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Press Release | July 5, 2025

MEDIA ADVISORY: Coast Guard Southwest District to hold Change of Command Ceremony

U.S. Coast Guard Southwest District Public Affairs: (206) 815-6689

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. 

The Southwest Coast Guard District encompasses the states of California, Arizona, Nevada, and Utah, the coastal and offshore waters out more than a thousand miles and the offshore waters of Mexico and Central America down to South America. The Southwest District includes 43 units and it employs more than 2,400 active duty, reserve, and civilian employees. These resources carry out search and rescue, homeland security, law enforcement, marine safety, and aids to navigation missions over 3.3 million square miles of water. In addition, more than 3,100 volunteer Coast Guard Auxiliary members assist in many Coast Guard mission areas, including boating safety and search and rescue. 

Media interested in attending the ceremony should plan on arriving no later than 9:30 a.m., Tuesday. 

Media will be required to show media credentials and an approved state ID card. 


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