U.S. Coast Guard Academy (USCGA) Class of 2025 throws their combination covers into the air during a flyover during their commencement ceremony on Cadet Memorial Field during the 144th Commencement Exercises at USCGA, New London, Connecticut, May 21, 2025. USCGA commissioned approximately 260 new officers. (U.S. Coast Guard photo courtesy photo.)

Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Secretary Kristi Noem marches onto Cadet Memorial Field during the 144th Commencement Exercises at the U.S. Coast Guard Academy, May 21, 2025. Noem shared the details of Force Design 2028 which includes plans to purchase new aircraft, grow the workforce by 15,000 people, fix agin facilities and begin a once-in-a-generation transformation of the 234-year old maritime service. (U.S. Coast Guard photo by Petty Officer 3rd Class Matt Thieme.)

1st Class Cadet Avis Do Akers takes the oath of office during the 144th Commencement Exercises at the Coast Guard Academy, New London, Connecticut, May 21, 2025. The oath off office is taken by all officers prior to receiving their commission. (U.S. Coast Guard photo by Petty Officer 3rd Class Matt Thieme.)

U.S. Coast Guard Commandant Adm. Kevin Lunday waves during the 144th Commencement Exercises at the U.S. Coast Guard Academy (USCGA), New London, Connecticut, May 21, 2025. Lunday was officially nominated as the 28th Commandant of the U.S. Coast Guard. (U.S. Coast Guard photo by Petty Officer Third Class Leo Avila.)

U.S. Coast Guard Academy (USCGA) Superintendent Rear Adm. Mike Johnston (front right) and Provost Amy Donahue render honors during the 144th Commencement Exercises at USCGA, New London, Connecticut, May 21, 2025. Donahue recalled fond memories from her time with the Class of 2025 and wished them well on the new chapters of their careers. (U.S. Coast Guard photo by Petty Officer Third Class Leo Avila.)

U.S. Coast Guard Academy (USCGA) Cadet First Class Veronica Lynn Krystofik gives a speech during the 144th Commencement Exercises. Krystofik was this year’s Distinguished Graduate, which ranks cadets based on their academic grade point average, military readiness, and athletic performance. (U.S. Coast Guard courtesy photo.)

U.S. Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem (left) and Senior Advisor to the Secretary for the U.S. Coast Guard Sean Plankey (right) listen during a speech at the 144th Commencement Exercises. Noem shared the details of Force Design 2028, which includes plans to purchase new aircraft, grow the workforce by 15,000 personnel, fix aging facilities, and begin a once-in-a-generation transformation of the 234-year old maritime service. (U.S. Coast Guard photo by Petty Officer Second Class Janessa Warschkow.)

U.S. Coast Guard Academy (USCGA) international Jamaican Cadet Nicholas Folkes waves a Jamaican flag during the 144th Commencement Exercises at USCGA, May 21, 2025. USCGA graduated multiple international cadets, who will return to their home nations to serve in various militaries and organizations. (U.S. Coast Guard photo by Petty Officer 3rd Class Matt Thieme.)

U.S. Coast Guard Academy (USCGA) Cadet First Class Gustava Elizabeth Engeman Drew embraces a loved one following the 144th Commencement Exercises. USCGA commissioned approximately 260 new officers. (U.S. Coast Guard photo by Petty Officer Third Class Leo Avila.)

U.S. Coast Guard Academy (USCGA) Ensign. Kira Howard’s(middle)family members put on her shoulder boards after commencement ceremony on Cadet Memorial Field during the 144th Commencement Exercises at USCGA, New London, Connecticut, May 21, 2025. Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem shared the details of Force Design 2028, which includes plans to purchase new aircraft, grow the workforce by 15,000 people, fix aging facilities, and begin a once-in-a-generation transformation of the 234-year old maritime service. (U.S. Coast Guard photo by Petty Officer Second Class Janessa Warschkow.)