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Commentary | June 3, 2025

Best Places to Work: Port Security Unit 308

By LCDR Darnell Talbert, Port Security Unit 308

My unit is the best place to work because
At Port Security Unit (PSU) 308, we the active duty Full-Time Support (FTS) staff foster a true sense of purpose, camaraderie, and pride. Our members are a tight-knit family, committed to excellence in mission execution while also supporting one another both on and off duty. We offer a unique blend of high-tempo operational readiness with the welcoming spirit of Southern hospitality.  

What we do 
PSU 308 specializes in expeditionary port security operations — providing critical force protection to vessels, harbors, and critical infrastructure worldwide. We maintain rapid deployment capability to support Department of Defense (DoD) operations, Homeland Security missions, and contingency operations both domestically and abroad. Our team regularly trains across a variety of operational environments, from small boat tactics and security zones to integrated maritime defense planning.  

Why it's fulfilling
Every member at PSU 308 plays an essential role in ensuring national and global maritime security. Our missions have real-world impacts — protecting critical supply lines, ensuring the safety of deployed forces, and standing ready to respond when and where needed. Members see their training translate directly into mission success, giving them an immediate sense of contribution and accomplishment.  

When not on watch, we
We take full advantage of our location nestled between Mobile, Alabama, and New Orleans, Louisiana. Our members enjoy world-class seafood, vibrant local festivals (especially Mardi Gras!), fishing, hiking, historic tours, and a rich cultural scene. Many also volunteer in the community, strengthening our bond with the Gulf Coast region.  

Why it’s great to live here
Living on the Gulf Coast means you’re never far from adventure. Mild winters, beautiful beaches, and a low cost of living make it a fantastic place to call home. Whether it’s kayaking in the bayous, attending a Saints game in New Orleans, or exploring the rich history of coastal Mississippi, there’s always something exciting happening nearby.  

What we do for fun
We host regular unit morale events like crawfish boils, fishing tournaments, family days, and holiday celebrations. Our members often organize group outings to concerts, festivals, and sporting events throughout the region. The camaraderie here extends far beyond duty hours — we truly enjoy spending time together.  

Best-kept secret
PSU 308 isn’t just a top operational unit — it’s a family. Many of our members describe their time here as the highlight of their Coast Guard careers. Plus, you can end your drill weekend with beignets in New Orleans or fresh Gulf shrimp right off the dock — not many units can say that!  

Our mission  
Our mission is to provide rapidly deployable, expeditionary force protection for designated High Value Assets, critical port facilities, and infrastructure, ensuring freedom of navigation and the safe flow of commerce both at home and abroad.  

Benefits to working here:  

  • Exceptional small unit leadership that invests in professional and personal growth.  
  • Operational opportunities typically reserved for active-duty members, while maintaining reserve balance.  
  • Access to premier training courses in small boat operations, security tactics, and joint-force interoperability.  
  • A vibrant and supportive local community to include our DoD brethren-counterparts at Keelser AFB and NCBC-Gulfport that embraces the Coast Guard.  
  • Unparalleled opportunities for mentorship, advancement, and lifelong friendships.  

-USCG-  

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