Six U.S. Coast Guard stations will return to full operations next year based on operational risk and mission demand.
The Coast Guard’s Force Alignment Initiative, launched under the branch’s Force Design 2028 plan, reduced operations at several stations in 2023 and 2024. The initiative, in response to work force shortages, shifted personnel to higher priority units and missions.
Returning the six stations to full operations will strengthen the Coast Guard’s ability to respond to crises or contingencies on the water, and increase capacity for search and rescue, maritime security and law enforcement.
“Record recruiting is giving us the people we need to strengthen frontline operations,” Adm. Kevin E. Lunday, Coast Guard commandant, said. “Returning these stations to full operations means more Coast Guard men and women serving in our communities and greater capacity to respond when the American people need us. This is an important step, and more stations will follow.”
The six stations are Station Castle Hill, Rhode Island; Station Golden Gate, California; Station Milford Haven, Virginia; Station Rio Vista, California; Station Saginaw River, Michigan; and Station Vallejo, California.
Additional stations are expected to also return to full operations and will be prioritized based on operational risk, mission demand, and availability of funding.
Staffing and restoration of full operations is contingent upon fiscal year 2027 appropriations.