FORT DIX, N.J. - In a ceremony January 27, 2012 the Atlantic Strike Team honored the hard work and dedication of a select few Coast Guard Auxiliarists.

The recent ceremony honored the rich history of the Coast Guard Auxiliary, its members' 73 years of service to America and the 10 years of service the Auxiliary members have provided to the Atlantic Strike Team.

Since August 2001 Coast Guard Auxiliary volunteers have given more than 24,000 hours of time to the National Strike Force's Atlantic Strike Team. More than 15 Auxiliarists have dedicated themselves to supporting the AST as an essential part of the team. They have managed the unit's daily routine, tracked personnel and resources, greeted visitors, served as security and stood more than 2,500 eight-hour watches.

"They are critical to the success of the unit's mission," said Cmdr. Richard Schultz, the AST's commanding officer. "They provide life lessons and mentorship that benefit the entire crew."

FORT DIX, N.J. - The Coast Guard Atlantic Strike Team honored their Auxiliary Watchstanders in a ceremony for service spanning over 10 years January 20, 2012. This dedicated team stood more than 2,500 eight-hour watches and volunteered more than 24,000 hours. Pictured here are: Coast Guard Auxiliarists Lawrence Volz, Ellen Voorhees, Dorothy Smith, Frederick Kretsch, Carol Giroud and Dolores Verbanaz, in the back row: Active Duty Coast Guard members: Lt. Cmdr. David Reinhard, Cmdr. Richard Schultz and Lt. Benjamin Tuxhorn. U.S. Coast Guard photo by the Atlantic Strike Team.

The Auxiliary watchstander program started in 2001 when three Auxiliarists volunteered to assist in the AST's incident response center. The volunteers have been instrumental in several high profile National Strike Force pollution and natural disaster responses including three major oil spills, a mustard gas release, and four major hurricanes. For every incident, the Auxiliary watchstanders facilitated the rapid deployment of personnel and assisted with tracking all deployed resources.

"Their efforts have greatly contributed to our success at each response," Schultz said.

The Auxiliary watchstanders took over all watch functions shortly after the attacks on the World Trade Center and the Pentagon on September 11, 2001. Their surge of volunteers freed active duty strike team members to deploy critical unit resources to lower Manhattan as part of the recovery and clean up efforts.

The Auxiliary watchstanders assumed the watch again in October 2001 and April 2004 when the U. S. Capitol was hit by the anthrax and ricin biological terrorist attacks. The Auxiliary watchstanders managed the deployment and tracking of strike team resources for each incident.

"Every time the AST has needed to surge resources for a critical event, the Auxiliary watchstanders have been there," Schultz said.

The April 2010 blowout of the Deepwater Horizon oil well and subsequent Spill of National Significance was no exception. As the entire Coast Guard mobilized to support the response, the Auxiliary watchstanders stood up and integrated with the AST. Schultz said the watchstanders' phenomenal communication, coordination, resources tracking, and documentation skills allowed the AST to bring their full force of responders and oil spill cleanup gear to bear.

"I am proud to be part of the Atlantic Strike Team and the Auxiliary Watchstander program," said Ellen Voorhees, one of the original members and the Auxiliary Unit Liaison at the AST. "I'm extremely proud of the whole team."

Schultz said the Auxiliary makes contributions on a daily basis, which increases the capabilities of the Atlantic Strike Team and the National Strike Force.

"They are truly part of our team," said Schultz.

The Atlantic Strike Team assisted the Environmental Protection Agency Region Five On-Scene Coordinator during a hazardous materials emergency removal action in November and December 2011 at a former chemical production facility in Detroit, Mich.

DETROIT - Petty Officer 1st Class Seth Hartmann, a machinery technician at the Atlantic Strike Team, conducts a flammability test on an unknown sample in an Environmental Protection Agency hazardous materials categorization trailer, November 29, 2011. U.S. Coast Guard photo by Edward Primeau

Responders found more than 500 drums, tanks, compressed gas cylinders, and other miscellaneous containers strewn throughout the abandoned site.  A large number of the containers were unlabeled and unsecured, and marked with warnings ranging from ‘toxic’ to ‘poison.’

“There were puddles and pools of liquid waste on the floor around many of the containers, and it was critical that the area be cleaned properly,” said Ed Primeau, Atlantic Strike Team’s Industrial Hygienist. “This site is located next to a residential area and posed a significant threat to the local population.”

The National Strike Force and the EPA have an extensive history of working together to reduce or eliminate the dangers posed to both humans and the environment at hazardous materials sites. The relationship stems from the National Contingency Plan, which dictates that NSF pollution response resources are available to both Coast Guard and EPA Federal On-Scene Coordinators.

“The longstanding relationships, response support history, and seamless interoperability that all three Coast Guard strike teams have with their regional EPA On-Scene Coordinators is vital to safe mission completion during any pollution incident large or small," said Cmdr. Richard Schultz, the commanding officer of the Atlantic Strike Team.

Over a four-week period, under the direction of an environmental chemist, Atlantic Strike Team members reviewed Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) for all chemicals found on site, reviewed the transportation and disposal documentation for all chemicals departing the site, and conducted field tests to determine the hazardous characteristics of samples.  This allowed the cleanup contractor to safely bulk compatible waste, thus reducing the amount of waste streams needed for disposal.

In addition to conducting hazard categorization, the Atlantic Strike Team brought an instrument new to its inventory to conduct chemical sample analysis.  The instrument uses Raman spectroscopy to initiate molecular vibrations, or Raman scattering, which are then used by the instrument to identify the solid or liquid chemical. 

DETROIT - Edward Primeau, an industrial hygienist at the Atlantic Strike Team, uses a chemical analyzer to determine the identity of an unknown sample, December 1, 2011. U.S. Coast Guard photo by Petty Officer 1st Class Seth Hartmann

“The new equipment allowed us to identify numerous unknowns in less than half the time it takes to perform the hazardous categorization process on a sample,” said Petty Officer 1^st Class Seth Hartmann, a machinery technician with the Atlantic Strike Team.

Atlantic Strike Team members performed field laboratory tests to categorize a total of 329 samples, and verified the contents of 149 containers.  When the instrument identified a chemical that did not have the appropriate hazard characteristic based on that result, Atlantic Strike Team members contacted the manufacturer for support.  The members emailed the chemical spectrum to a scientist who analyzed the result and reported their findings. 

“The hazard categorization and test results allowed the removal and disposal contractors to handle hazardous materials in a safe manner that protected responders and the local population during site cleanup operations,” said Primeau.

Click on a photo above to view more detailed caption information and download the photo.

PORTSMOUTH, Va. — A local Coast Guard Reserve unit deployed to the Middle East in support of Operation Enduring Freedom Wednesday.

During the deployment, Coast Guard Port Security Unit 305 will provide seaward security at strategic port locations around the North Arabian Gulf ensuring the free flow of personnel, equipment and commerce in the region.

“I am extremely proud of the men and women under my command,” said Cmdr. Michael Ferullo, the commanding officer of PSU 305. “With the utmost proficiency and professionalism, they dedicated themselves to preparing for this deployment.”

Prior to deploying, PSU 305 mobilized to complete training with the Navy’s Maritime Expeditionary Squadron to increase interoperability and cooperation between the two sea services. During the exercise, they protected a mock forward operating base and responded to scenarios ranging from protests to terrorist attacks.

“Our seamless integration and work with our Navy counterparts enables us to conduct this joint service mission,” Ferullo said.

The unit also participated in the Yellow Ribbon Reintegration Program, a Department of Defense-wide effort to promote the well-being of National Guard and reserve members, their families and communities, by connecting them with resources throughout the deployment cycle. Through Yellow Ribbon events, service members and loved ones connect with local resources before, during and after deployments.

PSU 305 provides security and protects military personnel and facilities from terrorism, sabotage, espionage, subversion, and attack. The unit has a proud operational heritage, including securing New York Harbor after 9/11 and in support of Operations Enduring Freedom, Desert Storm, Noble Eagle and Uphold Democracy.

PSUs are a component of the Coast Guard’s Deployable Operations Group. The DOG provides properly equipped, trained and organized deployable specialized forces to the Coast Guard, the Department of Homeland Security, the Department of Defense and interagency operational and tactical commanders.

MIAMI – Today, the U.S. Coast Guard announced the seizure of more than two tons of cocaine from a vessel in the Gulf of Mexico earlier this month.

A Coast Guard deployable specialized forces team operating from the USS Oak Hill (LSD 51) discovered more than two tons of cocaine during counter narcotics operations in the Gulf of Mexico, Dec. 2.

“This has been a great experience for us, being able to leverage the incredible capabilities of the Oak Hill,” said Cmdr. Rob Landolfi, Coast Guard Tactical Law Enforcement Team South’s commanding officer.  “Our joint efforts during this deployment have resulted in the seizure of over two tons of cocaine.”

Oak Hill intercepted the motor vessel Mr. Geo in international waters off the Caribbean coast of Honduras. The Coast Guard boarding team recovered a shipment of cocaine, weighing more than 4,400 pounds worth an estimated street value of $245 million.

“We were conducting our Amphibious-Southern Partnership Station mission when we received the tasking to help execute the interdiction,” said Cmdr. David Bauer, Oak Hill’s commanding officer. “I am proud that the crew of Oak Hill was able to assist in the seizure.”

Southern Partnership Station is an annual deployment of U.S. ships to the U.S. Southern Command area of responsibility in the Caribbean and Latin America. The mission’s primary goal is information sharing with navy’s coast guards and civilians in the region. 

The Coast Guard deployable specialized forces team was comprised of law enforcement personnel from Tactical Law Enforcement Team South, Pacific Area Tactical Law Enforcement Team and Maritime Safety and Security Team San Diego (91109).

111209-N-0000X-005 Coast Guard law enforcement team, USS Oak Hill seize cocaine shipment

GULF OF MEXICO – Bales of cocaine, seized by a Coast Guard law enforcement team, are shown ready for transport off of the USS Oak Hill, Dec. 9, 2011. Working jointly with the Oak Hill’s crew, the Coast Guard team, comprised of members from Pacific Tactical Law Enforcement Team, Tactical Law Enforcement Team South and Maritime Safety and Security Team San Diego (91109), interdicted more two tons of cocaine from the motor vessel Mr. Geo. U.S. Navy photo.

111209-N-0000X-048 Coast Guard law enforcement team, USS Oak Hill seize cocaine shipment

GULF OF MEXICO – USS Oak Hill crewmembers prepare bales of cocaine, seized by a Coast Guard law enforcement team, for transport off of the USS Oak Hill, Dec. 9, 2011. Working jointly with the Oak Hill’s crew, the Coast Guard team, comprised of members from Pacific Tactical Law Enforcement Team, Tactical Law Enforcement Team South and Maritime Safety and Security Team San Diego (91109), interdicted more two tons of cocaine from the motor vessel Mr. Geo. U.S. Navy photo.

111209-N-0000X-087 Coast Guard law enforcement team, USS Oak Hill seize cocaine shipment

GULF OF MEXICO – USS Oak Hill crewmembers prepare bales of cocaine, seized by a Coast Guard law enforcement team, for transport off of the USS Oak Hill, Dec. 9, 2011. Working jointly with the Oak Hill’s crew, the Coast Guard team, comprised of members from Pacific Tactical Law Enforcement Team, Tactical Law Enforcement Team South and Maritime Safety and Security Team San Diego (91109), interdicted more two tons of cocaine from the motor vessel Mr. Geo. U.S. Navy photo.

WASHINGTON – Two deployed U.S. Coast Guardsmen received a holiday phone call from President Barack Obama Sunday.

Petty Officer 1^st Class Gilbert Zepeda and Petty Officer 2^nd Class Derek W. Weatherly, both currently deployed with Maritime Safety and Security Team San Diego (91109), answered the President’s calls at Naval Station Guantanamo Bay, Cuba.

“It was an honor,” Weatherly said. “A person could go 10 lifetimes and never talk to the President. He took time out of his very busy life to call, thank us for our service and wish us a merry Christmas.”

President Obama thanked them and the other Coast Guard men and women for their sacrifices far from home during this holiday season.

“The President was very down to earth,” Zepeda said. “We talked about when we’re getting home and the weather. He then asked me about my son, Zack, and said he was my early Christmas present.

Zepeda’s baby son was born less than a month before his father deployed to Guantanamo Bay.

While overseas, Zepeda, a gunner’s mate, is responsible for maintaining MSST San Diego’s armory including the unit’s weapons, ammunition, and pyrotechnics. He also supervises weapons training. Due to operational needs, Zepeda deployed with eight days notice for the extended overseas deployment.

During Weatherly’s call with the President, they discussed his previous deployments, the current deployment, returning home and the NFL playoffs.

“We talked a lot of football,” Weatherly said. “The Raider’s overtime win and other NFL games from Saturday.

Weatherly, a San Francisco Bay Area native, is an avid Oakland Raiders fan.

Both conversations boiled down to thank you for your service.

“He thanked us for our service and asked us to tell our shipmates that he appreciates everything we do for our country.” Weatherly said.

Weatherly, a machinery technician, is a tactical boat crewmember in the waterside section and provides on-water anti-terrorism force protection for Joint Task Force Guantanamo Bay.

While assigned to Joint Task Force Guantanamo, Zepeda, Weatherly and all of MSST San Diego form the Maritime Security Detachment Guantanamo and are responsible for securing the port and waterways around the base. They also provide landside security mission while Commissions for detainees are underway

Cmdr.  Eric Cooper, MSST San Diego’s commanding officer, was in the room when Zepeda and Weatherly took the phone call.

"The Coast Guard is recognized worldwide for having some of the highest quality professionals in the nation and I am fortunate to have the cream of the crop here at MSST San Diego,” Cooper said.  “Petty Officers Zepeda and Weatherly are true professionals and I couldn't be prouder of the dedication and consistently high performance that they display every single day. I am particularly impressed with the outstanding job that they have done while deployed supporting Joint Task Force Guantanamo."

As a part of the United States Department of Homeland Security's layered strategy directed at protecting seaports and waterways, MSSTs safeguard the public and protect vessels, harbors, ports, facilities and cargo in waters subject to the jurisdiction of the United States from destruction, loss, or injury from crime or sabotage due to terrorist activity, and to respond to such activity should it occur.

MSSTS are a component of the Deployable Operations Group .  The DOG provides properly equipped, trained and organized Deployable Specialized Forces (DSFs) to Coast Guard, Department of Homeland Security, Department of Defense and interagency operational and tactical commanders.

111225-G-0000X-002 Coast Guardsmen get holiday call from President Obama

GUANTANAMO BAY, Cuba – Petty Officer 2nd Class Derek Weatherly, a machinery technician, talks to President Barack Obama on the phone, Dec. 25, 2011. President Obama called two Coast Guardsmen deployed overseas to thank them for their service and wish them a merry Christmas. U.S. Coast Guard photo.

111225-G-0000X-001 Coast Guardsmen get holiday call from President Obama

GUANTANAMO BAY, Cuba – Petty Officer 1st Class Gilbert Zepeda, a gunner’s mate, talks to President Barack Obama on the phone, Dec. 25, 2011. President Obama called two Coast Guardsmen deployed overseas to thank them for their service and wish them a merry Christmas. U.S. Coast Guard photo.

HONOLULU – Coast Guard Maritime Safety and Security Team (MSST) Honolulu crewmembers joined with Coast Guard members from District 14 units to bring Christmas presents to more than 300 hundred children at Kuhio Elementary, a downtown Honolulu school that draws from a heavily underprivileged area of the island of Oahu, Dec. 14.

Dozens of MSST Honolulu crewmembers took wish lists written by the children and collected by their teachers, purchased gifts and wrapped them.  Crewmembers then delivered the gifts to the school with other District 14 units and attended a presentation by the children, who sang and performed holiday-themed routines for their families and the Coast Guard. 

“This is the second consecutive year that this unit participated in the local Angel Tree project, and it’s wonderful to be able to spread some holiday cheer to the kids,” said Lt. Cmdr. Helena Robinson, MSST Honolulu’s Commanding Officer who also participated in handing out the gifts. “From our understanding, many of these children were told this year that Christmas was going to be ‘cancelled due to tough times’, so we’re very glad to be able to reach out to them and bring smiles to so many faces right here in our community.” 

For one crewmember, this event struck a more personal chord.  “I looked out at the audience during the performance that the kids did, and I recognized some of my high school classmates standing there, taking video of their kids,” said Petty Officer Kenneth Pua’a.  “It was pretty amazing to realize I was helping them out by helping their kids have a good Christmas.” 

“I told them what the MSST does, and the teacher tied their recent lesson on goal setting and making progress towards their goals to my personal experience in joining and being in the Coast Guard,” said Petty Officer Michael Richards.

By the end, many happy and smiling children filled the school grounds, generously giving hugs and high-fives to the MSST Honolulu members as they departed.  In total, the Hawaii Coast Guard units donated more gifts than there were students, so the Coast Guard gave the excess presents to local homeless shelters for distribution. 

Created under the Maritime Transportation Security Act of 2002, the eleven MSSTs are a part of the United States Department of Homeland Security's layered strategy directed at protecting seaports and waterways.

MSSTs are a component of the Deployable Operations Group.  The DOG provides properly equipped, trained and organized Deployable Specialized Forces to Coast Guard, Department of Homeland Security, Department of Defense and interagency operational and tactical commanders.

111214-G-0000X-104 MSST Honolulu brings Christmas to Kuhio Elementary School

HONOLULU – Coast Guard Petty Officer 2nd Class Waylon Logsdon and Lt. Cmdr. Helena Robinson pause for a picture with one of the classes of Kuhio Elementary School after they handed out Christmas presents to the children, Dec 14, 2011. The gifts were donated by the crewmembers of Maritime Safety and Security Team Honolulu in conjunction with other Oahu Coast Guard units as part of the Angel Tree charity event, which helped bring Christmas to over three hundred students, many of whom come from underprivileged families. U. S. Coast Guard photo by Petty Officer 2nd Class Warren Grimes.

111214-G-0000X-097 MSST Honolulu brings Christmas to Kuhio Elementary School

HONOLULU – A student from Kuhio Elementary School smiles for the camera after receiving her Christmas present from Maritime Safety and Security Team Honolulu crewmembers, Dec 14, 2011. The gifts were donated by the crewmembers of MSST Honolulu in conjunction with other Oahu Coast Guard units as part of the Angel Tree charity event, which helped bring Christmas to over three hundred students, many of whom come from underprivileged families. U. S. Coast Guard photo by Petty Officer 2nd Class Warren Grimes.

111214-G-0000X-102 MSST Honolulu brings Christmas to Kuhio Elementary School

HONOLULU – Coast Guard Petty Officer 2nd Class Waylon Logsdon, a Boatswain’s Mate stationed at Maritime Safety and Security Team Honolulu, smiles with students from Kuhio Elementary School after handing out Christmas presents, Dec. 14th, 2011. The gifts were donated by the crewmembers of MSST Honolulu in conjunction with other Oahu Coast Guard units as part of the Angel Tree charity event, which helped bring Christmas to over three hundred students, many of whom come from underprivileged families. U. S. Coast Guard photo by Petty Officer 2nd Class Warren Grimes.

111214-G-0000X-098 MSST Honolulu brings Christmas to Kuhio Elementary School

HONOLULU – Coast Guard Petty Officer 2nd Class Michael Richards, a Maritime Enforcement specialist stationed at Maritime Safety and Security Team Honolulu, helps a Kuhio Elementary School teacher sort out presents for her class, Dec. 14, 2011. The gifts were donated by the crewmembers of MSST Honolulu in conjunction with other Oahu Coast Guard units as part of the Angel Tree charity event, which helped bring Christmas to over three hundred students, many of whom come from underprivileged families. U. S. Coast Guard photo by Petty Officer 2nd Class Warren Grimes.

At 6 feet 5 inches tall, the center for the United States’ all-military team playing at Mons, Belgium, Nov. 26-Dec. 3, could be a member of any of the five military branches.  That man standing tall in middle for the 48^th Supreme Headquarters, Allied Powers Europe International Basketball Tournament  is Lt. j.g. Craig Johnson of Coast Guard Maritime Safety and Security Team San Francisco (91105).

Johnson, a 2009 graduate of the Coast Guard Academy, played for the Bears while attending the service school.  He continued to pursue opportunities to play basketball after commissioning. While stationed on the Coast Guard Cutter Gallatin, he was selected as part of the All-Navy team and then the all-military team at SHAPE last year.

That lead to him returning to this year’s team.

“This was a great opportunity to represent the Coast Guard overseas and work with members from the other services,” said Johnson.  “It’s always invigorating to be on a sports team in an athletically competitive environment."

Prior to the tournament, the team ran through their paces during a nine-day training camp at Ramstein Air Force Base, Germany. The extensive training schedule gave the Army, Navy, Air Force and Coast Guard members an opportunity to gel as a team. 

“There’s not a lot of time to get used to playing as a team,” Johnson. ”We pushed hard with a two-a-day practice schedule leading up to the tournament. We built our teamwork and camaraderie during those long days.”

Starting the tournament strong, Team USA defeated teams Belgium, Italy and France before falling to Latvia in the fourth game. They rallied and ended the tournament with a win over Lithuania to take the bronze medal.

“It’s always back and forth,” said Johnson. “You come to this tournament and have the opportunity to play against great teams, and I’m always grateful for the chance to build relationships with members of the other services and our allies. “

Johnson’s high-scoring game of 18 points was against Belgium. Last year, he was on the championship team. It was the first time the U.S. team had taken gold since 2004.

Looking ahead, he would like to play in more tournaments representing the Coast Guard if possible.

“Operational commitments always come first, and I’m hoping there’s a chance for me to play again next year” Johnson said. “The Coast Guard and basketball are synergistic in my life. Being physically fit, does more than make a me good basketball player; it enables me to excel at my Coast Guard duties.”

111203-G-0000X-001  Coast Guard basketball player competes at European tournament

MONS, Belgium  — Coast Guard Lt. j.g. Craig Johnson, stationed at Maritime Safety and Security Team San Francisco (91105), competes as a member of the U.S. All-Military Basketball team at the 48^th Supreme Headquarters, Allied Powers Europe International Basketball Tournament here, Dec. 3, 2011. The U.S. team won bronze at this years tournament. Photo courtesy of Patrick Ferriol.

111203-G-0000X-002 Coast Guard basketball player competes at European tournament

MONS, Belgium  — Coast Guard Lt. j.g. Craig Johnson, stationed at Maritime Safety and Security Team San Francisco (91105), competes as a member of the U.S. All-Military Basketball team at the 48^th Supreme Headquarters, Allied Powers Europe International Basketball Tournament here, Dec. 3, 2011. The U.S. team won bronze at this years tournament. Photo courtesy of Patrick Ferriol.

111203-G-0000X-003 Coast Guard basketball player competes at European tournament

MONS, Belgium  — Coast Guard Lt. j.g. Craig Johnson, stationed at Maritime Safety and Security Team San Francisco (91105), competes as a member of the U.S. All-Military Basketball team at the 48^th Supreme Headquarters, Allied Powers Europe International Basketball Tournament here, Dec. 3, 2011. The U.S. team won bronze at this years tournament. Photo courtesy of Patrick Ferriol.

GALVESTON, Texas ­— Coast Guard Marine Safety and Security Team Galveston (91104) was awarded the Sumner I. Kimball Readiness Award for excellence in operational readiness at their home base., Nov. 30. 

“This award signifies MSST Galveston’s excellence in boat operations,” said Capt. Gene Gray, commander of the Deployable Operations Group. “In addition to large deployments to Guantanamo Bay, Cuba and the Asian Pacific Economic Cooperation, the continued readiness they maintained while deployed across the hemisphere is a credit to proficiency and professionalism of MSST Galveston’s command and crew."

Coast Guard boat force units receive this award for achieving an outstanding performance rating during a rigorous week-long inspection. 

The inspection examines the condition of the unit’s boats and equipment, rescue and survival systems, crew knowledge of standard operating procedures and parameters, training program and readiness, practical drills and exercises. MSST Galveston exceeded the Coast Guard average in each category and attained one of the highest scores among deployable specialized force units.

While the Coast Guard maintains a high readiness posture, only 10-percent of shore-based boat force units are awarded the Kimball Award each year.

“I am extremely honored to lead the outstanding group of professionals stationed here at MSST Galveston,” said Lt. Cmdr. Chad Holm, MSST Galveston’s commanding officer. “I could not be more proud of the phenomenal job every member of this unit does on a daily basis to protect our nation’s borders and citizens."

The award's namesake, Sumner I. Kimball, was appointed by President Rutherford B. Hayes in 1878 to the post of General Superintendent of the U.S. Life-Saving Service which would later comprise a key component of the modern day Coast Guard.  Kimball's lofty standards laid a solid foundation and significantly contributed to the modern day Coast Guard's reputation as life-saving responders.  

Created under the Maritime Transportation Security Act of 2002, the eleven MSSTs are a part of the United States Department of Homeland Security's layered strategy directed at protecting seaports and waterways.

MSSTs are a component of the Deployable Operations Group.  The DOG provides properly equipped, trained and organized Deployable Specialized Forces to Coast Guard, Department of Homeland Security, Department of Defense and interagency operational and tactical commanders.

SEATTLE – Port Security Unit 313, a Coast Guard Reserve expeditionary unit, at Naval Station Everett, Wash., transferred command, Saturday.

During the ceremony, Cmdr. Daniel W. Clark assumed the responsibilities of PSU 313 commanding officer from Cmdr. James B. Andrews.

PSU 313 returned from their latest deployment under Andrew’s command on Aug, 13, 2011. While deployed to the Middle East, they conducted more than 100 high value asset escorts across the Persian Gulf which ensured the safe passage of more than 3,000 pieces of mission essential equipment into and out of the theater of operations. They also worked jointly with U.S., British and Iraqi forces to maintain 24-hour security and provide 150 personal security details for coalition forces.

Clark is arriving from Marine Security Squadron One where he served as the senior reserve officer and seaward security officer. Previously, he has deployed in support of a variety of operations including to Boston following the 9/11 attacks as Waterborne Security Officer of PSU 307; Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, as the shore-side security officer, to Haiti in support of the United Nation’s stabilization mission and to the Coast Guard Atlantic Area as an incident management watch officer for Hurricane Katrina relief operations.

The change of command ceremony is a time-honored event preserved by the rich heritage of naval tradition. It is a custom that is formal and impressive and designed to strengthen the respect for the continuity of command that is vital to any military organization. The high light/high point/pinnacle of the ceremony is reached when both officers read their orders, face one another, salute and transfer responsibility for the command. This provides the entire command with the knowledge that the new officer directed by proper authority is taking command and an opportunity to witness this transfer of responsibility.

Established December 12, 1998, PSU 313 provides security and protects military personnel and facilities from terrorism, sabotage, espionage, subversion, and attack. PSU 313 has a proud operational heritage, including recent security and humanitarian support to Haiti after last year’s devastating earthquake and in support of Operations’ Enduring Freedom, Desert Storm, Noble Eagle and Uphold Democracy.  Initially stationed at Camp Patriot Kuwait Naval Base in 2003, PSU detachments provided water and landside security and were stationed on both the Mabot and Kaaot gas and oil platforms to provide security against threats of destruction from Iraq and Iran. 

PSUs are a component of the Coast Guard’s Deployable Operations Group (DOG).  The DOG provides properly equipped, trained, and organized Deployable Specialized Forces (DSFs) to Coast Guard, Department of Homeland Security, Department of Defense and interagency operational and tactical commanders.

For additional information contact the Coast Guard District 13 Public Affairs Office at (206) 220-7237.

110813-G-ZQ587-001-Welcome Home PSU 313 

SEATTLE - Coast Guard Port Security Unit (PSU) 313, out of Everett, Wash., is welcomed home at Seattle Tacoma International Airport after a six month deployment to the Middle East in support of Operation New Dawn and Operation Enduring Freedom on Aug. 13, 2011. PSU 313 provided landward and seaward security at strategic port locations around the Northern Arabian Gulf ensuring the free flow of personnel, equipment and commerce in the region. U.S. Coast Guard video by Petty Officer 2nd Class Eric J. Chandler.

110813-G-BV859-077 PSU 313 homecom

SEATTLE - An Everett, Wash., based Port Security Unit (PSU) 313 member holds his child after returning home from an extended deployment to the Middle East, Aug. 13, 2011. While deployed, PSU 313 members provided harbor defense and security to ports, seaward approaches, and waterways within U.S. Central Command's area of responsibility and ensuring the free flow of personnel, equipment and commerce in the region. U.S. Coast Guard photo by Petty Officer 2nd Class Michael Anderson.

110813-G-BV859-066 PSU 313 homecoming 

SEATTLE - An Everett, Wash., based Port Security Unit (PSU) 313 member holds his daughter after returning home from an extended deployment to the Middle East, Aug. 13, 2011. While deployed, PSU 313 members provided harbor defense and security to ports, seaward approaches, and waterways within U.S. Central Command's area of responsibility and ensuring the free flow of personnel, equipment and commerce in the region. U.S. Coast Guard photo by Petty Officer 2nd Class Michael Anderson.

110813-G-BV859-031 PSU 313 homecoming 

SEATTLE - An Everett, Wash., based Port Security Unit (PSU) 313 member holds his daughter after returning home from an extended deployment to the Middle East, Aug. 13, 2011. While deployed, PSU 313 members provided harbor defense and security to ports, seaward approaches, and waterways within U.S. Central Command's area of responsibility and ensuring the free flow of personnel, equipment and commerce in the region. U.S. Coast Guard photo by Petty Officer 2nd Class Michael Anderson.

110813-G-BV859-103 PSU 313 homecoming 

SEATTLE - An Everett, Wash., based Port Security Unit (PSU) 313 member holds his daughter after returning home from an extended deployment to the Middle East, Aug. 13, 2011. While deployed, PSU 313 members provided harbor defense and security to ports, seaward approaches, and waterways within U.S. Central Command's area of responsibility and ensuring the free flow of personnel, equipment and commerce in the region. U.S. Coast Guard photo by Petty Officer 2nd Class Michael Anderson.

110813-G-BV859-288 PSU 313 homecoming 

SEATTLE - An Everett, Wash., based Port Security Unit (PSU) 313 member embraces his wife after returning home from an extended deployment to the Middle East, Aug. 13, 2011. While deployed, PSU 313 members provided harbor defense and security to ports, seaward approaches, and waterways within U.S. Central Command's area of responsibility and ensuring the free flow of personnel, equipment and commerce in the region. U.S. Coast Guard photo by Petty Officer 2nd Class Michael Anderson. 

110813-G-BV859-267 PSU 313 homecoming 

SEATTLE - Petty Officer 3rd Class John Hoyt, a Maritime Enforcement Specialist, leads the Everett, Wash., based Port Security Unit (PSU) 313 through Seattle-Tacoma International Airport gates to the unit's families who were waiting inside the terminal, Aug. 13, 2011. Hoyt's twin daughters, who he has never seen, were born while PSU 313 was on an extended deployment to the Middle East. U.S. Coast Guard photo by Petty Officer 2nd Class Michael Anderson.

110813-G-ZQ587-7308-Welcome Home PSU 313 

SEATTLE - Coast Guard Port Security Unit (PSU) 313, out of Everett, Wash., is welcomed home at Seattle Tacoma International Airport after a six month deployment to the Middle East in support of Operation New Dawn and Operation Enduring Freedom on Aug. 13, 2011. PSU 313 provided landward and seaward security at strategic port locations around the Northern Arabian Gulf ensuring the free flow of personnel, equipment and commerce in the region. U.S. Coast Guard photo by Petty Officer 2nd Class Eric J. Chandler. 

SEATTLE – The Everett, Wash.,-based Coast Guard Port Secuity Unit (PSU) 313 returned, Saturday, from a six-month deployment to the Middle East in support of Operation New Dawn and Operation Enduring Freedom.

During the deployment, PSU 313 provided landward and seaward security at strategic port locations around the North Arabian Gulf ensuring the free flow of personnel, equipment and commerce in the region.

“I am extremely proud of the men and women under my Command during this highly successful deployment,” said Coast Guard Cmdr. James B. Andrews, commanding officer of PSU 313.  They performed their duties with the utmost professionalism and devotion to duty.”

CLICK HERE for the full media advisory, which provides a complete description of PSU 313's missions in the Arabian Gulf.

Media inquiries should contact Petty Officer 2nd Class Michael Anderson at (202) 631-3313 or michael.a.anderson@uscg.mil; or the 13th Coast Guard District Public Affairs Office at (206) 220-7237.

JOINT BASE MCGUIRE-DIX-LAKEHURST, N.J. – A Clearwater, Fla., based Coast Guard Reserve unit deployed Saturday to the Middle East in support of Operation New Dawn and Operation Enduring Freedom.

Port Security Unit 307 deployed from Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst with the Navy’s Maritime Expeditionary Squadron Two as part of Combined Task Group 56.5, under the Naval Expeditionary Combat Command. CTG 56.5 is charged with providing harbor defense and security to ports, seaward approaches and waterways within U.S. Central Command’s area of responsibility and ensuring the free flow of personnel, equipment and commerce in the region.

“Our members are highly trained, very motivated and excited to be deploying,” said Cmdr. J. Brad Wallace,  commanding officer of PSU 307 and Task Group 56.5 deputy commander. “We have completed extensive specialized pre-deployment training which exemplifies the Coast Guard’s continuing commitment to safeguard our nation both at home and abroad.”

PSU 307 members conduct waterside security and maritime force protection training including specialized training and qualification in combat, weapons, communications and tactical boat skills areas before and after being activated.

“We mobilized months in advance of the deployment to conduct training and ensure medical, dental and personal readiness,” Wallace said. “Part of that mobilization readiness includes ensuring the families left behind are connected into a support system and are aware of all the resources availability to them while the service member is deployed overseas.”

PSU 307 families are benefiting from the Yellow Ribbon Reintegration Program, a DOD-wide effort to help National Guard and Reserve members and their families locate resources before, during and after deployments. Yellow Ribbon events provide access to information on health care, education and training opportunities, financial and legal benefits. PSU 307 conducted a major Yellow Ribbon event in May after mobilization.

Established May 1999 as a Coast Guard Reserve unit, PSU 307 provides security and humanitarian support, protecting personnel and facilities from terrorism, sabotage, espionage, subversion and attack. The unit has a proud operational heritage, including recent security and humanitarian support to Haiti after last year’s devastating island earthquake and in support of Hurricane Katrina, Operations’ Enduring Freedom, Desert Storm, Noble Eagle and Uphold Democracy.

PSUs are a component of the Coast Guard’s Deployable Operations Group. The DOG provides properly equipped, trained and organized Deployable Specialized Forces to Coast Guard, Department of Homeland Security, Department of Defense and interagency operational and tactical commanders.

For more information on the DOG, go to www.DOGexternalaffairs.com.

110722-G-BV859-044 PSU 307 deploys to Middle East

JOINT BASE MCGUIRE-DIX-LAKEHURST, N.J. – A Port Security Unit 307 member embraces his spouse before he deploys to the Middle East in support of Operation New Dawn, July 22, 2011. While deployed, PSU 307 will be charged with providing harbor defense and security to ports, seaward approaches, and waterways within U.S. Central Command's area of responsibility and ensuring the free flow of personnel, equipment and commerce in the region.  U.S. Coast Guard photo by Petty Officer 2nd Class Michael Anderson.

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JOINT BASE MCGUIRE-DIX-LAKEHURST, N.J. – Capt. David Martin, Deployable Operations Group Senior Reserve Officer, speaks to Port Security Unit 307 members before they deploy to the Middle East in support of Operation New Dawn, July 22, 2011. While deployed, PSU 307 will be charged with providing harbor defense and security to ports, seaward approaches, and waterways within U.S. Central Command's area of responsibility and ensuring the free flow of personnel, equipment and commerce in the region. U.S. Coast Guard photo by Petty Officer 2nd Class Michael Anderson.

110722-G-BV859-087 PSU 307 deploys to Middle East

JOINT BASE MCGUIRE-DIX-LAKEHURST, N.J. – Port Security Unit 307 members depart the passenger terminal for their flight to the Middle East, July 22, 2011. While deployed, PSU 307 will be charged with providing harbor defense and security to ports, seaward approaches, and waterways within U.S. Central Command's area of responsibility and ensuring the free flow of personnel, equipment and commerce in the region. U.S. Coast Guard photo by Petty Officer 2nd Class Michael Anderson.

MIAMI — The Miami-based U.S. Coast Guard Tactical Law Enforcement Team South concluded its participation in support 2011 Gulf of Mexico quick draw evolution, June 24, 2011.

GOMEX was designed to test a Coast Guard, U.S. Navy and Mexican navy response time to a security or maritime homeland defense threat.

During the two-week exercise, a TACLET South Law Enforcement Detachment, operating from the USS John L. Hall, conducted law enforcement training with the Hall’s crew and the Mexican navy.

While participating in GOMEX, the John L. Hall received a distress call from the crew of the motor vessel Mr. Lucky, who were 50 miles east of Cozumel, Mexico, June 16. A joint Coast Guard/Navy team boarded the Mr. Lucky in rough seas and high winds. They assessed the situation and attempted to fix the damaged steering system and engine.

When it was determined that the right equipment and materials to repair the ship were not available, the John L. Hall coordinated with the Mexican navy to safely tow the Mr. Lucky to Cozumel. Before being relieved on station, sailors from John L. Hall transferred food and water to crew of the Mr. Lucky, who had less than a day's worth of each remaining.

“This case is a perfect example of the Coast Guard’s value to the American public and all mariners at sea,” said Lt. Scott Carr, external affairs officer of the Deployable Operation Group. “ The Coast Guard ‘s strong partnership with the U.S. Navy and foreign services allows us to globally respond to the dangers at sea, get the job done right and save lives.”

TACLETs and their LEDETs are an armed deployable specialized force under the U.S. Coast Guard’s Deployable Operations Group. They were created to support narcotics interdiction operations aboard U.S. Navy and allied warships and are capable of supporting Department of Defense national defense operations. LEDETs provide specialized law enforcement capability and maritime security capabilities to enforce U.S. laws across a full spectrum of maritime response situations, maritime security augmentation and maritime interdiction anti-piracy operations.

110614-G-0000X-002 TACLET South trains with U.S. Navy crew

GULF OF MEXICO – Tactical Law Enforcement Team (TACLET) South members lead a law enforcement training class on the flight deck aboard the USS John L. Hall, June 14, 2011. The TACLET South Law Enforcement Detachment was aboard the Hall in support of the 2011 Gulf of Mexico (GOMEX) Quick Draw evolution. U.S. Coast Guard photo.

110614-G-0000X-001 TACLET South trains with U.S. Navy crew

GULF OF MEXICO – A boarding team member from Tactical Law Enforcement Team (TACLET) South demonstrates law enforcement holds to the crew of the USS John L. Hall, June 14, 2011. The TACLET South Law Enforcement Detachment was aboard the Hall in support the 2011 Gulf of Mexico (GOMEX) Quick Draw evolution. U.S. Coast Guard photo.

ARLINGTON, Va. – A change of command ceremony is scheduled for the Deployable Operations Group at the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association in Arlington, June 23 at 10 a.m.

During the ceremony, Capt. Gene Gray will assume the responsibilities of DOG Commander from Capt. Gail P. Kulisch.

During her tenure, Kulisch led 26 units and more than 3,200 personnel in support of major operations worldwide, including Operation Unified Response, the Deepwater Horizon Response, Operation New Dawn, Operation Enduring Freedom and domestic security missions as well as counter-narcotics operations that lead to the interdiction of more than 26.9 tons of cocaine with an estimated street value of $864 million.

Gray is arriving from the White House, where he was the National Security Council’s Director for Central America and Caribbean Affairs. Previously, he served as Chief, Office of Counter-terrorism and Defense Operations at U.S. Coast Guard Headquarters and Joint Staff, Chief, Air, Land and Maritime Homeland Defense Division at the Pentagon. He also commanded the Coast Guard Cutters Cape Shoalwater, Sassafras and Valiant

The change of command ceremony is a time-honored event preserved by the rich heritage of naval tradition. It is a custom that is formal and impressive and designed to strengthen the respect for the continuity of command that is vital to any military organization. The climax of the ceremony is reached when both officers read their orders, face one another, salute and transfer responsibility for the command. This provides the entire command with the knowledge that the new officer directed by proper authority is taking command and an opportunity to witness this transfer of responsibility.

The DOG provides properly equipped, trained and organized Deployable Specialized Forces to the U.S. Coast Guard, Department of Homeland Security, Department of Defense and interagency operational and tactical commanders.

The DSFs include:

Tactical Law Enforcement Teams – The TACLETs were created to provide specialized law enforcement and support drug interdiction operations aboard U.S. Navy and Allied warships. They also support maritime interdiction anti-piracy operations and are capable of supporting the Department of Defense national defense operations.

Maritime Safety and Security Teams – MSSTsare part of the Department of Homeland Security’s layered strategy directed at protecting seaports and waterways. They provide waterborne and shoreside anti-terrorism force protection for strategic shipping, high-interest vessels and critical infrastructure.

Port Security Units – PSUs conduct expeditionary port security in support of requesting combatant commanders and support military and humanitarian operations worldwide. They provide sustained waterside protection to key assets including pier areas, high value vessels and harbor entrances.

National Strike Force Coordination Center – The NSFCC provides support and standardization guidance to the Atlantic Strike Team, Gulf Strike Team and Pacific Strike Team.  The NSFCC is also home to the Public Information Assist Team and oversees the maintenance of the OPA-90 mandated Response Resources Inventory, Oil Spill Removal Organization Classification Program, and National Maintenance Contract (NMC).

National Strike Force Strike Teams – Each strike team is a highly trained cadre of Coast Guard professionals who maintain and rapidly deploy with specialized equipment and incident management skills wherever needed. The strike teams are recognized worldwide as expert authorities in the preparation for and response to the effects resulting from oil discharges, hazardous substance releases, weapons of mass destruction events, and other emergencies on behalf of the American public.

Maritime Security Response Team – The MSRT provides a short-notice, threat-tailored, maritime response force to deter, protect against, and respond to threats of maritime terrorism and to higher-risk criminal law enforcement threats on the water or in a port. The MSRT is a scalable and agile force that operational commanders directly request for short-notice maritime response. 

110623-G-BV5829-008 DOG change of command

ARLINGTON, Va. – Capt. Gene Gray (left) assumes the responsibilities of the Deployable Operations Group commander from Capt. Gail Kulisch (right) as Vice Adm. Manson K. Brown, Pacific Area commander, presides over the DOG change of command ceremony, June 23, 2011. The DOG is the single commandauthority to rapidly provide the Coast Guard, Department of Homeland Security, Department of Defense, Department of Justice and other interagency operational commanders with adaptive force packages drawn from the U.S. Coast Guard's deployable specialized force units. U.S. Coast Guard photo by Petty Officer 2nd Class Michael Anderson.

110623-G-BV5829-021 DOG change of command

ARLINGTON, Va. – Capt. Gene Gray, Deployable Operations Group commander, departs the change of command ceremony where he assumed his responsibilities as the DOG commander, Thursday, June 23, 2011. The DOG is the single commandauthority to rapidly provide the Coast Guard, Department of Homeland Security, Department of Defense, Department of Justice and other interagency operational commanders with adaptive force packages drawn from the U.S. Coast Guard's deployable specialized force units. U.S. Coast Guard photo by Petty Officer 2nd Class Michael Anderson.

WASHINGTON – The Coast Guard named a Newark, Calif., native as its 2010 Reserve Enlisted Person of the Year at a ceremony at Coast Guard Headquarters Friday.

Petty Officer 1^st Class William M. Hilt, a health services technician stationed at Port Security Unit 312 in San Francisco, was presented the Reserve Enlisted Person of the Year award by Adm. Robert J. Papp, commandant of the U.S. Coast Guard.

“It was an honor to be nominated and recognized by the commandant, the Master Chief Petty Officer of the Coast Guard and the Master Chief Petty Officer of the Coast Guard Reserve Force” Hilt said.

During the ceremony, he was awarded a Coast Guard Commendation Medal and meritoriously promoted to petty officer 1^st class.

A chemistry major at San Jose State University as a civilian, Hilt managed the medical screenings of 140 personnel deploying to the Middle East, which was critical to the success of PSU 312’s pre-deployment works-ups.

In addition to the medical screenings, hilt improved patient care delivery and led medical training after his duty rotations. He also provided instruction to shipmates working toward professional certifications.

“I like the atmosphere of the PSU, and the fact it’s a deployable unit.” Hilt said. “It gives me access to training that I wouldn’t get at other reserve units that I can pass on to my shipmates.”

His actions and work ethic allowed him to become a mentor for new and aspiring health services technicians and corpsmen from both the Coast Guard and the Navy.

The REPOY program recognizes exceptional men and women in the Coast Guard’s Reserve enlisted workforce. Considered as the “best and brightest” from the field, these individuals are selected by a panel of senior enlisted members who evaluate each nominee against a set of established criteria that includes performance, work ethics, military bearing, standards of conduct and a strong community service commitment.

The REPOY program is designed to recognize enlisted persons in the workforce in pay grades E-2 through E-6. Nominees must reflect the spirit of pride, professionalism, dedication and must embody the Coast Guard core values of honor, respect and devotion to duty.  Community service provided by the nominees enhances the lives of others inside and outside of the Coast Guard.

Hilt was previously honored as the Eleventh Coast Guard District’s REPOY at a ceremony held March 16, 2011 at Coast Guard Island, Alameda, Calif., and the 1^st Quarter Junior Sailor of the Quarter for Combined Task Group 56.5, which is a composite of U.S. Navy and Coast Guardsmen who deploy to Kuwait in support of Operation New Dawn.

PSUs provide security and protect military personnel and facilities from terrorism, sabotage, espionage, subversion and attack. 

Reserve Enlisted Person of the Year

WASHINGTON - Coast Guard Commandant Adm. Bob Papp, Master Chief Petty Officer of the Coast Guard Michael Leavitt and Master Chief Petty Officer of the Coast Guard Reserve Forces Mark Allen host the reserve enlisted person of the year Petty Officer 1st Class William Hilt at Coast Guard Headquarters in Washington, May 27, 2011. U.S. Coast Guard photo by Petty Officer 2nd Class Patrick Kelley.