Release from U.S. Coast Guard 14th District 

***** 

Nov. 1, 2023 

HONOLULU — The U.S. Coast Guard completed Operation Koa Kai, a comprehensive month-long maritime security and safety operation conducted throughout October off the Island of Hawaii. 

The annual operation, carried out in collaboration with the Department of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR) and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Office of Law Enforcement, focused on safeguarding the coastal waters and maritime assets, ensuring the well-being of both residents and visitors to the region. 

Operations completed include: 

• 137 underway hours with 19 joint patrol hours 
• Two search and rescue responses 
• 26 maritime security and response operation patrols 
• 11 small vessel security boardings (SVSB) 
• Three high-capacity passenger vessel escorts 
• 24 Response Boat-Small boardings and nine uninspected passenger vessel boardings 
• Dockside inspections conducted in collaboration with the Marine Safety Team (MST) Hawaii for certificate of inspection verification. 

“This operation exemplifies the commitment of our Coast Guard personnel and partner agencies to the security and safety of Hawaii’s maritime domain,” said Chief Warrant Officer Omar Perez, a Coast Guard Sector Honolulu enforcement officer. “Our combined efforts are essential in maintaining maritime security and safeguarding lives in the waters off the Big Island of Hawaii.” 

While taking part in Operation Koa Kai, the Coast Guard Maritime Safety & Security Team 91107 Honolulu (MSST) provided safety zone enforcement for the 2.4-mile swim course included in the Ironman World Championship Women’s Race held in Kailua-Kona. The MSST played a pivotal role in a collaborative interagency effort, joining forces with agencies such as the Federal Bureau of Investigations, Department of Homeland Security Federal Air Marshals, Department of Defense, Hawaii Police Department, Hawaii Sheriff’s Office, Hawaii Conservation Officers, Hawaii Fire Department, and the Ironman Public Safety/Emergency Management department. This partnership, characterized by meticulous mission planning and preparation, was aimed at ensuring the safety of all athletes, spectators, staff, and volunteers during the high-profile event. 

Operation Koa Kai reflects the Coast Guard’s mission to protect and serve the maritime community, ensuring the smooth flow of commerce, maintaining maritime safety, and responding promptly to emergencies. 

Agencies involved in Operation Koa Kai include: 

• U.S. Coast Guard Maritime Safety & Security Team Honolulu (MSST)  
• U.S. Coast Guard Marine Safety Team (MST) Hawaii 
• NOAA Office of Law Enforcement (OLE) 
• DLNR ​​Hawaii Division of Conservation and Resource Enforcement 
• Kona Police Department 

Release from U.S. Coast Guard 14th District 

***** 

Oct. 28, 2023 

HONOLULU – The U.S. Coast Guard was on scene to provide timely assistance and support to the island nation of Vanuatu following the devastating impact of Tropical Cyclone Lola, Oct. 26, 2023. 

Tropical Cyclone Lola moved through the South Pacific island chain earlier this week inflicting significant damage. The Vanuatu Meteorology and Geo-hazards Department, Port Vila, issued the final warning, indicating that the storm was no longer a threat to the island nation prompting assessment and the disaster relief process. 

The Coast Guard received the request in the afternoon of Oct. 25 from the U.S. Embassy Port Moresby to support the Government of Vanuatu with post-storm overflight and assessment of ports and critical infrastructure following Tropical Cyclone Lola. 

“The Coast Guard’s C-130 mission is a testament to our commitment to provide critical support and capabilities to Vanuatu during these challenging times,” said Cmdr Andrew Williams, the enforcement branch chief for District 14. “Our C-130, deployed in support of the Forum Fisheries Agency – Operation Kuru Kuru, has been diverted to perform post-storm assessments of the affected areas, contributing to response and recovery efforts.” 

Vanuatu is a South Pacific island nation, roughly made up of 80 islands with a population of approximately 335,000 individuals. It is located about 1,090 miles east of Australia. Vanuatu has two shipping ports, the Port of Vila and the Port of Luganville in Santo, that ensure supplies are delivered to the island and its inhabitants. 

The Coast Guard leverages unique capabilities and expertise as a first responder to all threats and hazards in the maritime environment and lifesaving service. Coast Guard aircraft capabilities serve multiple functions including damage assessment of the affected area, search and rescue, real-time situational awareness for senior leaders, logistical support for safe transportation and supply delivery, environmental hazard monitoring, and public safety communication. 

The Coast Guard remains dedicated to assisting the international community in times of need. This mission exemplifies the organization’s commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of those affected by natural disasters, even in distant corners of the world. 

Release from U.S. Coast Guard District 11 

***** 

Oct. 28, 2023 

SAN DIEGO — The U.S. Coast Guard announces the establishment of its first California-based Junior Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (JROTC) program. Rear Adm. Andrew M. Sugimoto, Eleventh District Commander, announced the program’s official West Coast launch at Mission Bay High School in San Diego, Friday morning. 

The Coast Guard JROTC program aims to inspire and develop young leaders by instilling the values of teamwork, discipline, and service to the community. This initiative will provide high school students with a unique opportunity to explore careers in the Coast Guard and gain valuable leadership skills that will benefit them in their future endeavors. 

“The Coast Guard JROTC program will empower our youth to become future leaders with a great foundation,” said Sugimoto. “The goal is to foster a sense of duty, integrity, and respect, we aim to cultivate a new generation of individuals committed to serving their communities and our nation.” 

Sugimoto was joined by school officials, educators, and community leaders who recognize the significance of this milestone in the Coast Guard’s history. 

During the event, Rear Adm. Sugimoto outlined the program’s objectives, curriculum, and the benefits it offers to participating students. Students will have the opportunity to learn more about the Coast Guard’s mission, its role in safeguarding our nation’s maritime interests, and the numerous career paths available within the organization. 

The Coast Guard established its first JROTC unit in 1992, in Miami. Under recent federal legislation, the Coast Guard is expanding the JROTC program to every Coast Guard District by 2025. The Mission Bay High School JROTC program, activated in August of 2023, marks the first West Coast program. 

***** 

Coast Guard 7th District 

MIAMI — The crew of U.S. Coast Guard Cutter James offloaded over than 33,200 pounds of cocaine and 12,400 pounds of marijuana worth approximately $448 million in Port Everglades, Thursday. 

The offloaded drugs were interdicted during 13 separate cases in the international waters of the Eastern Pacific Ocean and Caribbean Sea due to the combined efforts of: 

• U.S. Coast Guard Cutter James (WMSL 754) 
• U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Thetis (WMEC 910) 
• U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Vigilant (WMEC 617) 
• U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Valiant (WMEC 621) 
• U.S. Coast Guard Tactical Law Enforcement Team – South 
• U.S. Coast Guard Pacific Tactical Law Enforcement Team 
• USS Farragut (DDG 99) 
• Helicopter Interdiction Tactical Squadron 
• U.S. Customs and Border Protection, Air and Marine Operations (AMO) aircrews 
• Joint Interagency Task Force South 

“This offload is about national security,” said Vice Adm. Kevin Lunday, commander U.S. Coast Guard Atlantic Area. “It represents one part of a very large and strong interagency team that works closely with our allies and international partners to interdict maritime smuggling of dangerous and illegal drugs into the United States.” 

Numerous U.S. agencies from the Departments of Defense, Justice and Homeland Security cooperated in the effort to combat transnational organized crime. The Coast Guard, Navy, Customs and Border Protection, Federal Bureau of Investigation, Drug Enforcement Administration, and Immigration and Customs Enforcement, along with allied militaries and international partner agencies, play a role in counter-drug operations.  

“Our success hinges on our people. For the past 113 days, the women and men of James worked around the clock in support of the counter-narcotics mission,” said Capt. Donald Terkanian, commanding officer of James. “That being said, we cannot do this mission alone. We appreciate the immense support and dedication from our interagency and international partners that join us here today.” 

The fight against drug cartels in the Eastern Pacific Ocean and the Caribbean Sea requires a unity of effort in all phases, from detection and monitoring to interdiction and apprehension, through criminal prosecutions by international partners and U.S. Attorneys’ Offices in districts across the nation. The Joint Interagency Task Force South in Key West, Florida conducts the detection and monitoring of aerial and maritime transit of illegal drugs. The law enforcement phase of counter-smuggling operations in the Eastern Pacific Ocean is conducted under the authority of the Coast Guard 11th District, headquartered in Alameda, California, and the law enforcement phase of operations in the Caribbean is conducted under the authority of the Coast Guard 7th District, headquartered in Miami. The interdictions, including the actual boardings, are led and conducted by members of the U.S. Coast Guard.  

These interdictions relate to Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) designated investigations. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. Additional information about the OCDETF program can be found at https://www.justice.gov/OCDETF. 

James falls under the command of U.S. Coast Guard Atlantic Area. Based in Portsmouth, Virginia, U.S. Coast Guard Atlantic Area oversees all Coast Guard operations east of the Rocky Mountains to the Arabian Gulf. In addition to surge operations, Atlantic Area also allocates ships to deploy to the Caribbean and Eastern Pacific to combat transnational organized crime and illicit maritime activity. 

For information on how to join the U.S. Coast Guard, visit GoCoastGuard.com to learn about active duty and reserve, officer and enlisted opportunities. Information on how to apply to the U.S. Coast Guard Academy can be found here.   

For breaking news, follow us on “X” (formerly Twitter). For downloadable imagery, visit our DVIDS page. For additional information, find us on Facebook and Instagram. 

Release from U.S. Coast Guard Forces Micronesia/Sector Guam, Oct. 27, 2023 

SANTA RITA, Guam — The USCGC Oliver Henry (WPC 1140) crew returned to homeport on Oct. 15 after a 28-day patrol that reinforced the U.S. commitment to sovereignty and resource security in the Federated States of Micronesia Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) and beyond.  
 
The mission, which was part of Operation Rematau and the broader U.S. Coast Guard’s Operation Blue Pacific, fortifies the U.S. reputation as a reliable, trusted partner in the region. 
 
Sovereignty and resource security are fundamental components of national and regional stability. Access to vital goods, particularly in remote island nations, hinges on the maritime domains’ secure and lawful use. During the patrol, the Oliver Henry crew dedicated 11 days in the FSM’s EEZ and two days on the high seas, logging 422 total operational hours and sailing 4,986 nautical miles. The team’s presence and surveillance capabilities bolstered maritime domain awareness and effectively upheld regional sovereignty. 
 
“This mission represents another pivotal chapter in the ongoing success story of Operation Rematau and the U.S. Coast Guard’s contribution to a free and open Blue Pacific. We continue to prove that our Service is not just a force for good but a dependable and committed partner in this strategic region’s long-term security and prosperity,” said Capt. Nick Simmons, commander of U.S. Coast Guard Forces Micronesia/Sector Guam, reflecting on the broader objectives. 
 
The crew conducted three observation reports on Chinese-Taipei, Korean, and Japanese-flagged fishing vessels within the FSM EEZ and on the high seas, thus contributing to regional stability and resource protection.  
 
Additionally, the crew delivered new school supplies to communities on two FSM atolls and facilitated the return of the Nukuoro Elementary School principal. The mission ensured the delivery of over 6,000 pounds of supplies to Chuuk and Yap. The supplies include goods from UNICEF like 39 Schools-in-a-Box, 31 Early Childhood Development, and two Recreation Kits so children can play and learn even during emergencies. 
 
Further enhancing partnerships, the crew hosted the U.S. Ambassador to FSM, Jennifer Johnson and newly arrived Foreign Service Officer Amy Gradin in Phonpei. They toured the ship and discussed the invaluable role the U.S. Coast Guard plays in search and rescue and deterrence of illegal, unreported, and unregulated fishing in FSM territorial waters and in the region. The Oliver Henry crew also took embassy personnel underway for area familiarization and atoll surveys. 
 
A unique part of these patrols is the human connection. Lt. Ray Cerrato, the commanding officer of Oliver Henry, emphasized this, stating, “The relationships we’ve built and the lives we’ve touched will last a lifetime. From delivering school supplies to sharing best practices with agency partners, these interactions go beyond mere duty; they embody the human spirit of cooperation and mutual respect.” 
 
About U.S. Coast Guard Forces Micronesia/Sector Guam 
 
U.S. Coast Guard Forces Micronesia/Sector Guam serves as a linchpin for U.S. maritime interests in the region, fostering enduring partnerships with regional allies. The 300-strong team emphasizes maritime safety, security, and stewardship, reinforcing the U.S. Coast Guard’s long-standing reputation as a trusted partner in Blue Pacific. 
 
About USCGC Oliver Henry 
 
USCGC Oliver Henry (WPC 1140) is the 40th 154-foot Sentinel-class Fast Response Cutter named for Oliver T. Henry, Jr., an enlisted African American Coast Guard member first to break the color barrier of a then-segregated Service. Designed for many missions, including search and rescue, national defense, and maritime law enforcement, the Oliver Henry plays a significant role in safeguarding national interests and preserving good maritime governance. 

Release from U.S. Coast Guard 

***** 

Oct. 26, 2023 

WASHINGTON – The Coast Guard released the Arctic Strategic Outlook Implementation Plan in Washington Thursday.  

The implementation plan outlines 14 interconnected, action-oriented initiatives the Coast Guard will undertake to execute strategic objectives from the 2019 Arctic Strategic Outlook.  These efforts promote safety, security, stewardship and protect sovereign rights across the Arctic while supporting the National Strategy for the Arctic Region.   

The Coast Guard has long supported joint Arctic operations and exercises and our presence in the Arctic enables the Service to operationalize national strategies, strengthen partnerships and protect regional interests.  

“The Coast Guard is committed to a safe, secure and cooperative Arctic,” said Coast Guard Vice Commandant Adm. Steve Poulin. “Our continued presence strengthens maritime governance and stewardship in the region and is vital to ensuring national security and economic prosperity.”  

The Coast Guard’s mission in the Arctic has endured for more than 150 years, since the inaugural voyage of revenue cutters to Alaska in 1867. Today, the Arctic is experiencing unprecedented levels of environmental, operational and geostrategic stress requiring a collaborative approach to overtake these complex challenges. The Coast Guard’s Arctic Strategic Outlook Implementation Plan embodies this approach by directing actions to safeguard American interests and highlighting the Coast Guard’s prominent leadership role in international organizations responsible for regulating navigation, coordinating search and rescue operations, ensuring vessel safety, enforcing fisheries regulations and responding to environmental pollution incidents throughout the expansive Arctic region.   

The United States is an Arctic Nation, and the Coast Guard continues to serve as the lead federal agency for homeland security, safety and environmental stewardship in the region.   

Release from U.S. Coast Guard Atlantic Area 

***** 

Oct. 24, 2023 

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – The crew of the U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Vigilant (WMEC 617) returned home to Cape Canaveral, Tuesday, following a 29-day patrol in the Central Caribbean and Florida Straits. 

Patrolling in support of Joint Interagency Task Force-South, Vigilant worked alongside other Coast Guard cutters, Department of Defense and Department of Homeland Security units, and international partners to conduct counter-drug operations.  

During the patrol, Vigilant’s crew disrupted illegal narcotics smuggling, interdicting more than 5,600 pounds of illicit drugs. While in theater, Vigilant interdicted five drug-smuggling vessels and apprehended eight suspected traffickers, contributing directly to U.S. Coast Guard objectives to combat transnational criminal organizations. 

Vigilant operated as the Central Tasking Unit coordinating international and other asset movement to interdict suspected drug smuggling vessels, which strengthened ties with international partners and promoted regional stability and security. 

In addition, Vigilant rescued 12 Cuban migrants in an unseaworthy vessel 120 nautical miles south of Cuba. Once aboard Vigilant, the crew provided the migrants with food, water, shelter, and medical aid until they were repatriated. 

 “I’m extremely proud of our crew and the important lifesaving and critical counter-narcotic missions that we were able to perform on this patrol,” said Cmdr. Jon Potterton, the commanding officer of Vigilant. “It was excellent that we were able to strengthen our domestic and international partnerships and work together to make the world a safer place.” 

Vigilant is a 210-foot Reliance-class medium endurance cutter. The cutter’s primary missions are counter-drug operations, migrant interdiction, enforcement of federal fishery laws, and search and rescue in support of U.S. Coast Guard operations. The medium endurance cutters fall under the command of the U.S. Coast Guard Atlantic Area. Based in Portsmouth, Virginia, U.S. Coast Guard Atlantic Area oversees all Coast Guard operations east of the Rocky Mountains to the Arabian Gulf. In addition to surge operations, Atlantic Area also allocates ships to deploy to the Caribbean and Eastern Pacific to combat transnational organized crime and illicit maritime activity. 

For information on how to join the U.S. Coast Guard, visit GoCoastGuard.com to learn about active duty, reserve, officer, and enlisted opportunities. Information on how to apply to the U.S. Coast Guard Academy can be found here. 

Release from U.S. Coast Guard Forces Micronesia/Sector Guam 

***** 

Oct. 23, 2023 

TACLOBAN, Philippines — In a historic first, the USCGC Frederick Hatch (WPC 1143) visited partners in Tacloban, Philippines, from Oct. 19 to 23, 2023, and the crew conducted engagements marking a significant milestone in the enduring relationship between the United States and the Philippines. 
 
This visit of several days coincided with the observance of the Battle of Leyte Gulf, a crucial event in World War II history where U.S. Coast Guardsmen were a significant part of the U.S. forces and among the first to hit the beaches as the U.S. sought to retake the Philippines. 
 
“We are deeply honored to be part of this observance and to strengthen the bond between the United States and the Philippines,” said Lt. Patrick Dreiss, commanding officer of the USCGC Frederick Hatch. “It is a privilege to bring a U.S. Coast Guard Fast Response Cutter to the Philippines for the first time and to visit the historic city of Tacloban. My crew was excited to collaborate with the Philippine Coast Guard to deepen our connections with our fellow seagoing Service and explore this unique city and island.” 
 
An advance team from U.S. Coast Guard District 14 and U.S. Coast Guard Forces Micronesia/Sector Guam held planning meetings in collaboration with the U.S. Embassy to prepare for this visit and the Battle of Leyte Gulf observance. Discussions revolved around mutual capabilities, training opportunities, and community engagement, part of the Coast GGuard’sOperation Blue Pacific mission. 
 
While in Tacloban, the crew, with support from the Maritime Security Response Team West, hosted a subject matter expert exchange on maritime law enforcement with Philippine Coast Guard colleagues, observed the 79th Leyte Gulf Landing Anniversary, hosted local school children and government officials, held working meetings, and experienced the culture of the Eastern Visayas region of the Philippines. 
 
“The expanded capabilities of the Fast Response Cutter represent more than just advanced technology; they symbolize the bridge of cooperation and goodwill between nations. The FRCs and their dedicated crews regularly play a pivotal role in international diplomacy. These vessels, along with their highly trained and professional crews, are ambassadors of peace and collaboration, said Capt. Nick Simmons, commander of U.S. Coast Guard Forces Micronesia/Sector Guam. “They foster understanding and trust across borders, making the seas safer not only for our own nations but for all nations that rely on the freedom of navigation and maritime security.” 
 
This visit is part of the USCGC Frederick Hatch’s regularly scheduled expeditionary patrol as part of the ongoing Operation Blue Pacific. It follows previous interactions between the U.S. Coast Guard and the Philippine Coast Guard, including the recent arrival of the USCGC Stratton (WMSL 752) in Manila for professional exchanges and joint operations. 
 
The visit of Pacific Area commander Vice Adm. Andrew Tiongson in April to discuss shared challenges and opportunities for partnership further exemplifies the U.S. Coast Guard’s commitment to the region. The Service’s role as a federal law enforcement agency and an armed forces branch uniquely positions the agency’s teams to conduct security cooperation operations supporting combatant commanders, upholding governance, and ensuring regional stability. Through Operation Blue Pacific, an overarching multi-mission Coast Guard endeavor, the Service seeks to promote security, safety, sovereignty, and economic prosperity in Oceania while strengthening relationships between partner nations in the Pacific. 
 
The Tacloban visit underscores the shared strategic efforts toward a stable and prosperous Indo-Pacific and aligns with the Pacific Area Commander’s goals to prepare a ready force, generate combined effects, and uphold governance. It also supports U.S. Coast Guard District 14 and U.S. Coast Guard Forces Micronesia/Sector Guam’s commitment to be a trusted partner in Oceania and deliver operational excellence. 

Release from U.S. Coast Guard Forces Micronesia/Sector Guam 

***** 

Oct. 19, 2023 

SANTA RITA, Guam — Following the signing of an expanded bilateral law enforcement agreement in August, during the Joint Heads of Pacific Security conference, representatives of the U.S. Coast Guard and the Republic of Palau embarked on a series of meetings and initiatives to advance maritime partnership and promote regional stability Oct. 6 to 13, 2023. 
 
“Our work with Palau goes beyond signatures on an agreement; it’s about the actions we take together. It’s about standing side by side to safeguard our shared maritime environment and ensure regional security,” said Capt. Nicholas Simmons, U.S. Coast Guard Forces Micronesia/Sector Guam. 
 
In a strategic effort to deepen collaboration and build stronger bonds, members of U.S. Coast Guard District 14 Legal and Intel, along with members of U.S. Coast Guard Forces Micronesia/Sector Guam’s Intel and Compact of Free Association departments, conducted an Enhanced Shiprider Tabletop Exercise in Palau with members of the government and local enforcement agencies. This tabletop exercise served as a platform for key stakeholders from both sides to lay the groundwork for future endeavors. They also met with the governor of the northernmost state, Ngaraard, Governor Sharp Sakuma, and the president of Palau Community College, Dr. Patrick Tellei.  
 
Near future initiatives include: 
 
– Palau Search and Rescue Exercise – Set to take place in early 2024, demonstrating our joint commitment to the safety of life at sea. 
– Enacting the Enhanced Agreement –U.S. Coast Guard asset crews in the region will seek to employ the enhanced bilateral agreement.  
– Ngaraard State Projects – Focusing on improving maritime safety by developing a better marking system for vessel traffic in Palauan waters. 
– Palau Community College – U.S. Coast Guard Academy presentation aimed at recruiting and fostering education among young talent while building skills for local residents to bring back to Palau.  
 
The U.S. Coast Guard will also participate in the Palau Joint Committee Meeting scheduled for Nov. 15 to 17 in Palau, where, in addition to other items, discussions will consider the practical implementation of U.S. Coast Guard support to Palauan partners. 
 
The Republic of Palau, known for its rich culture and stringent marine conservation laws, is committed to protecting its marine environment. With this partnership, the U.S. aims to support Palau’s efforts while also enhancing regional security.  
 
About the Agreement  
 
The enhanced bilateral agreement empowers the U.S. Coast Guard to enforce regulations in Palau’s exclusive economic zone (EEZ) without a Palauan officer present. It represents a significant step forward in our shared commitment to regional maritime security. However, it is essential to clarify that this agreement does not replace joint work with physical shipriders; instead, it augments enforcement capabilities. 
 
This collaborative bilateral effort follows a similar agreement signed with the Federated States of Micronesia in October 2022. It is part of a broader strategy to strengthen regional security, including a bilateral defense agreement and bilateral maritime law enforcement with Papua New Guinea in May 2023, which enabled U.S. Coast Guard boarding officers alongside their Papua New Guinea counterparts to conduct boardings in PNG’s EEZ for the first time in over ten days at sea in August and September yielding four bilateral boardings, six observation reports, the identification of a vessel monitoring system violation and subsequent fine to the vessel operator by the PNG National Fisheries Authority.  
 
Operation Blue Pacific 
 
Through Operation Blue Pacific and Operation Rematau, led by U.S. Coast Guard Forces Micronesia/Sector Guam, the U.S. actively exercises maritime law enforcement agreements with Pacific Island Countries. These agreements reinforce maritime law enforcement operations, bolster maritime domain awareness, and contribute to security, safety, sovereignty, and economic prosperity throughout Oceania. 
 
The U.S. Coast Guard’s shiprider program is a cornerstone of these efforts, aligning with the Pacific Partnership Strategy and embodying our commitment to maritime safety, security, and stewardship in Oceania. 
 
“With this historic agreement and the ongoing collaboration, the U.S. reaffirms its presence in the Pacific, contributing to regional stability, security, and resilience. Collaborating with partners like Palau amplifies our ability to protect resources and maintain a free and open Blue Pacific for all nations that uphold the rule of law,” said Simmons.  

Release from U.S. Coast Guard Atlantic Area 

***** 

Oct. 16, 2023 

PENSACOLA, Fla. — The crew of U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Reliance (WMEC 615) returned to their home port in Pensacola, Monday, following a 60-day patrol in the Florida Straits and throughout the Gulf of Mexico.  

 
During the patrol, Reliance enforced fishery laws to ensure the safety of commercial fishing vessels and marine resources in the Coast Guard’s Eighth District. 

 
On Sept. 29, 2023, Reliance partnered with the crew of the Mexican Navy vessel ARM Uxmal near Cozumel, Mexico, for a joint training exercise under the North American Maritime Security Initiative. NAMSI, launched in 2008, aims to enhance maritime operations and training collaboration among U.S., Mexican, and Canadian forces. The exercise included maneuver and communication drills, ending with two Uxmal crewmembers touring the Reliance. 

 
Additionally, Reliance trained with aircraft crews from Coast Guard Air Stations Corpus Christi and Houston and offered over 400 public ship tours in Galveston, Texas, near where the Reliance was constructed six decades ago. 

 
“This crew demonstrated professional expertise, versatility, and technical skill beyond expectations during this patrol,” said Cmdr. Brian Chapman, Reliance’s commanding officer. “They have trained hard, performed superbly, and are truly ‘Semper Paratus—Always Ready’ for the next mission. I could not be prouder of this team of professionals.”  

 
Reliance is a 210-foot, medium endurance cutter homeported in Pensacola with a crew of 73. The cutter’s primary missions are counterdrug operations, migrant interdiction, enforcement of federal fishery laws, and search and rescue in support of Coast Guard operations throughout the Western Hemisphere.    

 
For information on how to join the U.S. Coast Guard, visit GoCoastGuard.com to learn about active duty, reserve, officer, and enlisted opportunities. Information on how to apply to the U.S. Coast Guard Academy can be found here.