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 responds to vessel fire offshore Adak, Alaska
PRESS RELEASE | June 4, 2025
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 U.K.-flagged 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 raft 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 parent company, 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 3,159 vehicles, with 65 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 parent company 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/
Coast Guard Cutter Forward returns home after seizing more than $23M in cocaine during 79-day patrol in Eastern Pacific Ocean
PRESS RELEASE | May 19, 2025
PORTSMOUTH, VA — The crew of Coast Guard Cutter Forward (WMEC 911) returned to their home port in Portsmouth, Monday, following a 79-day patrol in the Eastern Pacific Ocean.
Forward’s crew deployed in support of Joint Interagency Task Force – South (JIATF-S) to conduct counter-drug operations while underway in the Eleventh Coast Guard District’s area of responsibility. Through detection, monitoring and interdiction efforts, crew members directly reduced the flow of illicit narcotics into the United States. Forward’s crew worked alongside additional units to include Coast Guard Cutters Kimball (WMSL 756), Thetis (WMEC 910), and the Coast Guard Tactical Law Enforcement Team – South (TACLET-S) to stop suspected drug smuggling while patrolling off the Pacific coast of Central and South America.
Coast Guard responds to, investigates reported pollution in San Juan Harbor, Puerto Rico
PRESS RELEASE | May 19, 2025
Coast Guard Sector San Juan’s Incident Management team is investigating and responding to an oil discharge from a legacy pipe structure between piers 2 and 3 in San Juan Habor, Monday.
The Coast Guard is working with contracted oil spill removal organizations and local government authorities to mitigate the pollution threat and clean up recoverable product.
“The source of the oil discharge is being contained and, while contained, will allow normal port operations to continue at Piers 2 and 3 as our investigation and response efforts continue,” Lt. Cmdr. Ray Lopez, Coast Guard Sector San Juan Incident Management Division chief. “We are actively pursuing coordination and planning efforts with the San Juan Municipality, the Puerto Rico Ports Authority, the Department of Transportation and Public Works, the Department of Natural and Environmental Resources, and the Cultural Department, among other entities, to resolve this situation in the interest of protecting public health and the environment.”
Update 4 and Final: U.S. Coast Guard safely tows Lucky Harvest to Guam
PRESS RELEASE | May 17, 2025
SANTA RITA, Guam — The U.S. Coast Guard safely towed the 47-foot vessel Lucky Harvest to Hagåtña boat basin arriving shortly after 8 p.m. on May 17, 2025, after it was located on May 16 with the two mariners aboard disabled 125 nautical miles west of Apra Harbor reportedly due to an electrical failure.
Coast Guard investigates 2 separate, unrelated vessel fires in Puerto Rico aboard ferry vessel Breezy Point and tanker Scot Stuttgart
PRESS RELEASE | May 17, 2025
Coast Guard Sector San Juan marine investigators and vessel inspection teams are investigating two separate and unrelated vessel fires in Puerto Rico on Saturday.
Both vessel fires were successfully extinguished, and there are currently no reports of marine pollution or reported injuries in either case. Pollution monitoring efforts continue.
“The Coast Guard is investigating these separate and unrelated vessel fires aboard the ferry vessel Breezy Point and the tanker Scot Stuttgart to ascertain the potential causes,” said Capt. Luis J. Rodriguez, Coast Guard Sector San Juan commander. “Each of these vessel fires warrant investigations to learn causative factors and prevent future incidents from occurring with potential risk to human lives and impacts to Puerto Rico’s maritime transportation and marine environment. I commend the crews from both vessels for their initial actions that led to the fires being extinguished, as well as the efforts of responding firefighting crews, which collectively led to preventing the loss of life and averting a more catastrophic outcome.”
Coast Guard urges preparedness during National Safe Boating Week
PRESS RELEASE | May 17, 2025
SEATTLE – In support of National Safe Boating Week, held from May 17 to 23, the Coast Guard 13th District urges all recreational boaters and recreational paddlers throughout the Pacific Northwest to exercise caution and become knowledgeable on water safety in preparation for the 2025 boating season.
Coast Guard rescues 3 boaters off Fort De Soto
PRESS RELEASE | May 16, 2025
CLEARWATER, Fla. — A Coast Guard Station St. Petersburg boat crew rescued three boaters, Friday, after their 29-foot boat capsized approximately six miles west of Bunces Pass.
Update 3: U.S. Coast Guard, partners locate Lucky Harvest west of Guam
PRESS RELEASE | May 16, 2025
SANTA RITA, Guam — The U.S. Coast Guard, with support from U.S. Navy and local partners, located the 47-foot vessel Lucky Harvest, carrying two mariners, which had been missing since departing Alamagan Island, Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, on May 12, 2025, en route to Saipan.
Coast Guard encourages safe fun on the water during National Safe Boating Week, Memorial Day weekend
PRESS RELEASE | May 16, 2025
NEW YORK — As National Safe Boating Week kicks off May 17–23 and Memorial Day weekend approaches, the Coast Guard and Coast Guard Auxiliary are encouraging New Yorkers to get out and enjoy the region’s waterways — safely and responsibly. Memorial Day weekend marks the unofficial start of the boating season across New York City and the Tri-State area. From the Hudson River to the East River, from Jamaica Bay to the open Atlantic, thousands of boaters, paddlers and beachgoers take to the water each year to soak in the season. While the Coast Guard remains ready to respond when things go wrong, the focus this week is on helping people have fun while staying safe. To view full news release, click the link above.
Coast Guard suspends search for kayaker near Dungeness Spit, Wash.
PRESS RELEASE | May 14, 2025
SEATTLE — The Coast Guard has suspended its search for a missing kayaker near Dungeness Spit, Washington, today.
Watchstanders at Coast Guard Sector Puget Sound received a 911 call relay from Clallam Country dispatch approximately 4:30 p.m., from an individual requesting help before the call dropped. Attempts to regain contact with the individual were unsuccessful.
Coast Guard intercepts suspected maritime smuggling attempt off San Diego
PRESS RELEASE | May 12, 2025
SAN DIEGO — The crew of the Coast Guard Cutter Terrell Horne interdicted 3 aliens aboard a 20-foot pleasure craft approximately two miles south of Point Loma, California, Saturday afternoon.
At approximately 2:40 p.m., Coast Guard Cutter Terrell Horne conducted a routine security boarding of a 20-foot pleasure craft. The vessel displayed no registration or documentation and none of the occupants had authorization to enter the United States.
Coast Guard interdicts maritime smuggling attempt near La Jolla
PRESS RELEASE | May 12, 2025
SAN DIEGO — The Coast Guard intercepted a suspected maritime smuggling attempt early Saturday morning after a vessel beached near Windansea Beach, resulting in multiple apprehensions. At approximately 4:40 a.m., crewmembers aboard the Coast Guard Cutter Sea Otter reported an unlit 24-foot cabin cruiser transiting northeast off the coast of La Jolla with several suspected aliens aboard. Sea Otter launched a boatcrew to investigate.
Coast Guard disables vessel after high-speed maritime smuggling attempt near Point Loma
PRESS RELEASE | May 12, 2025
SAN DIEGO — Coast Guard crews interdicted eight aliens Saturday evening following a high-speed maritime smuggling attempt near Point Loma.
At approximately 5:50 p.m., watchstanders at Coast Guard Sector San Diego’s Joint Harbor Operations Center observed an 18-foot cuddy cabin vessel traveling at a high rate of speed northbound, roughly two miles south of Point Loma. Watchstanders maintained visual contact using surveillance cameras as the vessel entered San Diego Bay.
A Coast Guard Station San Diego boatcrew, already underway on routine patrol, was diverted to intercept the vessel. Upon locating the vessel, the crew attempted to establish communication with the operator, who then immediately fled the scene.
Coast Guard suspends search for man near Westport, Wash.
PRESS RELEASE | May 10, 2025
The Coast Guard suspended its search at 8:40 p.m. Friday for the 44-year-old captain aboard the 68-foot fishing vessel, Captain Raleigh, where it sank near Westport, Wash.
Three people who were aboard the vessel were rescued from the water by a rescue boatcrew from U.S. Coast Guard Station Grays Harbor. The Captain Raleigh was underway Friday morning when the vessel master issued a distress call around 8:15 a.m. stating they were taking on water and the onboard pumps could not keep up.
Coast Guard terminates illegal charter vessel operating in San Diego
PRESS RELEASE | May 8, 2025
Coast Guard terminates illegal charter vessel operating in San Diego
A Coast Guard boarding team conducted a safety inspection of the vessel and discovered 11 individuals aboard. 10 passengers for hire and one serving as a non-credentialed crew member.
During the boarding, the Coast Guard determined the vessel was operating as an illegal small passenger vessel and cited the operator for the following violations:
• Failure to have a valid Certificate of Inspection (46 C.F.R. 176.100(a))
• Failure to employ an appropriately credentialed mariner (46 C.F.R. 15.401(a))
• Failure to have a drug and alcohol program (46 C.F.R. 16.201)
Coast Guard Cutter Eagle makes port call in Costa Rica
PRESS RELEASE | May 7, 2025
For the first time since 2008, the U.S. Coast Guard Barque Eagle (WIX 327) sailed to the West Coast, making its first-ever port visit to Puntarenas, Costa Rica, on April 27. The crew engaged with international partners and performed community service.
Coast Guard offloads $5.4 million in seized cocaine following drug-smuggling vessel interdiction off Puerto Rico
PRESS RELEASE | May 7, 2025
The crew of the Coast Guard Cutter Joseph Napier offloaded approximately 725 pounds of seized cocaine worth an estimated $5.4 million to Coast Guard Investigative Service and Drug Enforcement Agency Special Agents custody in San Juan, Wednesday.
The interdiction is the result of multi-agency efforts in support of the Caribbean Corridor Strike Force. The Coast Guard Cutter Joseph Napier crew transferred custody of five suspected smugglers apprehended in this case, Dominican Republic nationals, to the Dominican Republic Navy off Punta Cana, Dominican Republic, Saturday.
“This was an excellent case that would not have been possible without the support provided by Customs and Border Protection Caribbean Air and Marine Branch,” said Lt. John M. Groen, Coast Guard Cutter Joseph Napier commanding officer. “Their flight remained on scene for several hours and communicated flawlessly with the pursuit team. I am so incredibly proud of the entire Joseph Napier crew’s outstanding performance. The interdiction highlights Sector San Juan and the Seventh Coast Guard District’s unwavering commitment to combat drug trafficking organizations and secure America’s maritime borders.”
Coast Guard halts 3 illegal passenger for hire vessels in Fajardo, Puerto Rico
PRESS RELEASE | May 5, 2025
A Coast Guard Station San Juan boat crew and Sector San Juan Marine Investigators halted three illegal passenger-for-hire vessels, Saturday, in Fajardo.
Vessels Hecht, El Lindo and Making Waves were found conducting illegal passenger-for-hire operations, one of which was found operating in violation of previous federal Captain of the Port (COTP) Order. Over the past year, Coast Guard enforcement efforts have yielded voyage terminations for 18 illegal passenger-for-hire operations.
“The prevalence of illegal passenger-for-hire operations in our area is a concerning and serious matter,” said Lt. Michael Robinson, Sector San Juan marine investigator. “Passenger-for-hire operations is a regulated activity. If you use your recreational vessel for this purpose without adherence to the applicable federal regulations, you could be subject to substantial fines and possible jail time. Our purpose is to protect passengers from this illicit practice and ensure the safety of boaters within Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands.”
Interdisciplinary Engineering major now offered at CGA
PRESS RELEASE | May 5, 2025
The U.S. Coast Guard Academy has launched a new academic major. Interdisciplinary Engineering (IDE) prepares future officers for careers across a wide spectrum of Coast Guard missions. IDE is open to cadets beginning with the Class of 2028.
Coast Guard, federal partners conduct Multi-Agency Strike Force Operation at San Juan port facility
PRESS RELEASE | May 5, 2025
U.S. Coast Guard Sector San Juan and federal partner agencies conducted a Multi-Agency Strike Force Operation (MASFO) at one of the cargo container terminals within the Bay of San Juan, Friday.
The effort included the thorough inspection of approximately 105 containers, 40 vehicles and 30 Transportation Worker Identification Credential verifications in the San Juan Port area which yielded negative results for security violations, however, three containers were temporarily detained due to preexisting damage and improper blocking and bracing of the cargo.
“This MASFO is part of the Coast Guard’s strategic efforts to ensure the safety and security of containerized cargo shipments within our marine transportation system and is essential to ensure the safe flow of commerce between the continental United States, Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands, and other countries in the Caribbean Sea,” said Lt. Cmdr. Carlos Ortega-Pérez, Coast Guard Sector San Juan waterways management division chief. “Our joint agency operations team checked container contents for any undeclared hazardous goods or anomalies which may pose a risk to personnel, port safety, or the environment.”
Coast Guard Cutter Alert returns home after 55-day patrol to counter illegal fishing in Gulf of America
PRESS RELEASE | May 2, 2025
CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. — The crew of Coast Guard Cutter Alert (WMEC 630) returned to their home port in Cape Canaveral, Friday, following a 55-day deployment in the Gulf of America.
Alert’s crew deployed under tactical command of the Eighth Coast Guard District to counter illegal, unreported and unregulated fishing in the region. During patrol, the crew enforced federal law at sea and defended the United States’ Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) by interdicting illegal fishing in U.S. territorial waters.
VIDEO/AUDIO RELEASE: Coast Guard seeks public assistance with hoax caller near Wilmington, N.C.
PRESS RELEASE | May 1, 2025
The Coast Guard Investigative Service (CGIS) and Sector North Carolina are seeking the public’s assistance with locating the individual responsible for making multiple false distress calls that are originating from the Wilmington, North Carolina area.
The calls are believed to have originated from the Leland and Brunswick areas in North Carolina and consist of individuals calling out for help with various locations and descriptions of their vessel or nature of distress.
Heroic Acts Inspire Future Leaders at USCGA
PRESS RELEASE | April 30, 2025
In late August 2017, a devastating tropical cyclone formed in Southeast Texas. As it gained strength, it became the first major hurricane to hit the area in more than a decade. Within a four-day span, Hurricane Harvey dropped 40 inches of rain and caused catastrophic flooding that led to more than 100 deaths.
Coast Guard Cutter Calhoun seizes over $74 million in cocaine interdicted in Atlantic Ocean
PRESS RELEASE | April 28, 2025
ATLANTIC OCEAN — The crew of U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Calhoun (WMSL 759) seized approximately 10,000 pounds of cocaine, worth an estimated $74 million in the Atlantic Ocean, April 12-13, 2025.
The seized contraband was the result of an interdiction in international waters in the Atlantic Ocean, and five suspected smugglers remain in U.S. custody pending prosecutorial disposition.
U.S. Coast Guard Academy earns second Carnegie Classification
PRESS RELEASE | April 28, 2025
The U.S. Coast Guard Academy is proud to announce recent recognition for excellence in technology, engineering, and science. The recognition from the 2025 Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Education underscores the Academy’s continued leadership in providing high-impact, STEM-focused academic programs to prepare cadets for future service.
Coast Guard stops illegal charter violating federal order in Fajardo, Puerto Rico
PRESS RELEASE | April 28, 2025
A Coast Guard Maritime Safety and Security Team from Miami and Sector San Juan Marine Investigators terminated an illegal bareboat charter voyage, Saturday, in Fajardo, Puerto Rico.
The 55-foot recreational vessel Hibiki had 12 people onboard, 10 passengers for hire and two crew members, when it was found operating illegally as a bareboat charter off the Puerto del Rey Marina in violation of a previous federal Captain of the Port (COTP) Order issued on January 8, 2025.
“We appreciate the great work and professionalism demonstrated by the MSST Miami crew to stop this illegal charter operation,” said Lt. Brandon Taylor, Sector San Juan chief of enforcement. “Over the past year, Coast Guard enforcement efforts have yielded 15 vessel terminations, multiple violations, and four Captain of the Port Orders. Violating a Captain of the Port Order is a very serious matter which may include substantial fines and possible jail time. Our resolve to protect passengers from this illicit practice and ensure vessel operators adhere to federal safety standards and regulations is unwavering.
MEDIA ADVISORY: Coast Guard to offload more than $214 million of cocaine in San Diego
PRESS RELEASE | April 23, 2025
Who: Rear Adm. Joanna Hiigel, acting deputy commander, Coast Guard Pacific Area, U.S. Coast Guard, Capt. Robert Kinsey, U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Kimball commanding officer and crew, Mr. Brian Clark, special agent in charge, DEA, San Diego Field Office; Mr. Kevin Murohy, deputy special agent in charge, Homeland Security Investigations, San Diego Field Office.
What: U. S. Coast Guard Cutter Kimball (WMSL 756) crew to offload approximately 18,898 pounds of cocaine, with an estimated value of more than $214.3 million.
When: 9:00 a.m., Thursday
Where: 10th Ave Marine Terminal - 1800 Crosby Rd, San Diego, CA 92101
Coast Guard rescues man from cruise ship off Coos Bay, Oregon
PRESS RELEASE | April 22, 2025
SEATTLE - The Coast Guard medevaced a crewmember from a cruise ship approximately 15 miles offshore of Coos Bay, Oregon, Easter Sunday.
Coast Guard Sector Columbia River watchstanders received a report from the M/V National Geographic Venture at 6:38 a.m., Apr. 20, that a 30-year-old male crewmember was suffering from excessive vomiting and shortness of breath.
Coast Guard interdicts 19 aliens 23 miles west of Oceanside
PRESS RELEASE | April 22, 2025
The crew of the Coast Guard Cutter David Duren (WPC 1156) interdicted 19 aliens aboard a 25-foot cuddy cabin approximately 23 miles west of Oceanside, California, Tuesday.
At approximately 2:15 a.m., David Duren’s boarding team intercepted a cuddy cabin matching the description of a suspected human smuggling boat and discovered 18 adult males and one adult female all claiming Mexican nationality.
Coast Guard Cutter Seneca returns home after 54-day maritime border security patrol in the Windward Passage
PRESS RELEASE | April 22, 2025
PORTSMOUTH, VA — The crew of Coast Guard Cutter Seneca (WMEC 906) returned to their home port in Portsmouth, April 11, following a 54-day maritime border security patrol in the Windward Passage.
Seneca deployed in support of Homeland Security Task Force – Southeast (HSTF-SE) and Operation Vigilant Sentry (OVS) while underway in the Seventh Coast Guard District's area of responsibility. Crew members directly contributed to safeguarding America by patrolling U.S. maritime borders and conducting alien interdiction operations.
Media Advisory: The U.S. Coast Guard Academy will host a Wall of Gallantry Induction ceremony
PRESS RELEASE | April 21, 2025
The U.S. Coast Guard Academy will host a Wall of Gallantry Induction ceremony on Friday April 25, 2025. For the last 20 years more than 140 Academy graduates have been recognized for heroic acts of service by being inducted into the Hall of Heroes Wall of Gallantry, part of a memorial in Chase Hall. This year the following alums will be honored for actions that will serve as an inspiration for the future leaders of the service:
Coast Guard suspends search for overdue boaters off Neah Bay, Washington
PRESS RELEASE | April 18, 2025
The Coast Guard suspended the search Thursday night for two people on board a 15-foot pleasure craft, which capsized off Neah Bay, Washington, pending new information.
Coast Guard Sector Puget Sound watchstanders received a report from the Makah Tribal Police Department at approximately 11 p.m., Apr. 16, that a vessel failed to return to its slip at 8 p.m. as scheduled. The vessel was later discovered capsized on a beach near Koitlah Point.
The Coast Guard responded with multiple aircraft and vessels alongside our tribal, local, state, federal, and Canadian partners. Rescue crews searched over 850 square nautical miles, over a 28 hour period.
Coast Guard, Puerto Rico Police rescue 3 boaters from grounded vessel on Morillo Cay, Guayama, Puerto Rico
PRESS RELEASE | April 15, 2025
A Coast Guard aircrew and a Puerto Rico Police marine crew rescued three boaters, two men and a woman, from a grounded recreational vessel on Morillo Cay in Guayama, Puerto Rico, Thursday night.
The 19-foot recreational vessel reportedly was transiting at high speed when it ran hard aground ejecting one of the three passengers onboard who sustained an open wound to his forehead.
“The teamwork and coordination between the Coast Guard and responding Puerto Rico Police enabled us to successfully execute this mission and we are grateful for their partnership,” said Lt. Christian Welch, Coast Guard MH-60T Jayhawk co-pilot for the case. “This case emphasizes the importance of safe boating practices, especially while operating at night.”
Coast Guard Cutter Spencer returns home after Operation Vigilant Sentry patrol, service life extension upgrades
PRESS RELEASE | April 14, 2025
PORTSMOUTH, Va. — The crew of Coast Guard Cutter Spencer (WMEC 905) returned to their home port in Portsmouth, Friday, following a 92-day deployment in support of alien interdiction operations in the Florida Straits.
Deployed in support of Homeland Security Task Force – Southeast (HSTF-SE) and Operation Vigilant Sentry (OVS) in the Seventh Coast Guard District’s area of responsibility, Spencer’s crew conducted search and rescue, and maritime border security operations to support the ongoing U.S. mission to protect the maritime borders of America.
Coast Guard Cutter James returns home after multi-month patrol, seizing $510M in narcotics and participating in advanced US Navy exercises
PRESS RELEASE | April 14, 2025
NORTH CHARLESTON, S.C. — The crew of Coast Guard Cutter James (WMSL 754) returned to their home port in North Charleston, Saturday, following a 112-day, multi-phase deployment, where crew members conducted counter-narcotic operations in the Eastern Pacific Ocean and participated in joint exercises with the U.S. Navy in the Atlantic Ocean.
James’ crew spent their first two months underway in support of Joint Interagency Task Force – South (JIATF-S) while on patrol in the Coast Guard Eleventh District's area of operations.
Photo Release: Coast Guard Air Station Clearwater: AMT2 Brian Skinner
PRESS RELEASE | April 11, 2025
CLEARWATER, Fla. — U.S. Coast Guard Petty Officer 2nd Class Brian Skinner, an aviation maintenance technician at Coast Guard Air Station Clearwater, completes heavy maintenance on an MH-60 Jayhawk helicopter at Coast Guard Air Station Clearwater, Florida, April 9, 2025. Skinner, a California native, followed his family’s military service tradition and joined the Coast Guard to help save lives.
Coast Guard, locals rescue overdue boater near Barnegat Bay
PRESS RELEASE | April 10, 2025
The Coast Guard, local law enforcement and commercial salvage crews rescued an overdue man Thursday, near Barnegat Bay, New Jersey.
Rescued was John Mazzy, 72, from an aids to navigation dayboard in the vicinity of Oyster Creek Channel.
Coast Guard finalizes permanent relief of Sector San Diego commander
PRESS RELEASE | April 8, 2025
SAN DIEGO — The U.S. Coast Guard permanently relieved the commander of Coast Guard Sector San Diego Tuesday after temporarily relieving the commander on October 24, 2024.
Rear Adm. Joseph Buzzella, commander, District Eleven, temporarily relieved Capt. James Spitler following an investigation leading to a loss of confidence due to failures in leadership, judgement, and integrity.
Coast Guard interdicts 22 aliens west of San Diego
PRESS RELEASE | April 7, 2025
SAN DIEGO — The crew of the Coast Guard Cutter Narwhal (WPB-87335) interdicted 22 aliens aboard a 45-foot cabin cruiser approximately six miles west of Point Loma, California, Sunday.
Coast Guard interdicts suspected smuggling vessel off San Diego coast
PRESS RELEASE | April 7, 2025
Coast Guard interdicts suspected smuggling vessel off San Diego coast
SAN DIEGO — The Coast Guard Cutter Terrell Horne (WPC 1131), with support from the USS Spruance (DDG 111) and Department of Homeland Security partners interdicted a suspected maritime smuggling vessel carrying eight Mexican nationals approximately 27 miles west of San Diego, Saturday.
Coast Guard commissions Coast Guard Cutter John Witherspoon (WPC 1158) in Kodiak, Alaska
PRESS RELEASE | April 3, 2025
KODIAK, Alaska — The Coast Guard commissioned its newest cutter, Coast Guard Cutter John Witherspoon (WPC 1158) for official entry into its service fleet during a ceremony held in Kodiak, Thursday.
The ceremony was presided over by Rear Adm. Megan Dean, commander of the Seventeenth Coast Guard District. Members of the Witherspoon family were also in attendance, including the cutter’s sponsor, Regina Nash, the daughter of John Witherspoon.
The Witherspoon is the 58th Fast Response Cutter (FRC) in the service and the first of three FRCs scheduled to be homeported at Coast Guard Base Kodiak. The crew of the Witherspoon will primarily serve in and around the Aleutian Islands, Bering Sea, Gulf of Alaska, and North Pacific Ocean. The cutter is designed for missions such as search and rescue; fishery patrols; drug and migrant interdiction; national defense; and ports, waterways, and coastal security.
The namesake for the cutter, Capt. John G. Witherspoon, enlisted in the Coast Guard in 1963 and commissioned as an ensign in 1971. During his career, Witherspoon rose to the rank of captain and served as the commanding officer on Coast Guard Cutters Mallow (WLB 396), Valiant (WMEC 621), and Dependable (WMEC 626).
During his tenure, Witherspoon became the first African American to command a medium endurance cutter and the first African American officer to command both afloat and ashore units. He earned both the Coast Guard Meritorious Service Medal and two Coast Guard Commendation Medals during his career.
In honor of his dedication to mentorship amongst Coast Guard personnel, the Coast Guard established the Captain John G. Witherspoon Inspirational Leadership Award, which is given to one active duty officer and one reserve officer each year who demonstrate Witherspoon’s qualities of honor, respect, and devotion to duty.
The Coast Guard has ordered a total of 65 FRCs to replace the 1980s-era Island-class 110-foot patrol boats. The FRCs feature advanced command, control, communications, computers, intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance equipment; over-the-horizon cutter boat deployment to reach vessels of interest; and improved habitability and seakeeping.
The commissioning ceremony is a traditional milestone in the life of a cutter that marks its entry into active service and represents the cutter’s readiness to conduct Coast Guard operations.
Coast Guard’s heavy icebreaker returns to the U.S. after 128-day deployment in support of Operation Deep Freeze
PRESS RELEASE | April 2, 2025
SAN FRANCISCO – The U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Polar Star (WAGB 10) and crew returned to the United States, arriving in San Francisco Sunday, following a 128-day deployment to Antarctica in support of Operation Deep Freeze 2025. Polar Star completed its 28th voyage to Antarctica in support of the joint military service mission to resupply and maintain the United States Antarctic Stations. Every year, a joint total force team works together to complete a successful Operation Deep Freeze in support of the U.S. National Science Foundation – the agency that manages the United States Antarctic Program.
MEDIA AVAILABILITY: Coast Guard to commission Coast Guard Cutter John Witherspoon (WPC 1158) in Kodiak, Alaska
PRESS RELEASE | March 31, 2025
KODIAK, Alaska — The Coast Guard is scheduled to hold a commissioning ceremony for Coast Guard Cutter John Witherspoon (WPC 1158), the service’s newest Fast Response Cutter (FRC), Thursday.
WHO: Rear Adm. Megan Dean, commander of the 17th Coast Guard District; Lt. Cmdr. Adam Young, commanding officer of Coast Guard Cutter John Witherspoon, Lt. j.g. Katelynn Lane, executive officer of Coast Guard Cutter John Witherspoon; cutter crew members.
WHAT: Commissioning ceremony for Coast Guard Cutter John Witherspoon, the service’s newest FRC and first of three FRC’s to be homeported at Coast Guard Base Kodiak
WHEN: Thursday, April 3rd, 2025, at 10:00 a.m.
WHERE: Coast Guard Air Station Kodiak aviation hangar
Members of the media are requested to RSVP to the Coast Guard District 17 Public Affairs office by emailing uscgalaska@uscg.mil or calling (907) 723-5367 no later than Wednesday, April at 2:00 p.m. to receive instructions for attendance and base access.
Coast Guard, Navy rescue 18 people from disabled vessel off San Diego coast
PRESS RELEASE | March 31, 2025
IMAGERY AVAILABLE: A Coast Guard Air Station San Diego MH-60 Jayhawk helicopter aircrew and the crew of the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Spruance (DDG 111) rescued 17 aliens and one American aboard a disabled and adrift vessel approximately 50 miles southwest of San Diego Sunday.
Coast Guard inspection team reveals hazardous cargo threatening safety, security of Puerto Nuevo Terminals port facility in San Juan, Puerto Rico
PRESS RELEASE | March 27, 2025
A Coast Guard Sector San Juan inspections team discovered an Anhydrous Ammonia hazardous cargo shipment threatening the safety and security of the Puerto Nuevo Terminals (PNT) port facility, Wednesday.
A Coast Guard investigation into the situation is ongoing.
A team of three Coast Guard Marine Science Technicians conducting a routine examination at the facility identified three tank-containers, one of which was deemed to be unlawful, with more than 5,000 gallons of Anhydrous Ammonia, a hazardous, highly toxic and corrosive gas or colorless liquid which is flammable in high concentrations. The product is used for various industrial applications including detergents, pesticides and fertilizers, among others.
FEATURE: A lifetime of service: A volunteer’s journey to honorary Coast Guard chief
PRESS RELEASE | March 27, 2025
A cloudless sky and crisp late-January air surrounded the crew of Coast Guard Station Emerald Isle during a ceremony celebrating Petty Officer First Class Kyle Vaders, the station’s executive petty officer, who advanced to the rank of chief. While the crew and the audience harbored a secret, there was one person attending who had no idea what was about to occur.
U.S. Coast Guard cutter promotes regional security in the Pacific with Papua New Guinea
PRESS RELEASE | March 26, 2025
The U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Midgett (WMSL 757) recently concluded its second port call in Papua New Guinea (PNG), following nine days of shiprider operations with representatives from the PNG Defence Force, PNG Customs Service, and PNG National Fisheries Authority.
Midgett was invited by the Papua New Guinea government to participate in the operation. The PNG shipriders led the mission by selecting vessels of interests and conducting boardings while the U.S. Coast Guard provided ship based and shoreside support. The successful shiprider operations reinforced the importance of deepening and expanding strong bilateral relationships.
Coast Guard Cutter Mohawk returns home after 70-day, counter-drug patrol in the Eastern Pacific Ocean
PRESS RELEASE | March 24, 2025
KEY WEST, Fla. — The crew of Coast Guard Cutter Mohawk (WMEC 913) returned to their home port in Key West, March 16, following a 70-day deployment to the Eastern Pacific Ocean.
Mohawk deployed in support of Joint Interagency Task Force – South (JIATF-S) and Operation Martillo, where crew members conducted counter-drug missions in the Coast Guard Eleventh District’s area of responsibility. While at sea, Mohawk’s crew successfully contributed to protecting their fellow Americans by countering transnational criminal organizations and preventing dangerous and illegal narcotics from reaching the United States. The crew worked side by side with Coast Guard units, embarked law enforcement personnel from the Tactical Law Enforcement Team Pacific (PACTACLET) and the Costa Rican Coast Guard.
Coast Guard Cutter Reliance returns home after 60-day maritime border security patrol
PRESS RELEASE | March 14, 2025
PENSACOLA, Fla. — The crew of Coast Guard Cutter Reliance (WMEC 615) returned to their home port in Pensacola, Monday, following a 60-day patrol in the Florida Straits, Windward Passage and Gulf of America.
Reliance deployed in support of Homeland Security Task Force – Southeast (HSTF-SE) and Operation Vigilant Sentry (OVS) while underway in the Seventh Coast Guard District's area of responsibility, where crew members contributed to safeguarding America by patrolling U.S. maritime borders.