SECTOR SAN JUAN

• Origins in World War II: SECTOR SAN JUAN has its roots in U.S. military operations in the Caribbean during World War II, serving as a critical outpost for anti-submarine warfare and logistical support. • Strategic Location: Located in San Juan, Puerto Rico, the unit's position has made it a key hub for maritime security, disaster response, and defense operations throughout the Caribbean Sea. • U.S. Coast Guard Role: Today, SECTOR SAN JUAN is a major command within the United States Coast Guard, responsible for law enforcement, search and rescue, and environmental protection missions across the region. • Drug Interdiction Successes: The unit has been instrumental in intercepting large quantities of illegal drugs transiting through the Caribbean, contributing significantly to U.S. counter-narcotics efforts. • Hurricane Response: SECTOR SAN JUAN has played a vital role in disaster response, especially during hurricanes Irma and Maria in 2017, coordinating relief operations and ensuring maritime safety. • Historic Facilities: The command operates from Coast Guard Base San Juan, which is located adjacent to the historic Old San Juan district and near the centuries-old Castillo San Felipe del Morro. • International Cooperation: The unit regularly works with Caribbean and Latin American nations on joint maritime security operations, fostering regional partnerships. • Search and Rescue Missions: SECTOR SAN JUAN coordinates hundreds of search and rescue missions annually, saving lives at sea and assisting distressed vessels in a vast area of responsibility. • Guardians of the Mona Passage: The unit is responsible for patrolling the Mona Passage, a key maritime choke point between Puerto Rico and the Dominican Republic, known for treacherous waters and frequent migrant crossings. • Community Engagement: Beyond operational duties, SECTOR SAN JUAN personnel are active in the local community, participating in youth outreach, environmental initiatives, and disaster preparedness education.