Category: US Coast Guard

SANTA RITA, Guam — The USCGC Frederick Hatch (WPC 1143) successfully concluded a routine 47-day expeditionary patrol covering more than 8,200 nautical miles under Operation Blue Pacific, returning to Guam on Thanksgiving, distinguished by a series of historic and strategic engagements across the Western Pacific and Oceania. “USCGC Frederick Hatch’s highly successful patrol is a testament to the diligence and expertise of the crew onboard, always remaining positive and overcoming numerous challenges to continually set the standard for Coast Guard operations in the Pacific. Their efforts to keep our equipment functioning properly, go over the rail regularly for boardings, and cook meals in heavy seas is what makes the U.S. Coast Guard’s commitment to the Indo-Pacific region so strong. Our people are the best at what they do and always ready to go above and beyond when asked, which is the basis for being a trusted partner and fostering strong international alliances,” said Lt. Patrick Dreiss, commanding officer of the Frederick Hatch.

Discover the inspiring journey of Ensign Peyton Phillips aboard the USCGC Myrtle Hazard (WPC 1139), a testament to the diversity and strength of the U.S. Coast Guard. As a 2023 U.S. Coast Guard Academy graduate, Phillips serves as the first lieutenant on Myrtle Hazard, a key role in managing the synergy between the ship’s departments. These Fast Response Cutters (FRCs) play a pivotal role in maintaining security and enforcing laws in the challenging Blue Pacific waters. Phillips’ unique background, including his proficiency in Japanese from his time in Japan and Taiwan, was instrumental during the Myrtle Hazard’s patrol in support of Operation Blue Pacific. His collaboration with Cadets Genzo and Seiji Gonzales led to the creation of a Japanese translation sheet, enhancing communication during operations. With a deep family connection to aviation, Phillips aspires to become a pilot, reflecting his dedication to service. His story is a vivid example of how diverse experiences enrich the U.S. Coast Guard’s effectiveness in complex and international missions.

Coast Guard air and surface units combined efforts with a CBP aircrew and a Dominican Republic Navy patrol boat to rescue 60 migrants from a 35-foot makeshift vessel taking on water off the northeastern coast of the Dominican Republic. Coast Guard watchstanders in Sector San Juan were alerted late Monday night by the aircrew of a Coast Guard HC-144 ocean sentry aircraft who detected the grossly overloaded vessel, approximately 13 nautical miles offshore.

SANTA RITA, Guam — In an enduring commitment to regional stability and cooperative security, U.S. Coast Guard Forces Micronesia/Sector Guam personnel participated in a bilateral Joint Committee Meeting (JCM) with the Republic of Palau, alongside U.S. Indo-Pacific Command (INDOPACOM) and the U.S. Department of State representatives in Palau from Nov. 14 to17, 2023. The JCM, spearheaded by Rear Adm. Gregory Huffman and President Surangel Whipps Jr., with support from U.S. Ambassador to Palau, Joel Ehrendreich underscored the significance of the Compact of Free Association (COFA) in fostering mutual defense and security strategies.