USCG STA DESTIN

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Branch

U.S. Coast Guard

Members

About USCG STA DESTIN

USCG Station Destin (STA Destin) is a United States Coast Guard station located in Destin, Florida, on the Emerald Coast. Established in 1977, the unit plays a critical role in maritime safety, law enforcement, and search and rescue missions throughout the Gulf of Mexico and Choctawhatchee Bay. The station operates a variety of response boats and works closely with local, state, and federal agencies to ensure the security and safety of the region’s busy waterways. Over the years, USCG STA Destin has become a vital asset in responding to hurricanes, environmental incidents, and recreational boating emergencies along Florida’s panhandle.

Unit Members

Patrick Ellis

U.S. Coast Guard

USCG STA DESTINView Profile

Photos

USCG Station San Francisco, CA

USCG Station San Francisco, CA • U.S. Coast Guard • 1989

USCGC Point Brower Homeport San Diego CA

USCGC Point Brower (WPB-82372) • U.S. Coast Guard • 1986

USCGC Boutwell (WHEC-719)

USCGC Boutwell (WHEC-719) • U.S. Coast Guard • 1982

USCGC Campbell (WHEC-32)

U.S. Coast Guard • 1975

About USCG STA DESTIN

About this Unit

Historical Facts

• Strategic Location: USCG Station Destin is strategically located in Destin, Florida, providing coverage for the busy waterways of the Florida Panhandle and the Gulf of Mexico. • Establishment: The station was officially commissioned in 1977, though Coast Guard units had been operating in the area since the 1960s. • Search and Rescue (SAR) Operations: STA Destin responds to hundreds of search and rescue cases annually, assisting boaters, fishermen, and swimmers in distress. • Hurricane Response: The station plays a critical role in hurricane preparedness and response, having aided in recovery efforts for major storms like Hurricane Michael (2018) and Hurricane Ivan (2004). • Drug Interdiction: The unit participates in counter-narcotics missions, intercepting illicit drug shipments transiting the Gulf of Mexico. • Environmental Protection: Station Destin is active in protecting local wildlife and habitats, responding to oil spills and enforcing fisheries regulations. • Military Cooperation: The station often trains and operates in conjunction with nearby Eglin Air Force Base, enhancing joint service readiness. • Community Engagement: USCG STA Destin is highly involved in community outreach, hosting educational programs and participating in local events such as the annual Destin Fishing Rodeo. • Fleet and Capabilities: The station operates several 45-foot Response Boat-Mediums (RB-Ms) and smaller vessels, enabling rapid response to maritime incidents. • Historic Rescues: In 2001, the crew of STA Destin was recognized for their heroic rescue of 12 people from a capsized vessel during severe weather, highlighting their commitment to saving lives.