HS1 Steven Zea: Charting a course of compassionate care in the Blue Pacific

In the vast oceanic stretches of the U.S. Coast Guard’s 14th District and the Blue Pacific, skilled medical personnel like Petty Officer 1st Class Steven Zea on Fast Response Cutters, especially during expeditionary patrols, is not just a necessity; it’s a lifeline. These patrols routinely take crews well over 200 nautical miles from shore, venturing into remote and austere environments where quick and expert medical care is critical. Zea, an independent-duty health services technician (HS) serving as a medical support professional aboard U.S. Coast Guard platforms, illustrates the Service’s dedication to safeguarding members’ well-being.