The crew aboard the U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Steadfast returned home Friday to Astoria after a 60-day counter-narcotic patrol in the Eastern Pacific Ocean.
While patrolling international waters off the coast of Mexico and Central America, Steadfast’s law enforcement boarding teams intercepted and stopped eight separate vessels suspected of smuggling illicit drugs.
The eight boardings resulted in the discovery and seizure of approximately 5,965 kilograms (13,123 lbs.) of cocaine worth more than $200 million wholesale.
The 210-foot cutter deployed to the Eastern Pacific Ocean in support of the Joint Interagency Task Force South with the primary mission of detecting and interdicting illegal drug traffickers. While deployed, Steadfast’s crew also performed a variety of missions including counter terrorism training, foreign engagements, humanitarian aid, and search and rescue operations.
Steadfast’s crew sailed over 13,000 nautical miles during their patrol enforcing maritime safety and security in the Eastern Pacific Ocean. Steadfast is a Reliance Class medium endurance cutter homeported in Astoria since 1994.