Port Security Unit 313

• Establishment: Port Security Unit (PSU) 313 was commissioned in 1998 and is based in Tacoma, Washington. It is one of only eight Coast Guard PSUs in the United States. • Unique Mission: PSU 313 specializes in providing waterborne and landside force protection for U.S. military and coalition forces, especially in ports and harbors both domestically and overseas. • First to Deploy After 9/11: PSU 313 was the first PSU activated and deployed overseas following the September 11th attacks, deploying to the Middle East in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. • Reserve Component: The unit is composed primarily of Coast Guard Reservists, making it a unique blend of civilian expertise and military capability. • International Deployments: PSU 313 has deployed to several locations worldwide, including Kuwait, Bahrain, and Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, supporting operations such as Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom. • Rapid Deployment Capability: PSU 313 can mobilize and deploy within 96 hours of notification, bringing their own boats, weapons, and support equipment for independent operations. • Joint Operations: The unit often works alongside U.S. Navy, Army, and Marine Corps units, as well as international partners, to provide integrated port security and force protection. • Decorated Service: Members of PSU 313 have received numerous awards, including the Coast Guard Unit Commendation and the Joint Meritorious Unit Award, for exemplary service during deployments. • Specialized Training: PSU 313 personnel undergo rigorous training in anti-terrorism, combat skills, maritime law enforcement, and advanced boat tactics to maintain operational readiness. • Community Engagement: When not deployed, PSU 313 actively participates in community events, disaster response, and training exercises in the Pacific Northwest, supporting both national security and local resilience.