U.S. Coast Guard accepts delivery of 62nd Fast Response Cutter named for 9/11 hero
PRESS RELEASE | Feb. 26, 2026
KEY WEST — The U.S. Coast Guard accepted delivery of the 62nd Fast Response Cutter, USCGC Vincent Danz (WPC 1162), on Thursday in Key West.
The Vincent Danz is the fourth FRC to be homeported to Guam.
"Accepting delivery of the Vincent Danz, Guam’s newest Fast Response Cutter, demonstrates the Coast Guard’s enduring commitment to the security of our Nation, the Pacific, and our partners throughout Oceania," said Capt. Jessica Worst, commander, Coast Guard Forces Micronesia/Sector Guam. "Vincent Danz exemplified selfless service as a New York police officer and Coast Guard reservist. This cutter will honor his legacy by protecting lives, combating illicit activity, and ensuring maritime security of our coasts, across Micronesia and beyond."
The Sentinel-class FRCs replace the 1980s Island-class 110-foot patrol boats and possess 21st-century command, control, communications, computers, cyber, intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance equipment, with improved habitability and seakeeping.
The U.S. Coast Guard ordered a total of 77 FRCs to date to perform a range of missions, including countering illicit maritime activities, search and rescue, bilateral and multilateral international operations, and the national defense of ports, waterways, and coastal areas.
Coast Guard addresses recent media reporting
PRESS RELEASE | Feb. 17, 2026
WASHINGTON — Admiral Kevin Lunday, Commandant of the United States Coast Guard, issued the following statement:
A recent media report about the U.S. Coast Guard contained numerous inaccuracies about the Service.
Coast Guard Cutter Mohawk returns home from 60-day patrol after escorting two oil tankers in the Caribbean Sea, Gulf of America
PRESS RELEASE | Feb. 17, 2026
KEY WEST, Fla. — The crew of Coast Guard Cutter Mohawk returned to their homeport in Key West, Saturday, after a 60-day patrol in the Caribbean Sea and Gulf of America, where crew members boarded and escorted two sanctioned oil tankers.
Operating in support of Operation Southern Spear, Mohawk’s crew partnered with Department of War and Department of Homeland Security assets as well as additional Coast Guard units to board and escort the two sanctioned vessels, preventing the illicit trade of crude oil in violation of international sanctions.
Coast Guard commissions USCGC Frederick Mann (WPC 1160) in Kodiak, Alaska
PRESS RELEASE | Feb. 13, 2026
KODIAK, Alaska — The Coast Guard commissioned its newest and sixth Arctic District Fast Response Cutter (FRC), Coast Guard Cutter Frederick Mann (WPC 1160), for official entry into its service fleet during a ceremony held in Kodiak, Friday.
The ceremony was presided over by Rear Adm. Bob Little, commander of the Coast Guard's Arctic District. Members of the Mann family were also in attendance, including the cutter’s sponsor, Mrs. Eugenia "Jeannie" Mann Hyder, niece of Frederick Mann.
Update 1 and Final: Coast Guard suspends active search for missing swimmer off Guam
PRESS RELEASE | Feb. 13, 2026
SANTA RITA, Guam — The U.S. Coast Guard suspended the active search Friday at sunset for a 22-year-old man who was swept beyond the reef line while swimming at Tanguisson Beach on Tuesday evening. He remains missing.
U.S. Coast Guard, U.S. Navy, and Guam National Guard crews conducted 26 search patterns over three days, covering 637 square nautical miles, in addition to substantial efforts by Guam Fire Rescue crews and Guam Police Department.
“The decision to suspend an active search is never one we make lightly,” said Lt. Cmdr. Derek Wallin, the U.S. Coast Guard search and rescue mission coordinator. “Our crews and our partners at Guam Fire Rescue and Guam Police Department, HSC-25, the Guam National Guard, and across every agency involved used every available resource. We appreciate their dedicated efforts. Our deepest condolences go out to this young man’s family and loved ones. We hold them close in our thoughts during this incredibly difficult time.”
Coast Guard Sector Western Alaska and U.S. Arctic updates contact information
PRESS RELEASE | Feb. 12, 2026
ANCHORAGE, Alaska — The Coast Guard has changed the contact information for Sector Western Alaska and U.S. Arctic staff offices and other units throughout Western Alaska as part of a service-wide telephone modernization directive, Thursday, Feb. 12.
The main phone line for the sector can now be reached at (206) 815-7100.
MEDIA ADVISORY: Coast Guard to hold Mardi Gras security support press briefing
PRESS RELEASE | Feb. 12, 2026
The Coast Guard is scheduled to hold interviews on Friday to discuss measures the service is taking to keep the public safe during the Mardi Gras celebration and to explain the critical role in the collective security efforts undertaken by the Department of Homeland Security Investigations, the State of Louisiana, the City of New Orleans, and many other agency-partner and stakeholders.
U.S. Coast Guard completes the President’s contract awards for 11 Arctic Security Cutters
PRESS RELEASE | Feb. 11, 2026
WASHINGTON — The U.S. Coast Guard announced today it has completed the award of contracts for 11 Arctic Security Cutters, fulfilling President Trump’s directive to rapidly expand America’s icebreaker fleet. The latest award is for construction of up to five Arctic Security Cutters, bringing the President’s initial order to completion and marking a historic milestone in U.S. Arctic capability.
Joint responders searching for missing swimmer off Tanguisson Beach, Guam
PRESS RELEASE | Feb. 10, 2026
SANTA RITA, Guam — A 22-year-old man was swept beyond the reef line while swimming at Tanguisson Beach Tuesday night, prompting a joint search that remains ongoing off Guam’s west side on Wednesday.
The U.S. Coast Guard Joint Rescue Sub-Center (JRSC) watch is coordinating closely with Guam Fire Rescue, U.S. Navy Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron 25, the crew of the USCGC Frederick Hatch (WPC 1143), and Station Apra Harbor 45-foot Response Boat-Medium crews.
“We are using every available resource and working side by side with our partners at Guam Fire Rescue and HSC-25 to find this missing swimmer,” said Lt. Cmdr. Derek Wallin, U.S. Coast Guard search and rescue mission coordinator. “The coordination between our Coast Guard crews, Guam Fire Rescue, and the Navy helicopter squadron has been outstanding. We ask the public to keep this young man and his family in their thoughts.”
Coast Guard searches for 2 possible missing surfers near Santa Cruz Lighthouse
PRESS RELEASE | Feb. 7, 2026
SANTA CRUZ, Calif. – The Coast Guard is searching for two possible missing surfers in the vicinity of the Santa Cruz Lighthouse in California, Friday evening.
At approximately 6:30 p.m., Coast Guard Sector San Francisco watch standers received a report from two good Samaritans who observed two surfers yelling for help in the water.
MEDIA ADVISORY: Coast Guard East District updates external affairs contact information
PRESS RELEASE | Feb. 5, 2026
PORTSMOUTH, Va. — The Coast Guard East District External Affairs Office has updated its contact information for the Portsmouth and Baltimore offices effective immediately.
For public affairs support:
- Contact the Portsmouth office at 757-650-1499
- Contact the Baltimore office at 410-536-3965
For media inquiries and after-hours requests, contact EastDistrictPublicAffairs@uscg.mil.
Coast Guard takes delivery of 18th mission-ready HC-130J surveillance aircraft
PRESS RELEASE | Feb. 4, 2026
WASHINGTON — The Coast Guard is completing final delivery activities this week for its 18th fully missionized HC-130J long range surveillance aircraft, designated CGNR 2018, at L3Harris Integrated Mission Systems in Waco, Texas. The aircraft will support the transition of Air Station Sacramento, California, from C-27J aircraft to HC-130Js.
San Diego Coast Guard City announces the 2025 Coastie of the Year Award
PRESS RELEASE | Jan. 28, 2026
SAN DIEGO — The U.S. Coast Guard, in collaboration with San Diego Coast Guard City, announced Petty Officer 1st Class William James, a Sector San Diego Aviation Electronics Technician, as the recipient of the 2025 Coastie of the Year Award during a ceremony at Coast Guard Sector San Diego, Wednesday.
This year’s ceremony honors the legacy of Elizabeth “Gena” Macres (Fischle), a World War II veteran and member of the Coast Guard SPARS, the service’s women’s reserve established during World War II. The ceremony’s theme is “Remembering the Past and Embracing the Future.”
MEDIA ADVISORY: 2025 Coastie of the Year Ceremony to be held in San Diego
PRESS RELEASE | Jan. 27, 2026
SAN DIEGO — The Coastie of the Year Award Ceremony, organized by the San Diego Coast Guard City, is scheduled to be held at Coast Guard Sector San Diego on Jan. 28, 2026.
The nominees include Machinery Technician 1st Class Caleb Gaudian, Avionics Electrical Technician 1st Class William James, Machinery Technician 1st Class Sean Sullivan, and Public Affairs Specialist 3rd Class Christopher Sappey.
Coast Guard, Horten tanker ship recue capsized Belgium rower during World’s Toughest Row Race in the Atlantic Ocean
PRESS RELEASE | Jan. 22, 2026
Coast Guard Sector San Juan Command Center watchstanders and the crew of the Horten Liberian-flagged tanker ship rescued a capsized rower in the Atlantic Ocean east of Puerto Rico, Wednesday night.
Rescued is Benoit Bourguet, 47, a Belgium citizen, after his single-man rowing vessel, City of Liverpool, was reportedly struck by two rogue waves and capsized in 13 to 15-foot seas which forced Bourguet to deploy and board his life raft.
Bourguet and the City of Liverpool vessel were reportedly competing in the World’s Toughest Row Race, a 3,000-mile rowing race from San Sebastian de la Gomera, Spain, to Nelson’s Dockyard in Antigua. No other vessels in the race have been reported to be in distress.
Coast Guard, CBP, Homeland Security Task Force - San Juan Region partner agencies interdict drug smuggling vessel north of Puerto Rico
PRESS RELEASE | Jan. 22, 2026
A Coast Guard Station San Juan boat crew working with Homeland Security Task Force - San Juan Region partner agencies interdicted a drug smuggling vessel and apprehend three men in Atlantic Ocean waters north of Puerto Rico, Jan. 14, 2026.
During the interdiction, law enforcement agents seized 16 bales of cocaine weighing a combined total of 506kgs/1,115.54 pounds, which are estimated to have a wholesale value of more than $7 million. The contraband and suspects were later transferred to HSTF law enforcement partners in San Juan, Puerto Rico.
Coast Guard, NASBLA renew commitment to recreational boating safety
PRESS RELEASE | Jan. 21, 2026
WASHINGTON — The U.S. Coast Guard and the National Association of State Boating Law Administrators (NASBLA) signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA), strengthening their partnership to promote safety and security for the nation’s recreational boaters.
Coast Guard rescues boaters from sinking vessel off New Jersey
PRESS RELEASE | Jan. 18, 2026
A Coast Guard Station Manasquan Inlet 47-foot Motor Lifeboat crew and Air Station Atlantic City MH-65 Dolphin aircrew rescued three mariners after their 74-foot boat began to sink approximately 4 nautical miles northeast of Shark River Inlet, Saturday.
Coast Guard interdicts 9 aliens west of Black’s Beach, Calif.
PRESS RELEASE | Jan. 18, 2026
SAN DIEGO — Coast Guard members interdict nine suspected aliens approximately 19 miles west of Black’s Beach, Saturday morning.
At 11:39 a.m., crew members aboard the Coast Guard Cutter Robert Ward (WPC 1130) encountered a cuddy-cabin vessel transiting at a high rate of speed.
U.S. Coast Guard launches RAPTOR, hosts demonstration of innovative technology to enhance maritime domain dominance
PRESS RELEASE | Jan. 16, 2026
WASHINGTON — The U.S. Coast Guard is proud to announce a bold new era in mission success, unveiling a rapid-response approach that identifies, prototypes and delivers breakthrough technologies to meet urgent operational needs and drives accelerated transition to programs. The Office of Rapid Response and Prototyping (CG-RAPTOR) is accelerating the “idea-to-operations” cycle, rolling out proven solutions within 30, 60, and 90 days through dynamic collaboration with operators, industry leaders and subject matter experts.
Coast Guard Cutter Alert returns home after interdicting more than $18.4M in narcotics during 45-day patrol
PRESS RELEASE | Jan. 15, 2026
Cape Canaveral, Fla. — The crew of the Coast Guard Cutter Alert (WMEC 630) returned to their home port in Cape Canaveral, Thursday, following a 45-day counter-drug patrol in the Windward Passage, Caribbean Sea and Eastern Pacific Ocean.
While underway in the Coast Guard Southeast District area of responsibility, Alert’s crew interdicted a go-fast style vessel trafficking illegal narcotics in the Windward Passage. The crew seized 2,250 pounds of cocaine valued at $18.4 million, seven pounds of marijuana valued at $7,000 and an illegal firearm. The four suspected smugglers on board, narcotics and firearm were transferred to the Bahamas government for prosecution.
Coast Guard Releases Force Design 2028 Initial Update, Highlights Return on Investment
PRESS RELEASE | Jan. 15, 2026
WASHINGTON — The United States Coast Guard today released the Force Design 2028 Initial Update, detailing the reforms implemented since January 2025 and the significant, measurable impacts these changes have delivered for the American people. The update underscores how Force Design 2028 has strengthened the Service’s operational effectiveness, improved workforce readiness, accelerated capability delivery, and generated unprecedented value for the Nation.
Coast Guard awards record $200 million contract to rebuild Station South Padre Island, Texas
PRESS RELEASE | Jan. 14, 2026
WASHINGTON — The U.S. Coast Guard has awarded a $200 million design-build contract to The Haskell Company for the comprehensive recapitalization and expansion of Coast Guard Station South Padre Island in South Padre Island, Texas. This award marks the largest single task order in the history of the Coast Guard’s military construction program.
USCGC Hickory arrives in Guam, restoring full buoy tender capacity in Oceania
PRESS RELEASE | Jan. 14, 2026
SANTA RITA, Guam — The USCGC Hickory (WLB 212), a 225-foot Juniper-class seagoing buoy tender, arrived at its new homeport in Guam on Wednesday, following a more than 13,000-mile transit over 71 days from the U.S. Coast Guard Yard in Baltimore through the Panama Canal.
After an extended Major Maintenance Availability at the Yard, part of the In-Service Vessel Sustainment Program that modernizes the entire Juniper-class fleet with hull repairs, system upgrades, and replacement of obsolete equipment, the Hickory is now fully revitalized.
“This crew has shown remarkable resilience through extended separations and demanding preparations. We are excited to reunite with our families in Guam and eager to get underway on ATON missions that keep these vital sea lanes safe. As a multi-mission cutter, Hickory stands ready to support the full spectrum of Coast Guard operations in this critical region,” said Lt. Cmdr. Jonathan Lash, commanding officer of Hickory.
Coast Guard interdicts 15 aliens near San Clemente Island
PRESS RELEASE | Jan. 13, 2026
SAN DIEGO – Coast Guard members interdicted 15 suspected aliens approximately 24 miles southwest of San Clemente Island, Tuesday morning.At 9:43 p.m., Monday night, watchstanders at Coast Guard Sector San Diego Joint Harbor Operations Center received a report of an unidentified vessel transiting towards U.S. waters and dispatched Coast Guard Cutter David Duren (WPC 1156) crew members.
Coast Guard, federal and local law enforcement to patrol San Juan Harbor for illegal passenger vessel operations during 2026 San Sebastian St. Festival
PRESS RELEASE | Jan. 13, 2026
Coast Guard, federal and local law enforcement crews will be on the lookout for illegal passenger for hire vessel operations in San Juan Harbor during the San Sebastián Festival from Jan. 15 to 18 in Old San Juan, Puerto Rico.
Only a captain licensed by the Coast Guard can transport passengers for hire and must do so in a vessel that has the proper lifesaving equipment onboard. Vessel operators who carry passengers for hire without the proper license may face the termination of the voyage and possible fines that may range from $500 to a maximum of $117,608.
“With crowd projections for the San Sebastian Street Festival estimated this year at over one million people, we anticipate a higher volume of recreational and commercial maritime activity in San Juan Harbor.” said Cmdr. Matthew Romano, Sector San Juan chief of response. “We are working in close communication and collaboration with city, state, and federal law enforcement authorities to do everything possible to ensure a safe and enjoyable weekend for everyone. We caution the public seeking to gain access to the festival via the maritime route to be on the lookout for illegal passenger for hire vessel operators, and to not contract any operator who refuses or fails to present their captain and vessel credentials. Illegal passenger vessel operators represent a risk to maritime vessels and passenger safety, so it is of vital importance we raise awareness to avoid any incidents that could threaten people’s safety in the water and ruin their festival experience.”
Coast Guard, a Customs and Border Protection marine unit rescue capsized kayaker off Salinas, Puerto Rico
PRESS RELEASE | Jan. 13, 2026
Coast Guard watchstanders and a Customs and Border Protection marine unit rescued a capsized kayaker off the coast of Salinas, Puerto Rico, Monday.
The rescued man is a man from Aibonito, Puerto Rico, who reportedly was fishing when a wave caused his kayak to capsize, approximately half a mile offshore in three to four-foot seas.
Coast Guard watchstanders at Sector San Juan received a call at 3:35 p.m., Monday, from a 911 Emergency Service operator reporting a capsized kayaker and a broad general location off the coast of Salinas. Before all the information could be obtained from the reporting source, the call dropped and could not be reestablished. Watchstanders directed the launch of a Coast Guard MH-60T Jayhawk helicopter, issued an Urgent Marine Information Broadcast to mariners and notified Puerto Rico Emergency Management, Department of Natural and Environmental Resources and Police Joint Force of Rapid Action of the distress situation.
Coast Guard rescues stranded surfer near Aguadilla, Puerto Rico
PRESS RELEASE | Jan. 12, 2026
A Coast Guard Air Station Borinquen MH-60 Jayhawk helicopter crew rescued a stranded surfer, Friday, following an extensive multi-agency search effort near Surfer’s Beach in Aguadilla, Puerto Rico.
The 68-year-old male was in stable condition and safely transported to awaiting emergency medical service personnel at the air station.
“What a terrific outcome!” said Capt. Robert Stiles, the deputy sector commander of Coast Guard Sector San Juan and search and rescue mission coordinator for this case. “We activated the inter-agency search and rescue effort as soon as we received the information, especially after realizing that it had been more than 24 hours. It was truly a team effort and I appreciate the responsiveness and professionalism of Coast Guard Air Station Borinquen, the Sector San Juan Command Center and our local emergency responders. This case could have easily had a different outcome. We urge all mariners and anyone entering the water to have a plan, communicate your intentions with someone and wear all proper life saving equipment.”
U.S. Coast Guard saves 58-year-old mariner west of Guam
PRESS RELEASE | Jan. 12, 2026
SANTA RITA, Guam — A 58-year-old mariner survived a vessel capsizing west of Guam Monday morning thanks to his use of multiple communication devices, staying with the vessel, and informing others of his plans, which enabled a rapid U.S. Coast Guard response.
The mariner departed Merizo around 5 a.m. local time aboard the 22-foot white pleasure boat Solo 2 to fish near the Agat buoy and then head to the 9-mile mark. Adverse sea conditions, including a high surf advisory and a rip current statement, are currently in effect for Guam and likely contributed to the vessel capsizing.
"The mariner’s quick thinking to activate his personal locator beacon or PLB, send a message via his GPS device, inform a contact about his plans, and remain with the capsized vessel until help arrived made all the difference," said Cmdr. Grant Johnson, the search and rescue mission coordinator. "These actions, combined with multiple redundant communication methods, allowed us to locate and recover him swiftly and safely."
Coast Guard Cutter Kimball returns to Honolulu after 120-day Arctic patrol
PRESS RELEASE | Jan. 9, 2026
HONOLULU — The crew of the Coast Guard Cutter Kimball (WMSL 756) returned to Honolulu, Jan. 1, after a 120-day, 16,500-nautical-mile deployment to the Bering Sea and Gulf of Alaska reinforcing maritime safety, security, and national sovereignty in the region. As the Arctic region continues to become more accessible and consequential, the demand for U.S. Coast Guard statutory mission services, leadership, and presence continues to grow. Kimball’s crew exemplified these efforts.
Coast Guard releases Report of Investigation on GRANDE COSTA D’AVORIO
PRESS RELEASE | Jan. 9, 2026
NEW YORK — The Coast Guard’s Office of Investigations and Casualty Analysis recently released a Report of Investigation (ROI) regarding the fire on the Italian flagged cargo vessel GRANDE COSTA D’AVORIO and subsequent fatalities of two Newark Fire Department (FD) firefighters. Click the link for the full release.
U.S. Coast Guard highlights historic operational successes in 2025
PRESS RELEASE | Jan. 9, 2026
WASHINGTON — Under President Trump and Secretary Noem’s leadership, the U.S. Coast Guard concluded 2025 with significant operational achievements across its missions, including record-setting drug interdictions, major contingency responses, and continued progress in Force Design 2028 – a bold blueprint to transform the Coast Guard to meet evolving and complex maritime challenges. As a member of the Department of Homeland Security team protecting America, and the joint military force that defends it, the Coast Guard is a vital instrument of national power to ensure our Nation’s maritime dominance.
Coast Guard suspends search for individuals in the Pacific Ocean
PRESS RELEASE | Jan. 2, 2026
ALAMEDA, Calif. — The U.S. Coast Guard suspended its search for the reported people in the water approximately 400 nautical miles southwest of the Mexico/Guatemala border Friday. Despite extensive coordination with international rescue coordination centers, Department of War partners, and Automated Mutual-Assistance Vessel Rescue (AMVER) system vessels, available assets were extremely limited due to distance and range constraints.
Coast Guard awards contracts to build Arctic Security Cutters
PRESS RELEASE | Dec. 29, 2025
WASHINGTON — The U.S. Coast Guard announced the award of two contracts to build up to six Arctic Security Cutter (ASC) icebreakers — ships designed to break through and navigate ice-covered waters — between the United States and Finland in a major step forward for America’s national security.
U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Active returns home following counterdrug patrol, $41.3M cocaine seized
PRESS RELEASE | Dec. 22, 2025
The U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Active (WMEC 618) returned to its home port of Port Angeles Sunday, concluding a 60-day counternarcotics deployment to the Eastern Pacific Ocean in support of Operation Pacific Viper.
The Active's crew of 75 Coast Guard men and women patrolled 10,000 nautical miles and interdicted two suspected drug-smuggling vessels, seizing more than 6,000 pounds of cocaine with an estimated street value of $41.3 million.
USCGC Myrtle Hazard returns home after Operation Blue Pacific patrol to combat illegal fishing, deepen regional cooperation
PRESS RELEASE | Dec. 19, 2025
SANTA RITA, Guam — The USCGC Myrtle Hazard (WPC 1139) crew returned home Sunday after completing a successful expeditionary patrol under Operation Blue Pacific, deepening partnerships with Pacific nations and bolstering maritime security in the region.
The Sentinel-class fast response cutter crew operated for over 500 hours, patrolling 5,380 nautical miles from Nov. 17 to Dec. 14, with 15 days dedicated to providing a persistent presence in the exclusive economic zones of the Federated States of Micronesia and the Republic of Palau, as well as on the high seas.
America’s Tall Ship, U.S. Coast Guard Barque Eagle, announces 2026 sail training schedule for Nation’s 250th anniversary
PRESS RELEASE | Dec. 19, 2025
U.S. Coast Guard Barque Eagle (WIX 327) announced its 2026 schedule of port calls Friday.
The selected port calls include the five Sail250 ports of New Orleans, Norfolk, Baltimore, New York City, and Boston. Sail250, a global gathering of tall ships and military ships to celebrate the 250th anniversary of the founding of the United States. It will offer crews, cadets and visitors from all over the world an unforgettable experience and a world-class maritime celebration.
Coast Guard rescues boater from vessel fire off Clearwater
PRESS RELEASE | Dec. 15, 2025
CLEARWATER, Fla. — A Coast Guard Air Station Clearwater MH-60 Jayhawk helicopter crew rescued a boater after their commercial fishing vessel caught fire approximately 100 miles west of Clearwater, Sunday.
MEDIA ADVISORY: Coast Guard to offload 27,551 pounds of cocaine, worth more than $203M in San Diego
PRESS RELEASE | Dec. 14, 2025
MEDIA ADVISORY: Coast Guard to offload 27,551 pounds of cocaine, worth more than $203M in San Diego
WHAT:
The crew of USCGC Active (WMEC 618) is scheduled to offload approximately 27,551 pounds of cocaine, valued at an estimated $203.9 million. The offload is the result of three separate interdictions of suspected drug-smuggling vessels in international waters off the coasts of Mexico, Central America, and South America. Two of the three interdictions were conducted by Active crew members and one by the USCGC Munro (WMSL 755) crew members.
WHEN:
Monday, Dec. 15, 2025, at approximately 10 a.m.
Coast Guard rescues 5 people off Egmont Key
PRESS RELEASE | Dec. 12, 2025
CLEARWATER, Fla. — A Coast Guard Station St. Petersburg boat crew rescued five boaters after their 32-foot vessel sank 28 miles west of Egmont Key, Friday.
Coast Guard Cutter James conducts counter-drug patrol in Eastern Pacific Ocean
PRESS RELEASE | Dec. 12, 2025
NORTH CHARLESTON, S.C. — The crew of the U.S. Coast Guard Cutter James (WMSL 754) returned to their home port in Charleston, Wednesday, following a 92-day deployment conducting counter-narcotics operations in the Eastern Pacific Ocean in support of Operation Pacific Viper.
During the patrol, the James crew interdicted over 46,500 pounds of narcotics valued at nearly $350 million. The James crew conducted nine interdictions and detained 33 suspected drug traffickers. The patrol focused on disrupting illegal narcotics smuggling in collaboration with international partners.
Video: Coast Guard rescues four people from flooded home in Sumas, Wash during historic flooding
PRESS RELEASE | Dec. 12, 2025
SEATTLE – During historic flooding in Western Washington on Wednesday, Coast Guard aircrews rescued four people from a flooded home in Sumas, Washington, after rising water forced them into their attic. Coast Guard Air Stations Port Angeles, Wash., and Astoria, Ore., responded to assist Whatcom County Fire District 14 and the U.S. Border Patrol, who were unable to reach the survivors due to 8 to 10 foot deep water surrounding the home.
Coast Guard medevacs Celebrity Apex cruise ship passenger north of Puerto Rico
PRESS RELEASE | Dec. 11, 2025
A Coast Guard MH-60T Jayhawk crew medevaced a Celebrity Apex cruise ship passenger, approximately 24 nautical miles north of Arecibo, Puerto Rico, Thursday morning.
A 65-year-old man suffered from multiple medical conditions which required the patient to receive a higher level of care at a land-based hospital, resulting in being medevacked. At the time of the medical emergency, the Celebrity Apex was transiting from St. Kitts to Port Canaveral Florida.
UPDATE 4: ONE Henry Hudson container ship to return to berth at Port of Los Angeles
PRESS RELEASE | Nov. 26, 2025
SAN PEDRO, Calif. – Under the leadership of the Unified Command, crews are preparing to return the ONE Henry Hudson vessel to Yusen Terminal at the Port of Los Angeles, as the fire on board has been fully contained. This marks a critical step toward the next phase of response operations, where cargo and waste will be offloaded by longshore labor and salvage crews.
U.S. Coast Guard heavy icebreaker departs Seattle for months-long deployment to Antarctica
PRESS RELEASE | Nov. 26, 2025
The USCGC Polar Star (WAGB 10) departed Seattle on Thursday commencing its 29th deployment to Antarctica in support of Operation Deep Freeze.
Operation Deep Freeze is an annual joint military mission to resupply the United States Antarctic stations in support of the National Science Foundation (NSF), the lead agency for the United States Antarctic Program. Historic investment in the Big Beautiful Bill of nearly 25 billion, $9 billion of which is specifically for icebreakers and infrastructure in the high latitudes. This massive investment in icebreakers will secure U.S. access, security, and leadership in the polar regions.
Coast Guard responds to vessel grounding off Christmas Cove, St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands
PRESS RELEASE | Nov. 20, 2025
A Coast Guard Boat Forces U.S. Virgin Islands 33-foot Special Purpose Craft surface unit responded to a vessel grounding in the vicinity of Christmas Cove, St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands, Thursday.
Sector San Juan Rescue-Subcenter watchstanders received a VHF Channel 16 marine radio communication at 8 a.m., Thursday, from the sailing vessel Starlight reporting having a visual of the recreational vessel Cool Change, a 42-foot catamaran, which appeared to be aground and partially submerged. The Cool Change vessel captain and sole occupant onboard was assisted by the recreational vessel Aquarius. No injuries were reported in this case.
USCGC Frederick Hatch returns to Guam following drydock in Honolulu
PRESS RELEASE | Nov. 11, 2025
SANTA RITA, Guam — The USCGC Frederick Hatch (WPC 1143) crew returned to homeport Nov. 5, after a deployment of more than eight months that included scheduled drydock maintenance in Honolulu and activities in the Republic of the Marshall Islands.
"The crew of Frederick Hatch stands among the finest Fast Response Cutter teams I have led," said Lt. Cmdr. Vaughn Gehman, commanding officer. They continue to deliver reliable, safe operations across the Pacific. Their resilience and skill in extended operations are an inspiration for continued service afloat."
The cutter departed Guam on Feb. 24 and is the third Guam-based Fast Response Cutter to complete the significant systems overhaul. Crews and contractors restored full mission capability through a $4.5 million drydock addressing required maintenance and a major engineering upgrade. The vessel also onloaded $750,000 in unit gear and steamed over 7,970 nautical miles.
Media Advisory: U.S. Coast Guard’s only Polar icebreakers dock in Seattle for rare gathering
PRESS RELEASE | Nov. 7, 2025
SEATTLE — The U.S. Coast Guard’s only three Polar icebreakers, USCGC Healy (WAGB 20), USCGC Polar Star (WAGB 10), and USCGC Storis (WAGB 21) will be in port together for the first time in Seattle. This rare gathering offers a unique opportunity for media to see the nation’s Polar fleet side-by-side and learn more about their critical missions and the importance of the Coast Guard’s icebreaker fleet in safeguarding U.S. interests in the Polar regions.
Coast Guard Cutter Campbell returns home after 54-day maritime border security patrol in the Windward Passage
PRESS RELEASE | Oct. 31, 2025
NEWPORT, R.I. — The crew of Coast Guard Cutter Campbell (WMEC 909) returned to their homeport at U.S. Naval Station Newport, Monday, following a 54-day maritime border security patrol in the Windward Passage.
Campbell’s crew deployed to the Coast Guard District Southeast area of responsibility in support of Operation Vigilant Sentry, where crews advanced the primary missions of protecting the safety of life at sea while preventing unlawful maritime entry into the United States and its territories.
U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Healy returns to Seattle after 129-day Arctic deployment
PRESS RELEASE | Oct. 31, 2025
SEATTLE — The U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Healy (WAGB 20) returned to its Seattle home port Sunday, following a 129-day patrol that concluded its annual Arctic deployment. Healy, one of three Coast Guard polar icebreakers, steamed over 20,000 miles this deployment, supporting Operation Arctic West Summer and Operation Frontier Sentinel, protecting U.S. sovereign rights and territory, and promoting national security in the Arctic.
Report of missing fisherman prompts multi-agency search in Pago Bay, Guam
PRESS RELEASE | Oct. 26, 2025
SANTA RITA, Guam — Responders are searching Pago Bay on Monday for a missing 34-year-old fisherman after authorities received a report from family early the same morning.
The missing man, Kevin Nauta, reportedly was last seen wearing black shorts and a blue shirt.
Coast Guard conducts post-storm assessments, cleanup operations in western Alaska
PRESS RELEASE | Oct. 24, 2025
ANCHORAGE, Alaska – The Coast Guard is conducting post-storm assessments and cleanup operations in Western Alaska where communities have been impacted by severe flooding from Ex-Typhoon Halong.
“The Coast Guard continues to support local, state and federal disaster recovery efforts by conducting pollution response operations in impacted communities,” said Capt. Christopher Culpepper, commander, U.S. Coast Guard Sector Western Alaska and U.S. Arctic. “We understand how essential the local ecology is for communities that depend on critical subsistence hunting and fishing activity. We are working to mitigate environmental impacts to preserve the communities' food source and future viability.”
Coast Guard supports state response, conducts mass rescue operations in Alaska
PRESS RELEASE | Oct. 13, 2025
ANCHORAGE, Alaska — The Coast Guard is conducting search and rescue operations Monday in Kipnuk and Kwigillingok, Alaska, where communities have been impacted by severe flooding.
In support of the state of Alaska’s response, Coast Guard crews from Air Station Kodiak successfully rescued 18 people in Kwigillingok and 16 people in Kipnuk. All were transferred to safety in stable condition.
Search efforts are ongoing for three residents of Kwigillingok who remain unaccounted for. A Coast Guard MH-60 Jayhawk helicopter aircrew searched 76 square miles for the missing individuals Sunday and resumed first light searches this morning. Search efforts are currently underway.
The crew of Coast Guard Cutter Kimball (WMSL 756) aided in search and rescue efforts using unmanned aerial surveillance, providing logistics support for aviation assets participating in rescue operations. Relief crews and supplies are being staged in Bethel to support a multi-day response.
The Coast Guard is working closely with partner agencies, including the Alaska State Troopers, the Alaska Rescue Coordination Center, the Alaska Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Management, and the Alaska Air and Army National Guard to coordinate ongoing rescue operations in impacted communities.
“Preservation of life is our top priority,” said Capt. Christopher Culpepper, commander of U.S. Coast Guard Sector Western Alaska and U.S. Arctic. “The Coast Guard remains closely connected to the State Emergency Operations Center in full support of combined rescue and response operations alongside State Troopers, National Guard, and various additional agencies.”
The situation is ongoing, and more information will be released as it becomes available.
Anyone in need of rescue should contact the Alaska Rescue Coordination Center at 907-551-7230.
Coast Guard Cutter Midgett returns to Hawaii following 79-day counterdrug patrol, $156M worth of cocaine seized
PRESS RELEASE | Oct. 7, 2025
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PRESS RELEASE | Sept. 29, 2025
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PRESS RELEASE | Sept. 27, 2025
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PRESS RELEASE | Sept. 25, 2025
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PRESS RELEASE | Sept. 24, 2025
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