An official website of the United States government
A .mil website belongs to an official U.S. Department of Defense organization in the United States.
A lock (lock ) or https:// means you’ve safely connected to the .mil website. Share sensitive information only on official, secure websites.

Press Release | July 28, 2025

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

Editor’s Note: Media members are asked to RSVP by 3 p.m. Thursday, To RSVP, contact Coast Guard Heartland District Public Affairs at (618) 225-9008.

NEW ORLEANS – U.S. Coast Guard Heartland District is scheduled to host a Change of Command Ceremony at the National World War II Museum in New Orleans, Friday.   

Rear Adm. Will E. Watson will relieve Rear Adm. David C. Barata, as commander of Coast Guard Heartland District with Vice Adm. Nathan A. Moore, commander, Coast Guard Atlantic Area, presiding.   

WHO: Vice Adm. Nathan A. Moore; Rear Adm. David C. Barata and Rear Adm. Will E. Watson  

WHAT: U.S. Coast Guard Heartland District Change of Command Ceremony   

WHEN: August 1 at 10 a.m.   

WHERE: National World War II Museum, 945 Magazine Street, New Orleans, LA 70130  

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

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

The Coast Guard Heartland District encompasses 26 states, the inland river systems and coastal and offshore waters of the Gulf of America.   

Coast Guard members across the Heartland District carry out search and rescue, homeland security, law enforcement, marine safety, aids to navigation and recreational boater safety missions at over 140 units.