By RDML Joanna M. Nunan, USCG, Military Advisor to the Secretary
On Monday, Secretary Jeh Johnson, joined by Coast Guard Commandant Admiral Paul Zukunft, traveled to Norfolk, Va. where they observed a one-of-a-kind maritime counter-terrorism team: the U.S. Coast Guard Maritime Security Response Team (MSRT). After boarding a 45-foot Response Boat, Secretary Johnson witnessed an exercise in which members of the USCG MSRT boarded a cruise vessel by helicopter and small boat.
Coast Guard Maritime Security Response Team members climb a hook ladder to board a civilian passenger ship during a MSRT training demonstration in the Chesapeake Bay near Naval Station Norfolk, Virginia. The MSRT is a specialized response team with advanced counter-terrorism skills and tactics. Official DHS photo by Barry Bahler.
Afterward, the delegation observed the MSRT respond to various law enforcement situations, and demonstrating the detection of explosive and other potential threats with various types of equipment uniquely suited for maritime situations.
Coast Guard Maritime Security Response Team members climb a hook ladder to board a civilian passenger ship during a MSRT training demonstration in the Chesapeake Bay near Naval Station Norfolk, Virginia. The MSRT is a specialized response team with advanced counter-terrorism skills and tactics. Official DHS photo by Barry Bahler.
The Department is celebrating Public Service Recognition Week by highlighting the complex and versatile skills of the men and women who make up the U.S. Coast Guard. Consistent training exercises like these are one way the Coast Guard remains Semper Paratus – always ready.
Secretary Johnson is shown here with the Coast Guard Maritime Security Response Team and several other Coast Guardsman in Virginia, May 4th, 2015. Official DHS photo by Barry Bahler.
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