San Diego Coast Guard City announces the 2025 Coastie of the Year Award
PRESS RELEASE | Jan. 28, 2026
SAN DIEGO — The U.S. Coast Guard, in collaboration with San Diego Coast Guard City, announced Petty Officer 1st Class William James, a Sector San Diego Aviation Electronics Technician, as the recipient of the 2025 Coastie of the Year Award during a ceremony at Coast Guard Sector San Diego, Wednesday.
This year’s ceremony honors the legacy of Elizabeth “Gena” Macres (Fischle), a World War II veteran and member of the Coast Guard SPARS, the service’s women’s reserve established during World War II. The ceremony’s theme is “Remembering the Past and Embracing the Future.”
MEDIA ADVISORY: 2025 Coastie of the Year Ceremony to be held in San Diego
PRESS RELEASE | Jan. 27, 2026
SAN DIEGO — The Coastie of the Year Award Ceremony, organized by the San Diego Coast Guard City, is scheduled to be held at Coast Guard Sector San Diego on Jan. 28, 2026.
The nominees include Machinery Technician 1st Class Caleb Gaudian, Avionics Electrical Technician 1st Class William James, Machinery Technician 1st Class Sean Sullivan, and Public Affairs Specialist 3rd Class Christopher Sappey.
Coast Guard, Horten tanker ship recue capsized Belgium rower during World’s Toughest Row Race in the Atlantic Ocean
PRESS RELEASE | Jan. 22, 2026
Coast Guard Sector San Juan Command Center watchstanders and the crew of the Horten Liberian-flagged tanker ship rescued a capsized rower in the Atlantic Ocean east of Puerto Rico, Wednesday night.
Rescued is Benoit Bourguet, 47, a Belgium citizen, after his single-man rowing vessel, City of Liverpool, was reportedly struck by two rogue waves and capsized in 13 to 15-foot seas which forced Bourguet to deploy and board his life raft.
Bourguet and the City of Liverpool vessel were reportedly competing in the World’s Toughest Row Race, a 3,000-mile rowing race from San Sebastian de la Gomera, Spain, to Nelson’s Dockyard in Antigua. No other vessels in the race have been reported to be in distress.
Coast Guard, CBP, Homeland Security Task Force - San Juan Region partner agencies interdict drug smuggling vessel north of Puerto Rico
PRESS RELEASE | Jan. 22, 2026
A Coast Guard Station San Juan boat crew working with Homeland Security Task Force - San Juan Region partner agencies interdicted a drug smuggling vessel and apprehend three men in Atlantic Ocean waters north of Puerto Rico, Jan. 14, 2026.
During the interdiction, law enforcement agents seized 16 bales of cocaine weighing a combined total of 506kgs/1,115.54 pounds, which are estimated to have a wholesale value of more than $7 million. The contraband and suspects were later transferred to HSTF law enforcement partners in San Juan, Puerto Rico.
Coast Guard, NASBLA renew commitment to recreational boating safety
PRESS RELEASE | Jan. 21, 2026
WASHINGTON — The U.S. Coast Guard and the National Association of State Boating Law Administrators (NASBLA) signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA), strengthening their partnership to promote safety and security for the nation’s recreational boaters.
Coast Guard rescues boaters from sinking vessel off New Jersey
PRESS RELEASE | Jan. 18, 2026
A Coast Guard Station Manasquan Inlet 47-foot Motor Lifeboat crew and Air Station Atlantic City MH-65 Dolphin aircrew rescued three mariners after their 74-foot boat began to sink approximately 4 nautical miles northeast of Shark River Inlet, Saturday.
Coast Guard interdicts 9 aliens west of Black’s Beach, Calif.
PRESS RELEASE | Jan. 18, 2026
SAN DIEGO — Coast Guard members interdict nine suspected aliens approximately 19 miles west of Black’s Beach, Saturday morning.
At 11:39 a.m., crew members aboard the Coast Guard Cutter Robert Ward (WPC 1130) encountered a cuddy-cabin vessel transiting at a high rate of speed.
U.S. Coast Guard launches RAPTOR, hosts demonstration of innovative technology to enhance maritime domain dominance
PRESS RELEASE | Jan. 16, 2026
WASHINGTON — The U.S. Coast Guard is proud to announce a bold new era in mission success, unveiling a rapid-response approach that identifies, prototypes and delivers breakthrough technologies to meet urgent operational needs and drives accelerated transition to programs. The Office of Rapid Response and Prototyping (CG-RAPTOR) is accelerating the “idea-to-operations” cycle, rolling out proven solutions within 30, 60, and 90 days through dynamic collaboration with operators, industry leaders and subject matter experts.
Coast Guard Cutter Alert returns home after interdicting more than $18.4M in narcotics during 45-day patrol
PRESS RELEASE | Jan. 15, 2026
Cape Canaveral, Fla. — The crew of the Coast Guard Cutter Alert (WMEC 630) returned to their home port in Cape Canaveral, Thursday, following a 45-day counter-drug patrol in the Windward Passage, Caribbean Sea and Eastern Pacific Ocean.
While underway in the Coast Guard Southeast District area of responsibility, Alert’s crew interdicted a go-fast style vessel trafficking illegal narcotics in the Windward Passage. The crew seized 2,250 pounds of cocaine valued at $18.4 million, seven pounds of marijuana valued at $7,000 and an illegal firearm. The four suspected smugglers on board, narcotics and firearm were transferred to the Bahamas government for prosecution.
Coast Guard Releases Force Design 2028 Initial Update, Highlights Return on Investment
PRESS RELEASE | Jan. 15, 2026
WASHINGTON — The United States Coast Guard today released the Force Design 2028 Initial Update, detailing the reforms implemented since January 2025 and the significant, measurable impacts these changes have delivered for the American people. The update underscores how Force Design 2028 has strengthened the Service’s operational effectiveness, improved workforce readiness, accelerated capability delivery, and generated unprecedented value for the Nation.
Coast Guard awards record $200 million contract to rebuild Station South Padre Island, Texas
PRESS RELEASE | Jan. 14, 2026
WASHINGTON — The U.S. Coast Guard has awarded a $200 million design-build contract to The Haskell Company for the comprehensive recapitalization and expansion of Coast Guard Station South Padre Island in South Padre Island, Texas. This award marks the largest single task order in the history of the Coast Guard’s military construction program.
USCGC Hickory arrives in Guam, restoring full buoy tender capacity in Oceania
PRESS RELEASE | Jan. 14, 2026
SANTA RITA, Guam — The USCGC Hickory (WLB 212), a 225-foot Juniper-class seagoing buoy tender, arrived at its new homeport in Guam on Wednesday, following a more than 13,000-mile transit over 71 days from the U.S. Coast Guard Yard in Baltimore through the Panama Canal.
After an extended Major Maintenance Availability at the Yard, part of the In-Service Vessel Sustainment Program that modernizes the entire Juniper-class fleet with hull repairs, system upgrades, and replacement of obsolete equipment, the Hickory is now fully revitalized.
“This crew has shown remarkable resilience through extended separations and demanding preparations. We are excited to reunite with our families in Guam and eager to get underway on ATON missions that keep these vital sea lanes safe. As a multi-mission cutter, Hickory stands ready to support the full spectrum of Coast Guard operations in this critical region,” said Lt. Cmdr. Jonathan Lash, commanding officer of Hickory.
Coast Guard interdicts 15 aliens near San Clemente Island
PRESS RELEASE | Jan. 13, 2026
SAN DIEGO – Coast Guard members interdicted 15 suspected aliens approximately 24 miles southwest of San Clemente Island, Tuesday morning.At 9:43 p.m., Monday night, watchstanders at Coast Guard Sector San Diego Joint Harbor Operations Center received a report of an unidentified vessel transiting towards U.S. waters and dispatched Coast Guard Cutter David Duren (WPC 1156) crew members.
Coast Guard, federal and local law enforcement to patrol San Juan Harbor for illegal passenger vessel operations during 2026 San Sebastian St. Festival
PRESS RELEASE | Jan. 13, 2026
Coast Guard, federal and local law enforcement crews will be on the lookout for illegal passenger for hire vessel operations in San Juan Harbor during the San Sebastián Festival from Jan. 15 to 18 in Old San Juan, Puerto Rico.
Only a captain licensed by the Coast Guard can transport passengers for hire and must do so in a vessel that has the proper lifesaving equipment onboard. Vessel operators who carry passengers for hire without the proper license may face the termination of the voyage and possible fines that may range from $500 to a maximum of $117,608.
“With crowd projections for the San Sebastian Street Festival estimated this year at over one million people, we anticipate a higher volume of recreational and commercial maritime activity in San Juan Harbor.” said Cmdr. Matthew Romano, Sector San Juan chief of response. “We are working in close communication and collaboration with city, state, and federal law enforcement authorities to do everything possible to ensure a safe and enjoyable weekend for everyone. We caution the public seeking to gain access to the festival via the maritime route to be on the lookout for illegal passenger for hire vessel operators, and to not contract any operator who refuses or fails to present their captain and vessel credentials. Illegal passenger vessel operators represent a risk to maritime vessels and passenger safety, so it is of vital importance we raise awareness to avoid any incidents that could threaten people’s safety in the water and ruin their festival experience.”
Coast Guard, a Customs and Border Protection marine unit rescue capsized kayaker off Salinas, Puerto Rico
PRESS RELEASE | Jan. 13, 2026
Coast Guard watchstanders and a Customs and Border Protection marine unit rescued a capsized kayaker off the coast of Salinas, Puerto Rico, Monday.
The rescued man is a man from Aibonito, Puerto Rico, who reportedly was fishing when a wave caused his kayak to capsize, approximately half a mile offshore in three to four-foot seas.
Coast Guard watchstanders at Sector San Juan received a call at 3:35 p.m., Monday, from a 911 Emergency Service operator reporting a capsized kayaker and a broad general location off the coast of Salinas. Before all the information could be obtained from the reporting source, the call dropped and could not be reestablished. Watchstanders directed the launch of a Coast Guard MH-60T Jayhawk helicopter, issued an Urgent Marine Information Broadcast to mariners and notified Puerto Rico Emergency Management, Department of Natural and Environmental Resources and Police Joint Force of Rapid Action of the distress situation.
Coast Guard rescues stranded surfer near Aguadilla, Puerto Rico
PRESS RELEASE | Jan. 12, 2026
A Coast Guard Air Station Borinquen MH-60 Jayhawk helicopter crew rescued a stranded surfer, Friday, following an extensive multi-agency search effort near Surfer’s Beach in Aguadilla, Puerto Rico.
The 68-year-old male was in stable condition and safely transported to awaiting emergency medical service personnel at the air station.
“What a terrific outcome!” said Capt. Robert Stiles, the deputy sector commander of Coast Guard Sector San Juan and search and rescue mission coordinator for this case. “We activated the inter-agency search and rescue effort as soon as we received the information, especially after realizing that it had been more than 24 hours. It was truly a team effort and I appreciate the responsiveness and professionalism of Coast Guard Air Station Borinquen, the Sector San Juan Command Center and our local emergency responders. This case could have easily had a different outcome. We urge all mariners and anyone entering the water to have a plan, communicate your intentions with someone and wear all proper life saving equipment.”
U.S. Coast Guard saves 58-year-old mariner west of Guam
PRESS RELEASE | Jan. 12, 2026
SANTA RITA, Guam — A 58-year-old mariner survived a vessel capsizing west of Guam Monday morning thanks to his use of multiple communication devices, staying with the vessel, and informing others of his plans, which enabled a rapid U.S. Coast Guard response.
The mariner departed Merizo around 5 a.m. local time aboard the 22-foot white pleasure boat Solo 2 to fish near the Agat buoy and then head to the 9-mile mark. Adverse sea conditions, including a high surf advisory and a rip current statement, are currently in effect for Guam and likely contributed to the vessel capsizing.
"The mariner’s quick thinking to activate his personal locator beacon or PLB, send a message via his GPS device, inform a contact about his plans, and remain with the capsized vessel until help arrived made all the difference," said Cmdr. Grant Johnson, the search and rescue mission coordinator. "These actions, combined with multiple redundant communication methods, allowed us to locate and recover him swiftly and safely."
Coast Guard Cutter Kimball returns to Honolulu after 120-day Arctic patrol
PRESS RELEASE | Jan. 9, 2026
HONOLULU — The crew of the Coast Guard Cutter Kimball (WMSL 756) returned to Honolulu, Jan. 1, after a 120-day, 16,500-nautical-mile deployment to the Bering Sea and Gulf of Alaska reinforcing maritime safety, security, and national sovereignty in the region. As the Arctic region continues to become more accessible and consequential, the demand for U.S. Coast Guard statutory mission services, leadership, and presence continues to grow. Kimball’s crew exemplified these efforts.
Coast Guard releases Report of Investigation on GRANDE COSTA D’AVORIO
PRESS RELEASE | Jan. 9, 2026
NEW YORK — The Coast Guard’s Office of Investigations and Casualty Analysis recently released a Report of Investigation (ROI) regarding the fire on the Italian flagged cargo vessel GRANDE COSTA D’AVORIO and subsequent fatalities of two Newark Fire Department (FD) firefighters. Click the link for the full release.
U.S. Coast Guard highlights historic operational successes in 2025
PRESS RELEASE | Jan. 9, 2026
WASHINGTON — Under President Trump and Secretary Noem’s leadership, the U.S. Coast Guard concluded 2025 with significant operational achievements across its missions, including record-setting drug interdictions, major contingency responses, and continued progress in Force Design 2028 – a bold blueprint to transform the Coast Guard to meet evolving and complex maritime challenges. As a member of the Department of Homeland Security team protecting America, and the joint military force that defends it, the Coast Guard is a vital instrument of national power to ensure our Nation’s maritime dominance.
Coast Guard suspends search for individuals in the Pacific Ocean
PRESS RELEASE | Jan. 2, 2026
ALAMEDA, Calif. — The U.S. Coast Guard suspended its search for the reported people in the water approximately 400 nautical miles southwest of the Mexico/Guatemala border Friday. Despite extensive coordination with international rescue coordination centers, Department of War partners, and Automated Mutual-Assistance Vessel Rescue (AMVER) system vessels, available assets were extremely limited due to distance and range constraints.
Coast Guard awards contracts to build Arctic Security Cutters
PRESS RELEASE | Dec. 29, 2025
WASHINGTON — The U.S. Coast Guard announced the award of two contracts to build up to six Arctic Security Cutter (ASC) icebreakers — ships designed to break through and navigate ice-covered waters — between the United States and Finland in a major step forward for America’s national security.
U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Active returns home following counterdrug patrol, $41.3M cocaine seized
PRESS RELEASE | Dec. 22, 2025
The U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Active (WMEC 618) returned to its home port of Port Angeles Sunday, concluding a 60-day counternarcotics deployment to the Eastern Pacific Ocean in support of Operation Pacific Viper.
The Active's crew of 75 Coast Guard men and women patrolled 10,000 nautical miles and interdicted two suspected drug-smuggling vessels, seizing more than 6,000 pounds of cocaine with an estimated street value of $41.3 million.
USCGC Myrtle Hazard returns home after Operation Blue Pacific patrol to combat illegal fishing, deepen regional cooperation
PRESS RELEASE | Dec. 19, 2025
SANTA RITA, Guam — The USCGC Myrtle Hazard (WPC 1139) crew returned home Sunday after completing a successful expeditionary patrol under Operation Blue Pacific, deepening partnerships with Pacific nations and bolstering maritime security in the region.
The Sentinel-class fast response cutter crew operated for over 500 hours, patrolling 5,380 nautical miles from Nov. 17 to Dec. 14, with 15 days dedicated to providing a persistent presence in the exclusive economic zones of the Federated States of Micronesia and the Republic of Palau, as well as on the high seas.
America’s Tall Ship, U.S. Coast Guard Barque Eagle, announces 2026 sail training schedule for Nation’s 250th anniversary
PRESS RELEASE | Dec. 19, 2025
U.S. Coast Guard Barque Eagle (WIX 327) announced its 2026 schedule of port calls Friday.
The selected port calls include the five Sail250 ports of New Orleans, Norfolk, Baltimore, New York City, and Boston. Sail250, a global gathering of tall ships and military ships to celebrate the 250th anniversary of the founding of the United States. It will offer crews, cadets and visitors from all over the world an unforgettable experience and a world-class maritime celebration.
Coast Guard rescues boater from vessel fire off Clearwater
PRESS RELEASE | Dec. 15, 2025
CLEARWATER, Fla. — A Coast Guard Air Station Clearwater MH-60 Jayhawk helicopter crew rescued a boater after their commercial fishing vessel caught fire approximately 100 miles west of Clearwater, Sunday.
MEDIA ADVISORY: Coast Guard to offload 27,551 pounds of cocaine, worth more than $203M in San Diego
PRESS RELEASE | Dec. 14, 2025
MEDIA ADVISORY: Coast Guard to offload 27,551 pounds of cocaine, worth more than $203M in San Diego
WHAT:
The crew of USCGC Active (WMEC 618) is scheduled to offload approximately 27,551 pounds of cocaine, valued at an estimated $203.9 million. The offload is the result of three separate interdictions of suspected drug-smuggling vessels in international waters off the coasts of Mexico, Central America, and South America. Two of the three interdictions were conducted by Active crew members and one by the USCGC Munro (WMSL 755) crew members.
WHEN:
Monday, Dec. 15, 2025, at approximately 10 a.m.
Coast Guard rescues 5 people off Egmont Key
PRESS RELEASE | Dec. 12, 2025
CLEARWATER, Fla. — A Coast Guard Station St. Petersburg boat crew rescued five boaters after their 32-foot vessel sank 28 miles west of Egmont Key, Friday.
Coast Guard Cutter James conducts counter-drug patrol in Eastern Pacific Ocean
PRESS RELEASE | Dec. 12, 2025
NORTH CHARLESTON, S.C. — The crew of the U.S. Coast Guard Cutter James (WMSL 754) returned to their home port in Charleston, Wednesday, following a 92-day deployment conducting counter-narcotics operations in the Eastern Pacific Ocean in support of Operation Pacific Viper.
During the patrol, the James crew interdicted over 46,500 pounds of narcotics valued at nearly $350 million. The James crew conducted nine interdictions and detained 33 suspected drug traffickers. The patrol focused on disrupting illegal narcotics smuggling in collaboration with international partners.
Video: Coast Guard rescues four people from flooded home in Sumas, Wash during historic flooding
PRESS RELEASE | Dec. 12, 2025
SEATTLE – During historic flooding in Western Washington on Wednesday, Coast Guard aircrews rescued four people from a flooded home in Sumas, Washington, after rising water forced them into their attic. Coast Guard Air Stations Port Angeles, Wash., and Astoria, Ore., responded to assist Whatcom County Fire District 14 and the U.S. Border Patrol, who were unable to reach the survivors due to 8 to 10 foot deep water surrounding the home.
Coast Guard medevacs Celebrity Apex cruise ship passenger north of Puerto Rico
PRESS RELEASE | Dec. 11, 2025
A Coast Guard MH-60T Jayhawk crew medevaced a Celebrity Apex cruise ship passenger, approximately 24 nautical miles north of Arecibo, Puerto Rico, Thursday morning.
A 65-year-old man suffered from multiple medical conditions which required the patient to receive a higher level of care at a land-based hospital, resulting in being medevacked. At the time of the medical emergency, the Celebrity Apex was transiting from St. Kitts to Port Canaveral Florida.
UPDATE 4: ONE Henry Hudson container ship to return to berth at Port of Los Angeles
PRESS RELEASE | Nov. 26, 2025
SAN PEDRO, Calif. – Under the leadership of the Unified Command, crews are preparing to return the ONE Henry Hudson vessel to Yusen Terminal at the Port of Los Angeles, as the fire on board has been fully contained. This marks a critical step toward the next phase of response operations, where cargo and waste will be offloaded by longshore labor and salvage crews.
U.S. Coast Guard heavy icebreaker departs Seattle for months-long deployment to Antarctica
PRESS RELEASE | Nov. 26, 2025
The USCGC Polar Star (WAGB 10) departed Seattle on Thursday commencing its 29th deployment to Antarctica in support of Operation Deep Freeze.
Operation Deep Freeze is an annual joint military mission to resupply the United States Antarctic stations in support of the National Science Foundation (NSF), the lead agency for the United States Antarctic Program. Historic investment in the Big Beautiful Bill of nearly 25 billion, $9 billion of which is specifically for icebreakers and infrastructure in the high latitudes. This massive investment in icebreakers will secure U.S. access, security, and leadership in the polar regions.
Coast Guard responds to vessel grounding off Christmas Cove, St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands
PRESS RELEASE | Nov. 20, 2025
A Coast Guard Boat Forces U.S. Virgin Islands 33-foot Special Purpose Craft surface unit responded to a vessel grounding in the vicinity of Christmas Cove, St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands, Thursday.
Sector San Juan Rescue-Subcenter watchstanders received a VHF Channel 16 marine radio communication at 8 a.m., Thursday, from the sailing vessel Starlight reporting having a visual of the recreational vessel Cool Change, a 42-foot catamaran, which appeared to be aground and partially submerged. The Cool Change vessel captain and sole occupant onboard was assisted by the recreational vessel Aquarius. No injuries were reported in this case.
USCGC Frederick Hatch returns to Guam following drydock in Honolulu
PRESS RELEASE | Nov. 11, 2025
SANTA RITA, Guam — The USCGC Frederick Hatch (WPC 1143) crew returned to homeport Nov. 5, after a deployment of more than eight months that included scheduled drydock maintenance in Honolulu and activities in the Republic of the Marshall Islands.
"The crew of Frederick Hatch stands among the finest Fast Response Cutter teams I have led," said Lt. Cmdr. Vaughn Gehman, commanding officer. They continue to deliver reliable, safe operations across the Pacific. Their resilience and skill in extended operations are an inspiration for continued service afloat."
The cutter departed Guam on Feb. 24 and is the third Guam-based Fast Response Cutter to complete the significant systems overhaul. Crews and contractors restored full mission capability through a $4.5 million drydock addressing required maintenance and a major engineering upgrade. The vessel also onloaded $750,000 in unit gear and steamed over 7,970 nautical miles.
Media Advisory: U.S. Coast Guard’s only Polar icebreakers dock in Seattle for rare gathering
PRESS RELEASE | Nov. 7, 2025
SEATTLE — The U.S. Coast Guard’s only three Polar icebreakers, USCGC Healy (WAGB 20), USCGC Polar Star (WAGB 10), and USCGC Storis (WAGB 21) will be in port together for the first time in Seattle. This rare gathering offers a unique opportunity for media to see the nation’s Polar fleet side-by-side and learn more about their critical missions and the importance of the Coast Guard’s icebreaker fleet in safeguarding U.S. interests in the Polar regions.
Coast Guard Cutter Campbell returns home after 54-day maritime border security patrol in the Windward Passage
PRESS RELEASE | Oct. 31, 2025
NEWPORT, R.I. — The crew of Coast Guard Cutter Campbell (WMEC 909) returned to their homeport at U.S. Naval Station Newport, Monday, following a 54-day maritime border security patrol in the Windward Passage.
Campbell’s crew deployed to the Coast Guard District Southeast area of responsibility in support of Operation Vigilant Sentry, where crews advanced the primary missions of protecting the safety of life at sea while preventing unlawful maritime entry into the United States and its territories.
U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Healy returns to Seattle after 129-day Arctic deployment
PRESS RELEASE | Oct. 31, 2025
SEATTLE — The U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Healy (WAGB 20) returned to its Seattle home port Sunday, following a 129-day patrol that concluded its annual Arctic deployment. Healy, one of three Coast Guard polar icebreakers, steamed over 20,000 miles this deployment, supporting Operation Arctic West Summer and Operation Frontier Sentinel, protecting U.S. sovereign rights and territory, and promoting national security in the Arctic.
Report of missing fisherman prompts multi-agency search in Pago Bay, Guam
PRESS RELEASE | Oct. 26, 2025
SANTA RITA, Guam — Responders are searching Pago Bay on Monday for a missing 34-year-old fisherman after authorities received a report from family early the same morning.
The missing man, Kevin Nauta, reportedly was last seen wearing black shorts and a blue shirt.
Coast Guard conducts post-storm assessments, cleanup operations in western Alaska
PRESS RELEASE | Oct. 24, 2025
ANCHORAGE, Alaska – The Coast Guard is conducting post-storm assessments and cleanup operations in Western Alaska where communities have been impacted by severe flooding from Ex-Typhoon Halong.
“The Coast Guard continues to support local, state and federal disaster recovery efforts by conducting pollution response operations in impacted communities,” said Capt. Christopher Culpepper, commander, U.S. Coast Guard Sector Western Alaska and U.S. Arctic. “We understand how essential the local ecology is for communities that depend on critical subsistence hunting and fishing activity. We are working to mitigate environmental impacts to preserve the communities' food source and future viability.”
Coast Guard supports state response, conducts mass rescue operations in Alaska
PRESS RELEASE | Oct. 13, 2025
ANCHORAGE, Alaska — The Coast Guard is conducting search and rescue operations Monday in Kipnuk and Kwigillingok, Alaska, where communities have been impacted by severe flooding.
In support of the state of Alaska’s response, Coast Guard crews from Air Station Kodiak successfully rescued 18 people in Kwigillingok and 16 people in Kipnuk. All were transferred to safety in stable condition.
Search efforts are ongoing for three residents of Kwigillingok who remain unaccounted for. A Coast Guard MH-60 Jayhawk helicopter aircrew searched 76 square miles for the missing individuals Sunday and resumed first light searches this morning. Search efforts are currently underway.
The crew of Coast Guard Cutter Kimball (WMSL 756) aided in search and rescue efforts using unmanned aerial surveillance, providing logistics support for aviation assets participating in rescue operations. Relief crews and supplies are being staged in Bethel to support a multi-day response.
The Coast Guard is working closely with partner agencies, including the Alaska State Troopers, the Alaska Rescue Coordination Center, the Alaska Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Management, and the Alaska Air and Army National Guard to coordinate ongoing rescue operations in impacted communities.
“Preservation of life is our top priority,” said Capt. Christopher Culpepper, commander of U.S. Coast Guard Sector Western Alaska and U.S. Arctic. “The Coast Guard remains closely connected to the State Emergency Operations Center in full support of combined rescue and response operations alongside State Troopers, National Guard, and various additional agencies.”
The situation is ongoing, and more information will be released as it becomes available.
Anyone in need of rescue should contact the Alaska Rescue Coordination Center at 907-551-7230.
Coast Guard Cutter Midgett returns to Hawaii following 79-day counterdrug patrol, $156M worth of cocaine seized
PRESS RELEASE | Oct. 7, 2025
HONOLULU – The Coast Guard Cutter Midgett (WMSL 757) crew returned to their Honolulu home port Friday after a 79-day deployment to the Eastern Pacific Ocean in support of the counterdrug mission “Operation Pacific Viper.” While patrolling international waters off the Pacific coasts of Mexico and Central America, Midgett’s crew apprehended 19 suspected drug smugglers and interdicted four suspected drug smuggling vessels, preventing 21,126 pounds of cocaine, with an estimated value of more than $156.4 million, from reaching U.S. shores.
Coast Guard to establish temporary safety zone for exercise in Upper New York Bay
PRESS RELEASE | Oct. 7, 2025
NEW YORK — The Coast Guard is scheduled to establish a temporary safety zone on the navigable waters of the Upper New York Bay in the vicinity of Ellis Island and Liberty Island, New Jersey, Wednesday, from 9 a.m. to noon. This safety zone is necessary to ensure the safety of personnel and vessels during an on-water exercise. Click the link above to view full news release.
Coast Guard interdicts 7 aliens near Dana Point
PRESS RELEASE | Oct. 6, 2025
SAN DIEGO —The crew of the Coast Guard Cutter Sockeye (WPB-87337) interdicted seven aliens aboard a 24-foot cabin vessel approximately 2 miles south of Dana Point Harbor, California, Friday evening.
Newest Coast Guard icebreaker completes inaugural patrol
PRESS RELEASE | Oct. 4, 2025
SEATTLE — The U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Storis (WAGB 21), the service’s newest commissioned icebreaker, arrived in Seattle Friday after completing its 112-day inaugural patrol. Storis departed Pascagoula, Mississippi, June 1, transited the Panama Canal and the Pacific Ocean enroute to conduct its first Arctic patrol operating north of the Bering Strait to control, secure, and defend the northern U.S. border and maritime approaches.
Coast Guard orders additional waterways commerce cutters
PRESS RELEASE | Sept. 30, 2025
The Coast Guard is moving forward with the acquisition of the new Waterways Commerce Cutter (WCC) class, designed to replace the legacy fleet of inland tenders and facilitate commerce vital to the nation’s economic security and strategic mobility.
Coast Guard awards contract for new heavy weather surf boats
PRESS RELEASE | Sept. 30, 2025
The Coast Guard awarded an indefinite delivery, indefinite quantity (IDIQ) contract on Sept. 29 to Rozema Boat Works, Inc. of Mount Vernon, Washington, to acquire up to six second-generation special-purpose craft – heavy weather (SPC-HWX II) boats.
Coast Guard interdicts 7 aliens in Mission Bay, Calif.
PRESS RELEASE | Sept. 29, 2025
SAN DIEGO — Coast Guard Station San Diego response boat crew members interdicted seven aliens aboard a 25-foot cuddy cabin vessel approximately 7 miles west of Mission Bay, California, Sunday evening.
Coast Guard sets Port Conditions for Georgia, South Carolina
PRESS RELEASE | Sept. 27, 2025
Coast Guard captains of the ports set port conditions, Friday, for the Ports of Brunswick, Savannah, coastal South Carolina and all other terminals and facilities due to forecasted sustained tropical storm force winds generated by Potential Tropical Cyclone Nine that may arrive within 24 to 48 hours.
Coast Guard Cutter Polar Star returns to Seattle after 308 days
PRESS RELEASE | Sept. 25, 2025
SEATTLE — After 308 days away from its Seattle home port, the 49-year-old U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Polar Star (WAGB 10) and crew returned home Tuesday. Upon completing Operation Deep Freeze (ODF) 2025, Polar Star returned directly to Mare Island Dry Dock in Vallejo, Calif., to complete the final year of a five-year Service Life Extension Program (SLEP).
Coast Guard offloads nearly $65M in illicit narcotics interdicted in the Western Caribbean Sea
PRESS RELEASE | Sept. 24, 2025
ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. — The crew of Coast Guard Cutter Diligence (WMEC 616) offloaded approximately 8,700 pounds of cocaine worth an estimated $64.5 million, Monday, at Coast Guard Sector St. Petersburg.
Diligence deployed in support of Joint Interagency Task Force – South to the Coast Guard District Southeast area of responsibility, where crew members interdicted more than 10,000 pounds of illicit narcotics.
Unified command established in response to tug sinking in Bremerton Marina
PRESS RELEASE | Sept. 19, 2025
SEATTLE — On Friday, a unified command was established in response to a tugboat sinking in the Bremerton Marina.
The unified command consists of the Coast Guard and the Washington Department of Ecology.
Coast Guard Sector Puget Sound received an initial pollution report from the National Response Center regarding the vessel Dominion, a 130-foot tugboat, which sank around 4 p.m., Wednesday. It was reported that the tug contained an unknown amount of diesel fuel and about 200 gallons of lube oil when it sank.
Coast Guard ramps up security efforts for 2025 United Nations General Assembly, announces East River restrictions
PRESS RELEASE | Sept. 19, 2025
NEW YORK — The Coast Guard, along with multiple partner agencies, are positioned to support maritime security operations for the 80th United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in New York City Sunday through Saturday. Months of planning go into the preparation for this unique event where representatives from nearly 150 countries come together and work on a wide array of international issues. Click the link above to view full news release.
Coast Guard Awards $68 Million Contract for New HC-130J Hangars at Air Station Barbers Point
PRESS RELEASE | Sept. 16, 2025
The U.S. Coast Guard awarded a contract to the Whiting-Turner Contracting Co. for the design and construction of two new membrane tension hangars and associated facilities at Air Station Barbers Point, Hawaii. The award totaling $68.857 million, will support HC-130J Super Hercules aircraft operations and enhance mission readiness in the Oceania District.
Coast Guard rescues 7 near Fort Myers Beach
PRESS RELEASE | Sept. 15, 2025
CLEARWATER, Fla. – Coast Guard Station Fort Myers Beach rescue crews saved seven boaters after a vessel allision near Fort Myers Beach, Sunday.
Coast Guard repatriates 66 aliens following an unlawful voyage vessel interdiction in Mona Passage waters off Puerto Rico
PRESS RELEASE | Sept. 11, 2025
The crew of Coast Guard Cutter Heriberto Hernandez repatriated 66 aliens to the San Pedro de Macoris, Dominican Republic, Thursday, following the interdiction of an unlawful migration vessel voyage in Mona Passage waters off Puerto Rico.
The repatriated aliens were transferred to awaiting Dominican Republic Navy authorities including 48 individuals (41 men and seven women) who claimed to be of Dominican Republic nationality; 16 individuals (13 men and three women), who claimed to be Haitian and two men, who claimed to be Romanian. No minors were identified in this case.
Coast Guard’s Helicopter Interdiction Tactical Squadron completes 1,000th interdiction
PRESS RELEASE | Sept. 10, 2025
JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — The U.S. Coast Guard’s Helicopter Interdiction Tactical Squadron (HITRON) achieved a significant milestone in its counter-drug mission, completing its 1,000th interdiction of suspected narco-trafficking vessels Aug. 25.
Since October 1, 2024, HITRON has interdicted $3.3 billion in illicit narcotics destined for the United States via maritime routes, a three-fold increase over its historic annual average of $1 billion.
Coast Guard Exercises Contract Option for 10 Additional Fast Response Cutters
PRESS RELEASE | Sept. 10, 2025
The U.S. Coast Guard has exercised a contract option with Bollinger Shipyards of Lockport, Louisiana, to fund initial construction on 10 additional Fast Response Cutters (FRCs), Tuesday. The $507 million option supports ongoing efforts to modernize the fleet and expand the Coast Guard’s global maritime mission.
Coast Guard boat crew rescues 2 people during Operation Dry Water, following overturned personal watercraft near Fajardo, Puerto Rico
PRESS RELEASE | Sept. 3, 2025
A Coast Guard Station San Juan boat crew rescued two persons from the water, Monday, after their personal watercraft was overturned near Icacos Beach off Fajardo, Puerto Rico.
The rescue occurred during Coast Guard and partner agency Operation Dry Water efforts in Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands this past Labor Day weekend.
Coast Guard watchstanders received a report via a VHF Channel 16 radio communication of two people in distress following an overturned personal watercraft, Monday evening. Watchstanders diverted a Coast Guard 33-foot Special Purpose Craft – Law Enforcement vessel and crew that was operating in the vicinity to render assistance. Once on scene, the Coast Guard crew embarked the two boaters and took the personal watercraft in tow to Las Croabas in Fajardo. Following the rescue, both persons were cited for negligent operations and for boating under the influence of alcohol.
Coast Guard Cutter Vigilant returns home after seizing 3,100 pounds in drugs during multi-mission patrol in the Caribbean Sea, Windward Passage
PRESS RELEASE | Sept. 2, 2025
CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. — The crew of Coast Guard Cutter Vigilant (WMEC 617) returned home to Cape Canaveral, Aug. 19, following a 59-day patrol in the Caribbean Sea and Windward Passage.
During the patrol, Vigilant’s crew interdicted 3,100 pounds of illicit drugs in the Caribbean Sea while underway in the Coast Guard Southeast District’s area of operations. Vigilant’s crew deployed in support of the Joint Interagency Task Force – South (JIATF-S) mission of detecting and monitoring illegal drug shipments in the maritime domain for subsequent interdiction and apprehension.
Coast Guard interdicts 6 aliens 10 miles offshore Dana Point
PRESS RELEASE | Sept. 2, 2025
A 45-foot Response Boat-Medium (RB-M) boat crew attached to Coast Guard Station Los Angeles-Long Beach interdicted six aliens aboard a 22-foot pleasure craft approximately 10 miles offshore Dana Point, Saturday afternoon.
Coast Guard ends search for swimmer near Anna Maria Island
PRESS RELEASE | Sept. 1, 2025
CLEARWATER, Fla. – The Coast Guard ended its search for a missing swimmer Monday, after a Longboat Key Police department boat crew located and recovered a deceased individual who reportedly matched the description of the missing swimmer, Abhigyan Patel, one mile west of Anna Maria Island.
Coast Guard Cutter Mohawk returns home to Key West, Florida after 75-day maritime border security patrol
PRESS RELEASE | Aug. 29, 2025
KEY WEST, Fla. — The crew of Coast Guard Cutter Mohawk (WMEC 913) returned to their home port in Key West, Friday, following a 75-day maritime border security patrol in the Windward Passage, Florida Straits and Caribbean Sea.
During the patrol, Mohawk’s crew deployed to the Coast Guard Southeast District (CGD-SE) area of responsibility, where crews conducted multi-mission operations with joint service, international, and interagency partners to protect America’s maritime borders from illegal drug trafficking and prevent unlawful alien migration in the region.