Coast Guard attends keel authentication ceremony for next generation heavy weather surf boats
PRESS RELEASE | July 10, 2026
SEATTLE – The U.S. Coast Guard and Rozema Boat Works authenticated the keel for the first special purpose craft – heavy weather (SPC-HWX II) during a ceremony July 8 in Mount Vernon, Washington, marking a significant construction milestone on a vessel that will enhance the Coast Guard’s ability to operate in extreme weather and surf conditions in the Pacific Northwest.
Coast Guard Cutter Waesche holds change-of-command ceremony
PRESS RELEASE | July 10, 2026
ALAMEDA, Calif. — The U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Waesche (WMSL 751) held a change-of-command ceremony on Thursday at Base Alameda. Vice Adm. Joseph Buzzella, commander, Coast Guard Pacific Area, presided over the ceremony in which Capt. Dave Ratner relieved Capt. Tyson Scofield as Waesche’s commanding officer.
Coast Guard Cutter Polar Star holds change-of-command ceremony
PRESS RELEASE | July 10, 2026
SEATTLE – The U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Polar Star (WAGB 10) held a change-of-command ceremony on June 29 at Base Seattle. Rear Adm. Jeffrey Novak, deputy commander of Coast Guard Pacific Area and commander of Coast Guard District Southwest, presided over the ceremony in which Capt. Justin Vanden Heuvel relieved Capt. Jeffery Rasnake as the Polar Star’s commanding officer.
U.S. Coast Guard reopens Port of Tinian to daylight operations, VHF comms remain limited
PRESS RELEASE | July 10, 2026
SANTA RITA, Guam — The U.S. Coast Guard Captain of the Port (COTP) for Guam and the Northern Mariana Islands reset a modified Port Heavy Weather Condition (PHWC) WHISKEY for the Port of Tinian, effective at noon ChST on Friday, July 10, reopening the port to daylight-only commercial traffic and cargo operations. All operators must coordinate operations with the Commonwealth Ports Authority.
Following assessments Thursday and Friday, including work by an aids to navigation positioner deployed with the USCGC Myrtle Hazard (WPC 1139) to determine positions, the COTP was able to partially lift restrictions, restoring maritime commerce flow to Tinian.
Simultaneously, crews restored connectivity to the Mt. Alutom communications tower on Guam with the help of a FEMA generator, improving VHF coverage in part of the region. The towers on Rota and Saipan remain offline. Additionally, the team at the Rota Emergency Operations Center informed the U.S. Coast Guard that the VHF tower on Rota was damaged by Super Typhoon Bavi, further limiting near-shore VHF radio coverage.
“My thanks to the team and partners for the coordination as we reopen ports across the Marianas, enabling the maritime flow of critical supplies,” said Capt. Jessica Worst, commander, U.S. Coast Guard Forces Micronesia/Sector Guam and Captain of the Port Guam and the Northern Mariana Islands. “As heavy weather conditions subside and people begin to take to the water, I cannot overstress the importance of taking multiple forms of communication and letting someone on shore know where you are going and when you will be back. We have significant VHF communications outages across the islands. Our team is working to restore coverage, but many of these solutions require equipment from off-island, and it will take time.”
Coast Guard interdicts 8 aliens near Point Loma
PRESS RELEASE | July 9, 2026
SAN DIEGO — Coast Guard Maritime Security and Safety Team Honolulu (MSST) crew members interdicted eight suspected aliens aboard a 25-foot panga-style vessel, approximately 4 miles off the coast of Point Loma, Thursday morning.
U.S. Coast Guard reopens Port of Guam, works to clear channel hazards as Northern Marianas port assessments continue
PRESS RELEASE | July 9, 2026
SANTA RITA, Guam — The U.S. Coast Guard Captain of the Port for Guam and the Northern Mariana Islands reset Port Heavy Weather Condition (PHWC) WHISKEY for the Port of Guam, effective 2 p.m. ChST on Thursday, July 9, reopening the port to 24/7 commercial traffic and cargo operations without waterway restrictions. All operators must coordinate operations with the Port of Guam and the harbormaster.
A U.S. Coast Guard Station Apra Harbor 45-foot Response Boat-Medium crew working with U.S. Navy Explosive Ordnance Disposal Mobile Unit Five removed Buoy 2 at the Outer Apra Harbor entrance, which moved off station during the storm into the channel, where vessels expect safe water.
“Our thanks to our partners at EOD for assisting with freeing Buoy 2 and working alongside our Station Apra Harbor crew to relocate it,” said Capt. Jessica Worst, commander, U.S. Coast Guard Forces Micronesia/Sector Guam and Captain of the Port Guam and the Northern Mariana Islands. “Their efforts not only allowed us to reopen the waterway and get commerce flowing but also freed up our U.S. Coast Guard divers to head north and begin to address discrepancies in Tinian and Rota.”
The U.S. Coast Guard continues to work with the Port of Guam, the Commonwealth Ports Authority, and commercial partners to reopen ports and address all discrepancies caused by the storm.
U.S. Coast Guard reopens Port of Saipan, works to clear channel hazards as Marianas port assessments continue
PRESS RELEASE | July 8, 2026
SANTA RITA, Guam — The U.S. Coast Guard Captain of the Port for Guam and the Northern Mariana Islands reset Port Heavy Weather Condition (PHWC) WHISKEY for the Port of Saipan, effective 9 a.m. ChST on July 8, reopening the port to 24/7 commercial traffic and cargo operations without waterway restrictions. All operators must coordinate with the Commonwealth Ports Authority.
A Hawai’i-based U.S. Coast Guard dive team working from a Station Apra Harbor 45-foot Response Boat-Medium began work on Buoy 2 at the Outer Apra Harbor entrance, which moved off station during the storm into the channel, where vessels expect safe water.
“We were close. Despite tremendous effort and a strong team, our first attempt was hampered by challenging weather and surf conditions that ultimately became unsafe,” said Capt. Jessica Worst, commander, U.S. Coast Guard Forces Micronesia/Sector Guam and Captain of the Port Guam and the Northern Mariana Islands. “We are considering alternatives and monitoring conditions for Thursday to get Buoy 2 relocated.”
The U.S. Coast Guard continues to work with the Port of Guam, the Commonwealth Ports Authority, and commercial partners to clear channels and reopen ports. The U.S. Coast Guard team is tracking inbound commercial traffic and working with the harbormaster to prioritize the order in which vital cargo comes into port once restrictions are lifted and the port is ready to receive vessels.
“These complex challenges are exactly why we stood up an Incident Management Team to work the problem and bring in additional support,” said Capt. Worst. “We also provided liaisons from our team to key positions in the community to flow information. And we greatly appreciate the support of our partners from the port to Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron 25 and CNMI Customs and Biosecurity, who gave us a lift yesterday to start critical port assessments in the air and on the water. It is a team effort.”
Coast Guard breaks ground on Runway 1-19 recapitalization at Base Elizabeth City
PRESS RELEASE | July 7, 2026
ELIZABETH CITY, N.C. — Coast Guard leaders, elected officials, industry partners, and community stakeholders gathered Tuesday at Coast Guard Base Elizabeth City to break ground on a $32 million recapitalization of Runway 1-19, restoring a critical operational capability to one of the nation’s busiest Coast Guard aviation installations.
U.S. Coast Guard continues post-Bavi assessments in Guam and CNMI; ports remain closed to commercial traffic
PRESS RELEASE | July 7, 2026
SANTA RITA, Guam — U.S. Coast Guard Forces Micronesia/Sector Guam crews continue to assess aids to navigation and channel conditions across the Marianas on Tuesday following Super Typhoon Bavi, working toward reopening ports to daylight operations as soon as it is safe to do so.
"My team is on the water and in the air methodically checking our waterways before we lift restrictions," said Capt. Jessica Worst, commander of U.S. Coast Guard Forces Micronesia/Sector Guam and Captain of the Port Guam and Northern Mariana Islands. "A displaced buoy in the middle of a channel and missing day boards are exactly the hazards we have to clear first. We will reopen these ports deliberately, one assessment at a time, because getting it right is what prevents longer delays and keeps people and our ports safe."
Coast Guard interdicts 11 aliens near Point Loma
PRESS RELEASE | July 6, 2026
SAN DIEGO — A Coast Guard Maritime Safety and Security Team (MSST) Honolulu boarding team interdicted 11 suspected aliens aboard a 20-foot vessel approximately two miles south of Point Loma, Saturday.
U.S. Coast Guard prepares for Typhoon Bavi, urges Marianas residents to act now
PRESS RELEASE | July 2, 2026
SANTA RITA, Guam — The U.S. Coast Guard team in Guam is coordinating with the National Weather Service, Guam Homeland Security/Office of Civil Defense, the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Management, and local and federal partners as part of a unified One Marianas preparations for Typhoon Bavi (09W).
Residents and mariners should monitor official guidance from the National Weather Service and local emergency management authorities and take protective action now, before conditions deteriorate.
The Joint Typhoon Warning Center forecasts rapid intensification in the coming days, with Bavi potentially reaching super typhoon strength as it approaches the region around Sunday, July 5. The National Weather Service Guam Weather Forecast Office advises that the potential for a typhoon passage somewhere in the Marianas continues to increase. Track and intensity forecasts carry uncertainty; conditions may change rapidly in either direction, or even a slight shift in track could significantly change impacts to Guam.
US Coast Guard Barque Eagle to offer free public tours during Sail4th 250 in New York City
PRESS RELEASE | July 2, 2026
NEW YORK — U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Eagle (WIX 327) is scheduled to arrive in New York City and participate in the Sail4th 250 celebrations. During its port of call, the Eagle will moor in Manhattan at Pier 17 (South Street Seaport) and be open for free public tours.
Sail4th 250 is part of a national series of maritime events celebrating the 250th anniversary of the United States. Eagle is slated to lead the regatta of tall ships into the Port of New York and New Jersey during the Sail4th Grand Parade of Sail on July 4. The cutter's visit offers the public a unique opportunity to step aboard a historic square-rigger and interact with the cadets and crew who represent the future of the Coast Guard.
U.S. Coast Guard sets Port Heavy Weather Condition X-RAY for Guam and CNMI ahead of Typhoon Bavi
PRESS RELEASE | July 2, 2026
SANTA RITA, Guam— The U.S. Coast Guard Captain of the Port (COTP) for Guam and the Marianas set Port Heavy Weather Condition (PHWC) X-RAY for the Ports of Guam and the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands (Saipan, Tinian, and Rota), effective 8 a.m. ChST Friday, July 3, in preparation for Typhoon Bavi.
The COTP sets port conditions under authority provided in the Code of Federal Regulations to give the maritime community time to prepare, secure cargo and vessels, and take protective actions before hazardous weather arrives. Bavi is forecast to continue strengthening as it tracks toward the Marianas, bringing heavy rainfall, damaging winds, and the potential for typhoon-force gusts.
Coast Guard Cutter Bear returns home after seizing more than $63 million in illicit drugs during Eastern Pacific Ocean patrol
PRESS RELEASE | July 2, 2026
PORTSMOUTH, Va. — The crew of Coast Guard Cutter Bear (WMEC 901) returned to their home port in Portsmouth, Tuesday, after a 74-day deployment in support of Operation Pacific Viper, a Coast Guard counter-drug campaign in the Eastern Pacific Ocean.
The Bear’s crew, along with an embarked MH-65 Dolphin helicopter aviation detachment from the Helicopter Interdiction Tactical Squadron, deployed in support of Joint Interagency Task Force – South and conducted counter-drug missions in the Eastern Pacific.
Coast Guard Sector San Juan encourages safe, sober boating for July 4th weekend
PRESS RELEASE | July 2, 2026
SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico — Coast Guard, federal and local law enforcement crews will be on the lookout for unsafe boating, illegal passenger for hire vessel operations, and people boating under the influence, in support of Operation Dry Water, throughout the July 4th weekend in Puerto Rico and U.S. Virgin Islands.
Coast Guard cutter crew returns to Honolulu after joint operations across Caribbean and Eastern Pacific, prepares to participate in RIMPAC 2026
PRESS RELEASE | July 1, 2026
HONOLULU — The crew of the U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Kimball (WMSL 756) returned to their Honolulu home port June 20 after sailing more than 20,000 nautical miles during a 73-day patrol in the Caribbean. Kimball’s crew departed Honolulu on April 8 and transited through the Panama Canal to support maritime interdiction operations in the Caribbean Sea and Florida Straits. The crew monitored activity and shadowed suspected dark fleet oil tankers operating in the region, working in coordination with Coast Guard District Southeast and U.S. Southern Command.
Coast Guard Cutter Munro holds change-of-command ceremony
PRESS RELEASE | June 30, 2026
SAN DIEGO — The Coast Guard Cutter Munro (WMSL 755) held a change-of-command ceremony Friday in San Diego. Rear Adm. Jeffrey Novak, deputy commander of Coast Guard Pacific Area and commander of Coast Guard District Southwest, presided over the ceremony in which Capt. Adam Disque relieved Capt. James O’Mara as Munro’s commanding officer.
Coast Guard conducts 5 changes of command in Kodiak, Alaska
PRESS RELEASE | June 29, 2026
KODIAK, Alaska — The Coast Guard conducted five changes of command for units residing at Base Kodiak throughout the months of May and June 2026.
The following units have changed command in Kodiak, with links to each ceremony’s photos provided below:
Coast Guard Air Station Kodiak – Coast Guard Capt. D.R. Williams assumed the role of commanding officer of Air Station Kodiak from Capt. Timothy Williams in Hangar Three at Air Station Kodiak, June 26, 2026.
DVIDS - Images - Coast Guard Air Station Kodiak holds change of command ceremony [Image 1 of 10]
DVIDS - Images - Coast Guard Air Station Kodiak holds change of command ceremony [Image 1 of 26]
Coast Guard Cutter Cypress (WLB 210) – Coast Guard Lt. Cmdr. Austin Condra assumed the role of commanding officer from Cmdr. James Toohey at the Base Kodiak Pier in Kodiak, Alaska, June 25, 2026.
DVIDS - Images - Coast Guard Cutter Cypress holds change of command ceremony [Image 1 of 14]
DVIDS - Images - Coast Guard Cutter Cypress holds change of command ceremony [Image 1 of 16]
Coast Guard Cutter John Witherspoon (WPC 1158) – Coast Guard Lt. Cmdr. Matthew Panciocco assumed the role of commanding officer from Lt. Cmdr. Michael Young at the Paradigm Pier in Kodiak, Alaska, June 16, 2026.
DVIDS - Images - Coast Guard conducts change of command for Coast Guard Cutter John Witherspoon (WPC 1158) [Image 1 of 20]
DVIDS - Images - Coast Guard Cutter John Witherspoon conducts change of command ceremony [Image 1 of 14]
Coast Guard Base Kodiak – Coast Guard Capt. Gordon Hood assumed the role of commanding officer of Base Kodiak from Capt. Jeremy Hall in Hanger One at Air Station Kodiak, June 9, 2026.
DVIDS - Images - Coast Guard Base Kodiak holds change of command ceremony [Image 1 of 12]
DVIDS - Images - Coast Guard Base Kodiak holds change of command ceremony [Image 1 of 18]
Coast Guard Cutter Earl Cunningham (WPC 1159) – Coast Guard Lt. Kindal Holman assumed the role of commanding officer from Lt. Frederick Scott at the Paradigm Pier in Kodiak, May 21, 2026.
DVIDS - Images - Coast Guard Cutter Earl Cunningham crew conducts change of command [Image 1 of 5]
DVIDS - Images - Coast Guard Cutter Earl Cunningham conducts Change of Command ceremony [Image 1 of 22]
The change of command ceremony marks a transfer of total responsibility and authority from one individual to another. It is a time-honored tradition, conducted before the assembled crew, honored guests, and dignitaries, to formally demonstrate the continuity of authority within a unit’s command.
-USCG-
U.S., Canadian, Japan Coast Guards rescue 3 people from disabled vessel in North Pacific Ocean
PRESS RELEASE | June 25, 2026
The U.S. Coast Guard, Canadian Coast Guard, and Japan Coast Guard coordinated the rescue of three people stranded aboard the 40-foot disabled sailing vessel Mizuya, approximately 950 miles southwest of Adak, Alaska, Sunday.
The crew of Canadian Coast Guard Ship Sir Wilfrid Laurier picked up all three members in good condition Sunday and transferred them to the JCG patrol vessel Kurikoma Sunday for drop off in Japan.
Coast Guard repatriates 27 aliens to Cuba
PRESS RELEASE | June 25, 2026
MIAMI – Coast Guard Cutter Winslow Griesser’s crew repatriated 27 Cuban aliens to Cuba, Monday, following an interdiction in the Yucatán Channel.
Coast Guard interdicts 26 aliens near La Jolla
PRESS RELEASE | June 25, 2026
A Coast Guard boarding team assigned to Coast Guard Cutter Terrell Horne (WPC 1131) interdicted 26 suspected aliens approximately 14 miles offshore La Jolla, Tuesday.
Coast Guard concludes maritime safety, security operations for Sail250 Virginia in Norfolk
PRESS RELEASE | June 23, 2026
NORFOLK, Va. — The U.S. Coast Guard completed maritime safety and security operations for Sail250 Virginia, Tuesday, in Norfolk.
The Coast Guard worked alongside local, state and federal partners throughout Sail250 Virginia to ensure the safety and security of mariners, participating vessels and hundreds of thousands of spectators who attended the event.
New officer-in-charge at helm of Station Apra Harbor
PRESS RELEASE | June 23, 2026
SANTA RITA, Guam — Senior Chief Petty Officer Calvin Hernandez assumed command of U.S. Coast Guard Station Apra Harbor from Chief Warrant Officer Kyle Breen-Tapia in a change of command ceremony at Top o’the Mar in Guam at 10 a.m. on Tuesday.
Capt. Jessica Worst, commander of U.S. Coast Guard Forces Micronesia/Sector Guam, presided over the ceremony.
During Breen-Tapia's tenure as officer-in-charge from June 2025 to June 2026, he led 51 active duty and reserve personnel through more than 500 resource sorties and 2,500 underway hours across the remote waters of Micronesia. The crew saved or assisted 106 people and preserved more than $1 million in property — evacuating 45 passengers from a vessel disabled by an engine fire, recovering a lone survivor clinging to the hull of an overturned vessel 20 nautical miles off Agat, and pulling two stranded mariners from Tarzan Cave during an extreme tidal change.
UPDATE: Coast Guard responds to Coast Guard helicopter crash in Sitka, Alaska
PRESS RELEASE | June 22, 2026
The four Coast Guard crew members involved in a helicopter crash in Sitka, Alaska, Monday, are reported safe with non-serious injuries.
Watch standers at the Arctic District command center received the initial report of the crash through the activation of the aircrew’s personal locator beacon at approximately 10:07 a.m.
Coast Guard helicopter crashes in Sitka, Alaska
PRESS RELEASE | June 22, 2026
JUNEAU, Alaska — A Coast Guard MH-60 Jayhawk helicopter aircrew from Coast Guard Air Station Sitka crashed during a training flight with four people aboard near Harbor Mountain in Sitka, Alaska, Monday.
Rescue crews from Sitka Fire and Rescue arrived on scene at approximately 11:00 a.m. and transported all four crew members to Mt. Edgecumbe Medical Center.
No deaths have been reported.
Watch standers at the Arctic District command center received the report of the crash at approximately 10:07 a.m.
The cause of the crash is currently under investigation.
Members of the media may send their inquiries to uscgalaska@uscg.mil.
—USCG—
MEDIA AVAILABILITY: Coast Guard opens new recruiting office in Miami
PRESS RELEASE | June 22, 2026
The Coast Guard is scheduled to hold a grand opening ceremony for the new Coast Guard Miami-Doral Recruiting Office Saturday, as part of the Coast Guard’s Force Design workforce initiative.
The presiding official for the grand opening will be Capt. Jay W. Guyer, Coast Guard Accessions Service Center commander. Guyer will also preside over a swear-in ceremony for new Coast Guard recruits.
U.S., Philippine Coast Guards conclude joint pre-exercise engagements in Guam ahead of historic RIMPAC participation
PRESS RELEASE | June 16, 2026
SANTA RITA, Guam — The U.S. Coast Guard and the Philippine Coast Guard completed a series of joint pre-exercise engagements in and around Guam from June 9–13 as the Philippine Coast Guard offshore patrol vessel BRP Gabriela Silang transited toward Hawai’i for its first-ever participation in the Rim of the Pacific exercise.
“Hosting the crew of BRP Gabriela Silang here in Guam was a privilege,” said Cmdr. Grant Johnson, response department head, U.S. Coast Guard Forces Micronesia/Sector Guam. “Whether we were training side by side on the water or sharing a basketball court and a karaoke mic, our crews built the kind of trust and friendship that lasts long after the lines are cast off. That human connection is the heart of partnership, and it’s what makes our cooperation at sea so strong.”
BRP Gabriela Silang and crew arrived at Apra Harbor on June 9 and departed on June 12, conducting a pre-exercise joint sail with USCGC Frederick Hatch (WPC 1143) through the U.S. exclusive economic zone on June 13. The port call marked the end of the first leg of the Philippine Coast Guard’s journey to RIMPAC 2026, the world’s largest international naval exercise, hosted every two years by the U.S. Navy in and around the main Hawaiian Islands.
During the visit, crews from both services trained side by side. Engagements included tours of the fast-response cutter USCGC Myrtle Hazard (WPC 1139), a law-enforcement static display and a mock security boarding aboard USCGC Oliver Henry (WPC 1140), and a small-boat demonstration in Outer Apra Harbor by Station Apra Harbor. Crews also competed in a basketball game and shared an evening of karaoke aboard Gabriela Silang, building the personal relationships that underpin operations at sea.
Coast Guard to lead maritime safety, security during Sail250 Virginia celebrations in Norfolk
PRESS RELEASE | June 16, 2026
NORFOLK, Va. — In honor of America’s 250th anniversary, the U.S. Coast Guard will oversee comprehensive maritime safety and security operations alongside local, state and federal partners during Sail250 Virginia, which is scheduled to be held in Norfolk, June 19-23.
Sail250 Virginia, a massive maritime celebration to commemorate the nation’s semiquincentennial and recognize shared global maritime heritage, is projected to bring an influx of more than 60 ships from 20 nations including tall ships, military vessels and spectator craft to the Norfolk waterfront.
United States, Australia, Pacific Island partners complete Operation Irensia 2026 in Guam
PRESS RELEASE | June 14, 2026
SANTA RITA, Guam — Partners from the Freely Associated States of Micronesia, the U.S. Coast Guard Forces Micronesia/Sector Guam, and Australian Maritime Security Advisers under the Pacific Maritime Security Program, concluded Operation Irensia 2026 June 7, completing a 13-day multilateral maritime security exercise and law enforcement training program that brought together patrol boat crews from the Federated States of Micronesia, the Republic of Palau, and the Republic of the Marshall Islands at Apra Harbor.
“Operation Irensia reflects what genuine partnership looks like in the Pacific. The crews who trained alongside us this week returned home with sharper skills and stronger relationships with their counterparts across the region. That is a direct investment in the security of Pacific waters — led jointly by Pacific maritime forces,” said Capt. Jessica Worst, commander, U.S. Coast Guard Forces Micronesia/Sector Guam.
Four Pacific Island patrol boat crews participated in the second annual operation:
The Maritime Wing aboard FSS Bethwel Henry and FSS Tosiwo Nakayama from FSM,
The Division of Marine Law aboard PSS President H.I. Remeliik II from Palau,
The Sea Patrol aboard RMIS Jelmae from the Marshall Islands.
Across 13 days of shoreside instruction and underway exercises, crews advanced their maritime law enforcement capability, practiced counter-narcotics boarding procedures, competed in damage control events, and conducted formation operations in Guam's coastal waters.
Coast Guard enhances maritime safety and security posture for World Cup
PRESS RELEASE | June 13, 2026
SEATTLE — As cities across North America prepare to host the World Cup, the Coast Guard is implementing enhanced safety and security measures alongside international, federal, state and local partners. The Coast Guard will have an increased presence during the next several weeks near Washington State ports, waterways, fan zones, and the shared maritime border with Canada.
New commanding officer at helm of Marine Safety Unit Saipan
PRESS RELEASE | June 13, 2026
GARAPAN, Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands — Lt. Gabriel LaMartina assumed command of U.S. Coast Guard Marine Safety Unit Saipan from Lt. Justin Miller in a change of command ceremony in Saipan on Saturday.
Capt. Jessica Worst, commander of U.S. Coast Guard Forces Micronesia/Sector Guam, presided over the ceremony.
During Miller's tenure from October 2023 to June 2026, MSU Saipan stood up as a full Marine Safety Unit — elevated from Marine Safety Detachment Saipan on April 5, 2024 — and matured into the Coast Guard's permanent prevention and response presence across the Commonwealth. Under his leadership, the unit advanced maritime safety, security, and environmental stewardship through vessel inspections, port state control examinations, container inspections, and continuous engagement with port partners and local leaders.
Homeland Security Task Force San Juan partners apprehend a stowaway, seize $4.8 million in cocaine off Arecibo, Puerto Rico
PRESS RELEASE | June 11, 2026
Coast Guard Cutters Joseph Tezanos and Isaac Mayo crewmembers and Homeland Security Task Force - San Juan Region law enforcement partners apprehended a stowaway and seized a weapon and nine bales of cocaine off the northern coast of Arecibo, Puerto Rico, Tuesday, June 10, 2026.
This interdiction is part of Homeland Security Task Force – San Juan Region efforts to combat human smuggling, drug trafficking, and deter unlawful maritime migration.
The seized cocaine weighed approximately 237.75 kgs and is estimated to have a wholesale value of $4.8 million. The apprehended drug trafficker faces federal prosecution on drug trafficking and firearms charges.
U.S. Coast Guard advances Arctic security with Kodiak and Seward homeports
PRESS RELEASE | June 11, 2026
WASHINGTON — The U.S. Coast Guard announced it would homeport its first two Arctic Security Cutters in Kodiak, Alaska with a third Alaska Arctic Security Cutter homeported in Seward when the infrastructure is ready. This follows April’s announcement that the Service would homeport its first two Arctic Security Cutters in Alaska. With the first delivery expected in 2028, the Coast Guard is accelerating preparations to ensure each location is ready to support sustained Arctic operations including advancing critical infrastructure and housing required to support the trained and ready crews who will bring these cutters to life.
U.S. Coast Guard accepts delivery of 63rd Fast Response Cutter named for 9/11 hero
PRESS RELEASE | June 11, 2026
KEY WEST — The U.S. Coast Guard accepted delivery of the 63rd Fast Response Cutter, Jeffrey Palazzo (WPC 1163), on Thursday in Key West.
Jeffrey Palazzo is the fifth FRC to be homeported in Guam, joining the recently commissioned Vincent Danz (WPC 1162).
The Sentinel-class FRCs replaced the 1980s Island-class 110-foot patrol boats and possess 21st-century command, control, communications, computers, cyber, intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance equipment, with improved habitability and seakeeping. The U.S. Coast Guard ordered a total of 77 FRCs to date to perform a range of missions, including countering illicit maritime activities, search and rescue, bilateral and multilateral international operations, and the national defense of ports, waterways, and coastal areas.
Coast Guard repatriates 32 aliens to Dominican Republic Navy following vessel interdiction off Desecheo, Puerto Rico
PRESS RELEASE | June 9, 2026
The crew of Coast Guard Cutter Heriberto Hernandez repatriated 32 aliens to a Dominican Republic Navy vessel at sea, Sunday, following the interdiction of a makeshift vessel near Desecheo, Puerto Rico.
This interdiction is part of the efforts of the Homeland Security Task Force – San Juan Region to combat human smuggling and deter unlawful maritime migration.
Sector San Juan watchstanders received a report from the aircrew of a Customs and Border Protection aircraft of a grossly overloaded 20 to 30-foot makeshift vessel off Desecheo, Puerto Rico. With assistance from the Customs and Border Protection aircrew, the U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Heriberto Hernandez interdicted the suspect vessel.
U.S. Coast Guard concludes Bahamas mission in Lynette Hooker disappearance investigation
PRESS RELEASE | June 8, 2026
The U.S. Coast Guard concluded its mission to the Bahamas in support of the ongoing investigation into the disappearance of Lynette Hooker, Friday.
Search operations employed a range of specialized capabilities, including divers, remotely operated underwater vehicles, unmanned aerial systems, and a cadaver dog to thoroughly examine newly identified areas of interest.
Coast Guard updates phone numbers in Southeast Alaska
PRESS RELEASE | June 4, 2026
JUNEAU, Alaska — The Coast Guard changed its phone numbers for staff offices and other units throughout Southeast Alaska as part of a service-wide telephone modernization directive, Thursday.
Coast Guard crews, Good Samaritan rescue 3 boaters off Loíza, Puerto Rico
PRESS RELEASE | June 1, 2026
Coast Guard air and surface crews and a Good Samaritan rescue three boaters in distress off the coast of Loíza, Puerto Rico, Sunday night.
Coast Guard watchstanders in Sector San Juan received a call relayed by a 911 emergency service operator at 7 p.m., Sunday, from a boater reporting that his father had jumped into the water without a life jacket in an attempt to fix their vessel’s outboard engine and was quickly swept away aby the sea-state and ocean currents. The reporting source further relayed two persons remained aboard the disabled vessel.
Coast Guard interdicts 36 aliens near San Diego
PRESS RELEASE | May 26, 2026
A Coast Guard boarding team assigned to the 154-foot fast response cutter USCGC John McCormick (WPC 1121) interdicted 36 suspected aliens approximately 22 miles offshore of San Diego, Tuesday.
Coast Guard interdicts 10 aliens near San Clemente Island
PRESS RELEASE | May 24, 2026
A Coast Guard boarding team assigned to the 87-foot Marine Protector-class U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Haddock (WPB 87347) interdicted 10 suspected aliens approximately 27 miles east of San Clemente Island, Friday.
U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Waesche returns to Alameda after successful 113-day patrol in Bering Sea
PRESS RELEASE | May 22, 2026
ALAMEDA, Calif. – The crew of U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Waesche (WMSL 751) returned to their homeport in Alameda Friday after concluding a 113-day patrol in the Bering Sea. The cutter traveled 18,685 nautical miles conducting a broad range of operations including maritime law enforcement, search and rescue and the integration of new capabilities, all while projecting U.S. presence in the high north environment.
The Waesche crew rescued five mariners from the fishing vessel Ocean Bay after it ran aground and began taking on water near Umnak Island, Alaska. The cutter provided on scene support while an Air Station Kodiak MH-60T Jayhawk helicopter crew hoisted the fishermen to safety. Additionally, the Waesche provided communications and oversight during the aerial rescue of two hikers stranded in the Dutch Harbor mountains.
U.S. Coast Guard commissions 62nd Fast Response Cutter honoring 9/11 hero
PRESS RELEASE | May 22, 2026
NEW YORK — The U.S. Coast Guard commissioned its newest Fast Response Cutter, USCGC Vincent Danz (WPC 1162), for official entry into its service fleet during a ceremony held in New York City on Friday.
The Vice Commandant of the Coast Guard, Vice Adm. Thomas Allan, presided over the ceremony. Members of the Danz family were also in attendance, including the cutter's sponsor, Ms. Angela Donohue, widow of the late Vincent Danz.
“Vincent Danz’s legacy will live on not only through his family and his brothers and sisters in the NYPD, but through the Coast Guard crew who will breathe life into this cutter today,” said Adm. Tom Allan. “The Coast Guard Cutter Vincent Danz will perform the Coast Guard's vital work across Oceania—projecting U.S. presence, countering illicit maritime activity, and strengthening our international partnerships.”
The Vincent Danz is the 62nd Sentinel-class Fast Response Cutter in the service and the fourth of five FRCs to be homeported in Guam with U.S. Coast Guard Forces Micronesia/Sector Guam. The crew of the Vincent Danz will primarily serve U.S. and mutual interests in Oceania with an emphasis on the Micronesia and Melanesian sub-regions, conducting maritime security operations, combating illegal activity, supporting search and rescue missions, and strengthening partnerships with Pacific Island nations and Allies. The cutter is a multi-mission platform.
US Coast Guard Barque Eagle to visit Pensacola, May 23-24
PRESS RELEASE | May 22, 2026
PENSACOLA, Fla. — U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Eagle (WIX 327) is scheduled to visit Pensacola and will be open to visitors Saturday and Sunday. The Eagle will be moored at the Plaza de Luna Memorial Monument, located at 900 S. Palafox St. in downtown Pensacola, and will offer free public tours during the following dates and times:
Saturday, May 23, from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.
Sunday, May 24, from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Coast Guard urges preparedness during National Safe Boating Week
PRESS RELEASE | May 20, 2026
SEATTLE – In support of National Safe Boating Week, held from May 16 to 22, the Coast Guard Northwest District urges all boaters and paddlers throughout the Pacific Northwest to become knowledgeable on water safety as we enter the 2026 boating season.
Coast Guard terminates illegal charter voyage near Anna Maria Island
PRESS RELEASE | May 20, 2026
CLEARWATER, Fla. — A Coast Guard Station Cortez law enforcement crew terminated an illegal charter voyage that was acting as a bareboat charter, Thursday, near Anna Maria Island.
Coast Guard officers deemed the 54-foot vessel, Maititiki, to be operating as an illegal small passenger vessel, terminated the charter’s voyage, and escorted the boat and passengers back to Coquina Beach.
Coast Guard, partners respond to oil spill at Ala Wai Harbor in Honolulu
PRESS RELEASE | May 18, 2026
HONOLULU — The Coast Guard, the Hawaii Department of Health Hazard Evaluation & Emergency Response Office, and the Hawaii Department of Land and Natural Resources Division of Boating and Ocean Recreation are responding to an oil spill at Ala Wai Harbor in Honolulu on Monday.
Media Availability: Coast Guard to host media, demonstrate boating safety at Marine Corps Base Hawaii
PRESS RELEASE | May 15, 2026
WHO: Coast Guard Station Honolulu, Joint Rescue Coordination Center Honolulu
WHAT: Coast Guard representatives will discuss boating safety, display equipment, and provide a boat ride-along for media
WHEN: Saturday, May 23, 9 to 10:30 a.m.
WHERE: Marine Corps Base Hawaii Marina, 1 D St., Kailua, HI 96734
U.S. Coast Guard’s newest polar icebreaker returns to Seattle following 36-day deployment to Bering Sea
PRESS RELEASE | May 15, 2026
SEATTLE — The crew of the U.S. Coast Guard’s newest polar icebreaker, the USCGC Storis (WAGB 21), returned to their temporary Seattle home port Monday after a 36-day deployment to the Bering Sea. The patrol focused on advancing operational readiness, strengthening interoperability with other military assets and testing new concepts to support prolonged operations in one of the world’s most demanding and austere maritime environments.
Coast Guard interdicts 1 alien near Imperial Beach
PRESS RELEASE | May 14, 2026
SAN DIEGO — The Coast Guard interdicted one suspected illegal alien approximately 3 miles north of the maritime boundary line, Wednesday.
U.S. Coast Guard District Southwest Phone: (206) 815-6689
U.S. Coast Guard announces $212 million in Base Charleston improvements
PRESS RELEASE | May 11, 2026
WASHINGTON – The U.S. Coast Guard today awarded two contracts that will deliver critical new operational and support facilities at Base Charleston in North Charleston, South Carolina. These projects support the Coast Guard’s transformation initiatives and will deliver critical new operational and support facilities to the expanding base.
MEDIA AVAILABILITY: Coast Guard opens new recruiting office in Austin
PRESS RELEASE | May 11, 2026
The Coast Guard is scheduled to hold a grand opening ceremony for the new Coast Guard Austin Recruiting office Saturday, as part of Force Design 2028 (FD2028) workforce initiatives.
The presiding official for the grand opening will be Capt. Benjamin Keffer, Coast Guard Accessions Service Center commander. Keffer will also preside over a swear-in ceremony for new Coast Guard recruits.
Coast Guard issues Captain of the Port Orders to vessels obstructing the navigable channel in San Juan Harbor
PRESS RELEASE | May 9, 2026
Coast Guard Sector San Juan announced Saturday that Captain of the Port Orders were issued to two Togo-flagged multipurpose offshore vessels for obstructing the navigable San Antonio Channel of San Juan Harbor, Puerto Rico, while moored at Pier 10, May 1, 2026.
Until further notice, vessels Water Spirit 2 and Admiral Pride will not be cleared to re-enter San Juan Harbor unless they demonstrate to the Coast Guard their ability to moor in accordance with well-established industry standards without impacting the safe navigation of vessels within the harbor's finite waterways.
Under Title 46 USC § 70036, any person in violation of these orders is subject to a maximum civil penalty of $117,608 for each day of a continuing violation.
US Coast Guard Barque Eagle to visit Savannah, Georgia
PRESS RELEASE | May 7, 2026
SAVANNAH, Ga. — U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Eagle (WIX 327) is scheduled to visit Savannah and will be open to visitors, Friday-Sunday.
The Eagle will be moored near the World Apart Monument, a World War II memorial located on River Street in Savannah, and will offer free public tours during the following dates and times:
Friday, May 8 (2 – 7 p.m.)
Saturday, May 9 (10 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.)
Sunday, May 10 (10 a.m. – 7 p.m.)
Coast Guard awards $400 million contract for historic Training Center Cape May enhancements
PRESS RELEASE | May 7, 2026
WASHINGTON – The U.S. Coast Guard has awarded a contract valued at up to $400 million to Whiting Turner Contracting Company for the design and construction of new facilities at Coast Guard Training Center (TRACEN) Cape May, New Jersey. This marks the largest shore construction award in Coast Guard history and is part of a broader effort to modernize the service’s only accession point for enlisted personnel.
Coast Guard interdicts 2 aliens near Mission Bay
PRESS RELEASE | May 6, 2026
U.S. Coast Guard District Southwest Phone: (206) 815-6689
SAN DIEGO — Coast Guard members interdicted two suspected aliens near the entrance of Mission Bay in San Diego, Monday afternoon.
Coast Guard rescues 2 stranded hikers on Unalaska Island, Alaska
PRESS RELEASE | April 27, 2026
The Coast Guard rescued two hikers who were stranded on Makushin Volcano in Unalaska, Alaska, Sunday.
At approximately 8:30 a.m., watchstanders at the Coast Guard Arctic District command center in Juneau received a request from the Alaska State Troopers to assist with two hikers stranded at approximately 2,000 feet of elevation on Makushin Volcano. One of the hikers was reported to have a leg injury.
Recovery Update 5: U.S. Coast Guard shifts focus to environmental recovery following Super Typhoon Sinlaku
PRESS RELEASE | April 27, 2026
SANTA RITA, Guam— With the Port of Guam fully open and the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands ports open for daylight operations following Super Typhoon Sinlaku, the U.S. Coast Guard entered a new phase of the response Monday focused on environmental recovery and marine safety.
"With commerce moving again, our attention turns to the waterways themselves," said Capt. Worst. "We have additional crews in Saipan this week conducting pollution assessment and response operations, and the majority of vessel owners and operators are doing the right thing — taking responsibility for their affected vessels. That cooperation makes a real difference for our communities and our environment. We appreciate the support of all our partners throughout this response."
Coast Guard repatriates 21 aliens to Dominican Republic following migrant vessel interdiction off Puerto Rico
PRESS RELEASE | April 22, 2026
The crew of Coast Guard Cutter Joseph Tezanos repatriated 21 aliens to Dominican Republic, Monday, following the interdiction of an unlawful migration vessel voyage in Mona Passage waters northwest of Aguadilla, Puerto Rico.
One other interdicted migrant was found to have an active Puerto Rico Police arrest warrant and he remains in custody.
The repatriated migrants were transferred to a Dominican Republic Navy vessel on Monday afternoon. No minors were reported in this case.
Recovery Update 4: U.S. Coast Guard opens Saipan waterway to daylight operations, all three CNMI port waterways now accessible
PRESS RELEASE | April 22, 2026
SANTA RITA, Guam — The U.S. Coast Guard Captain of the Port for Guam and the Marianas set Port Heavy Weather Condition Whiskey for the Port of Saipan at 3:30 p.m. on Wednesday, authorizing daylight-only operations. The action marks the first commercial access to Saipan's port since Super Typhoon Sinlaku made landfall.
"Getting vessels into Saipan means supplies can move, and that matters enormously to the people in the CNMI. Restoring waterway access is vital, and it is one of the reasons I'm honored to serve in this region,” said Capt. Jessica Worst, commander of U.S. Coast Guard Forces Micronesia/Sector Guam and Captain of the Port for Guam and the Marianas.“We want to be clear with mariners and operators: the waterway is open, but coordinate with the Commonwealth Ports Authority before you go pierside — they are the right authority on what the facilities can handle right now. While we work through recovery, our teams are simultaneously assessing potential pollution risks and smaller vessels that were lost or displaced in the storm."
The U.S. Coast Guard Captain of the Port's primary focus is on the waterways. Lifting a Port Heavy Weather Condition indicates that the channel has been assessed, known obstructions have been addressed, and federal restrictions on vessel movement have been removed. The waterways are open for daylight operations. What a specific pier or facility can safely handle is a separate question that mariners and operators must work out directly with the Commonwealth Ports Authority. Vessel operators should coordinate with the pilots as appropriate.
Coast Guard’s sole heavy icebreaker returns home following Antarctic deployment
PRESS RELEASE | April 20, 2026
SEATTLE — The crew aboard the U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Polar Star (WAGB 10) returned home to Seattle on April 13, following a 146-day Antarctic deployment in support of Operation Deep Freeze (ODF) 2026.
Polar Star departed Seattle Nov. 20, traveling more than 20,000 nautical miles through ocean and ice to complete ODF 2026. ODF is the logistical support provided by the Department of War to the U.S. National Science Foundation (NSF)-managed U.S. Antarctic Program (USAP).
Recovery Update 3: Coast Guard crews make first port gains in CNMI, initial Rota and Tinian assessments complete
PRESS RELEASE | April 20, 2026
SANTA RITA, Guam — The Coast Guard Captain of the Port for Guam and the Marianas set a modified Port Heavy Weather Condition Whiskey for the Port of Tinian on Monday, reopening the port to daytime-only cargo operations and commercial traffic.
U.S. Coast Guard crews completed the first port surveys of the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, finishing initial assessments at Rota on Sunday and Tinian on Monday.
Recovery Update 2: U.S. Coast Guard surges to CNMI as recovery push intensifies, continues support in Guam
PRESS RELEASE | April 19, 2026
SANTA RITA, Guam — U.S. Coast Guard crews press north Sunday toward communities still isolated by the effects of Super Typhoon Sinlaku, launching a coordinated surge to reopen ports across the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands.
Ports in Saipan, Tinian, and Rota remain closed while U.S. Coast Guard teams and port stakeholders conduct post-storm assessments of waterways and navigational aids. Additional assets are converging on the area to accelerate that work. For CNMI's island communities, open ports mean increased access to supplies.
"Getting Saipan, Tinian, and Rota back open is our most urgent priority," said Capt. Jessica Worst, commander of U.S. Coast Guard Forces Micronesia/Sector Guam and Captain of the Port for Guam and the Marianas. "The northern islands took the hardest hit from this storm and depend on these ports for the supplies their communities need every day. We have crews moving now, and distance is not going to slow us down."
Coast Guard reopens Port of Guam, delivers aid to Saipan
PRESS RELEASE | April 17, 2026
SANTA RITA, Guam — The Coast Guard Captain of the Port Guam set Port Heavy Weather Condition Whiskey for the Port of Guam effective 8 a.m. Saturday, reopening the port to modified, daytime operations following Typhoon Sinlaku.
Coast Guard Cutter Bertholf returns to California following 3-month deployment
PRESS RELEASE | April 16, 2026
ALAMEDA, Calif. — U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Bertholf (WMSL 750) returned to its home port in Alameda, Friday, after an 80-day counter-narcotics deployment to the Eastern Pacific Ocean.
Over the course of the deployment, Bertholf’s crew saved one life and interdicted more than half a million dollars’ worth of cocaine.
U.S. Coast Guard announces homeporting of the first two Arctic Security Cutters in Alaska
PRESS RELEASE | April 16, 2026
WASHINGTON — The U.S. Coast Guard announced today that the first two Arctic Security Cutters will be homeported in the State of Alaska. Anticipating delivery of the first Arctic Security Cutters by the end of 2028, the Coast Guard has begun planning to ensure necessary infrastructure and support are in place to receive two icebreakers.
Coast Guard rescues 4 from vessel trapped in ice near Chefornak, Alaska
PRESS RELEASE | April 15, 2026
KODIAK, Alaska — The Coast Guard rescued three adults and one child from an 18-foot vessel trapped on an ice floe approximately 10 miles west of Chefornak, Sunday.
Watchstanders at the Coast Guard Arctic District command center received a report at 4:24 p.m. Saturday from the Alaska State Troopers that a group of four people on a subsistence seal hunting expedition required assistance after being trapped on the ice for over 24 hours.
The hunting party freed the vessel from the ice overnight and attempted to reach a shore party which had come from the village with snow machines. However, moving ice prevented the vessel from reaching the shore party.
Coast Guard watchstanders directed the launch of both an MH-60 Jayhawk helicopter aircrew and an HC-130 Hercules airplane crew from Coast Guard Air Station Kodiak to respond.
The helicopter aircrew arrived on scene at approximately 5 a.m. Sunday after making stops in both King Salmon and Bethel to refuel.
All four people were safely hoisted into the helicopter and transported back to the village of Chefornak with no reported injuries.
“Our entire crew agreed this was one of the most challenging missions any of us had ever flown,” said Lt. Cmdr. Alexis Chavarria-Aguilar, pilot-in-command for the helicopter. “We battled nearly every Alaska-centric aviation weather hazard imaginable, such as flying over 800 miles in near-zero visibility through mountainous terrain, blowing snow and icing conditions. The teamwork was on full display during the recovery of the survivors. It was a long, difficult night, but I’m so proud of everyone involved who worked seamlessly together to bring four people home safely.”
The hunting party had three forms communications on board, which greatly enhanced the Coast Guard’s ability to locate and rescue them.
Weather on scene at the time of the rescue was: 28-degree air temperature, 29-mph winds, 800-foot cloud ceiling, and 9 miles of visibility.