My Coast Guard News

Cutter Bear finding a lead through the ice off the coast of Alaska. (Photo courtesy of NOAA)

Dec. 12, 2025

Overland Expedition—Arctic’s greatest rescue of all time!

Considered the greatest rescue mission in Arctic history, the Overland Relief Expedition cemented Captain David Jarvis's legacy as one of the service's most celebrated officers.

Left, LCDR Smith posing with noted Arctic explorer Lincoln Ellsworth in front of the Graf Zeppelin. (U.S. Coast Guard photo) Right, Official service photograph of LCDR Edward “Iceberg” Smith taken before the historic 1931 Graf Zeppelin Arctic expedition. (U.S. Coast Guard)

Dec. 10, 2025

The Long Blue Line: Iceberg Smith and the 1931 Graf Zeppelin Arctic Expedition

LCDR Edward “Iceberg” Smith's work during the 1931 Graf Zeppelin Arctic Expedition was a key influence in the modernization of iceberg surveillance.

Recent photograph of a Coast Guard C-130 Hercules carrying out the aerial International Ice Patrol mission. (U.S. Coast Guard)

Dec. 5, 2025

150 years of Arctic operations and the Polar Security Cutter

For over 150 years, the Coast Guard and its ancestor agencies have played a major role in that Arctic region.

The 52-foot fishing vessel Thomas E after capture by Point Francis. (Courtesy of Eric Heestand)

Dec. 3, 2025

Drug Smuggler Thomas E and the Service’s first “Use of Disabling Fire” since Prohibition

In 1980, a dramatic high-seas pursuit ended a 47-year-old precedent.

Dec. 1, 2025

DEOC Survey extended through January 31, 2026

Deadline to complete workplace culture survey extended due to recent government shutdown.

Revenue cutter Vigilant firing on British privateer Dart prior to boarding and capturing the enemy vessel. (Coast Guard Collection)

Nov. 28, 2025

Alexander Hamilton and the Coast Guard as a U.S. Military Service

From humble beginnings as Hamilton's "cutters" enforcing tariffs, the U.S. Coast Guard has evolved into a vital military branch, safeguarding America's maritime interests since 1790.