Coast Guard Commandant Adm. Bob Papp delivered the Commandant's annual leadership address to the Coast Guard Academy Corps of Cadets in New London, CT, on Jan. 6, 2011.  The address was part of a three-day trip to the New London area to visit units and meet with Academy staff.  While in New London, Adm. Papp did an interview with the New London Day, "Papp inspires next Coast Guard generation."  He also conducted an editorial board with the Norwich Bulletin that was recorded on video and posted in four parts: one, two, three, and four.

Coast Guard Commandant Adm. Bob Papp outlined his four principles and provided an update on cutter recapitalization efforts during his remarks at the 23rd National Symposium of the Surface Navy Association in Crystal City, VA, on Jan. 12, 2011.  Watch the video (scroll down to "Watch Now," then to "Coast Guard update," and click "Watch" under ADM Papp's picture), read the speech or watch his interview.

Coast Guard Vice Commandant Vice Adm. Sally Brice-O'Hara presided over the ribbon cutting of a new Coast Guard exhibit at the Pentagon in Arlington, VA, on Jan. 19, 2011.  She was joined by many of the Coast Guard personnel who are assigned to the Pentagon full time.  The new display is in the Visitor's Center next to the other services' exhibits, and seeks to educate the Center's 250 thousand annual visitors about the Coast Guard's wide portfolio of missions and authorities.  The exhibit was designed around the idea that people are the Service's most valuable asset, and features the theme “Heroes in our Midst.”  Framed below a stylized fuselage of a Coast Guard helicopter, the display is comprised of large-panel photos and a video describing the Coast Guard's many missions.

William R. Brownfield was sworn in on Feb 1st 2011 as the Assistant Secretary of State for the Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs, in a ceremony attended by Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, other State Dept. officials, and various representatives from throughout the federal government. Coast Guard Vice Commandant Vice Adm. Sally Brice-O'Hara represented the Coast Guard. The Coast Guard and the Bureau are partners in the multi-agency effort to combat drug smuggling, often working together on training and support initiatives for Caribbean nations.     

Coast Guard Commandant Adm. Bob Papp discussed the Coast Guard's Marine Safety Performance Plan, merchant mariner credentialing and the maritime transportation system in his remarks to the Passenger Vessel Association annual convention in St. Louis, MO, on Feb. 6, 2011.  WorkBoat.com also published an article.

Coast Guard Commandant Adm. Bob Papp released his new Commandant's Direction in conjunction with the 2011 State of the Coast Guard Address held at Joint Base Anacostia-Bolling on Feb 10.

Coast Guard Commandant Adm. Bob Papp delivered the 2011 State of the Coast Guard Address at Joint Base Anacostia-Bolling, Washington, DC, Feb 10.  Click here to view the address or here to read the address.     

Coast Guard Commandant Adm. Bob Papp interviewed with Fox National News when he visitied USCGC Waesche underway off San Francisco, CA, on Feb. 2, 2010.  Click here to see the story and here to see the video.

Coast Guard Commandant Adm. Bob Papp discussed Coast Guard missions, challanges and assets in his remarks to the faculty and students at the Naval War College in Newport, RI, on Feb. 16, 2011.  Click here to read his remarks.

Coast Guard Vice Commandant Vice Adm. Sally Brice-O'Hara and Petty Officer Third Class Curtis Litzenberger cut a cake at the 70th anniversary of the Coast Guard Reserve celebration at Coast Guard Headquarters on Feb. 23, 2011.  Click here to read the ALCOAST message, here to read the Compass blog post, and here to read Vice Adm. Brice-O-Hara's remarks. 

The Department of Homeland Security celebrates its eighth anniversary today, Mar. 1, 2011, which is highlighted in a blog from ADM Papp.  Click here to see a video from Secretary Napolitano, here to see a slideshow, here to read a DHS blog post, here to read a "Day in DHS" paper, and here to read a fact sheet.

Coast Guard Commandant Adm. Bob Papp announced his plans for "Year of the Coast Guard Family" in a message released on Feb. 28, 2011.  Click here to read the message, here to read a White House press release on the "Strengthening Our Military Families: Meeting America's Commitment" report and here to read the report, and here to go to the National Military Family Association web site.

Coast Guard Commandant Adm. Bob Papp and Master Chief Petty Officer of the Coast Guard Michael Leavitt testified before the House of Representatives subcommittee on Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation about the Coast Guard's proposed fiscal year 2012 budget at the Rayburn House Office Building in Washington, D.C., on Mar. 1, 2011.  Click here to read Adm. Papp's written testimony and here to view video of the hearing. 

Click here to read a story by Coast Guard Commandant Adm. Bob Papp titled, "Charting the Coast Guard's Course," in the March 2011 edition of the U.S. Naval Institute's Proceedings Magazine. 

Coast Guard Commandant Adm. Bob Papp makes a point during testimony before the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Homeland Security about the Coast Guard's proposed fiscal year 2012 budget at the Rayburn House Office Building in Washington, DC, on Mar. 10, 2011.  Click here to read Adm. Papp's written testimony.

Coast Guard Commandant Adm. Bob Papp meets with the crew of the National Command Center at Coast Guard Headquarters March 17, 2011. U.S. Coast Guard photo by Petty Officer 2nd Class Patrick Kelley.

Coast GUard Commandant Adm. Bob Papp speaks to the Deployable Specialized Forces Stem to Stern Workshop in Leesburg, VA, on March 21, 2011.  Adm. Papp stated in his 2011 Commandant's State of the Coast Guard Address the necessity for a review of their concept of operations.  The Deployable Operations Group  manages these teams. 

The Coast Guard remembers Capt. Hopley Yeaton on the anniversary of his receiving the first commission in the Revenue Cutter Service (predecessor of the U.S. Coast Guard) on Mar. 21, 1791, who commanded the cuter Scammel.  Click here for more information on Yeaton, here for information on the cutter Scammel, and here for information on a cutter later named for Yeaton.

Coast Guard Vice Commandant Vice Adm. Sally Brice-O'Hara participated in a memorial ceremony at Station Niagara on Mar. 23, 2011, that marked the 10 year anniversary of Petty Officer Second Class Scott Chism and Seaman Christopher Ferreby being lost when their boat capsized while on a law enforcement patrol.  Click here, here and here for news stories on the dedication, and here for a photo of Vice Adm. Brice-O'Hara comforting Seaman Ferreby's son.   

Coast Guard Vice Commandant Vice Adm. Sally Brice-O'Hara participated in a ribbon cutting ceremony for a new Customs and Border Protection Operations Integration Center at Selfridge Air National Guard Base in Harrison Township, MI, on Mar. 24, 2011.  The Coast Guard is one of many agencies that will be represented in the new facility.  Click here to read a news story and here for a video interview.

Click here to watch a short video from Coast Guard Commandant Adm. Bob Papp on the 2011 Mutual Assistance campaign.

VADM Sally Brice-O'Hara, CDR Scott Smith, commanding officer, CGC Mackinaw, Capt. Joseph McGuiness, commander, Coast Guard Sector Sault Sainte, and  Rear Adm. Michael Parks, commander, 9th Coast Guard District aboard the Coast Guard Cutter Mackinaw on March 25,2011. 

To read a blog post on the Great Lakes break-out, click here.

Master Chief Petty Officer of the Coast Guard Michael Leavitt meets with the Rating Force Master Chiefs at Coast Guard Headquarters in Washington D.C. March 29, 2011. U.S. Coast Guard photo by Petty Officer 2nd Class Patrick Kelley.

Vice Adm.. Sally Brice-O'Hara introduces Cruise Lines International President Christine Duffy, during a Women's History Month event at Coast Guard Headquarters on Wednesday March 30.  U.S. Coast Guard photo by Petty Officer Patrick Kelley.

Click here to read a New London Day article titled, "Melting Arctic ice a challenge for U.S.," that discusses the impact of U.S. non-ratification of the Law of the Sea treaty on Coast Guard operations in the Arctic.

 VADM Sally Brice-O'Hara,Coast Guard Vice-Commandant and RADM Mary Landry, Commander  8th Coast Guard District present Petty Officer 1^st Class Sean Hawes the Coast Guard Achievement Medal and is recognized as the active duty Enlisted Person of the Year for the Eighth Coast Guard District on March 14, 2011 in New Orleans, LA. Photo by Petty Officer 3^rd Class Casey J. Ranel.

Petty Officer 3^rd Class Robert Hardin, a marine science technician, also recieved the Coast Guard Achievement Medal and was recognized as the reserve duty Enlisted Person of the Year for the Eighth Coast Guard District

For more information on the Enlisted Persons of the Year Award click here.

Gold Ancient Mariner Adm. Bob Papp and Silver Ancient Mariner Master Chief Petty Officer Steven Hearn pose with the crew of Coast Guard Cutter Smilax.  Photo by Petty Officer 2nd Class Patrick Kelley.

 Coast Guard Commandant and Gold Ancient Mariner Adm. Bob Papp presided over a relief of watch in Atlantic Beach, NC, Apr. 14, where USCGC Smilax (WLIC 315) became Queen of the Fleet as the Coast Guard's oldest commissioned cutter.  Clik here for a news story on the event and here

Master Chief Petty Officer of the Coast Guard Michael Leavitt tours the Coast Guard Maritime Security Response Team (MSRT) in Chesapeake, Va., April 1, 2011. Leavitt observed training techinques and got underway on a small boat with MSRT members.

To view more pictures, click here. To learn more about Coast Guard Deployable Operations Group click here.

Coast Guard Commandant Adm. Bob Papp attends the Navy League's Sea, Air and Space conference as the keynote speaker at the National Harbor in Washington, D.C., April 12, 2011. Photo by Petty Officer 2nd Class Patrick Kelley.

For more information on Sea-Air-Space, click here. For more information on the Navy League click here. To view pictures of ADM Papp at the Sea-Air-Space Conference, click here.

Coast Guard Commandant Adm. Bob Papp, Vice Commandant of the Coast Guard Vice Adm. Sally Brice-O'Hara, Master Chief Petty Officer of the Coast Guard Michael Leavitt and Mrs. Debbie Leavitt meet with the 2010 Geico Military Award Winner Petty Officer 2nd Class Michael James and hiw wife Racquel at Coast Guard Headquarters in Washington, D.C., April 18, 2011. Photo by Petty Officer 2nd Class Patrick Kelley.

To read the message annoucing the GEICO Award Winner click here. To learn more about the GEICO Military Award click here.

Coast Guard Commandant Adm. Bob Papp announced the selection of Petty Officer 1st Class Troy Brevik of Air Station Sitka as the Coast Guard Active Duty Enlisted Person of the Year and Petty Officer 2nd Class William Hilt of Port Security Unit 312 as the Coast Guard Reserve Enlisted Person of the Year in a service wide message on Wednesday.  Click here to read the ALCOAST message and here to read a story in the Juneau Empire about Brevik.

Coast Guard Commandant Adm. Bob Papp testified before the U.S. Senate Committee on Appropriations, Homeland Security Subcommittee, in Washington, DC, today, on the Coast Guard's fiscal year 2012 budget.  The focus of the hearing was on operation and recapitalization requirements.  Click here to read Adm. Papp's written statement, here for his oral statement and here to view the archived webcast.

Coast Guard Vice-Commandant Vice. Adm. Sally Brice-O'Hara delivered commencement remarks at Meredith College in Raleigh, NC on May 8, 2011. Click here for a video of the remarks.

Coast Guard Commandant Adm. Bob Papp participated in the Coast Guard Academy's 130th commencement exercise on Wednesday May 18, where 229 cadets received their diplomas and commissions as new ensigns in Coast Guard.  President Barack Obama and Homeland Security Secretary Janet Napolitano both participated in the ceremony.  Click here to watch video of the event, here to read President Obama's speech, and here to read a New London Day article on the event.

VADM Brice-O'Hara poses for a picture with student performers from Mount Eagle Elementary School and principal Brian Butler at Coast Guard Headquarters on Tuesday May 10. The students performed songs about the water cycle and the earth for Coast Guard personnel and PIE volunteers.  VADM Brice-O'Hara delivered remarks.  

To read a blog post on the 20th Anniversary of the Coast Guard Partnership in Education Program, please click here. To learn more about the PIE Program, please click here.

On Sunday, May 8, ADM Bob Papp's interview with Vago Muradian from This Week in Defense News aired across the country.

To watch a video of the interview click here, here and here. For more information on This Week in Defense News, click here.  

Adm. Bob Papp speaks at the DC Coast Guard Foundation Dinner on June 8, 2011 with Master Chief Petty Officer of the Coast Guard Michael Leavitt.Photo by Petty Officer 2nd Class Kelly Parker

Adm. Papp also attended the Seattle Foundation Dinner on May 25, 2011. To learn more about the Coast Guard Foundation across the 13th District, click here. For more information on the Coast Guard Foundation's support of Coast Guard families nationwide click here.To learn more about the Coast Guard Foundation click here.   

Coast Guard Commandant Adm. Bob Papp testified before the U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Ocean, Atmosphere, Fishers, and Coast Guard Subcommittee, in Washington, DC, today, June 23, 2011 on the Coast Guard's fiscal year 2012 budget.  The focus of the hearing was on acquisition.  Click here to read Adm. Papp's written statement,here to read Adm. Papp's oral statement and here to vew an archived version of the webcast

Vice Commandant of the Coast Guard Vice Admiral Sally Brice-O'Hara participants in a panel discussion sponsored by the Military Child Education Coalition. The panel included Army Chief of Staff Gen. Martin Dempsey, Air Force Vice Chief of Staff Gen. Philip Breedlove, and Vice Chief of Naval Operations Adm. Jonathan Greenert, as well as representatives from the Department of Education, National Guard and Marine Corps. U.S. Department of Education Photo.

One of the many tools available to Coast Guard Families is Worklife4u.  It is a 24 hour a day, 7 days a week service helping members with personal challenges from adoption to financial issues. To learn more about worklife4u click here.  To read a post on Brice-O'Hara's participation in the conference click here.

Vice Adm. Sally Brice-O'Hara speaks at the memorial for the CGC Escananba in Grand Haven, Michigan on August 5th,  as part of Grand Haven's Coast Guard Festival Activities. The CGC Escanaba was the first cutter homeported in Grand Haven and sunk during World War II. For more information on the sinking of CGC Escanaba click here.To read an oral history account from survivor Raymond O'Malley click here.

 Coast Guard Commandant Adm. Bob Papp poses with Lt. Trevor Parra, RADM Joseph Castillo, Coast Guard Foundation president Anne Brengle, and VADM Manson Brown. Lt. Parra received the Admiral John B. Hayes Award for Unit Excellence on behalf of Marine Safety Detachment American Samoa during the Coast Guard Foundation's 26th Annual Pacific Area awards dinner in San Diego, Aug. 3, 2011. Photo by Petty Officer 2nd Henry G. Dunphy.

To learn more about the Coast Guard Foundation, click here. To read a blog post from ADM Papp about the Coast Guard Foundation, click here.

VADM Sally Brice-O'Hara and MCPOCG Michael Leavitt presented the Inspirational Leadership and Elite Athlete of the Year Awards at Coast Guard Headquarters on August 11.

The Elite Female Athlete of the Year is YN2 Syreeta Broomfield and The Elite Male Athlete is LT Kenneth Burgess.  

The Greanoff Award winner is Mr. Paul Shurte, The Putnam Award winner is Mr. Douglas Cameron , The McShan Active Duty winner is SCPO Sean Edwards, The McShan Reserve winner is YNC Abigail Scrocco , The Witherspoon Award Reserve winner is CDR Franklin Schaefer , and The Witherspoon Active Duty Reserve winner is CWO James Mullinax. Click on each name to learn about their accomplishments.

ADM Bob Papp speaks to the 39th Annual National Naval Officers Association Professional Development and Training Conference in San Diego, CA on August 3, 2011. NNOA actively supports the Sea Services in the development of a diverse officer corps through recruitment, retention, and career development .To learn more about NNOA click here. To read a blog post from Coast Guard Compass here.

Coast Guard Commandant Adm. Bob Papp presides over a ceremony during which Master Chief Petty Officer Steven Hearn is relieved of duties as the Coast Guard's Silver Ancient Mariner by Master Chief Petty Officer Lloyd Pierce, command master chief at the Coast Guard Academy,Millington, Tenn., Aug. 19, 2011.The ancient mariner position is held by the officer (gold) and enlisted person (silver) with the earliest date of qualification as a cutterman. U.S. Coast Guard photo by Petty Officer 2nd Class Patrick Kelley.

Coast Guard Commandant Adm. Bob Papp takes part in a panel discussion on the short film "BOATLIFT" during the Sept. 11th Tenth Anniversary Summit at the Newseum in Washington D.C. Sept 8, 2011. The movie, narrated by Tom Hanks, chornicles the evacuation of Manhattan by water after the terror attacks on September 11th. Participants of the panel dicussion moderated by Dan Rather, included Adm. Papp, Cmdr. Mike Day, Dr. Steve Flynn, Andrew McGovern and Vincent Ardolino.  To watch BOATLIFT click here. Photo by Petty Officer 2nd Class Patrick Kelley.

Coast Guard Commandant Adm. Bob Papp attends the football game between the Merchant Marine Academy and the Coast Guard Academy in King's Point, N.Y., Sept. 10, 2011. The Coast Guard Academy Bears were defeated 35-28, the USMMA captured the Secretary's Cup. Papp also attended a Volleyball Game. U.S. Coast Guard photo by Petty Officer 2nd Class Patrick Kelley.

Coast Guard Commandant Adm. Bob Papp attends a Coast Guard Academy Homecoming tailgating event with cadets in New London, Conn., Sept. 24, 2011. U.S. Coast Guard photo by Petty Officer 2nd Class Patrick Kelley.

Coast Guard Commandant Adm. Bob Papp testified before the U.S. House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure Subcommittee on Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation, in Washington, DC, today, October 4, 2011. Adm. Papp testified on the Coast Guard's efforts to update the aging fleet. Click here to read Adm. Papp's written statement, to here read Adm. Papp's oral statement and here to vew an archived version of the webcast.

Coast Guard Vice Commandant Vice Adm. Sally Brice-O'Hara participates in a ribbon-cutting for a newly refsurfaced basketball court at Station Annapolis in Annapolis, MD, Oct. 9, 2011. Anne Brengle and Jim O'Hare from the Coast Guard Foundation and BMC Corbin Ross also particpated in the ribbon-cutting.   

Coast Guard Commandant Adm. Bob Papp leads the Coast Guard delegation to the International Seapower Symposium in Newport, RI.  Held at the U.S. Naval War College, the annual meeting is an opportunity for Coast Guard senior leadership to strengthen partnerships with international naval leadership during bilateral meetings and events. To learn more about ISS, click here. To learn more about Coast Guard international programs, click here.

Adm. Bob Papp visits the New York Harbor School on Governors Island, New York.  The New York Harbor School provides an "education built upon New York City's martime experience."  To learn more about the New York Harbor School click here. To learn more about the history of Governors Island click here. To read former Commandant Adm. Jim Gracey's reminiscences on the Coast Guard's early presence on Governors Island click here.

Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, Army Gen. Martin E. Dempsey, and Coast Guard Commandant Adm. Bob Papp on the flight deck of the Coast Guard Cutter Stratton near Annapolis, Md., Oct. 31, 2011. Stratton is the third National Security Cutter to be delivered to Coast Guard. U.S. Coast Guard photo by Petty Officer 2nd Class Patrick Kelley.

  To read a blog post about Gen. Dempsey's visit and Coast Guard acquisitions, click here

Department of Homeland Security Secretary Janet Napolitano visits Coast Guard Headquarters in Washington, DC on November 3, 2011. During her visit Secretary Napolitano presented awards to Rear Adm. Paul Zukunft and Rear Adm. Peter Neffenger for their leadership during the Deepwater Horizon oil spill and held a town hall meeting, answering questions from Coast Guard members and employees.

Vice Adm. Sally Brice-O'Hara and Fireman Karla Thompson welcome a Coast Guard SPAR abaord the CGC Stratton in Baltimore, MD on November 3, 2011. Stratton, the newest Coast Guard National Security Cutter is named for Capt. Dorothy Stratton , the director of the Coast Guard Women's Reserve from 1942-1946. 

Coast Guard Commandant Adm. Bob Papp and and his wife , Linda, meet with Al Roker in New York Oct 14, 2011.  Mr. Roker  produces "Coast Guard Alaska" premiering tonight on The Weather Channel. Visit the "Coast Guard Alaska" webpage to learn more about the show and check airtimes.  To read a blog post on filming Coast Guard Alaska click here.

Adm. Bob Papp and Master Chief Petty Officer of the Coast Guard Michael Leavitt participate in the Flags Across America flag laying event on Arlington National Cemetery Saturday, November 5, 2011. Recruit companies Sierra 185 and Tango 185 helped with the event at  Arlington National Cemetery for their one-day off-base liberty which was their only break in an eight-week boot camp at the Coast Guard's Training Center in Cape May, N.J. Photo by Petty Officer 2nd Class Patrick Kelley.  

Coast Guard Vice Commandant Vice Adm. Sally Brice-O'Hara poses with Elaine Savage, Coast Guard recipient of the 2011 Spirit of Hope Award, and Naval Engineering and Support Unit Boston Commanding Officer Cmdr. Jerrold Sgobbo following a ceremony at the Pentagon, in Washington, D.C., on Nov. 15, 2011.

Coast Guard Commandant Adm. Bob Papp meets with crew members of Coast Guard 110-foot patrol boats in Manama, Bahrain, Nov. 16, as part of a visit to Coast Guard Patrol Forces Southwest Asia.  The patrol boats, used to secure Iraqi oil terminals, were in port for maintenance, logistics and crew rest.

Coast Guard Commandant Adm. Bob Papp reviews a document with Deputy Commandant for Operations Vice Adm. Brian Salerno during a session at the International Maritime Organization assembly in London, Nov. 22, 2011.  Coast Guard photos by Petty officer 2nd Class Patrick Kelley.  Note: military personnel are not in uniform as established custom is business attire for members state representatives.

Coast Guard Commandant Adm. Bob Papp reviews a graphic display of maritime activities in the Port of Rotterdam, The Netherlands, Nov. 23.  The port briefing followed a visit with the men and women of Coast Guard Activities Europe, also located in Rotterdam, earlier in the day.  Coast Guard photo by Petty Officer 2nd Class Patrick Kelley. 

Coast Guard Vice Commandant Vice Adm. Sally Brice-O'Hara and Coast Guard Chaplain Capt. Gary Weeden cut a cake for the 236th birthday of the Navy Chaplain Corps. Photo by Petty Officer 2nd Class Timothy Tamargo To read Adm. Bob Papp's Anniversary Message, click here.

Coast Guard Commandant Adm. Bob Papp responds to a question during a House Subcommittee on Coast Guard and Marine Transportation hearing on, "Protecting U.S. Sovereignty: Coast Guard Operations in the Arctic," at the Rayburn House Office Building in Washington, D.C., on Dec. 1, 2011.  State of Alaska Lt. Gov. Mead Treadwell is seated next to Papp and also testified at the hearing.  Coast Guard photo by Petty Officer 2nd Class Patrick Kelley.

Coast Guard Commandant Adm. Bob Papp and Master Chief Petty Officer of the Coast Guard Michael P. Leavitt released the new Coast Guard Ethos on Wednesday, November 30.  In an All-Hands message and ALCOAST Adm. Papp and Master Chief Leavitt explained "The Coast Guard Ethos will serve as an enduring statement of the fundamental character and spirit of our Service in  a way that honors our profession and affirms our distinguished heritage."  The Coast Guard Ethos is as follows.

I am a Coast Guardsman
I serve the people of the United States
I will protect them.
I will defend them.
I will save them.
I am their shield. 
For them I am Semper Paratus.
I will live the Coast Guard core values.
I am proud to be a Coast Guardsman.
We are the United States Coast Guard

Coast Guard Commandant Adm. Bob Papp (right) poses for a photo with Deputy Commandant for Mission Support Vice Adm. John Currier (left) and his wife Mary Jane (center) at the Centennial of Naval Aviation Commemorative Gala at the National Building Museum in Washington, D.C., on Dec. 1, 2011.  Currier is the Coast Guard's most senior aviator.  Photo by Marine Corps Cpl. Scott Picklesimer.

Coast Guard Commandant Adm. Bob Papp Aboard the Her Queen Majesty's Wellington on the River Thames in London, England on November 22, 2011. Adm. Papp was in London to attend the General Assembly of the International Maritime Organization. To read a blog post on IMO click here. To learn more about the history of the HQM Wellington, click here.

To read an article written by RADM John Korn on the the end of the Deepwater Program, click here.

RADM John Korn (CG-9), Assistant Commandant for Acquisitions & Chief Acquistion Officer speaks with management of Marinette Marine Corporation (MMC) regarding Response Boat–Medium (RB-M) production at their Aluminum Center of Excellence (ACE) production facility.

Master Chief Petty Officer of the Coast Guard Michael P. Leavitt, Chief Warrant Officer Mark Davenport from the Coast Guard Office of Boat Forces, and several members of the crew of Coast Guard Station Washington, DC, take turns driving the next generation of Defender Class "B" Boats (RB-S Gen II) December 14, 2011.  The original Defender Class Boats were developed as a replacement for 300 shore based non-standard boats.  The RB-S became the platform to increase the long term capability at shore stations in the wake of the tragic events of September 11, 2001.  As some RB-S near the end of their 10-year service life, they will be replaced with the second generation RB-S starting in early 2012. (U.S. Coast Guard photo by LT Jason Hagen).

See http://www.uscg.mil/mcpocg/news.asp for more of MCPOCG Leavitt's travels around the Coast Guard.

Master Chief Petty Officer of the Coast Guard Michael P. Leavitt, meets with Seargeant Major of the Marine Corps Michael P. Barrett, Mrs. Holly Petraeus and other senior enlisted representatives at the Office of Servicemember Affairs Financial Fitness Forum in Washington, DC. Dec. 13, 2011.  (Photo Courtesy of Office of Servicemember Affairs)

See http://www.uscg.mil/mcpocg/news.asp for more of MCPOCG Leavitt's travels around the Coast Guard.

Coast Guard Commandant Adm. Bob Papp participates in a ribbon cutting ceremony with Nell Pearson at the Rear Adm. Helmer S. Pearson Annex at the Coast Guard Telecommunications and Information System Command (TISCOM) in Alexandria, VA on December 5, 2011.

MCPOCG Michael P. Leavitt launches the Master Chief Petty Officer of the Coast Guard National Capital Region 90-Day Fitness Challenge at Coast Guard Headquarters, January 3, 2012.  MCPOCG Leavitt issued the challenge to change or improve behavior in regards to health and fitness, to lead healthier lives while at the same time setting a positive example for others to follow.  There are more than 600 participants in this challenge.

For more information regarding MCPOCG Leavitt's travels around the Coast Guard, please click www.uscg.mil/mcpocg/news.asp.

Coast Guard Commandant Adm. Bob Papp delivers his Annual Leadership Address at the Coast Guard Academy in New London, CT on January 5, 2012.  Adm. Papp spoke about the importance of Coast Guard history.  Pictured in the slide is Seaman Apprentice William Flores a Coast Guard Medal Awardee and namesake of the third Fast Response Cutter, also pictured. To read Adm. Papp's remarks click here. To learn more about Seaman Apprentice Flores, click here.

Coast Guard Commandant Adm. Bob Papp speaks to the faculty, staff and students of the Naval War College in Newport, Rhode Island Jan. 6, 2012. U.S. Coast Guard photo by Petty Officer 2nd Class Patrick Kelley.

Coast Guard Commandant Adm. Bob Papp gave the Coast Guard's annual update to the Surface Navy Association at their annual symposium in Arlington, Va., on Jan. 12, 2012.  Click here to view an archived video of the remarks located on the Surface Navy Association's web site.  The video player is at the top left of the page and Adm. Papp's video selection is sixth from the bottom on the right side of the page.  Coast Guard photo by Petty Officer 2nd Class Patrick Kelley.

Master Chief Petty Officer of the Coast Guard Michael P. Leavitt takes care to not disturb Coast Guard Station Annapolis' mascot Rosie, during an all-hands meeting with the unit January 9, 2012. Rosie was a given to the station as a gift from the Coast Guard's 20th Commandant, Adm. Robert E. Kramek. Since mankind first took to the seas thousands of years ago, they always brought along members of the animal kingdom with them on board their ships. Coast Guard crews followed this ancient custom and adopted numerous varieties of mammals and birds, among others, as mascots and brought them along on their voyages. Many times these animals were actually enlisted in the service, complete with service and medical records, uniforms, and their own bunks. Quite a few even lived to a ripe old age and enjoyed a well-earned retirement ashore. Many of the shore units too adopted a mascot to help them around the station and when they ventured out on a patrol or a rescue. All Coast Guard mascots have served just as their human counterparts have, with courage, honor, and are "Always Ready" to go to those in need of assistance. (U.S. Coast Guard photo by Petty Officer Third Class Cristofer Madrid)

Coast Guard Commandant Adm. Bob Papp accepts the Key to the City from Mayor Frank V. Hibbard during the Coast Guard City ceremony on January 27, 2012. To read a blog post on the event, click here.  U.S. Coast Guard photo by Petty Officer 2nd Class Patrick Kelley

Coast Guard Vice-Commandant Vice Adm. Sally Brice-O'Hara meets with students from Mount Vernon Elementary School at U.S. Coast Guard Headquarters following a ribbon-cutting ceremony at the Strengthening Our Partnerships hallway dedication, Feb. 9, 2012.  The hallway highlights Coast Guard participation in Partnership in Education programs.  Brice-O'Hara provided remarks and presided over the ceremony. U.S. Coast Guard photo by Petty Officer 2nd Class Timothy Tamargo

A crewmember from Station/Aids-to-Navigation Team Saginaw River prepares to retrieve Master Chief Petty Officer of the Coast Guard Michael P. Leavitt from the ice during an ice rescue demonstration near the station, in Essexville, Mich., Feb. 9, 2012.  MCPOCG Leavitt's visit to STANT Saginaw, home to the Coast Guard's Ice Capabilities Center of Excellence, was part of a larger visit to several Coast Guard units in Michigan to become more familiar with their missions.
(U.S. Coast Guard photo by Chief Petty Officer John Masson)

Coast Guard Commandant Adm. Bob Papp delivered the 2012 State of the Coast Guard Address on Coast Guard Island in Alameda, CA on Feb 23. Click here to view the address or here to read the address.     

Coast Guard Commandant Adm. Bob Papp speaks at the dedication ceremony for the fast response cutter class in Lockport, La. on Friday March 2, 2012. The 154-foot Fast Response Cutters are a key aspect of the Coast Guards's recapitilization program. To learn more about the Coast Guard's newest class of cutters click here.

Coast Guard Commandant Adm. Bob Papp testified before the U.S. House Appropriations Subcommittee on Homeland Subcommittee on Homeland Security on the, Coast Guard FY 2013 Budget Request on March 6, 2012.  The written statement and oral statement are available to read online.  

Coast Guard Commandant Adm. Bob Papp, Vice Commandant Vice Adm. Sally Brice-O'Hara and Master Chief Petty Officer of the Coast Guard Michael Leavitt attend the Joint Women's Leadership Symposium in National Harbor March 6, 2012. The conference is held by the Sea Service Leadership Association and is the larget gathering of women in uniform in the world. 

Coast Guard Vice-Commandant Sally Brice-O'Hara attended the Combined Federal Campaign Awards Ceremony where she accepted an award on behalf of the Coast Guard's Executive Leadership Team. LCDR Michael Edwards was awarded the Hero Award for coordinating the Coast Guard's National Capital Area's Combined Federal Campaign.  The CFC Heroes Awards are given to the campaign's "unsung heroes" who have made significant differences and demonstrated leadership qualities in their campaign. The CFC celebrated its 50th Anniversary in 2011.

Coast Guard Commandant Adm. Bob Papp speaks during a memorial ceremony for the crew of Coast Guard 6535 at Coast Guard Aviation Training Center Mobile, Ala., March 8, 2012. Lt. Cmdr. Dale Taylor, Lt. j.g. Thomas Cameron, Chief Petty Officer Fernando Jorge and Petty Officer 3rd Class Andrew Knight were killed when their helicopter crashed in Mobile Bay during a training mission Feb. 28, 2012. Photo by Petty Officer 2nd Class Patrick Kelley.

Coast Guard Commandant Adm. Bob Papp, Vice Commandant Vice Adm. Sally Brice-O'Hara, Vice Adm. John Currier, and Master Chief Petty Officer of the Coast Guard Michael Leavitt pose with the Comprehensive Review Working Group And Repeal Implementation Team. The group was awarded the Coast Guard Meritorious Team Commendation Award for their work during the course of the policy commonly referred to as "Don't Ask Don't Tell" repeal. 

Coast Guard Commandant Adm. Bob Papp and  Gen. Charles Jacoby sign the Arctic Capability Assessment Working Group White Paper at National Defense University in Washington, DC on March 13, 2012. Photo by Katherine Lewis.

The tomb of Hopley Yeaton, the first commissioned officer of the Revenue Marine at the U.S. Coast Guard Academy, New London, CT.  Photo by Petty Officer 1st Class NyxoLyno Cangemi. On 21 March 1791, President George Washington and Treasury Secretary Thomas Jefferson signed his commission. He was originally buried in Lubec, Maine, but in 1975 his burial site was threatened by modernization. The Corps of Cadets sailed the Barque Eagle to Lubec where his remains were exhumed then laid to rest at the Coast Guard Academy.

MCPOCG Michael P. Leavitt and senior enlisted leaders from the other military services testifies on Hazing in the United States Military at a hearing by the House Armed Services Committee - Military Personnel Subcommittee. U.S. Coast Guard photo by Telfair H. Brown, Sr.

Coast Guard Vice Commandant Vice Adm. Sally Brice-O’Hara speaks at the annual Women's International Shipping & Trading Association luncheon at Connecticut Maritime Association's Shipping 2012. Photo by Chris Preovolos. Coast Guard Compass featured the event in a blog post on International Maritime Trade.

Coast Guard Commandant Adm. Bob Papp and Michelle Obama deliver remarks during the commissioning ceremony for the Coast Guard Cutter Stratton on March 31, 2012 in Alameda, CA. U.S. Coast Guard photo by Petty Officer 2nd Class Patrick Kelley. Stratton is the third National Security Cutter and Mrs. Obama served as the ships sponsor. It is named for Capt. Dorothy Stratton , was the leader of the SPARS, the WWII-era women's division of the Coast Guard.

Master Chief Petty Officer of the Coast Guard Michael Leavitt, Master Chief Petty Officer of the Coast Guard Skip Bowen (Ret.), Mr. Andy Fitzagerald and Coast Guard Commandant Adm. Bob Papp pose for a picture following the commissioning of the Coast Guard Cutter Bernard C. Webber in Miami, FL April 14, 2012. 

The first of the Sentinel-Class Fast Response Cutters, the 154-foot cutter is named for BM1 Bernie Webber, a Coast Guard Boatswains Mate who led the rescue of the crew of the Pendleton, a tanker that broke in two off the coast of Chatham, MA on February 18, 1952. Webber, Engineman Second Class Fitzgerald, and two Coast Guard Seamen loaded 32 survivors on a boat made for 12 in windy and ice waters. All crewmembers were awarded the Gold Lifesaving Medal for the heroism and courage displayed during the rescue.

Coast Guard Commandant Adm. Bob Papp, Marine Commandant General James Amos, and Chief of Naval Operations Adm. Jonathan Greenert participate in the Service Chief Panel at the Sea-Air-Space Convention in National Harbor, MD on April 16, 2012.

Coast Guard Vice-Commandant Sally Brice-O'Hara presents a Distinguished Public Service Award to the American Bureau of Shipping on April 24, 2012. Chairman Bob Somerville accepted on behalf of ABS. ABS celebrates 150 years of outstanding maritime safety achievement.. 

Photo courtesy of ABS. 

Master Chief Petty Officer of the Coast Guard Michael P. Leavitt and Chief Master Sergeant of the Air Force James A. Roy attend a retreat ceremony following the graduation of the Air Force's Senior Enlisted Academy on May 1, 2012.  The 400 person class had six Coast Guard attendees.  (U.S. Coast Guard photo by Senior Chief Petty Officer Daniel L. Tremper).

Coast Guard Commandant Adm. Bob Papp testified before the U.S. Senate  Appropriations Subcommittee on Homeland Subcommittee on Homeland Security on the, Coast Guard FY 2013 Budget Request on May 9, 2012.  The written statement and oral statement are available to read online.  

Debbie Leavitt (left), wife of the Master Chief Petty Officer of the Coast Guard Michael Leavitt, and Vice Commandant of the Coast Guard, Vice Adm. Sally Brice-O'Hara (right), congratulate Jennifer Bassett after she was recognized as the 2012 Coast Guard Spouse of the Year at the Marine Corps Barracks in Washington May 10, 2012. Bassett is married to Chief Petty Officer Joshua Bassett, who serves aboard the Coast Guard Cutter Alert in Astoria, Ore. U.S. Coast Guard photo by Petty Officer 2nd Class Patrick Kelley.

Vice Adm. Sally Brice-O'Hara was relieved by Vice Adm. John P. Currier as vice commandant of the U.S. Coast Guard during a military change of watch ceremony held at Fort Lesley J. McNair, Washington, D.C., today.  Brice-O'Hara retired from the Coast Guard after more than 37 years of servcie as part fo the same ceremony.  She had assumed the duties as 27th vice commandant on May 24, 2010, and during her tenure, she was involved with the Coast Guard's response to the BP Deepwater Horizon event, implementaiton of Don't Ask, Don't Tell, and replacement of aging ships, boats and aircraft.  Currier becomes the 28th vice commandant after servicng as the Coast Guard's first deputy commandant for mission support.  Coast Guard Commandant Adm. Bob Papp presided over the event.

Coast Guard Commandant Adm. Bob Papp and Master Chief Petty Of the Coast Guard Michael Leavitt met with the Coast Guard National Capital Region Enlisted Association at Coast Guard Headquarters on May 22, 2012. The members presented Adm. Papp and Master Chief Leavitt with their inaugural coin. 

Coast Guard Commandant Admiral Bob Papp, center, poses with a group of War of 1812 re-enactors aboard the Coast Guard Cutter Eagle Thursday, May 24, 2012. The Eagle is one of many tall ships participating in Fleet Week New York, the Bicentennial of the War of 1812 and OpSail 2012 May 23-30, 2012 in New York City. Photo by Petty Officer 1st Class Thomas McKenzie.

 Capt. George Stephanos, St. Elizabeth's Project Officer for the Coast Guard gives a tour of the Coast Guard's new Headquarters building to Coast Guard Commandant Adm. Bob Papp, Coast Guard Vice-Commandant Vice Adm. John Currier, and Coast Guard Deputy Commandant for Mission Support Vice Adm. Manson Brown. in Washington, DC on Tuesday May 29. The Coast Guard is scheduled to begin moving to the new Headquarters in the summer of 2013.  

Coast Guard Commandant Adm. Bob Papp (left) presents Rear Adm. Christopher Colvin with the Distinguished Service Medal during Colvin's retirement ceremony held aboard the Coast Guard Cutter Morganthau at Coast Guard Island, Alamdea, Calif., Friday, June 1, 2012.  Colvin served in the Coast Guard for 34 years and spent the majority of his career conducting afloat operations, serving aboard eight cutters while commanding three.  Coast Guard photo by Fireman Jordan Akiyama.

Coast Guard Commandant Adm. Bob Papp participates in a retirement ceremony for Vice Adm. Brian Salerno, Deputy Commandant for Operations in Alexandria, VA on June 5, 2012. Salerno's Coast Guard career spanned over 35 years specializing in the Marine Safety field. As Deputy Commandant for Operations, he oversaw the strategic integration of operational missions and the optimization of policy development and mission execution consistent with the Services' national priorities. Also pictured is Coast Guard Chaplain Capt. Gary Weeden.

The Coast Guard Leadership Council meets at Coast Guard Headquarters in Washington, DC on Wednesday June 6, 2012. 

General Martin Dempsey, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff gives Admiral Bob Papp, Coast Guard Commandant a high five following Chairman Dempsey's remarks at the Coast Guard Foundation Dinner held at the National Building Museum on June 12, 2012 in Washington, DC.  Chairman Dempsey performed a song in honor of the Coast Guard.

Coast Guard Commandant Adm. Bob Papp testifies on at the Senate Committee Senate Committee on Foreign Relations at a hearing on the Law of the Sea Convention on June 14, 2012. His written statement and oral statement are available online. U.S. Coast Guard photo by Petty Officer 2nd Class Patrick Kelley.

Coast Guard Commandant Adm. Bob Papp met with maritime partners at the 2012 Canadian Coast Guard - U.S. Coast Guard Summit in Victoria, British Columbia, on June 27, 2012.  The annual summit dates back to 1962 and focuses on common maritime issues.  Photo by Petty Officer Patrick Kelly. 

Coast Guard Commandant Adm. Bob Papp presides over the Ancient Keeper change of watch ceremony as Chief Warrant Officer Thomas Guthlein retires and passes the Ancient Keeper honorary title to Master Chief Petty Officer James Clemens. U.S. Coast Guard photo by Petty Officer 2nd Class Patrick Kelley.

Coast Guard Commandant Adm. Bob Papp joins fellow service chiefs Air Force Chief of Staff Gen. Norton Schwartz, Chief of Naval Operations Adm. Jonathan Greenert, and Marine Corps Commandant Gen. James Amos for the Marine Barracks Parade in honor of the service chiefs on July 13th, 2012. The Marine Barracks is the oldest active post in the Marine Corps and home of the Marine Corps commandant. The evening parade, held every Friday during the summer, begins with a concert by the United States Marine Band and exhibits the pride and professionalism of the United States Marines.

Coast Guard Commandant Adm. Bob Papp meets with astronaut Capt. Dan Burbank, USCG (ret.).  Capt. Burbank commanded the Expedition 30 crew on the International Space Station from November 2011 to May 2012.  He spent 163 days in space conducting research on the ISS.  Photo by Petty Officer 2nd Class Patrick Kelley.   

Retired Cmdr. Stewart Graham (left), Vice Adm. John Currier and Rear Adm. John Korn cut the ribbon during the dedication ceremony for the new Stewart Graham Hangar at Coast Guard Air Station Cape Cod, Mass., July 17, 2012. Graham was the second helicopter pilot for the Coast Guard and influenced numerous technologies seen on today's helicopters. Photo by Petty Officer 2nd Class Rob Simpson.

Coast Guard Commandant Adm. Bob Papp speaks at the National Naval Officers Association National Conference in New Orleans, LA on June 24, 2012.  NNOA actively supports the sea services in the development of a diverse officer corps through recruitment, retention, and career development.  Coast Guard photo by Petty Officer 2nd Class Patrick Kelley.

Coast Guard Commandant Adm. Bob Papp presents Rep. Howard Coble the Commodore Ellsworth P. Bertholf Award in Washington, DC on July 25, 2012.  The Bertholf Award is presented to those members of Congress who exemplify the spirit of Commodore Bertholf by making substantial contributions in support of the men and women of the United States Coast Guard and enhance the ability of the service to carry out its missions. Coble, a longtime representative from North Carolina, served in the Coast Guard and the Coast Guard Reserve.

Coast Guard Commandant Adm. Bob Papp testifies before a Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Homeland Security field hearing in Kodiak, Alaska, on August 6, 2012.  The written statement and oral statement are available online.  Photo by Petty Officer 2nd Class Patrick Kelley, USCG.

Secretary of Homeland Security Janet Napolitano, Coast Guard Commandant Adm. Bob Papp, and U.S. Senator Mark Begich (AK) visit Coast Guard Cutter Bertholf underway off the coast of Cold Bay, Alaska on August 7, 2012. Photo by Petty Officer 2nd Class Patrick Kelley, USCG.

Coast Guard Vice Commandant Vice Adm. John Currier speaks at a Coast Guard Dixieland Band Concert at the U.S. Navy Memorial in Washington, DC on August 7, 2012.  The Coast Guard Dixieland Band performs classic jazz, blues, and rags with a “New Orleans” flavor.  Prior to the concert, Vice Adm. Currier laid a wreath at the Lone Sailor statue which represents all people who ever served, are serving now, or who are yet to serve in the Sea Services.  Photo by MaryAnn Bader, USCG.

Commandant of the Coast Guard Adm. Bob Papp congratulates Seaman Kyrone Anderson who earned an award for leadership during the graduation ceremony for Recruit Company Zulu 186 at Coast Guard Training Center Cape May, N.J., Aug. 17, 2012.  U.S. Coast Guard photo by Petty Officer 2nd Class Patrick Kelley.

Coast Guard Commandant Adm. Bob Papp presents Al Roker the Meritorious Public Service Medal at Coast Guard Headquarters in Washington, D.C. Aug. 21, 2012. Roker and staff members of Al Roker Entertainment received the award for exceptional advocacy of the Coast Guard through broadcasts of The Weather Channel's popular primetime series "Coast Guard Alaska." U.S. Coast Guard photo by Petty Officer 2nd Class Patrick Kelley.

Coast Guard Commandant Adm. Bob Papp speaks to the Coast Guard National Auxiliary Conference in San Antonio, TX on Saturday August 25, 2012.  The Coast Guard Auxiliary is the volunteer arm of the United States Coast Guard. Primarily focused on recreational boating safety, their goal is to ensure that the public has a safe, secure, and enjoyable recreational boating experience.  The Auxiliary has over 30,000 members across the United States.

Coast Guard Commandant Adm. Bob Papp addresses the media at a Hurricane Isaac response press conference at Coast Guard Sector New Orleans on September 4, 2012. Papp is joined by U.S. Senator Mary Landrieu and Rear Adm. Roy Nash, commander of the Eighth Coast Guard District.

Coast Guard Commandant Adm. Bob Papp and Secretary of Homeland Security Janet Napolitano are joined by Coast Guard Academy Superintendent Rear Adm. Sandra Stosz to walk the field for the coin toss at the U.S. Coast Guard Academy vs. U.S. Merchant Marine Academy "Secretaries' Cup" Football Game in New London, Conn. on September 8, 2012. Also pictured are senior cadets Curt Barrett (left) and Casey Paris. Photo by PA2 Patrick Kelley.

Secretary of Homeland Security Janet Napolitano and Coast Guard Commandant Adm. Bob Papp attended an informal luncheon with Coast Guard personnel at Coast Guard Headquarters in Washington, DC on September 14 to discuss current departmental issues and to answer questions. Photo by PA2 Patrick Kelley.

Commandant of the Coast Guard Adm. Papp (left) presented a Lone Sailor Award to J. David Power III (center), a Coast Guard veteran and founder of J. D. Power & Associates, Inc., at the U.S. Navy Memorial's 2012 Lone Sailor Awards Dinner in Washington, D.C. on September 18.  The Lone Sailor Award is given to sea service veterans who have gone on to excel with distinction in a civilian career while still exemplifying the core values of their respective former sea service.  At right is Vice Adm. John Totushek, U. S. Navy (retired), President and Chief Executive Officer of the United States Navy Memorial Foundation. Photo by PA2 Patrick Kelley, USCG.

Master Chief Petty Officer of the Coast Guard Michael Leavitt speaks at a Coast Guard Headquarters ceremony to mark the 70th Anniversary of Signalman 1st Class Douglas Munro's actions at Guadalcanal.  Munro was posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor for extraordinary heroism for his actions during the evacuation of Marines trapped by enemy forces at Point Cruz, Guadalcanal, on September 27, 1942. Coast Guard Commandant Adm. Bob Papp wrote a Compass Blog post in honor of the anniversary. 

Vice Adm. (Ret.) Terry Cross, Master Chief Petty Officer of the Coast Guard Michael Leavitt, Chief Warrant Officer Randall Rice, Mrs. Alison Rice, and Coast Guard Commandant Adm. Bob Papp at the Association for Rescue At Sea Awards in Washington, DC on October 4, 2012.  As a rescue swimmer onboard a Coast Guard helicopter, Rice deployed into the ocean to rescue two people on a stricken sailing vessel during a treacherous rescue off the coast of Massachusetts in May, 2011.

Coast Guard Vice Commandant Vice Adm. John Currier with Border Patrol Foundation President Ron Colburn at the Border Patrol Foundation Dinner in Washington, DC, on October 4, 2012. Vice Adm. Currier delivered keynote remarks at the event. The Border Patrol Foundation supports Border Patrol Agents and their families.  Photo by Don Baker Photography Group.

Coast Guard Commandant Adm. Bob Papp (right) delivers remarks at the Coast Guard Foundation's 32nd Annual Salute to the U.S. Coast Guard Dinner in New York City on October 11, 2012. Coast Guard Vice Commandant Vice. Adm. John Currier (left) and Master Chief Petty Officer of the Coast Guard Michael Leavitt (center) are also pictured.  Al Roker, producer of Coast Guard: Alaska and Coast Guard: Florida, served as master of ceremonies. Photo by Petty Officer 2nd Class Patrick Kelley.

Coast Guard Commandant Adm. Bob Papp visits the gravesite of Commodore Ellsworth P. Bertholf, Captain-Commandant of the U.S. Revenue Cutter Service and first to hold the title "Commandant of the Coast Guard" with Executive Change Leadership Symposium participants at Arlington National Cemetery on October 15, 2012. Coast Guard photo by Petty Officer 2nd Class Patrick Kelley.

Coast Guard Vice Commandant Vice. Adm. John P. Currier speaks during a Coast Guard Headquarters town hall meeting in Washington, D.C., at the National Defense University, Ft. McNair, Oct. 16, 2012. This meeting, the third of a planned series of town hall meetings, focused on law enforcement and security. The town hall meetings are being held to address a variety of topics related to the relocation of Coast Guard Headquarters to the St. Elizabeths campus.  Featured speakers included (seated left to right) Base National Capital Region Command Security and Safety Director Timothy Wilkinson, Federal Protective Service Deputy Director Kris Cline, Metro Transit Policy Department Chief Michael Taborn and Metropolitan Police Department Chief of Police Cathy Lanier. Photo by Petty Officer 2nd Class Luke Clayton.

Master Chief Petty Officer of the Coast Guard Michael P. Leavitt addresses Maritime Safety and Security Team New Orleans 91112 at Guantanamo Bay Naval Station, Oct. 20, 2012.  U.S. Coast Guard photo by Petty Officer Second Class Patrick Kelley.

Commandant of the Coast Guard Adm. Bob Papp and Vice Adm. John Currier, vice commandant of the Coast Guard recognize Coast Guard Air Station Elizabeth City personnel who were involved in the rescue of HMS Bounty crewmembers. The HMS Bounty capsized about 90 miles off the coast of North Carolina on October 28 during Hurricane Sandy. Coast Guardsmen rescued 14 survivors and Compass recently named them the Shipmate of the Week. U.S. Coast Guard photo by Petty Officer 2nd class Patrick Kelley.

Former Coast Guard Commandant Adm. Jim Gracey (ret.), Mrs. Randy Gracey, Mrs. Linda Kapral Papp, and Coast Guard Commandant Adm. Bob Papp (L-R) at the Commandant's Ball in Alexandria, VA on November 3, 2012. Adm. and Mrs. Gracey were presented with a video tribute in honor of their many years of service to the Coast Guard and their work establishing and supporting Coast Guard family assistance programs. 

Commandant of the Coast Guard Adm. Bob Papp (right) and Rear Adm. Daniel Abel, Commander, First Coast Guard District, inspect Hurricane Sandy damage along the N.Y. and N.J. coastline on Nov. 9, 2012.  They are embarked in a Coast Guard MH-60 Jayhawk helicopter.  Photo by Petty Officer Second Class Patrick Kelley, USCG.

Kelly Hope, son of Bob Hope, looks on as Coast Guard Commandant Adm. Bob Papp presents the Spirit of Hope Award to Ross E. Roeder at an award ceremony at the Pentagon Nov. 15, 2012. The Spirit of Hope Award is presented annually by the five armed services and the Office of the Secretary of Defense to recognize the outstanding service of individuals and organizations whose patriotism and service reflects the character of Bob Hope. Coast Guard Photo by Petty Officer 2nd Class Patrick Kelley.

Commandant of the Coast Guard Admiral Bob Papp visited the International Maritime Law Institute in Malta November 20, 2012, to offer maritime law remarks to its students.  Also pictured are Professor David Attard, Director of IMLI (front center) and Professor Stephen Calleya (front right). The motto of the school is "Serving the Rule of International Maritime Law."  Coast Guard photo by Petty Officer Second Class Patrick Kelley.

Commandant of the Coast Guard Adm. Bob Papp (right) and Master Chief Petty Officer of the Coast Guard Michael Leavitt (center) serve Thanksgiving dinner at Naval Support Activity Bahrain to FN DJ Sapelli and other Shipmates deployed with U.S. Coast Guard Patrol Forces Southwest Asia on Nov. 22, 2012. Photo by Petty Officer 2nd Class Pat Kelley.

Commandant of the Coast Guard Adm. Bob Papp met with Singapore's Transport Minister Lui Tuck Yew (pictured), Maritime and Port Authority Chief Executive Lam Yi Young and other members of their senior management in a series of meetings on Nov. 26, 2012 in Singapore.  The leaders discussed issues of mutual interest including maritime security, environmental protection, counter-piracy, and regional cooperation. U.S. Coast Guard photo by Petty Officer 2nd Class Patrick Kelley.

Commandant of the Coast Guard Adm. Bob Papp is briefed on the Vessel Traffic Information System at Singapore's Port Operations Control Centre-Vista by Kevin Wong, the Assistant Director of the Vessel Traffic Managment Department of Singapore's Maritime and Port Authority on Nov. 26, 2012. Also pictured is Lam Yi Young (center), Chief Executive of the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore. The Port of Singapore is the busiest port in the world in terms of shipping tonnage. U.S. Coast Guard photo by Petty Officer 2nd Class Patrick Kelley.

Commandant of the Coast Guard Adm. Bob Papp addresses the Navy's Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron 25 for their outstanding support of Coast Guard search and rescue operations in Guam Nov. 30, 2012. U.S. Coast Guard photo by Petty Officer 2nd Class Patrick Kelley.

From left, Master Chief Petty Officer of the Coast Guard Michael Leavitt, Secretary of Homeland Security Janet Napolitano, Commandant of the Coast Guard Adm. Bob Papp, and Chaplain of the Coast Guard Capt. Gary Weeden honor Senior Chief Petty Officer Terrell Horne at a memorial ceremony at Coast Guard Base Los Angeles/Long Beach Dec. 8, 2012. Horne was killed Dec. 2 during a law enforcement operation off the southern California coast. U.S. Coast Guard photo by Petty Officer 1st Class Tim Tamargo.

Coast Guard Commandant Adm. Bob Papp visited Bishop O’Connell High School in Arlington, Va., on Dec. 6 for an afternoon discussion with students enrolled in the school’s Global Studies Program. As part of the event, the Commandant discussed the Coast Guard’s response during Hurricane Sandy and shared stories and photos from his international travel. Coast Guard Photo by Petty Officer 1st Class Timothy Tamargo.

Coast Guard Commandant Adm. Bob Papp meets with Colombian Naval Attaché Capt. Antonio Martinez at Coast Guard Headquarters in Washington, D.C, Dec. 13, 2012. U.S. Coast Guard photo by Petty Officer 1st Class Timothy Tamargo.

Coast Guard holiday video message by Coast Guard Commandant Adm. Bob Papp with wife Linda and Master Chief Petty Officer of the Coast Guard Michael Leavitt with wife Debbie. U.S. Coast Guard video by Telfair H. Brown and Petty Officer First Class Tim Tamargo.

Commandant of the Coast Guard Adm. Bob Papp addressed the U. S. Coast Guard Academy Corps of Cadets on Jan. 9, 2013, in New London, Conn. The Commandant's annual leadership address focused on proficiency. U.S. Coast Guard photo by Petty Officer 1st Class Timothy Tamargo.

Commandant of the Coast Guard Adm. Bob Papp addressed students and faculty at the U.S. Naval War College in Newport, R.I. on Jan. 8, 2013. U.S. Coast Guard photo by Petty Officer 1st Class Timothy Tamargo.

Commandant of the Coast Guard Adm. Bob Papp spoke at the Surface Navy Association's 25th annual SNA National Symposium in Alexandria, Va., on Jan. 17, 2013. Attendees included Naval Surface Warfare Officers as well as members of the Coast Guard Cuttermen Association.  U.S. Coast Guard photo by Petty Officer 2nd Class Patrick Kelley. 

Commandant of the Coast Guard Adm. Robert Papp (center right) hosted an Inauguration Day Service Chief Luncheon at Coast Guard Headquarters on Jan. 21, 2013.  Pictured with Adm. Papp are, left to right: Gen. Raymond Odierno, Chief of Staff, U.S. Army; Adm. Jonathan Greenert, Chief of Naval Operations; Gen. Mark Welsh, Chief of Staff, U.S. Air Force; Gen. James Amos, Commandant of the Marine Corps; and Gen. Frank Grass, Chief, National Guard Bureau. U.S. Coast Guard photo by Petty Officer 2nd Class Patrick Kelley.

President Barack Obama makes opening remarks during the 57th Presidential Inauguration Commander-in-Chief's Ball in Washington, D.C., Jan. 21, 2013.  Master Chief Petty Officer of the Coast Guard Michael P. Leavitt (right) and the other military senior enlisted advisors co-hosted the event. DoD photo by Staff Sgt. Opal Vaughn, cropped for layout.

Coast Guard Commandant Adm. Bob Papp and Master Chief Petty Officer of the Coast Guard Michael Leavitt speak to Coast Guard Sector Commanders at their annual conference in Leesburg, Virginia on January 30, 2013. Photo by Petty Officer 2nd Class Patrick Kelley.

Coast Guard Commandant Adm. Bob Papp and Shipmates send a Super Sunday video message to all Coast Guard viewers serving around the world. U.S. Coast Guard video by Telfair H. Brown, Sr.

Chief of Naval Operations Adm. Jonathan Greenert, Marine Corps Commandant Gen. James Amos and Coast Guard Commandant Adm. Bob Papp participate in a panel discussion during  AFCEA/USNI West 2013 in San Diego, Ca., Thursday, Jan. 31, 2013. U.S. Coast Guard photo by Petty Officer 2nd Class Annie R. B. Elis.

Commandant of the Coast Guard Adm. Bob Papp and Master Chief Allen, the Coast Guard Reserve Force Master Chief, wish the Coast Guard Reserve a happy 72nd anniversary of its establishment on Feb. 19, 1941. U.S. Coast Guard video by Telfair H. Brown, Sr.

Master Chief Petty Officer of the Coast Guard Michael P. Leavitt (left) and Petty Officer 1st Class Preston Blair, a company commander at Coast Guard Training Center Cape May, square off in a bout using pugil sticks in Cape May, N.J., Feb. 20, 2013. Pugil stick training helps build confidence during physical altercations and prepares the recruits for future self-defense training.  Coast Guard photo by Seaman Jennifer Nease.

Commandant of the U.S. Coast Guard Adm. Bob Papp and Dr. Jane Lubchenco, Administrator of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, sign the Coast Guard and NOAA Cooperative Maritime Strategy.  This strategy establishes a framework for interagency engagement priorities over the next 10 years.  U.S. Coast Guard photo by Petty Officer 2nd Class Patrick Kelley.

Coast Guard Commandant Adm. Bob Papp delivers the 2013 State of the Coast Guard Address at the National Defense University at Fort McNair in Washington, D.C. on February 27, 2013.  A copy of his remarks and his newly released Commandant's SITREP 2013 are available online. U.S. Coast Guard photo by Petty Officer 2nd Class Patrick Kelley.

Coast Guard Commandant Adm. Bob Papp and Mrs. Linda Kapral Papp visit the CG 6535 Memorial in Mobile, Ala., March 1, 2013. The Commandant presided over a ceremony dedicating the memorial, marking the 1-year anniversary of the loss of Lt. Cmdr. Dale Taylor, Lt. j.g. Thomas Cameron, Chief Petty Officer Fernando Jorge and Petty Officer 3rd Class Andrew Knight when CG 6535, a MH-65C Dolphin helicopter, crashed during a nighttime training flight in Mobile Bay, Feb. 28, 2012. Coast Guard Photo by Petty Officer 2nd Class Annie R.B. Elis.

Coast Guard Vice Commandant Vice Adm. John Currier and Mrs. Mary Jane Currier are met on the tarmac of Air Station Detroit by its commanding officer, Cmdr. Joseph Deer, on February 22, 2013 in Detroit, MI. During his visit the Vice Commandant held an All-Hands and answered questions from the assembled crew about Coast Guard policy and budget issues. Coast Guard Photo by Lt.  j.g. Joe Rozycki.

Coast Guard Vice Commandant Vice Adm. John Currier met with Brigadier General Ali Rasaa, Chairman of the Yemen Coast Guard, at Coast Guard Headquarters in Washington, D.C., on March 12, 2013.  Coast Guard photo by Petty Officer First Class Timothy Tamargo. 

Master Chief Petty Officer of the Coast Guard Michael P. Leavitt speaks at the 2013 Hopley Yeaton Commissioning Day Celebration at Coast Guard Headquarters in Washington, D.C., March 20, 2013, hosted by the Coast Guard Cutterman Association. Hopley Yeaton was one of the first Revenue Marine cutter captains entrusted by President George Washington to command the USRC Scammel out of Portsmouth, N.H. Coast Guard photo by Chief Petty Officer CC Clayton.

Coast Guard Commandant Adm. Bob Papp's video message highlights the importance of Sexual Assault Awareness Month. Units Coast Guard-wide are directed to conduct an all-hands discussion during the month of April to reinforce the critical role of leadership in preventing and responding to sexual assaults service-wide. U.S. Coast Guard video by Telfair H. Brown, Sr.

Commandant of the Coast Guard Adm. Bob Papp speaks at the announcement of the planned National Coast Guard Museum which will be built in New London, Conn. The announcement took place at the Science & Technology Magnet High School of Southeast Conn. on April 5, 2013. Also pictured is Mayor of New London, Daryl Justin Finizio. U.S. Coast Guard photo by Petty Officer 2nd Class Annie Elis. 

Commandant of the Coast Guard Adm. Bob Papp observes the first Cadet Parade of 2013 at the U.S. Coast Guard Academy in New London, Conn., on April 5, 2013. The parade honored Rear Adm. Joseph Castillo who retired from active duty earlier in the day. On April 4, Adm. Papp participated in the announcement of the planned National Coast Guard Museum which will be built in New London. U.S. Coast Guard photo by Petty Officer 2nd Class Annie Elis. 

Coast Guard Commandant Adm. Bob Papp provided testimony to the House Transportation and Infrastructure Subcommittee on Coast Guard and Marine Transportation on April 16, 2013, in Washington, D.C. Also pictured is Master Chief Petty Officer of the Coast Guard Michael P. Leavitt. U.S. Coast Guard photo by Petty Officer 2nd Class Patrick Kelley.

Coast Guard Commandant Adm. Bob Papp testified before a U.S. Senate Commerce, Science and Transportation Subcommittee on Oceans, Atmosphere, Fisheries and the Coast Guard on April 23, 2013 in Washington, D.C. Video and text are available. The Commandant testified April 17 before two House subcommittees. U.S. Coast Guard photo by Petty Officer 2nd Class Patrick Kelley.

Commandant of the Coast Guard Adm. Bob Papp offered remarks at the 28th Annual Coast Guard Pacific Area Awards Dinner hosted by the Coast Guard Foundation Dinner on April 25, 2013, in San Francisco. The Coast Guard Foundation is a national nonprofit organization dedicated to enhancing the lives of the men and women of the Coast Guard and their families. U.S. Coast Guard photo by Petty Officer 2nd Class Annie R. B. Elis.

Coast Guard Vice Commandant Vice Adm. John P. Currier and Master Chief Petty Officer of the Coast Guard Michael P. Leavitt (far right) presented the Geico 2012 Military Service Award to Petty Officer 1st Class Claude M. Morrissey (center) on April 29, 2013, in Arlington, Va. U.S. Coast Guard photo by Petty Officer 2nd Class Patrick Kelley.

Coast Guard Commandant Adm. Bob Papp addressed students and faculty at the Army War College in Carlisle, Pa., on April 30, 2013. U.S. Coast Guard photo by Petty Officer 2nd Class Patrick Kelley.

Coast Guard Commandant Adm. Bob Papp addressed students and faculty at the Air War College in Montgomery, Ala., on May 1, 2013. U.S. Coast Guard photo by Petty Officer 2nd Class Annie R. B. Elis.

Coast Guard Commandant Adm. Bob Papp (2nd from right) participates in the Council on Foreign Relations' Robert B. McKeon Endowed Series on Military Strategy and Leadership panel in New York on May 8, 2013. Also pictured from left: Marine Corps Commandant Gen. James Amos; Gen. Raymond Odierno, U.S. Army Chief of Staff; Gen. Mark Welsh, U.S. Air Force Chief of Staff; and Adm. Mark Ferguson, Vice Chief of Naval Operations. U.S. Coast Guard photo by Petty Officer 2nd Class Patrick Kelley.

Coast Guard Commandant Adm. Bob Papp testifies before the Senate Committee on Appropriations, Homeland Security Subcommittee, in Washington on May 14, 2013. U.S. Coast Guard photo by Petty Officer 2nd Class Patrick Kelley.

Coast Guard Commandant Adm. Bob Papp announced the new Coast Guard Arctic Strategy in Washington, D.C., on May 21, 2013. The Strategy outlines the Coast Guard's goal to ensure safe, secure and environmentally responsible Arctic maritime activity. U.S. Coast Guard photo by Petty Officer 2nd Class Patrick Kelley.

Coast Guard Commandant Adm. Bob Papp offers remarks at the U.S. Coast Guard Academy's 132nd commencement in New London, Conn., on May 22, 2013. The keynote speaker was Vice President Joe Biden (center). Video is available. U.S. Coast Guard photo by Petty Officer 2nd Class Patrick Kelley.

Coast Guard Commandant Adm. Bob Papp offered remarks at a ceremony to rededicate the U.S. Coast Guard World War Memorial at Arlington National Cemetery in Arlington, Va., May 23, 2013. Video is available. U.S. Coast Guard photo by Petty Officer 2nd Class Patrick Kelley.