RDML Carter currently serves as the Deputy Director of U.S. Coast Guard Communications and the Director of Legislative Affairs. In this role, he is responsible for establishing and developing enterprise-level strategic communications initiatives and directing Congressional engagements.
A proud Cutterman, RDML Carter has completed seven tours of duty at sea, including command of USCGC STONE, USCGC LEGARE, USCGC PEA ISLAND and USCGC AQUIDNECK. He also served aboard USCGC MIDGETT, USCGC KEY BISCAYNE; and USCGC TAMPA in various leadership roles.
RDML Carter has vast experience working in joint and interagency settings. He served as a Politico-Military Affairs Officer on the Joint Staff (J5), and as a Coast Guard Liaison Officer to the J3 at Joint Force Headquarters – National Capitol Region. His other staff assignments include service as the Chief of Enlisted Personnel Management, Deputy Chief of the Office of Cutter Forces, the Coast Guard representative to the President’s Emergency Operation Center at the White House, and as a Coast Guard Liaison Officer to the Department of Homeland Security Operations Center. Most recently, RDML Carter served as Director of the Coast Guard’s Force Design 2028 Implementation Team.
RDML Carter received his commission from the Coast Guard’s Officer Candidate School in 2000 and is a graduate of Sam Houston State University, where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Criminal Justice. He also holds a Master of Arts in National Security and Strategic Policy from the U.S. Naval War College, where he was a Vice Admiral Samuel L. Gravely Warrior Scholar, and a Master of Strategic Studies from the U.S. Marine Corps War College.
RDML Carter’s awards include the Legion of Merit, the Defense Meritorious Service Medal, the Coast Guard Meritorious Service Medal, the Iraq Campaign Medal, and various other personal and unit awards. He is most proud of his two Coast Guard “E” Ribbons because they recognize the participation and accomplishments of his shipmates.