MEDIA ADVISORY: Coast Guard to offload more than $214 million of cocaine in San Diego
PRESS RELEASE | April 23, 2025
Who: Rear Adm. Joanna Hiigel, acting deputy commander, Coast Guard Pacific Area, U.S. Coast Guard, Capt. Robert Kinsey, U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Kimball commanding officer and crew, Mr. Brian Clark, special agent in charge, DEA, San Diego Field Office; Mr. Kevin Murohy, deputy special agent in charge, Homeland Security Investigations, San Diego Field Office.
What: U. S. Coast Guard Cutter Kimball (WMSL 756) crew to offload approximately 18,898 pounds of cocaine, with an estimated value of more than $214.3 million.
When: 9:00 a.m., Thursday
Where: 10th Ave Marine Terminal - 1800 Crosby Rd, San Diego, CA 92101
Coast Guard rescues man from cruise ship off Coos Bay, Oregon
PRESS RELEASE | April 22, 2025
SEATTLE - The Coast Guard medevaced a crewmember from a cruise ship approximately 15 miles offshore of Coos Bay, Oregon, Easter Sunday.
Coast Guard Sector Columbia River watchstanders received a report from the M/V National Geographic Venture at 6:38 a.m., Apr. 20, that a 30-year-old male crewmember was suffering from excessive vomiting and shortness of breath.
Coast Guard interdicts 19 aliens 23 miles west of Oceanside
PRESS RELEASE | April 22, 2025
The crew of the Coast Guard Cutter David Duren (WPC 1156) interdicted 19 aliens aboard a 25-foot cuddy cabin approximately 23 miles west of Oceanside, California, Tuesday.
At approximately 2:15 a.m., David Duren’s boarding team intercepted a cuddy cabin matching the description of a suspected human smuggling boat and discovered 18 adult males and one adult female all claiming Mexican nationality.
Coast Guard Cutter Seneca returns home after 54-day maritime border security patrol in the Windward Passage
PRESS RELEASE | April 22, 2025
PORTSMOUTH, VA — The crew of Coast Guard Cutter Seneca (WMEC 906) returned to their home port in Portsmouth, April 11, following a 54-day maritime border security patrol in the Windward Passage.
Seneca deployed in support of Homeland Security Task Force – Southeast (HSTF-SE) and Operation Vigilant Sentry (OVS) while underway in the Seventh Coast Guard District's area of responsibility. Crew members directly contributed to safeguarding America by patrolling U.S. maritime borders and conducting alien interdiction operations.
Media Advisory: The U.S. Coast Guard Academy will host a Wall of Gallantry Induction ceremony
PRESS RELEASE | April 21, 2025
The U.S. Coast Guard Academy will host a Wall of Gallantry Induction ceremony on Friday April 25, 2025. For the last 20 years more than 140 Academy graduates have been recognized for heroic acts of service by being inducted into the Hall of Heroes Wall of Gallantry, part of a memorial in Chase Hall. This year the following alums will be honored for actions that will serve as an inspiration for the future leaders of the service:
Coast Guard suspends search for overdue boaters off Neah Bay, Washington
PRESS RELEASE | April 18, 2025
The Coast Guard suspended the search Thursday night for two people on board a 15-foot pleasure craft, which capsized off Neah Bay, Washington, pending new information.
Coast Guard Sector Puget Sound watchstanders received a report from the Makah Tribal Police Department at approximately 11 p.m., Apr. 16, that a vessel failed to return to its slip at 8 p.m. as scheduled. The vessel was later discovered capsized on a beach near Koitlah Point.
The Coast Guard responded with multiple aircraft and vessels alongside our tribal, local, state, federal, and Canadian partners. Rescue crews searched over 850 square nautical miles, over a 28 hour period.
Coast Guard, Puerto Rico Police rescue 3 boaters from grounded vessel on Morillo Cay, Guayama, Puerto Rico
PRESS RELEASE | April 15, 2025
A Coast Guard aircrew and a Puerto Rico Police marine crew rescued three boaters, two men and a woman, from a grounded recreational vessel on Morillo Cay in Guayama, Puerto Rico, Thursday night.
The 19-foot recreational vessel reportedly was transiting at high speed when it ran hard aground ejecting one of the three passengers onboard who sustained an open wound to his forehead.
“The teamwork and coordination between the Coast Guard and responding Puerto Rico Police enabled us to successfully execute this mission and we are grateful for their partnership,” said Lt. Christian Welch, Coast Guard MH-60T Jayhawk co-pilot for the case. “This case emphasizes the importance of safe boating practices, especially while operating at night.”
Coast Guard Cutter Spencer returns home after Operation Vigilant Sentry patrol, service life extension upgrades
PRESS RELEASE | April 14, 2025
PORTSMOUTH, Va. — The crew of Coast Guard Cutter Spencer (WMEC 905) returned to their home port in Portsmouth, Friday, following a 92-day deployment in support of alien interdiction operations in the Florida Straits.
Deployed in support of Homeland Security Task Force – Southeast (HSTF-SE) and Operation Vigilant Sentry (OVS) in the Seventh Coast Guard District’s area of responsibility, Spencer’s crew conducted search and rescue, and maritime border security operations to support the ongoing U.S. mission to protect the maritime borders of America.
Coast Guard Cutter James returns home after multi-month patrol, seizing $510M in narcotics and participating in advanced US Navy exercises
PRESS RELEASE | April 14, 2025
NORTH CHARLESTON, S.C. — The crew of Coast Guard Cutter James (WMSL 754) returned to their home port in North Charleston, Saturday, following a 112-day, multi-phase deployment, where crew members conducted counter-narcotic operations in the Eastern Pacific Ocean and participated in joint exercises with the U.S. Navy in the Atlantic Ocean.
James’ crew spent their first two months underway in support of Joint Interagency Task Force – South (JIATF-S) while on patrol in the Coast Guard Eleventh District's area of operations.
Photo Release: Coast Guard Air Station Clearwater: AMT2 Brian Skinner
PRESS RELEASE | April 11, 2025
CLEARWATER, Fla. — U.S. Coast Guard Petty Officer 2nd Class Brian Skinner, an aviation maintenance technician at Coast Guard Air Station Clearwater, completes heavy maintenance on an MH-60 Jayhawk helicopter at Coast Guard Air Station Clearwater, Florida, April 9, 2025. Skinner, a California native, followed his family’s military service tradition and joined the Coast Guard to help save lives.
Coast Guard, locals rescue overdue boater near Barnegat Bay
PRESS RELEASE | April 10, 2025
The Coast Guard, local law enforcement and commercial salvage crews rescued an overdue man Thursday, near Barnegat Bay, New Jersey.
Rescued was John Mazzy, 72, from an aids to navigation dayboard in the vicinity of Oyster Creek Channel.
Coast Guard finalizes permanent relief of Sector San Diego commander
PRESS RELEASE | April 8, 2025
SAN DIEGO — The U.S. Coast Guard permanently relieved the commander of Coast Guard Sector San Diego Tuesday after temporarily relieving the commander on October 24, 2024.
Rear Adm. Joseph Buzzella, commander, District Eleven, temporarily relieved Capt. James Spitler following an investigation leading to a loss of confidence due to failures in leadership, judgement, and integrity.
Coast Guard interdicts 22 aliens west of San Diego
PRESS RELEASE | April 7, 2025
SAN DIEGO — The crew of the Coast Guard Cutter Narwhal (WPB-87335) interdicted 22 aliens aboard a 45-foot cabin cruiser approximately six miles west of Point Loma, California, Sunday.
Coast Guard interdicts suspected smuggling vessel off San Diego coast
PRESS RELEASE | April 7, 2025
Coast Guard interdicts suspected smuggling vessel off San Diego coast
SAN DIEGO — The Coast Guard Cutter Terrell Horne (WPC 1131), with support from the USS Spruance (DDG 111) and Department of Homeland Security partners interdicted a suspected maritime smuggling vessel carrying eight Mexican nationals approximately 27 miles west of San Diego, Saturday.
Coast Guard commissions Coast Guard Cutter John Witherspoon (WPC 1158) in Kodiak, Alaska
PRESS RELEASE | April 3, 2025
KODIAK, Alaska — The Coast Guard commissioned its newest cutter, Coast Guard Cutter John Witherspoon (WPC 1158) for official entry into its service fleet during a ceremony held in Kodiak, Thursday.
The ceremony was presided over by Rear Adm. Megan Dean, commander of the Seventeenth Coast Guard District. Members of the Witherspoon family were also in attendance, including the cutter’s sponsor, Regina Nash, the daughter of John Witherspoon.
The Witherspoon is the 58th Fast Response Cutter (FRC) in the service and the first of three FRCs scheduled to be homeported at Coast Guard Base Kodiak. The crew of the Witherspoon will primarily serve in and around the Aleutian Islands, Bering Sea, Gulf of Alaska, and North Pacific Ocean. The cutter is designed for missions such as search and rescue; fishery patrols; drug and migrant interdiction; national defense; and ports, waterways, and coastal security.
The namesake for the cutter, Capt. John G. Witherspoon, enlisted in the Coast Guard in 1963 and commissioned as an ensign in 1971. During his career, Witherspoon rose to the rank of captain and served as the commanding officer on Coast Guard Cutters Mallow (WLB 396), Valiant (WMEC 621), and Dependable (WMEC 626).
During his tenure, Witherspoon became the first African American to command a medium endurance cutter and the first African American officer to command both afloat and ashore units. He earned both the Coast Guard Meritorious Service Medal and two Coast Guard Commendation Medals during his career.
In honor of his dedication to mentorship amongst Coast Guard personnel, the Coast Guard established the Captain John G. Witherspoon Inspirational Leadership Award, which is given to one active duty officer and one reserve officer each year who demonstrate Witherspoon’s qualities of honor, respect, and devotion to duty.
The Coast Guard has ordered a total of 65 FRCs to replace the 1980s-era Island-class 110-foot patrol boats. The FRCs feature advanced command, control, communications, computers, intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance equipment; over-the-horizon cutter boat deployment to reach vessels of interest; and improved habitability and seakeeping.
The commissioning ceremony is a traditional milestone in the life of a cutter that marks its entry into active service and represents the cutter’s readiness to conduct Coast Guard operations.
Coast Guard’s heavy icebreaker returns to the U.S. after 128-day deployment in support of Operation Deep Freeze
PRESS RELEASE | April 2, 2025
SAN FRANCISCO – The U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Polar Star (WAGB 10) and crew returned to the United States, arriving in San Francisco Sunday, following a 128-day deployment to Antarctica in support of Operation Deep Freeze 2025. Polar Star completed its 28th voyage to Antarctica in support of the joint military service mission to resupply and maintain the United States Antarctic Stations. Every year, a joint total force team works together to complete a successful Operation Deep Freeze in support of the U.S. National Science Foundation – the agency that manages the United States Antarctic Program.
MEDIA AVAILABILITY: Coast Guard to commission Coast Guard Cutter John Witherspoon (WPC 1158) in Kodiak, Alaska
PRESS RELEASE | March 31, 2025
KODIAK, Alaska — The Coast Guard is scheduled to hold a commissioning ceremony for Coast Guard Cutter John Witherspoon (WPC 1158), the service’s newest Fast Response Cutter (FRC), Thursday.
WHO: Rear Adm. Megan Dean, commander of the 17th Coast Guard District; Lt. Cmdr. Adam Young, commanding officer of Coast Guard Cutter John Witherspoon, Lt. j.g. Katelynn Lane, executive officer of Coast Guard Cutter John Witherspoon; cutter crew members.
WHAT: Commissioning ceremony for Coast Guard Cutter John Witherspoon, the service’s newest FRC and first of three FRC’s to be homeported at Coast Guard Base Kodiak
WHEN: Thursday, April 3rd, 2025, at 10:00 a.m.
WHERE: Coast Guard Air Station Kodiak aviation hangar
Members of the media are requested to RSVP to the Coast Guard District 17 Public Affairs office by emailing uscgalaska@uscg.mil or calling (907) 723-5367 no later than Wednesday, April at 2:00 p.m. to receive instructions for attendance and base access.
Coast Guard, Navy rescue 18 people from disabled vessel off San Diego coast
PRESS RELEASE | March 31, 2025
IMAGERY AVAILABLE: A Coast Guard Air Station San Diego MH-60 Jayhawk helicopter aircrew and the crew of the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Spruance (DDG 111) rescued 17 aliens and one American aboard a disabled and adrift vessel approximately 50 miles southwest of San Diego Sunday.
Coast Guard inspection team reveals hazardous cargo threatening safety, security of Puerto Nuevo Terminals port facility in San Juan, Puerto Rico
PRESS RELEASE | March 27, 2025
A Coast Guard Sector San Juan inspections team discovered an Anhydrous Ammonia hazardous cargo shipment threatening the safety and security of the Puerto Nuevo Terminals (PNT) port facility, Wednesday.
A Coast Guard investigation into the situation is ongoing.
A team of three Coast Guard Marine Science Technicians conducting a routine examination at the facility identified three tank-containers, one of which was deemed to be unlawful, with more than 5,000 gallons of Anhydrous Ammonia, a hazardous, highly toxic and corrosive gas or colorless liquid which is flammable in high concentrations. The product is used for various industrial applications including detergents, pesticides and fertilizers, among others.
FEATURE: A lifetime of service: A volunteer’s journey to honorary Coast Guard chief
PRESS RELEASE | March 27, 2025
A cloudless sky and crisp late-January air surrounded the crew of Coast Guard Station Emerald Isle during a ceremony celebrating Petty Officer First Class Kyle Vaders, the station’s executive petty officer, who advanced to the rank of chief. While the crew and the audience harbored a secret, there was one person attending who had no idea what was about to occur.
U.S. Coast Guard cutter promotes regional security in the Pacific with Papua New Guinea
PRESS RELEASE | March 26, 2025
The U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Midgett (WMSL 757) recently concluded its second port call in Papua New Guinea (PNG), following nine days of shiprider operations with representatives from the PNG Defence Force, PNG Customs Service, and PNG National Fisheries Authority.
Midgett was invited by the Papua New Guinea government to participate in the operation. The PNG shipriders led the mission by selecting vessels of interests and conducting boardings while the U.S. Coast Guard provided ship based and shoreside support. The successful shiprider operations reinforced the importance of deepening and expanding strong bilateral relationships.
Coast Guard Cutter Mohawk returns home after 70-day, counter-drug patrol in the Eastern Pacific Ocean
PRESS RELEASE | March 24, 2025
KEY WEST, Fla. — The crew of Coast Guard Cutter Mohawk (WMEC 913) returned to their home port in Key West, March 16, following a 70-day deployment to the Eastern Pacific Ocean.
Mohawk deployed in support of Joint Interagency Task Force – South (JIATF-S) and Operation Martillo, where crew members conducted counter-drug missions in the Coast Guard Eleventh District’s area of responsibility. While at sea, Mohawk’s crew successfully contributed to protecting their fellow Americans by countering transnational criminal organizations and preventing dangerous and illegal narcotics from reaching the United States. The crew worked side by side with Coast Guard units, embarked law enforcement personnel from the Tactical Law Enforcement Team Pacific (PACTACLET) and the Costa Rican Coast Guard.
Coast Guard Cutter Reliance returns home after 60-day maritime border security patrol
PRESS RELEASE | March 14, 2025
PENSACOLA, Fla. — The crew of Coast Guard Cutter Reliance (WMEC 615) returned to their home port in Pensacola, Monday, following a 60-day patrol in the Florida Straits, Windward Passage and Gulf of America.
Reliance deployed in support of Homeland Security Task Force – Southeast (HSTF-SE) and Operation Vigilant Sentry (OVS) while underway in the Seventh Coast Guard District's area of responsibility, where crew members contributed to safeguarding America by patrolling U.S. maritime borders.
Coast Guard interdicts, transfers 32 aliens to Dominican Republic Navy authorities for repatriation
PRESS RELEASE | March 10, 2025
The crew of Coast Guard Cutter Joseph Napier transferred 32 aliens to a Dominican Republic Navy vessel, Saturday, following the interdiction of an overloaded makeshift vessel in Mona Passage waters near Dominican Republic.
The interdiction occurred Saturday night after a forward-deployed Coast Guard Air Station Miami HC-144 Ocean Sentry aircrew on a routine maritime border security patrol detected a 25-foot makeshift vessel in international waters, approximately 25 nautical miles northeast of Punta Cana, Dominican Republic. Sector San Juan watchstanders diverted the USCGC Joseph Napier to interdict the suspect vessel. Shortly thereafter, the USCGC Joseph Napier crew arrived on-scene and deployed the cutter’s over-the-horizon small boat which stopped the suspect vessel. Following the interdiction, the Dominican Republic Navy patrol vessel Aldebaran arrived on-scene and embarked all 32 aliens for their return to the Dominican Republic.
Coast Guard investigates unknown sheen at Sun Bay Beach in Vieques, Puerto Rico
PRESS RELEASE | March 7, 2025
Coast Guard Sector San Juan Incident Management Division environmental response personnel are investigating a mystery sheen on Sun Bay Beach shoreline in Vieques, Friday afternoon.
“We are investigating a release of an undetermined amount of fuel with diesel characteristics,” said Chief Warrant Officer Jamie Testa, Coast Guard Sector San Juan Federal On-Scene Coordinator for the case. “Our top priority is to protect public health and the marine environment as we coordinate resources to contain and remove any recoverable material. We continue our investigation into a potential source and urge any beachgoers to stay out of the water and follow directions from local emergency response personnel on scene. Any visible rainbow sheening is an indication that there is product in the water and that it is unsafe.”
Coast Guard Cutter Vigorous returns home after 46-day alien interdiction operations, maritime border security patrol
PRESS RELEASE | March 5, 2025
PORTSMOUTH, Va. — The crew of the Coast Guard Cutter Vigorous (WMEC 627) returned to their homeport in Portsmouth, Wednesday, following a 46-day maritime border security patrol in the Florida Straits.
Vigorous deployed in support of Homeland Security Task Force – Southeast and Operation Vigilant Sentry while underway in the Seventh Coast Guard District’s area of responsibility, where crew members conducted alien interdiction and border security operations. The crew worked alongside other Coast Guard units and partner agencies such as U.S. Customs and Border Protection – Air and Marine Operations and Homeland Security Investigations.
Coast Guard teams deploy to American Samoa to patrol border, conduct boardings
PRESS RELEASE | March 4, 2025
HONOLULU – Coast Guard Maritime Safety and Security Team Honolulu personnel and a boarding team from Coast Guard Sector Honolulu deployed to American Samoa from Feb. 10-27 to protect the U.S. maritime border, enforce U.S. laws and regulations, enhance maritime domain awareness and coordinate with agency partners.
Coast Guard repatriates 2 aliens to Dominican Republic, transfers 1 alien to U.S. Border Patrol for federal prosecution, turns over 2 Russian nationals to ICE Homeland Security Investigations for removal
PRESS RELEASE | March 4, 2025
The crew of Coast Guard Cutter Joseph Tezanos repatriated two aliens to the Dominican Republic, Saturday, following a Puerto Rico police interdiction of a suspect vessel with five people on board just off Aguadilla, Puerto Rico.
One of the interdicted aliens, with a prior criminal history in the United States, is being prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Puerto Rico on charges of attempted illegally re-entry into the United States in violation of Title 8, U.S.C., Section 1326 b(2).
U.S. Coast Guard cutter visits Australia, furthers collaboration and maritime security
PRESS RELEASE | March 4, 2025
The U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Midgett (WMSL 757) recently completed a port call in Sydney, Feb. 25, 2025, conducting several engagements with Australian partners that strengthened ties and furthered collaborative maritime security throughout Oceania. Reflecting the spirit of the Pacific Quadrilateral Defense Coordinating Group, the U.S. Coast Guard continues its vital collaboration with Australian law enforcement to identify maritime vulnerabilities and cooperate on solutions that reduce risks to safety, health, and security throughout the region.
Availability of Public Notice for highway bridge proposal over Petaluma River
PRESS RELEASE | Feb. 28, 2025
ALAMEDA, Calif, — All interested parties are herein notified that the commander, Eleventh Coast Guard District, has received application materials dated Feb. 7, 2025, from the California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) for approval of location and plans for the modification of a highway bridge across a navigable waterway of the United States.
MULTIMEDIA RELEASE: Coast Guard, Port of Virginia Maritime Incident Response Team conclude search and rescue forum in Hampton
PRESS RELEASE | Feb. 28, 2025
The SAR Forum is an annual event which requires strong coordination across multiple agencies conducting training for a unified, rapid and effective response to emergencies that may impact maritime commerce, public safety, and coastal communities. Through collaborative exercises and events—similar to the SAR Forum—with local law enforcement, fire departments, and emergency services the Coast Guard enhances its ability to prevent, prepare for, and response to maritime emergencies.
Coast Guard issues Captain of the Port order to Puerto Nuevo Terminal for violating hazardous cargo handling permit in San Juan
PRESS RELEASE | Feb. 27, 2025
The acting commander of U.S. Coast Guard Sector San Juan, Capt. Robert Stiles, issued a Captain of the Port (COTP) Order to Puerto Nuevo Terminals (PNT) port facility, Wednesday, for unlawfully handling dangerous cargo, specifically ammonium nitrate.
This action was taken following a routine examination in which Coast Guard inspectors discovered PNT’s non-compliance with previous Coast Guard regulatory and safety orders which suspended PNT’s permit to handle hazardous cargoes as required by law and due to the facility’s lack of adequate firefighting capability.
“This is a serious violation creating a dangerous situation at Puerto Nuevo Terminals, which is located next to a liquified natural gas facility,” said Capt. Robert Stiles, acting Coast Guard Sector San Juan commander and Captain of the Port. “The unlawful handling of ammonium nitrate can pose a serious risk to the safety of critical port infrastructure in San Juan Harbor. We are investigating this matter thoroughly and have taken necessary measures to ensure that the Puerto Nuevo Terminals facility is operating in a safe manner. The Coast Guard is committed to the safety and security of the nation’s ports and navigable waterways, and it is our duty to protect them.”
Coast Guard interdicts 13 aliens west of Encinitas, Calif.
PRESS RELEASE | Feb. 23, 2025
PHOTOS AVAILABLE: The crews of the Coast Guard Cutter Benjamin Bottoms and the Coast Guard Cutter Haddock interdicted 13 aliens aboard a panga-style vessel approximately 22 miles west of Encinitas, Friday.
U.S. Coast Guard cutter visits New Zealand, conducts training and promotes maritime governance
PRESS RELEASE | Feb. 21, 2025
U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Midgett (WMSL 757) recently concluded a month-long engagement with New Zealand, strengthening ties with the Royal New Zealand Navy (RNZN) and reinforcing the U.S. Coast Guard’s commitment to Oceania. The engagements included professional exchanges, bilateral maritime law enforcement trainings, and enhanced cooperation between the two nations in support of a peaceful, secure, prosperous, and resilient region.
U.S. Coast Guard cutter visits Tuvalu, strengthens partnerships and promotes regional security
PRESS RELEASE | Feb. 21, 2025
The U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Midgett (WMSL 757) recently concluded a successful engagement in Tuvalu, conducting joint bilateral maritime law enforcement shiprider operations and strengthening partnerships to combat illegal, unreported, and unregulated fishing in the region. This partnership underscores the U.S. Coast Guard’s unwavering commitment to maintaining a secure and prosperous Indo-Pacific, leveraging its operational expertise to enhance cooperation and strengthen its trusted partnership with Tuvalu.
Coast Guard aircrew rescues man stranded on rocky outcrop off Playa Esperanza in Manatí, Puerto Rico
PRESS RELEASE | Feb. 18, 2025
A Coast Guard MH-60T Jayhawk helicopter aircrew from Air Station Borinquen rescued a man from crashing waves on an isolated rock formation along the northern cliff face near Playa Esperanza in Manatí, Monday.
“This rescue is a testament to the intentional and continuous training we conduct at Air Station Borinquen to intervene on someone’s worst day and bring them to safety,” said Lt. Luke M. Dewhirst, Coast Guard MH-60T Jayhawk aircraft commander for the case. “I am incredibly proud of the safe and efficient work by the crew of 6038, as well as the expert coordination by our operations watchstander and personnel at Sector San Juan; amazing teamwork by all. We are always thankful for the opportunity to assist people in need.”
Coast Guard suspends search for missing kayaker near Mission Bay
PRESS RELEASE | Feb. 17, 2025
SAN DIEGO — The Coast Guard suspended its search for a missing kayaker near Mission Bay at approximately 5:30 p.m., Sunday.
Coast Guard crews, along with personnel from the San Diego Lifeguards and San Diego Fire Department, searched a nearly 460 square mile area over the course of 52.3 hours, but found no signs of distress.
The search began on Friday afternoon after the San Diego Lifeguards discovered an overturned outrigger kayak approximately 500 yards west of the Mission Bay entrance channel. The vessel appeared new with no signs of use and was found broken in half.
Coast Guard transfers 31 aliens to the Bahamas
PRESS RELEASE | Feb. 14, 2025
MIAMI – Coast Guard Cutter Margaret Norvell's crew returned 31 aliens of mixed nationalities to The Bahamas, Friday, following three interdictions of illegal maritime ventures in U.S. territorial waters east of Miami.
Coast Guard cutter returns to Washington following law enforcement patrol
PRESS RELEASE | Feb. 14, 2025
The crew of the U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Active (WMEC 618) returned home to Port Angeles, Friday following a 65-day law enforcement patrol off the coast of Southern California.
As America’s maritime law enforcement agency, the Coast Guard is increasing presence in key areas to protect U.S. maritime borders, territorial integrity, and sovereignty.
Availability of Public Notice to construct the new "C" street bridge over Sacramento River
PRESS RELEASE | Feb. 13, 2025
SAN FRANCISCO — An application has been received by the Commander, Eleventh Coast Guard District from the city of Sacramento for a U.S. Coast Guard Bridge permit for approval to construct the new “C” Street (replacement “I” Street) highway drawbridge across the Sacramento River at mile 59.5, between the cities of West Sacramento, Yolo County and Sacramento, Sacramento County, California (38° 35' 21.3" N, 121° 30' 21.3” W).
MEDIA ADVISORY: Coast Guard to offload more than $275 million of cocaine in San Diego
PRESS RELEASE | Feb. 13, 2025
The crew of the Coast Guard Cutter Waesche (WMSL 751) will offload approximately 37,256 pounds of cocaine with an estimated value of $275 million, on Thursday in San Diego.
The offload is a result of 11 separate suspected drug smuggling vessel interdictions or events off the coasts of Mexico and Central and South America by the Coast Guard Cutter Waesche in December through February.
The Coast Guard Cutter Waesche is one of four legend-class national security cutters, homeported in Alameda, California.
Coast Guard repatriates 16 aliens to Cuba
PRESS RELEASE | Feb. 11, 2025
MIAMI – Coast Guard Cutter Raymond Evan's crew repatriated 16 aliens to Cuba, Tuesday, following a maritime interdiction approximately 15 miles southwest of Gun Cay, Bahamas.
Coast Guard repatriates 132 aliens to Haiti
PRESS RELEASE | Feb. 10, 2025
MIAMI – Coast Guard Cutter Escanaba's crew repatriated 132 aliens to Haiti, Monday, following a maritime interdiction approximately 50 miles southeast of Marathon.
Coast Guard interdicts 12 aliens near Point Loma
PRESS RELEASE | Feb. 9, 2025
Coast Guard members interdicted 12 aliens aboard a 25-foot sail vessel approximately 12 miles west of Point Loma, Sunday.
At approximately 10:19 a.m, a Customs and Border Protection patrol aircraft and a Coast Guard MH-60 Jayhawk helicopter sighted the sail vessel.
Coast Guard ends search for missing aircraft near Nome, Alaska
PRESS RELEASE | Feb. 7, 2025
JUNEAU, Alaska — The Coast Guard ended its search for a missing aircraft with 10 people aboard after it was located Friday afternoon approximately 34 miles southeast of Nome.
A Coast Guard MH-60 Jayhawk helicopter aircrew located the aircraft wreckage and lowered two rescue swimmers down to the aircraft. The rescue swimmers located three individuals in the forward part of the aircraft showing no signs of life. The remaining seven people are believed to be inside the aircraft, which was inaccessible due to the condition of the plane. The Coast Guard determined the severity of the wreckage was beyond the possibility of survival.
Coast Guard national security cutter returns to California following a 130-day Bering Sea patrol
PRESS RELEASE | Feb. 7, 2025
ALAMEDA, Calif. — The U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Bertholf (WMSL 750) and crew returned to Alameda Friday, after completing a 130-day deployment patrolling the Bering Sea.
The Bertholf’s crew showcased how the U.S. Coast Guard is a unique instrument of national power that bridges the divide between defense, diplomacy, and law enforcement and creates opportunities to further national objectives and priorities.
Media Availability: Coast Guard, partner agencies to hold virtual press briefing for missing aircraft near Nome, Alaska
PRESS RELEASE | Feb. 7, 2025
KODIAK, Alaska — Media is invited to attend a virtual press briefing Friday with local, state and federal agencies regarding the search for 10 missing people who were aboard an aircraft that went missing Thursday approximately 30 miles southeast of Nome.
WHO: Coast Guard, Alaska National Guard, Alaska State Troopers and National Transportation Safety Board
WHAT: Virtual press briefing
WHEN: Friday, 12 p.m. AKST / 4 p.m. EST
WHERE: Follow the link: https://dod.teams.microsoft.us/l/meetup-join/19%3adod%3ameeting_0de418ae474b44e882d32ed472ec1412%40thread.v2/0?context=%7b%22Tid%22%3a%22369ba0d5-02cb-4d2f-94fd-9212cc24b78c%22%2c%22Oid%22%3a%221a89f247-91f2-44eb-a73a-0c222456d517%22%7d
Coast Guard watchstanders at the 17th Coast Guard District command center received notification from the Alaska Regional Command Center of a missing Cessna 208B Grand Caravan with a reported 10 people aboard transiting from Unalakeet to Nome.
The aircraft’s last known position was transponded Thursday evening in the vicinity of Norton Sound, approximately 30 miles southeast of Nome.
Aircrews from the Coast Guard and Alaska National Guard responded Thursday night, with first light searches planned for Friday morning.
The cause of the incident is unknown.
Coast Guard medevacs snorkeler in distress in Atlantic Ocean waters north of Dominican Republic
PRESS RELEASE | Feb. 7, 2025
A Coast Guard Air Station Borinquen MH-60T Jayhawk helicopter aircrew conducted a medevac for a snorkeler from the motor vessel Sea Hunter in Atlantic Ocean waters, approximately 70 nautical miles north of Punta Cana, Dominican Republic, Wednesday.
The snorkeler was a 70-year-old man, U.S. citizen, who experienced a near drowning event while snorkeling off the motor vessel Sea Hunter.
“This mission presented a significant challenge, as time was of the essence and required meticulous planning of fuel, communications, and extensive coordination between Sector San Juan and the Sea Hunter crew,” said Lt. William Boardman, Coast Guard MH-60T Jayhawk aircraft commander for the case. “Our team worked efficiently on scene to ensure a safe return to Puerto Rico. The patient was successfully transferred to Emergency Medical Service personnel and transported to a higher level of care. A huge thank you to everyone involved.”
Coast Guard searches for crew member in Eastern Pacific Ocean
PRESS RELEASE | Feb. 6, 2025
EASTERN PACIFIC OCEAN – The Coast Guard Cutter Waesche (WMSL 751) is actively searching for a Coast Guard crew member that was reported unaccounted for Tuesday morning, while operating in the Eastern Pacific Ocean.
Coast Guard Cutter Campbell returns home after interdicting $91M in illicit narcotics during Eastern Pacific Ocean patrol
PRESS RELEASE | Feb. 5, 2025
NEWPORT, R.I. — The crew of Coast Guard Cutter Campbell (WMEC 909) returned to their home port in Newport, Monday, following a 63-day multi-mission patrol to the Caribbean and Eastern Pacific Ocean.
Campbell deployed in support of Joint Interagency Task Force – South (JIATF-S) to advance the primary mission of interdicting illegal narcotics in known drug trafficking zones. Campbell’s crew conducted maritime safety and security missions while working to detect, deter and intercept drug smuggling vessels.
Coast Guard rescues 5 boaters from vessel taking on water off Cabo Rojo, Puerto Rico
PRESS RELEASE | Feb. 3, 2025
Coast Guard Cutter Joseph Napier rescued five boaters from a disabled vessel 13 nautical miles off Cabo Rojo, Puerto Rico, Saturday afternoon.
Rescued are four men and a woman, who came into distress after their 18-foot recreational vessel Michelle Marie II became disabled in eight-foot seas and started taking on water.
“The situation and conditions on-scene could have caused this vessel to capsize at any given moment,” said Capt. Robert E. Stiles, Coast Guard Sector San Juan Search and Rescue mission coordinator for the case. “Thanks to the quick response and swift coordination between Coast Guard watchstanders and the Coast Guard Cutter Joseph Napier crew all five lives were saved, and a tragic outcome was averted. Although we are very glad everyone aboard the Michelle Marie II is safe, we can't overemphasize the importance heeding small craft advisories and paying close attention to projected sea-states and weather conditions before going out to sea.”
Owner of illegal passenger vessel sentenced to prison
PRESS RELEASE | Jan. 31, 2025
NEW YORK — The owner of the vessel Stimulus Money, Richard Cruz, was sentenced to 18 months in prison Thursday after pleading guilty for his role in the July 2022 capsizing of the vessel while underway on the Hudson River that resulted in the death of two passengers, a seven-year-old boy and 48-year-old woman. Click the link above to view full news release.
First of 3 new Coast Guard cutters arrives to homeport in Kodiak, Alaska
PRESS RELEASE | Jan. 29, 2025
KODIAK, Alaska — The crew of Coast Guard Cutter John Witherspoon (WPC 1158) arrived at the cutter’s new homeport in Kodiak, Tuesday.
The cutter is scheduled to be commissioned during a ceremony in April.
The Witherspoon is the first of three Fast Response Cutters (FRCs) scheduled to be homeported at Coast Guard Base Kodiak and is now the fourth FRC currently based in Alaska. While these ships will be homeported in Kodiak, they will operate throughout the 17th Coast Guard District to include the U.S. Arctic, Gulf of Alaska, and Bering Sea.
The crew of the Witherspoon will carry out integral Coast Guard missions such as maritime law enforcement and security, living marine resources, and search and rescue. They will provide security for Alaskan coastal communities as they continue to utilize the ocean for their livelihoods while preserving Alaska’s living marine resources in conjunction with our partner agencies.
“The crew is humbled to be associated to a namesake honoring Capt. John G. Witherspoon, a trailblazer who found enjoyment and purpose in leading and mentoring others,” said Lt. Cmdr. Adam Young, commanding officer of the Witherspoon. “It is fitting that the cutter’s first sail was no tall order, stretching more than 7,000 nautical miles from Key West to Kodiak. Throughout the last five months, the crew displayed remarkable teamwork and resilience, a true testament to the core values Capt. Witherspoon epitomized throughout his illustrious career. I couldn’t be prouder of the team we have onboard, and I look forward to experiencing the beauty of Alaska once again.”
The new FRCs arriving in Alaska are designed to replace the service’s fleet of 110-foot cutters that are projected to be decommissioned this year. The Coast Guard is currently scheduled to have six FRCs operating throughout Alaska by the end of 2025 to reinforce our maritime boundaries and shorten on-scene response times to support search and rescue efforts and better serve the people of Alaska.
FRCs feature advanced command, control, communications, computers, intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance equipment as well as over-the-horizon response boat deployment capability and improved habitability for the crew. The ships can reach speeds of 28 knots and are equipped to coordinate operations with partner agencies and long-range Coast Guard assets such as the Coast Guard’s National Security Cutters.
FRCs are 154-foot multi-mission ships designed to conduct drug and migrant interdictions; ports, waterways and coastal security operations; fisheries and environmental protection patrols; national defense missions; and search and rescue. Each cutter is designed for a crew of 24, has a range of 2,500 miles and is equipped for patrols up to five days. The FRCs are part of the Coast Guard’s overall fleet modernization initiative.
Coast Guard interdicts 21 migrants near Point Loma
PRESS RELEASE | Jan. 28, 2025
Coast Guard interdicted a panga with 21 individuals aboard approximately 20 miles off the coast of Point Loma, Monday evening.
At approximately 10:45 p.m., U.S. Customs and Border Protection notified Coast Guard personnel at the Joint Harbor Operations Center of a 40-foot panga-style vessel traveling north approximately 40 miles south of the maritime boundary line.
Coast Guard, responding vessels rescue 4 U.S. boaters from life raft on the Atlantic Ocean
PRESS RELEASE | Jan. 22, 2025
Coast Guard aircrew, the crew of the Crowley container ship El Coquí and the men aboard a fishing vessel rescued four men from a life raft in Atlantic Ocean’s Silver Bank waters north of Dominican Republic, Tuesday.
Rescued are U.S. Citizens David Potts, 63; John Potts, 62; Andrew Cullar, 26; and Russel Case, 67, who were forced to abandon the sailing vessel Mariposa after the vessel reportedly struck a submerged rock and was then overtaken by a wave which caused the vessel to roll on its port side. The vessel struck another rock which breached the vessel’s hull and started taking on water while additional waves flooded the vessel before sinking. The vessel Mariposa was on a voyage from St. Croix, U.S. Virgin Islands to Portofino, Tx, with an anticipated stop in Key West, Fla.
San Diego Coast Guard City announces the inaugural Coastie of the Year Award
PRESS RELEASE | Jan. 22, 2025
U.S. Coast Guard in collaboration with San Diego Coast Guard City announces Petty Officer 1st Class Kirsten R. Allen, a diver with Regional Dive Locker West (MSRT-W), as the winner of the inaugural Coastie of the Year (COTY) during an awards ceremony held at Coast Guard Sector San Diego, Wednesday.
Coast Guard interdicts 26 migrants near Oceanside Harbor
PRESS RELEASE | Jan. 21, 2025
U.S. Coast Guard crews interdicted a panga-style vessel carrying 26 individuals approximately one mile off shore from Oceanside Harbor on Monday morning.
At around 10:30 a.m., Oceanside lifeguards reported a disabled vessel with multiple people aboard that had run out of fuel. Assessing no immediate safety concerns, lifeguards notified Coast Guard personnel at the Joint Harbor Operations Center and remained on scene.
Coast Guard returns 58 migrants to Dominican Republic following maritime interdiction of 2 vessels near Puerto Rico
PRESS RELEASE | Jan. 16, 2025
The crew of Coast Guard Cutter Joseph Doyle repatriated 58 people to the Dominican Republic, Wednesday, following the interdiction of two separate vessels near Puerto Rico.
Four of the interdicted migrants remain in U.S. custody and face possible federal prosecution by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Puerto Rico on charges of attempting to illegally re‑enter the United States in violation of Title 8, U.S.C., Section 1326, and failure to heave in violation of Title 18, U.S.C., Section 2237.
Alaska homeported cutter earns cutter of the year award
PRESS RELEASE | Jan. 15, 2025
Coast Guard Cutter Alex Haley (WMEC 39) was selected as the recipient of the 2024 Hopley Yeaton Cutter Excellence Award.
For the second year in a row, Alex Haley earned the medium cutter of year award across the entire Coast Guard fleet. The Hopley Yeaton Cutter Excellence Award recognizes the ship that demonstrated exceptional performance across operations and mission accomplishment, commitment to crew and families, training and readiness, and engineering.
Coast Guard, local, federal agencies monitor refloating efforts for aground motor yacht off Culebra, Puerto Rico
PRESS RELEASE | Jan. 14, 2025
Coast Guard Incident Management Division personnel from Sector San Juan, working alongside federal and local agencies, continue to monitor removal efforts, Tuesday, for the motor yacht Runaway, after the vessel ran aground on a reef in waters west of Ensenada Honda in Culebra, Puerto Rico, Dec. 30, 2024.
The owner of the motor yacht Runaway, who is coordinating efforts to refloat the vessel, completed the removal of approximately 160 gallons of petroleum products from the vessel, Friday. The fuel and oil removed were comprised of diesel fuel from the vessel’s fuel tanks and oil from the vessel’s engine.
Florida-based cutter returns home after 40-day patrol in the Eastern Pacific Ocean
PRESS RELEASE | Jan. 13, 2025
ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. — The crew of Coast Guard Cutter Venturous (WMEC 625) returned to their home port in St. Petersburg, Dec. 11, following a 40-day patrol in the Eastern Pacific Ocean.
Venturous’ crew deployed in support of Joint Interagency Task Force – South (JIATF-S) and conducted counter-drug missions in the Coast Guard Eleventh District’s area of responsibility.
Guardia Costera y agencias de orden público patrullarán la Bahia de San Juan durante las Fiestas de la Calle San Sebastián
PRESS RELEASE | Jan. 13, 2025
Las tripulaciones de Guardia Costera junto a las agencias policiales locales estarán patrullando la Bahía de San Juan del 16 al 20 de enero, para intervenir con los operadores de embarcaciones que realizen el transporte ilegal de pasajeros por contrato durante las Fiestas de la Calle San Sebastián.
“Durante las Fiestas de la Calles San Sebastian, nuestras tripulaciones patrullarán activamente con las agencias policiales locales para protejer la seguridad de las personas y las embarcaciones en la Bahía de San Juan”, dijo el Comandante Matthew Romano, jefe de respuesta del Sector San Juan. “Exhortamos a las personas a que utilicen las lanchas de la Autoridad del Transporte Marítimo y los medios de transporte público anunciados por el Municipio de San Juan. Apercibimos al público sobre los operadores ilegales de embarcaciones que buscan transportar pasajeros por contrato, a que no contraten a un operador que se niegue o no presente sus credenciales de capitán. Los operadores ilegales representan un riesgo a las vias navegables y a la seguridad de los pasajeros, por lo que es de vital importancia crear consciencia de esta situación para evitar cualquier incidente que pueda amenazar la seguridad de las personas en el agua y que también pueda arruinar su disfrute del evento”.
Coast Guard, local law enforcement to patrol San Juan Harbor for illegal passenger vessel operations during the San Sebastian St. Festival
PRESS RELEASE | Jan. 13, 2025
The Coast Guard cautioned, Monday, that Coast Guard and local law enforcement crews will be on the lookout for illegal passenger for hire vessel operations in the San Juan Harbor during the San Sebastián St. Festival from Jan. 16 to 20.
“Our crews will be actively patrolling alongside local law enforcement agencies to ensure the safety of people and vessels in San Juan Harbor during the San Sebastian Street Festival,” said Cmdr. Matthew Romano, Sector San Juan chief of response. “We encourage those attending the festival to utilize the public ferry system and the organized means of public transportation announced by the Municipality of San Juan. We caution the public of illegal passenger for hire vessel operators, and to not contract any operator who refuses or fails to present their captain 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 plans to enjoy the event.”
FEATURE: Coast Guard Sector Virginia: A year of secure waterways
PRESS RELEASE | Jan. 10, 2025
In 2024, crews assigned to Coast Guard Sector Virginia conducted over 250 maritime security and response operations consisting of patrols, fixed security zone enforcements, security boardings, security facility operations, and vessel escorts.
Here and across the country, the Coast Guard’s mission of Ports, Waterways and Coastal Security (PWCS) is vital for maintaining the safety and security of the nation’s waterways.
Coast Guard announces operation RENEW 2025 to maintain heating oil supply
PRESS RELEASE | Jan. 8, 2025
In preparation for the 2025 winter season, the First U.S. Coast Guard District has launched Operation Reliable Energy for Northeast Winters 2025, emphasizing the critical role of maintaining the flow of heating oil to the Northeast region. Click the link to read the full release.
Coast Guard repatriates 39 migrants to Dominican Republic
PRESS RELEASE | Jan. 6, 2025
SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico - The Coast Guard Cutter Joseph Tezanos' crew repatriated 39 people to the Dominican Republic, Sunday, following an interdiction approximately 41 miles southwest of Cabo Rojo, Puerto Rico.
Coast Guard rescues 4 from sinking vessel
PRESS RELEASE | Jan. 5, 2025
MIAMI - A Coast Guard Station Marathon boat crew rescued four people, Sunday, after their 27-foot vessel began taking on water approximately 11 miles north of Marathon.
U.S. heavy icebreaker departs Australia, bound for Antarctica
PRESS RELEASE | Dec. 31, 2024
SYDNEY — The U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Polar Star (WAGB 10) and crew departed Sydney, Friday, to begin their journey across the Southern Ocean en route to Antarctica in support of Operation Deep Freeze 2025. While in Sydney, the crew hosted tours aboard the Polar Star for Consul General Christine Elder and guests from the U.S. Embassy.
Coast Guard building nation’s first Polar Security Cutter
PRESS RELEASE | Dec. 23, 2024
The U.S. Coast Guard and U.S. Navy Integrated Program Office received approval Dec. 19 to begin building the first Polar Security Cutter (PSC).
The PSC marks the first heavy polar icebreaker to be built in the United States in more than five decades.
Coast Guard accepts ownership of commercially available polar icebreaker
PRESS RELEASE | Dec. 23, 2024
The Coast Guard announced it accepted ownership of the motor vessel Aiviq, a 360-foot polar class 3-equivalent icebreaker, from an Edison Chouest Offshore subsidiary Friday.
The vessel, acquired Dec. 20, will enhance U.S. operational presence in the Arctic and support Coast Guard missions while awaiting delivery of the Polar Security Cutter (PSC) class.
Coast Guard, University of Hawai’i sign memorandum of agreement
PRESS RELEASE | Dec. 19, 2024
HONOLULU — The Coast Guard and the University of Hawai’i at Mānoa signed an updated memorandum of agreement (MOA) Thursday to continue the College Student Pre-Commissioning Initiative (CSPI) scholarship program at UH Mānoa.
Coast Guard, local emergency response teams search for swimmer off Flamenco Beach in Culebra, Puerto Rico
PRESS RELEASE | Dec. 19, 2024
SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico – Coast Guard air and surface rescue teams continue searching alongside local emergency authorities for a missing swimmer off Flamenco Beach in Culebra, Puerto Rico, Thursday.
Missing is Brandon Smith, a U.S. citizen in his sixties, from Connecticut residing in Culebra, who reportedly was last seen struggling while in the water at Flamenco Beach. A Kawasaki Mule All-Terrain Vehicle, reportedly being used by the swimmer was found by local authorities at the scene.