U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Bertholf

U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Bertholf Welcome to the U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Bertholf page. For an official source of information about the U.S. Coast Guard, please visit www.uscg.mil.
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09/09/2025

U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Bertholf (WMSL 750) crewmembers conduct a gunnery exercise (GUNNEX) while patrolling the Pacific Ocean, July 9, 2025. These exercises sharpen the crew’s readiness to defend U.S. maritime borders, enforce federal law at sea, and safeguard national interests against threats. By training with the Bertholf’s M240B and M2A1 machine gun platforms, the crew enhances their ability to uphold territorial integrity and maintain security on the high seas.
🎬: Petty Officer 3rd Class Avery Tibbets

At 418 feet long and displacing 4,500 long tons, CGC Bertholf is a frontline asset in safeguarding America’s maritime bo...
09/09/2025

At 418 feet long and displacing 4,500 long tons, CGC Bertholf is a frontline asset in safeguarding America’s maritime borders. As the first Maritime Security Cutter-Large (WMSL), Bertholf serves as the flagship of the Coast Guard’s National Security Cutter fleet, designed to project presence and uphold U.S. sovereignty at sea.

With a range of 12,000 nautical miles and a crew of 150, Bertholf is built for endurance on the high seas. Her three 26-foot Over-The-Horizon small boats, operated by highly trained Coast Guard Petty Officers, extend the cutter’s reach into contested and remote waters. These boats are critical tools in interdicting narcotics, deterring illegal migration, enforcing fisheries laws, and projecting U.S. authority where it matters most.

From counter-smuggling boardings to complex security patrols, members of Bertholf’s Deck, Combat Systems, and Engineering Departments work tirelessly to ensure the cutter’s small boats are mission-ready. Together, they enable Bertholf to defend our maritime borders, enforce U.S. law, and protect the Nation’s territorial integrity.

📸: Petty Officer 3rd Class Avery Tibbets

06/09/2025

Captain William L. Mees BERTHOLF COMMANDING OFFICER Change of Command Ceremony.

On 13 March, we were privileged and thrilled to welcome royalty to Coast Guard Cutter BERTHOLF; the Alameda Island Princ...
04/02/2025

On 13 March, we were privileged and thrilled to welcome royalty to Coast Guard Cutter BERTHOLF; the Alameda Island Princesses joined us for an exciting tour aboard the first WMSL in the Coast Guard’s Legend Class fleet! Made up of 44 fathers and daughters (ladies ranging from 1st to 5th grade), these esteemed guests received an exclusive tour of everything cutter BERTHOLF has to offer; from the mysterious depths of the engine rooms to the majestic views from the bridge. The royal tour ended with a beautiful sunset overlooking the estuary coinciding with the cutter’s daily observance of evening colors. The BERTHOLF crew would like to thank these young majesties for their delightful and inquisitive presence, and to the parents, chaperones, and organizers for making this experience possible. We are honored to be included in your adventures, and we cannot wait to join you on the next one!

This week, the crew of Coast Guard Cutter Bertholf joined forces with the crew of Coast Guard Cutter Healy for a series ...
12/03/2024

This week, the crew of Coast Guard Cutter Bertholf joined forces with the crew of Coast Guard Cutter Healy for a series of coordinated exercises in the Bering Sea. This joint operation enhanced collaboration across the National Security Cutter and Polar Icebreaker mission sets, expanding on each crew’s awareness of both vessel’s unique missions and capabilities.
The day began with a crew exchange, giving both crews the opportunity to experience life aboard each other’s cutters and better understand the specific missions each ship is tasked with in these remote Arctic waters. Following this exchange, we conducted a series of ship tours, where crews had the chance to highlight the specialized equipment and operational strengths of their respective vessels.
Our small boat teams also played a vital role in the exercise, engaging in various tactical drills that emphasized the versatility and agility of our smaller craft in Arctic conditions. Their professionalism and skill are critical in ensuring the success of our missions, whether it’s search and rescue, law enforcement, or environmental protection.
One of the highlights of the day was the ex*****on of formation steaming (PASSEX) to practice precision maneuvering in close quarters. Partnering with AIRSTA Kodiak, a MH-60 helicopter captured stunning aerial shots of the two cutters in formation, demonstrating the impressive synergy between the vessels and air support. This exercise underscores the importance of seamless coordination in maritime operations, ensuring that cutters and aircraft are always ready to collectively respond to a variety of situations.
Throughout the exercise, both crews engaged in friendly, professional exchanges, fostering stronger relationships and a deeper appreciation for the unique aspects of each other’s missions. Whether it’s CGC Healy’s scientific research or CGC Bertholf’s law enforcement and security operations, the collaboration between these two cutters, both namesakes of Bering Sea legends, undoubtedly enhanced our ability to effectively operate in the challenging conditions of the Arctic and Bering Sea.
A special thank you to the crew of Cutter Healy and the aircrew from CG-6043 for their cooperation and for ensuring the day’s exercise showcase each asset’s shared commitment to the Coast Guard’s core mission. We look forward to more opportunities to work together in the future, strengthening our readiness and capabilities in this critical region.

U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Healy

Greetings friends and family!During the 2024 San Francisco Fleet Week, Coast Guard Cutter BERTHOLF proudly showcased our...
10/28/2024

Greetings friends and family!

During the 2024 San Francisco Fleet Week, Coast Guard Cutter BERTHOLF proudly showcased our operational readiness and commitment to community engagement, welcoming over 2,500 visitors to experience our mission firsthand. The energy and enthusiasm from the crowd truly made the event special.
One of the standout moments was the Parade of Ships, where 38 ship riders, including local Sea Cadets and members of the San Francisco and Oakland Navy League, joined us on the water. It was a fantastic opportunity for everyone to witness the teamwork and professionalism of our crew in action, further highlighting the strong bonds we share with our community.
In addition to the parade, our dedicated team, along with volunteers from the Northern California Coast Guard Officer’s Association, organized a successful fundraising cookout that brought the community together. We were thrilled to raise funds through our Fleet Week commemorative items while also making critical repairs to ensure our equipment is ready for upcoming deployments. We are also happy to have Simba, our furry friend pictured below, to be joining us from the USCG K9 Unit. It’s amazing how teamwork extends beyond our crew to include everyone who supports us!
Moreover, we want to extend our gratitude to our amazing volunteers, including 09 prospective Chief Petty Officers from the Greater Bay Area Chiefs’ Mess, who put in over 165 hours to help facilitate tours and provide refreshments. Your support truly made a significant difference and allowed us to connect with our visitors on a deeper level.
The event also attracted media coverage, with outlets like KTVU capturing the excitement and spirit of the day. Adding to the festivities, the Coast Guard Museum shared our rich history, giving visitors a glimpse into our legacy. The air show drew in even more guests, including several VIPs, showcasing our vital role in maritime safety and service.
In summary, this event not only highlighted BERTHOLF’s capabilities but also reinforced our crew’s dedication to readiness and community involvement. Thank you to everyone who joined us and supported our mission—we look forward to continuing to serve with pride!

On Friday, August 2, 2024, the Bertholf crew had the bittersweet privilege of honoring Chief Warrant Officer (CWO-2) Cas...
08/22/2024

On Friday, August 2, 2024, the Bertholf crew had the bittersweet privilege of honoring Chief Warrant Officer (CWO-2) Casey Wardynski, affectionately known as “BOSN,” as he retired after 21 years of dedicated service to the Coast Guard. BOSN’s unwavering mentorship, care, and diligence were vital to our mission success around the globe. We gathered one last time at the Chief’s Hut to celebrate with delicious tacos and a giant cake. While BOSN will be deeply missed, we are thrilled for him and his family as they embark on this new chapter. Your legacy and impact will continue to inspire us for years to come. Fair winds and following seas, BOSN.

We have the watch.

Today, we celebrate the promotion of our amazing Senior Chief Petty Officer Ivanna Ford to the esteemed rank of Chief Wa...
06/05/2024

Today, we celebrate the promotion of our amazing Senior Chief Petty Officer Ivanna Ford to the esteemed rank of Chief Warrant Officer (CWO2).

This promotion not only recognizes CSCS Ford’s exceptional dedication and leadership but also marks an incredible journey as she transitions into the Officer Corps. Becoming a Warrant Officer is a testament to her expertise, professionalism, and commitment to serving our country and our Coast Guard community with honor and distinction. As our former Command Senior Enlisted Leader or “Command Chief” her mentorship and impact among our crew continues to guide us as we say goodbye. After this transfer season CWO Ford will continue to showcase her amazing talents on our sister ship USCGC Waesche, as their new Supply Officer!

As Chief Warrant Officer Ford embarks on this new chapter, we are confident that her experience, knowledge, and unwavering dedication will continue to inspire and elevate the WMSL fleet to new heights. Congratulations CWO Ford!

Attention to Award!!Bertholf is proud to announce Chief Warrant Officer Matthew Wernicke as the recipient of the 2023 Un...
06/03/2024

Attention to Award!!

Bertholf is proud to announce Chief Warrant Officer Matthew Wernicke as the recipient of the 2023 United States Coast Guard Chief Financial Officer Award for Excellence. This prestigious accolade acknowledges individuals and teams who have demonstrated exceptional performance, innovative thinking, and advancements in financial management practices. In his role as Supply Officer and Support Department Head, CWO Wernicke effectively led the Medical, Culinary, and Admin & Supply Divisions aboard the ship. Additionally, he served as the Financial & Accountable Property Officer, managing a budget of $1.6 million and property valued at $743 million. He successfully advocated for increased funding across the fleet through comprehensive justifications. As the Inventory Control Officer, he oversaw a $3.5 million OM&S inventory and flawlessly executed contracting, funds certification, survey, and travel management duties. Under his guidance and skilled financial management, CGC BERTHOLF earned the Forrest O. Rednour Galley of the Year Award, received a Meritorious Team Commendation, and achieved a remarkable score of 99.5% for their Medical Training Team at the Command Assessment of Readiness and Training (CART). His commitment to excellence is truly commendable, and it's evident that your impact extends throughout the fleet!

Bravo Zulu Shipmate!

On Friday May 17th, 2024, the Bertholf crew had the honor of celebrating the well-deserved retirement of an outstanding ...
05/31/2024

On Friday May 17th, 2024, the Bertholf crew had the honor of celebrating the well-deserved retirement of an outstanding crew member whom we will dearly miss. Health Services Chief (HSC) Petty Officer Joseph Jones or “Doc” as our crew affectionally calls him, served the Coast Guard for 20 years. HSC’s tremendous care, profound knowledge, and unwavering focus on our crews health was essential to our safety and mission success across the globe. A great time was had by all who enjoyed a wonderful ceremony on Bertholf’s flight deck and a delicious BBQ at the Chief’s hut! HSC, you will be sorely missed, yet, we are so happy for you and your family. Best wishes for all your future ventures, Fair winds and following seas!

Bertholf has been proud to host and share our missions, experiences, and our crew with the local community-especially wi...
05/30/2024

Bertholf has been proud to host and share our missions, experiences, and our crew with the local community-especially with our younger generation—the future of our nation, and perhaps even future Bertholf sailors!

Throughout May, Bertholf took joy in hosting several local youth groups, including Boy Scout Troop 99, Alameda Island Princesses, and St. Isadore School, with tours of our vessel. These interactive experiences onboard showcased the incredible capabilities of our cutter, our teamwork and crew and how we do our jobs onboard.
Amidst our missions of drug and migrant interdictions, rescues at sea, and forging partnerships, it's the laughter and curiosity of the bright young children in our local community that often bring us the greatest joy and memorable moments. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to all the children, parents, chaperones, and organizers who made these experiences possible. Hosting such incredible young minds has been a privilege, and we eagerly look forward to the next opportunity!

This past week Coast Guard Cutter Bertholf was honored to host Japan Coast Guard (JCG) and JCG cadets aboard their train...
05/14/2024

This past week Coast Guard Cutter Bertholf was honored to host Japan Coast Guard (JCG) and JCG cadets aboard their training ship, JCG Vessel KOJIMA! Bertholf hosted a day of tours and professional exchanges during KOJIMA’s port call in San Fransisco, in addition to being the backdrop for the historic signing of the 2024 US/Japan/Korea Coast Guard’s trilateral letter of intent. This accord strengthens maritime safety, security, and prosperity, demonstrating a collective resolve to address the issues of illegal fishing and to facilitate efficient search and rescue operations. Bertholf leaders were also honored to attend a formal reception onboard KOJIMA in downtown San Francisco in the evening. Fostering the next generation of sailors, teamwork, and maritime partners is always our mission!

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Coast Guard Island
Alameda, CA
94501

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