Ezell Applauds Return of Coast Guard Station Pascagoula to Full Operations

Congressman Mike Ezell (MS-04), Chairman of the Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation Subcommittee, today welcomed the U.S. Coast Guard's decision to return Coast Guard Station Pascagoula to full response operations, marking a major step forward for maritime security and economic activity along the Mississippi Gulf Coast.

The Coast Guard announced that, in conjunction with Assignment Year 2026, Station Pascagoula will transition from scheduled mission operations back to full response operations after capabilities were temporarily reduced in 2023 due to workforce shortages.

"This is outstanding news for South Mississippi," Chairman Ezell said. "Coast Guard Station Pascagoula plays a critical role in protecting our maritime border, supporting search and rescue missions, and safeguarding the Port of Pascagoula. I'm grateful to see the Coast Guard fully restoring these operations and ensuring our Coast Guard men and women have the staffing they need to do their jobs. As Chairman of the Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation Subcommittee, I've been clear that readiness matters. Restoring full operations at Station Pascagoula improves safety for our mariners, strengthens national security, and protects one of Mississippi's most important economic engines."

"After temporarily reducing capabilities at Station Pascagoula in 2023 due to severe workforce shortages, I am pleased to announce the Coast Guard will fully restore the unit's operational capabilities and readiness in 2026," Adm. Kevin E. Lunday, Acting Commandant said. "Our strong recruiting performance has made this possible. Station Pascagoula is vital to securing our southern maritime border and supporting the Port of Pascagoula's $18 billion economic impact. This action directly supports our nation's security and economic prosperity."

Strategically located on the Gulf Coast, Coast Guard Station Pascagoula conducts missions that deter and interdict illegal migration and illicit trafficking, while also protecting vital port infrastructure from physical and cyber threats. The station's return to full response operations strengthens the Coast Guard's ability to respond quickly to emergencies, natural disasters, and maritime security threats in accordance with its long-standing motto, Semper Paratus - "Always Ready."

The U.S. Coast Guard is responsible for defending more than 95,000 miles of U.S. shoreline, 25,000 miles of navigable rivers, and 4.5 million square miles of exclusive economic zone. With more than 76,000 members operating cutters, aircraft, boats, and cyber capabilities, the Coast Guard plays a vital role in protecting America's maritime domain and economic security.