About this Unit
USCG Group Cape May was a United States Coast Guard operational command located in Cape May, New Jersey. Established to oversee and coordinate Coast Guard missions along the southern New Jersey coastline, the unit was responsible for search and rescue, law enforcement, and maritime safety operations. Its area of responsibility included the busy waters of Delaware Bay and the Atlantic approaches to Cape May. In the early 2000s, USCG Group Cape May was reorganized as part of a nationwide restructuring, transitioning its duties to the newly formed USCG Sector Delaware Bay.
Historical Facts
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Historic Beginnings: USCG Group Cape May traces its origins to the late 19th century, with the establishment of several life-saving stations along the New Jersey coast, later consolidated under the Coast Guard.
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Boot Camp Connection: The unit is closely tied to Training Center Cape May, which is the sole recruit training center for the entire United States Coast Guard, graduating thousands of "Coasties" annually.
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World War II Role: During World War II, the Cape May area became a major training and staging ground for Coast Guard personnel, with anti-submarine patrols launched from the station.
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Search and Rescue (SAR) Hub: USCG Group Cape May has a long tradition of conducting daring search and rescue missions in the often-treacherous waters off the New Jersey coast, saving countless lives.
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Notable 1962 Rescue: In March 1962, Coast Guardsmen from Cape May braved a fierce nor’easter to rescue crew members from the stricken tanker SS Fort Mercer, an act that garnered widespread recognition.
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Integration of Technology: The unit was among the first in the region to integrate advanced radar and communication systems for improved maritime safety and coordination in the postwar era.
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Environmental Stewardship: Cape May personnel have played a critical role in responding to oil spills and environmental threats in the Delaware Bay and Atlantic coastline.
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Homeport for Cutters: The group has been home to several Coast Guard cutters over the years, including USCGC Valiant and USCGC Dependable, which conduct law enforcement and SAR missions.
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Community Engagement: USCG Group Cape May actively participates in local community events, including SeaFest and Coast Guard Community Festival, fostering strong civilian-military relations.
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Modern Reorganization: In 2005, the unit was reorganized under the larger Coast Guard Sector Delaware Bay, but Cape May remains a vital operational and training center for the service today.
