U.S. Coast Guard Sector Charleston

06/02/2026

In early March, members from , including our dedicated U.S. Coast Guard Active and U.S. Coast Guard Reserve personnel, traveled to McCrady Training Center, SC to participate in the completion of the German Armed Forces Proficiency Badge (GAFPB) and the Schützenschnur marksmanship badge.

The challenge included a timed 7.5 mile ruck march with a 33lb pack, a 100-meter swim (in uniform!), and a marksmanship event!

These events test endurance, resilience, and the sheer will to keep pushing forward. It’s this kind of grit that keeps our members for any mission.

A huge congratulations to our team for crushing these events alongside our partners from the South Carolina Army National Guard, German Army, Colombian Special Forces, and Air National Guard!

05/29/2026

🌪️ Sector Charleston Coast Guard Families — Hurricane Season Starts June 1 🌪️

Hurricane season is almost here, and now is the perfect time to make sure your family is prepared before a storm is on the radar. Living along the South Carolina and Georgia coasts means we know how quickly weather can change, so a little preparation now can go a long way in keeping your loved ones safe and reducing stress later.

Hurricane season officially runs from June 1 through November 30 and can bring heavy rain, flooding, storm surge, strong winds, and tornadoes. Whether you’re new to the area or a seasoned local, it’s always a good idea to refresh your emergency plans and supplies each year.

📱 Stay Connected & Informed
Be sure to follow trusted local weather and emergency resources:
• South Carolina Emergency Management Division (SCEMD): https://www.scemd.org
• Georgia Emergency Management and Homeland Security Agency (GEMA): https://gema.georgia.gov
• Charleston County Emergency Management: https://www.charlestoncounty.org/departments/emergency-management/
• Chatham County Emergency Management Agency (CEMA): https://www.chathamemergency.org/
• National Hurricane Center: https://www.nhc.noaa.gov
• National Weather Service Charleston (covers SC & upper coastal GA, including Savannah): https://www.weather.gov/chs/
• National Weather Service Jacksonville (covers lower coastal GA, including Brunswick): https://www.weather.gov/jax/
• SC Evacuation Routes & Traffic Updates: https://www.scdot.org/travel/storm.aspx
• Georgia 511 Travel & Evacuation Traffic Updates: https://511ga.org
• American Red Cross Shelter Finder: https://www.redcross.org/get-help/disaster-relief-and-recovery-services/find-an-open-shelter.html

📍 Know Your Zone
South Carolina and Georgia use evacuation zones during hurricanes. If you haven’t already, take a minute to find your evacuation zone here:
• SC Evacuation Zones: https://hurricane.sc
• GA Evacuation Zones: https://gema.georgia.gov/plan-prepare/hurricane-evacuation-zone

🧰 Build or Refresh Your Hurricane Kit
A few essentials FEMA recommends having ready:
✔️ Water & non-perishable food for at least 3 days
✔️ Flashlights & extra batteries
✔️ Portable phone chargers/power banks
✔️ Medications & copies of important documents
✔️ Pet supplies
✔️ First aid kit
✔️ Cash & hygiene items

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Make a Family Plan
Talk with your family now about:
• Where you would go if evacuation is ordered
• Emergency contacts
• Childcare/school plans
• Pet arrangements
• How to communicate if cell service is limited

💙 Coast Guard families know the importance of readiness and resilience. Taking a little time now to prepare can make a big difference later — and helps our entire community stay safer together.

📅 Mark your calendars: On July 9th, we will host a virtual town hall covering Coast Guard hurricane evacuation policies, entitlements, preparedness expectations, and family resources. More details and access information will be shared soon.

05/29/2026

Bravo Zulu to the U.S. Coast Guard 2026 Inspirational Leadership Award & Navy League of the United States Award for Inspirational Leadership winners, including our very own Chief Maritime Enforcement Specialist (MEC) Michele L. Brazil, the proud recipient of the prestigious Active Duty 2026 Master Chief Angela M. McShan Inspirational Leadership Award!

This incredible honor is a testament to her extraordinary impact as Sector Charleston’s Boarding Team Supervisor, where she spearheaded seamless interagency collaboration—directly enabling 229 joint boardings, 105 security patrols, and 1,420 container inspections, while guiding her team to a flawless 100% compliance score. A relentless advocate for others, she qualified over 30 regional law enforcement officers, provided vital mentorship across all ranks, and dedicated over 120 volunteer hours to supporting disabled veterans through the PGA HOPE program.

These prestigious awards recognize members who exemplify the Coast Guard’s Core Values of Honor, Respect, and Devotion to Duty and inspire others to achieve greatness. They represent the very best of us in Key West, Charleston, Seattle, New London, Eugene, Miami, Corpus Christi and Clearwater.

The winners are more than leaders – they are some of the sharpest, highest performing, and most impactful members in the Coast Guard. They are selfless and influential mentors who genuinely care for their people and inspire their teams to strive for excellence.

As a direct result of her sustained excellence, tireless work ethic, and inspiring leadership, she also takes her next major career step TODAY by promoting to Chief Warrant Officer!

We are proud of CWO Brazil for her enduring impact on readiness, mission success, culture, and leader development. She embodies the spirit of these awards and reinforces our reputation as the world’s premiere maritime law enforcement agency.
https://www.dcms.uscg.mil/Our-Organization/Assistant-Commandant-for-Human-Resources-CG-1/Personnel-Service-Center-Civilian-Personnel-Management-PSC-CPM/Office-of-Leadership-DCMS-DPR-5/Inspirational-Leadership-Awards/McShan-Award/

U.S. Coast Guard Southeast

05/28/2026

MSIB: UPCOMING 2026 ATLANTIC HURRICANE SEASON

The Atlantic Hurricane Season will begin June 1, 2026, and run through November 30, 2026. During this timeframe, the threat of severe weather is increased, and the assigned Port Condition (PORTCON) will remain PORTCON OPEN.

Port Status will remain OPEN for all ports and waterways within the Sector Charleston Captain of the Port (COTP) Zone. These waters are identified in 33 CFR 3.35-15 and lie between the intersection of the North Carolina – South Carolina border and the northern bank of the Savannah River. In the event of forecasted tropical storm force winds (sustained winds of 34 kts/39 mph or greater) from a tropical cyclone, the Sector Charleston COTP will coordinate with the Heavy Weather Advisory Group (HWAG) to evaluate port preparation and changes in PORTCON. The HWAG consists of marine transportation system (MTS) professionals local to the Sector Charleston COTP Zone, providing input on local operations and coordination for overall port well-being in response to severe weather events. The COTP will announce changes to PORTCONs via a Marine Safety Information Bulletin (MSIB) and a Broadcast Notice to Mariners when forecasted tropical storm force winds (sustained winds of 34 kts/39 mph or greater) from a tropical cyclone threaten South Carolina. In the event of forecasted severe weather, the below PORTCON timeline will be utilized.

*2026 Atlantic Hurricane Season – Charleston COTP Zone*

To provide greater flexibility in assessing PORTCONs for the entire geographic region of the Charleston COTP Zone, the Area of Response (AOR) has been divided into the following areas:

Northern AOR – McClellanville, Georgetown, Myrtle Beach, and Little River
Charleston AOR – Charleston Harbor
Southern AOR – Port Royal, Hilton Head, and Beaufort

Pending storm severity and as appropriate, the following safety measures will be implemented: PORTCON WHISKEY: Port Status is OPEN. All vessel and port facilities shall exercise due diligence in preparation for potential storm impacts. All oceangoing commercial vessels and oceangoing barges greater than 500 gross tons are to review plans for departing the port 24 hours prior to the storm’s arrival. Vessels unable to depart within this timeframe must immediately contact Coast Guard Sector Charleston and submit a written safe mooring plan with proof of facility owner/operator approval to [email protected] for review by the COTP. Submittal does not guarantee COTP acceptance. Vessels bound for this port, which are unable to depart 24 hours prior to threatening winds making landfall, are advised to seek an alternate destination. Slow-moving vessels may be ordered to depart to ensure safe avoidance of the incoming storm upon the anticipation of setting PORTCON X-Ray. The Heavy Weather Advisory Group (HWAG) will make recommendations to the COTP to identify vessels that may need to be diverted to ensure port safety. Pleasure craft are advised to seek safe harbor. Commercial vessel operators authorized by the COTP to remain inside the Charleston COTP Zone, and recreational boat owners, should ensure their vessels are secure at berth and will not pose a hazard to surrounding vessels, the navigable channel, or the environment. Mariners are reminded that drawbridges may not operate when sustained wind speeds reach 25 mph or when an evacuation is in progress. Facilities are advised to review their heavy weather plan and take all necessary precautions to adequately prepare for the forecasted conditions. Ports and waterfront facilities shall consider removing all debris and securing potential flying hazards. Container stacking plans should be implemented. Waterfront facilities that are unable to reduce container stacking height to no more than 4 high must submit a container stacking protocol to the COTP. PORTCON X-RAY: Port status is OPEN. In addition to safety measures outlined in PORTCON Whiskey, all oceangoing commercial vessels and oceangoing barges greater than 500 gross tons are to finalize plans for departing the port prior to the storm's arrival. These vessels shall depart immediately upon the setting of PORTCON Yankee. During PORTCON X-Ray, slow-moving vessels may be ordered to depart to ensure safe avoidance of the incoming storm. A COTP Order will be issued to vessels required to depart early. COTP orders requiring vessel departure will be considered on a case-by-case basis. Vessels unable to depart within this timeframe must immediately contact Coast Guard Sector Charleston and submit a written safe mooring plan with proof of facility owner/operator approval to [email protected] for review by the COTP. Submittal does not guarantee COTP acceptance. Vessels with the COTP's permission to remain in port must implement their pre-approved mooring arrangement. All vessels and port facilities shall consider ensuring potential flying debris is removed or secured. Hazardous materials/pollution hazards should be secured in a safe manner and away from waterfront areas. Facilities should continue to implement container stacking protocols. Containers should not exceed 4 tiers, unless previously approved by the COTP. Containers carrying hazardous materials may not be stacked above 2 tiers. Terminal operators should prepare to terminate all cargo operations. The COTP may require additional precautions to ensure the safety of the ports and waterways. Coast Guard Port Assessment Teams may deploy to validate implementation of PORTCON X-Ray. PORTCON Yankee: Port Status is OPEN w/RESTRICTIONS. The coastal South Carolina ports of Little River, Myrtle Beach, Georgetown, McClellanville, Charleston, Beaufort, Hilton Head, and/or Port Royal are open to outbound vessel traffic only. Commercial inbound vessels are restricted from entering the port, and are advised to seek an alternate destination unless expressly authorized by the COTP Charleston or a designated representative. In addition to safety measures outlined in PORTCON X-Ray, all oceangoing commercial vessels and oceangoing barges greater than 500 gross tons currently in port are to prepare to get underway at this time. Vessels authorized by the COTP to remain in port shall, in accordance with their safe mooring plan, take appropriate precautionary measures to secure their vessels. Facilities are to follow their heavy weather plans and consider taking all necessary precautions to adequately prepare for forecasted conditions. Such precautions include: appropriate container stacking protocols, moving cargo within or off the port for securing purposes, crane and other port/facility equipment preparations, and/or termination of cargo operations not associated with storm preparations. All facilities shall continue to operate in accordance with approved Facility Security Plans and comply with the requirements of the Maritime Transportation Security Act (MTSA). Coast Guard Port Assessment Teams may conduct PORTCON Yankee validation. PORTCON Zulu: Port Status is CLOSED. All port waterfront operations and vessel movements are suspended except final preparations previously approved by the COTP in which are necessary to ensure the safety of the port and facilities. Commercial vessel operators and owners of recreational boats remaining in port are responsible for ensuring their vessels are secured at berth and will not pose a hazard to surrounding vessels, the navigable channel, or the environment. Coast Guard Port Assessment Teams may conduct final port assessments. PORTCON Recovery: Port Status is CLOSED or OPEN w/RESTRICTIONS. Threatening winds (34 kts/39 mph) are no longer a threat to the area; however, damage may have occurred, and response/recovery operations are in progress. If damage has occurred and has compromised the safe navigation of vessel movements, the Port Status is CLOSED. All port waterfront operations and vessel movements are suspended to ensure the safety of the port and facilities. PORTCON OPEN: All related restrictions are lifted. Due to potential effects throughout coastal South Carolina, mariners are urged to transit with caution considering the possibility of Aids to Navigation discrepancies or other hazards to navigation. If discovered, please report any of these issues to the United States Coast Guard Sector Charleston’s Command Center.

**To better facilitate storm preparedness, oceangoing vessels over 500 gross tons that anticipate remaining in port for the duration of hurricane season are urged to submit their safe mooring plans to [email protected] by June 5, 2026.**

For questions or concerns regarding this MSIB, please contact the Sector Charleston 24-hour Command Center at (833) 453-1261.

05/25/2026

This Memorial Day, U.S. Coast Guard Sector Charleston honors and remembers the brave men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to our nation.

As we gather with family and friends this holiday weekend, we encourage everyone heading out on the water to make safety a priority. Wear your life jacket, designate a sober operator, monitor weather conditions, and ensure your vessel and safety equipment are ready before getting underway.

Safe boating saves lives. Stay vigilant, look out for one another, and have a safe Memorial Day weekend.

05/23/2026

05/21/2026

Our chefs are some of the best!

05/20/2026

🌊 It’s National Safe Boating Week! 🌊
Before you head out on the water this season, check out the link below of South Carolina Department of Natural Resources, and our very own LTJG Tayler Beard, breaking down the essential safety protocols you need to know to keep you and your passengers safe.

📺 Watch the full briefing here:
https://www.counton2.com/news/south-carolina-news/scdnr-encourages-boater-safety-ahead-of-memorial-day-weekend-to-ramp-up-enforcement-efforts-with-local-agencies/
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🦺 Wear Your Life Jacket
Inflatable PFDs are a lightweight, comfortable option perfectly suited for our warm climate. Whether you're at the dock or on the move, having your life jacket ready—or better yet, wearing it—is the best way to stay prepared.

🚤 Watch Your Speed
Many incidents in South Carolina can be avoided by simply slowing down. Maintain a safe speed, especially in high-traffic areas, near the shoreline, or when operating at night.

👀 Stay Alert & Aware
Every vessel is responsible for avoiding collisions. Stay aware of your surroundings to prevent dangerous groundings at high speeds.

🚫 Boat Sober
The sun, wind, and boat vibrations magnify the effects of alcohol. Protect your crew and save the drinks for when you're back on land. The operator should always be sober.

🛑 Use the Kill Switch
Attaching your engine cut-off switch is just like buckling your seatbelt. It’s a federal requirement for most boats under 26 feet and is a simple, effective way to save lives.

05/19/2026

This doesn't just happen in the arctic! Be sure to update your beacons using the information below!

This boat cost taxpayers over $55K and placed search crews at risk!

Why?

Look closer at the device in the rescue swimmer’s hand… That’s the emergency beacon that sent out a distress signal to the Coast Guard triggering a full-scale response involving a helicopter, 2 boat crews, and 2 Coast Guard command centers.

The search was prolonged because the beacon’s registration wasn’t updated, making it impossible to quickly verify if anyone was in danger. Our aircrew eventually traced the signal to this derelict boat, confirming it was a false alarm.

This single incident is part of a larger trend.

False distress notifications result in expensive searches that place our crews’ lives at risk and divert critical resources from actual emergencies.

You can be part of the solution. Here’s how you can help:

• Register Your Beacon: Taking a few minutes to register your EPIRB and keeping it updated is the most effective way to help. Plus, it’s the law! You can do that here: www.beaconregistration.noaa.gov

• Report Accidental Activations: Accidents happen. If you accidentally activate your beacon, call 1-855-406-8724 for a maritime location, 1-800-851-3051 for an alert on or over land, and in Alaska, 1-800-420-7230.

• Dispose properly: Dispose your EPIRB according to the manufacturer’s recommendation.

Your shared responsibility helps our crews remain ready to respond when it counts.

The name of the vessel has been digitally obscured for privacy.

05/13/2026

During National Police Week, the U.S. Coast Guard extends our deepest gratitude to all law enforcement officers across the nation. From our local police departments and county sheriffs to our federal and state partners, we rely on strong teamwork and interoperability to defend our borders, secure our ports and waterways, and protect our communities. We are immensely proud to serve alongside such dedicated professionals every single day.

This week, we also solemnly remember and honor every law enforcement officer who has fallen in the line of duty. We stand in solidarity with their families, their departments, and their communities. Thank you to all who hold the line.