U.S. Coast Guard Taps Reservists To Patrol Waterways
Coast Guard officials recalled more than 300 reservists this past Friday to carry out various missions throughout the Gulf of Mexico and the inland waterways in response to the need for increased security across the nation.The USCG has been authorized to activate its entire reserve force of 8,000, if necessary, to ensure security of ports and waterways. They will also aid with New York rescue and recovery efforts while ensuring the ability to maintain other pertinent operations, including search and rescue, and illegal narcotics interdiction operations. Reservists throughout the Gulf and inland waterways will serve as boatcrews, security details, marine safety inspectors and communications watchstanders, among other positions. The USCG has also reported that the Coast Guard Cutters Key Biscayne, Amberjack, Steelhead and Mallet are on patrol to heighten security near Corpus Christi. In addition, a trio of 41-ft. (12.4 m) utility boats is also on patrol from Stations South Padre Island, Port Aransas and Port O'Connor.