Health and Wellness Support for Deployed Cutter Crews
The COVID-19 pandemic added layers of safety protocols to Coast Guard operations. For crews assigned to large Coast Guard ships such as national security cutters, this meant extended deployments that increased their time on board and stretched their time away from home.
The Coast Guard Foundation recognized these added pressures on Coast Guard members and responded with health and wellness support so crews could acquire exercise and fitness equipment, game night supplies, and other community-building activities for all Coast Guard members assigned to the ship.
“Keeping up the crew’s fitness and health during long deployments is essential,” said Susan Ludwig, Coast Guard Foundation president. “With our support, we can ensure they have the needed resources to stay active and engaged while they work around the clock to ensure our safety and security.”
Coast Guard Cutter Stone: We welcome each new cutter to the fleet with a gift to its morale fund so crew members can be ready for their assignments and can maintain their own physical and mental well-being while at sea. The newest national security cutter, the Stone, was commissioned in March at its homeport in Charleston, South Carolina. The crew was restricted to the ship for 30 days before its first deployment to ensure a COVID-free environment. Fitness and morale activities kept them busy and well-prepared for their upcoming assignments.
Coast Guard Cutter Munro: The Coast Guard Cutter Munro, homeported in Alameda, California, recently returned from a three-month deployment. The ship’s leaders secured an in-port excursion for the crew while moored in Costa Rica, allowing them to rest and recharge their mental and physical health.
“I cannot thank you enough for your steadfast commitment to the Coast Guard workforce during these unprecedented times,” shared VADM Linda Fagan, Pacific Area Commander. “The Foundation truly makes a difference in the lives of our members.”
