which were found operating in violation of previous federal Captain of the Port (COTP) Orders. Vessels Tobias and Four Points were only cited for their respective marine safety deficiencies.
Coast Guard Cutter Diligence returns home after 61-day counter-drug and fisheries patrol
PRESS RELEASE | June 2, 2025
PENSACOLA, Fla. — The crew of Coast Guard Cutter Diligence (WMEC 616) returned to their home port in Pensacola, May 21, following a 61-day patrol in the Caribbean Sea and Gulf of America, where crew members conducted counter-drug operations and fisheries boardings to enforce U.S. federal law at sea and protect America’s maritime boundary.
Diligence deployed in support of Joint Interagency Task Force – South (JIATF-S) while underway in the Seventh Coast Guard District’s area of responsibility. Crew members worked closely with international and interagency partners to disrupt drug trafficking ventures in the Caribbean Sea.
Coast Guard District 13 transitions to new phone numbers
PRESS RELEASE | May 29, 2025
SEATTLE — U.S. Coast Guard District 13th is announcing a phased transition to new phone numbers for many of its small boat stations and shore-based units throughout the Pacific Northwest. These phone numbers are often used by mariners to obtain bar reports and local marine safety information.
The transition period will be from June 1st through December 31st. This change is part of a broader effort to modernize and streamline communications infrastructure within the U.S. Coast Guard.
U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Midgett holds change of command ceremony
PRESS RELEASE | May 27, 2025
The U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Midgett (WMSL 757) held a change of command ceremony, Friday, on Coast Guard Base Honolulu.
Vice Adm. Andrew Tiongson, commander of U.S. Coast Guard Pacific Area, presided over the ceremony in which Capt. Brian Whisler relieved Capt. Matthew Rooney as Midgett’s commanding officer.
U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Stratton departs Philippines, commences months-long Indo-Pacific patrol
PRESS RELEASE | May 24, 2025
PUERTO PRINCESA, Philippines — The U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Stratton (WMSL 752) and its crew departed Puerto Princesa, Philippines, Monday, after in-port engagements and visits with the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG), the U.S. Ambassador to the Republic of the Philippines MaryKay Carlson, U.S. embassy staff, and PCG District Palawan senior leadership. Stratton’s visit to Puerto Princesa marked the first international port call of their months-long deployment to the Indo-Pacific region.
Coast Guard relieves commanding officer due to loss of confidence
PRESS RELEASE | May 23, 2025
SEATTLE – The Coast Guard temporarily relieved Chief Warrant Officer Timothy Crochet as Commanding Officer of the Coast Guard’s National Motor Lifeboat School on May 23, 2025, due to a loss of confidence in his judgment and ability to fulfill his assigned duties.
CWO William Armstrong has temporarily assumed the duties as Commanding Officer of the National Motor Lifeboat School.
Coast Guard transfers 11 aliens to The Bahamas
PRESS RELEASE | May 22, 2025
MIAMI – Coast Guard Cutter Winslow Griesser’s crew transferred 11 aliens of mixed nationalities to Bahamian immigration authorities in Freeport, Bahamas, Thursday.
MEDIA ADVISORY: Coast Guard, partner agencies to hold safe boating press briefing ahead of Memorial Day weekend
PRESS RELEASE | May 21, 2025
MIAMI — The Coast Guard alongside Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, representatives from Biscayne National Park, U.S. Customs and Border Protection, Miami-Dade Sheriff's Office and Fire Rescue, and City of Miami Police and Fire Rescue are scheduled to host a press briefing, Thursday, to emphasize and promote the importance of safe boating practices ahead of Memorial Day weekend at the Crandon Park Marina boat ramp in Key Biscayne.
Coast Guard repatriates 5 aliens to Cuba
PRESS RELEASE | May 20, 2025
MIAMI – Coast Guard Cutter Isaac Mayo's crew repatriated five people to Cuba, Tuesday, following their rescue by good Samaritans in the Yucatan Passage last week.
U.S. Coast Guard Barque Eagle to visit Los Angeles during Fleet Week
PRESS RELEASE | May 19, 2025
U.S. Coast Guard Barque Eagle (WIX 327) will participate in Los Angeles Fleet Week festivities during Memorial Day weekend, May 23 - 26.
Eagle will be moored at Berth 50/51 in San Pedro’s Outer Harbor, where it will offer free public tours during the following dates and times:
• Friday, May 23 (10 a.m. to 3 p.m.)
• Saturday, May 24 (10 a.m. to 3 p.m.)
• Sunday, May 25 (10 a.m. to 3 p.m.)
Visitors will need to join a digital queue and be assigned a time to get in line before their visit. They will then take a shuttle bus to the ship. For more information, go to the Los Angeles Fleet Week’s web page at: https://lafleetweek.com/events_schedule/ships/