US Coast Guard News, Coast Guard Pay & Fitness Resources

The Coast Guard was established on Aug. 4, 1790. The Coast Guard is charged with maritime security, safety, and stewardship. While the Coast Guard operates under the Department of Homeland Security during peacetime, during times of war, it can be transferred to the Department of the Navy, as it did in WWI and WWII.

The Coast Guard is comprised of approximately 40,000 active duty personnel supported by an additional 7,000 reservists.

Coast Guard News

Find the latest news and information on the U.S. Coast Guard including top stories, technology, policies, leadership, and more.

The cutter Harriet Lane makes way through the Caribbean.

Coast Guard to Send Additional Cutter to Hawaii

The U.S. Coast Guard is continuing to beef up its presence in the Pacific with an 11th vessel for the Hawaii-based District...

Coast Guard Cutter Resolute's crew rescued 17 Cubans after they landed on Cal Say Bank, Bahamas

Coast Guard Saves 28 from Struggling Cuban Migrant Boat Off Key West. One Person Missing

Two people from the boat needed medical treatment and were taken to the hospital. Because they were caught at sea, the...

A family member of a U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Kimball crew member looks at Honolulu's skyline.

Coast Guard Cutter Back in Hawaii After Trek to Japan

The deployment was in support of Operation Sapphire, a joint agreement between the U.S. and Japanese coast guard.

Coast Guard Cutter Polar Star visits Palmer Station in Antarctica.

Coast Guard Requests Budget Cut for Fiscal 2024

The service did not provide a reason for the lower request but said the funding would be enough to sustain the fleet while...

Three Purple Heart Medals displayed in a box.

Coast Guard to Award Purple Hearts for 2 Killed in World War I U-Boat Attack

The service has been tracking down family of members who died aboard the Coast Guard cutter Tampa, the largest single loss of...

U.S. Coastguard Sector Commander for San Diego speaks to news reporters.

Maritime Smuggling Is Not New, But Attempts Have Surged, as Have Deaths

Southern California’s coastal region has seen a 771 percent spike in maritime human smuggling incidents since 2017.

Coast Guard Ships, Aircraft and Technology

The U.S. Coast Guard uses many different types of equipment. Learn about the ships, aircraft, weapons and technology the Coast Guard utilizes to carry out missions and defend the United States.

MH-60 Jayhawk

Cyclone Class Coastal Patrol Ship - PC

C-37A

Coast Guard Fitness

Looking to challenge yourself and improve both your physical fitness and mental toughness? Reach your fitness goals and pass the Coast Guard physical fitness test (PFT) with military workouts and exercise tips to get Coast Guard fit.

A member of the Pacific Tactical Law Enforcement Team complete a physical fitness test.

Coast Guard Basic PFT

The Coast Guard physical fitness program is designed to ensure that all members have the strength and stamina to perform...

A Coastie goes through her exercise routine.

Coast Guard Fitness Requirements

Coast Guard recruits run around a track.

USCG Physical Fitness Assessment (PFA)

An Army reservist gets done with a workout.

What You Should Know About Military Body Composition Tests

A soldier performs push-ups during an Army physical fitness test.

Why Boot Camp Is No Place to Show Up Out of Shape for Military Service

Join the Coast Guard

Looking to join one of Americas elite forces? Learn everything you need to know about joining the United States Coast Guard. Find out what you can expect when you join the Coast Guard, information on Coast Guard jobs, and physical fitness standards to get you started with a successful career as a coastie.

The History and Roles of the Coast Guard

The Unique Role of the US Coast Guard

Coast Guard Jobs at a Glance

Coast Guard College Student Pre-Commissioning Initiative

How to Become a Coast Guard Officer

Coast Guard Weight Requirements at a Glance

Class is in session at Coast Guard training center at Cape May, N.J.

Coast Guard Boot Camp Timeline at a Glance

Coast Guard Special Pay

Learn about Coast Guard Special Pay. In addition to a coastie's basic pay they may receive special pay and incentives pay. Coast Guard Special Pay can vary depending on occupation, specific assignments, and geographic location.