Radio Boat Forces

In this episode, BMCM Adam Bure, Officer-in-Charge of Coast Guard Station Kenosha, walks us through what it takes to lead a Scheduled Mission Station (SMS) and a Forward Operating Location (FOL). From seasonal ice rescue to law enforcement and search-and-rescue, the operational demands are steep...especially on Lake Michigan’s unpredictable water and weather. Extra historical context: Station Kenosha began in 1879 under the U.S. Life-Saving Service, responding to over 2,300 calls by 1935. One...

After getting multiple requests, we’re answering the call. This week’s episode is your one-stop shop for the music you’ve been hearing throughout the episodes. So, whether you’re driving, just need a boost, or getting ready for your PFT - we’ve got you covered. Teaser: did you know the very first aviation rescue swimmer was a BM? Stay tuned, and as always, be stay safe out there. Send us Fan Mail

When the mission calls, some stories are too extraordinary to stay classified. In this episode, we sit down with CDR Michael Bennett, USCG (Ret.), founder of the website Guardian Spies and one of the leading voices in modern Coast Guard intelligence. From the daring missions of OSS maritime units in World War II to today’s intelligence-driven boat forces, CDR Bennett unpacks a hidden history of small-boat capability in WWII. Listeners will hear how lessons from the Coast Guard’s earliest inte...

In this episode, CDR Leo Danaher (CG-7311) walks us through his firsthand experience with an OIC screening panel. He shares invaluable advice on strengthening your panel package, from highlighting mission-aligned competencies to framing leadership accomplishments effectively. CDR Danaher ultimately unpacks the OIC panel process, offering clarity on what review panels expect and common pitfalls to avoid. He also offers guidance for mentors and supervisors: encouraging early preparation and tho...

This is an Unofficial Podcast. All views expressed are solely those of the host and do not necessarily reflect the views of the U.S. Coast Guard or the Office of BoatForces. We shift the lens from deck-plate operations to the broader national security picture. Drawing from a recent Atlantic Council report, we explore how Coast Guard missions, especially those in Boat Forces, fit into evolving defense strategies shaped by global competition, emerging threats, and interagency cooperation. It’s ...

This week we sit down with Mr. Dave Shepard from the Office of Boat Forces, a key figure behind some of the Coast Guard’s most iconic platforms. From the early days of the 47-foot Motor Lifeboat to the development of the Response Boat–Medium, Mr. Shepard shares insights on how these boats came to define modern missions. We also get a look at what’s ahead for his portfolio as the Office of Boat Forces continues shaping the future of operations. A must-listen for anyone who’s ever trusted their...

We dive into the critical role of medical readiness in Coast Guard small boat operations. From heat casualties to trauma care in rough seas, we explore how EMT skills keep missions on track and save lives. We discuss medical gear, improvisation, and what crews can do to enhance their medical readiness capability. Our guest, HS1 Vinny Carracio of the White House Medical Staff, joins us to share insights from his recent role in the Coast Guard medical world. This one’s all about readiness when ...

Outgoing ME Rating Force Master Chief Ryan Patterson sits down with us to reflect on his tour as the enlisted leader for Maritime Enforcement specialists. With approximately 7,000 certified boarding officers and boarding team members across active and reserve components, he shares lessons learned, discusses workforce evolution, and explains what it means to advocate for ME personnel at Headquarters. Then we enter an alternate universe where the Coast Guard never left the Department of the Nav...