Adm. Linda L. Fagan recently relieved Adm. Karl L. Schultz to become the Coast Guard’s 27th Commandant, becoming the first woman to lead any branch of the armed forces.
“We witness a tradition long-standing, Change of Command, as a new admiral assumes leadership of our nation’s oldest continuous seagoing service,” President Joe Biden said while presiding over the change-of-command ceremony at the U.S. Coast Guard Headquarters. “It’s both a connection to the earliest days of our nation, plus a new milestone in our history. We’ve used those phrases lightly, but this is a big deal. Throughout her decades of service, she’s demonstrated exceptional skill, integrity, and commitment to our country. There’s no one more qualified to lead the proud men and women of the Coast Guard. She will also be the first woman to serve as Commandant of the Coast Guard. And it’s about time.”
Adm. Fagan wore the shoulder boards of Adm. Owen Siler, who, as the service’s 15th Commandant, opened the Coast Guard Academy’s doors to women in 1975.
“If it were not for [Adm.] Owen Siler’s courage, I would not be here today,” Adm. Fagan said. “I’m wearing his shoulder boards that he wore as Commandant, just to acknowledge the long blue line. I’m honored and humbled to serve as your Commandant. I’ve always been inspired by the Coast Guard professionals serving in all our missions around the world. Thank you for your dedication, your hard work, and your service. It is my greatest privilege to work on your behalf.”
Adm. Schultz retired from the Coast Guard after 39 years of service and was awarded the Homeland Security Distinguished Service Medal from Department of Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro N. Mayorkas.