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Press Release | March 23, 2026

Coast Guard temporarily relieves commanding officer of Ketchikan-based cutter

JUNEAU, Alaska — The U.S. Coast Guard temporarily relieved the commanding officer of the Coast Guard Cutter Douglas Denman, homeported in Ketchikan, Monday.

Rear Adm. Bob Little, commander, Coast Guard Arctic District, temporarily relieved Lt. Edwin Kuster following an investigation leading to a loss of confidence. This temporary relief is not due to misconduct.

Lt. Bryce Matakas has temporarily assumed the position of commanding officer of Coast Guard Cutter Douglas Denman.

Media is asked to contact Lt. Pamela J. Manns, Arctic District Public Affairs Officer at pamela.j.manns@uscg.mil for additional questions.