The U.S. Coast Guard achieved a significant milestone in fiscal year 2025, recruiting the highest number of new active-duty enlisted personnel since 1991. The service welcomed a total of 5,204 enlisted members, surpassing its initial goal of 4,300. This achievement marks the second consecutive year that the Coast Guard has exceeded its recruitment targets.
Adm. Kevin Lunday, acting commandant of the Coast Guard, emphasized the growing interest among Americans to serve, stating, “More Americans want to serve in the Coast Guard than ever before. We aren’t just growing – we are bringing in the best talent from across the United States and building the workforce of the future.”
Record Officer Commissioning and Reservist Recruitment
In addition to exceeding enlisted personnel goals, the Coast Guard also commissioned 371 new officers in fiscal 2025, achieving the highest officer target in its recorded history. The service further bolstered its ranks by recruiting 777 reservists, surpassing its goal of 750 and marking the third consecutive year of meeting its reserve targets.
To facilitate this recruitment success, the Coast Guard opened seven new recruiting offices across the United States, including locations in Miami, Los Angeles, and Cincinnati, as well as in Long Island, Austin, Grand Rapids, and Davenport. These new offices are part of a broader strategy to attract more individuals to serve in the Coast Guard.
Strategic Initiatives for Future Growth
The Coast Guard is currently implementing an extensive transformation plan known as Force Design 2028, introduced by Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem in May. This initiative aims to create a “stronger, more ready, and capable fighting force.”
An executive report released by the Coast Guard outlines plans to establish the first Coast Guard service secretary, reform contracting and acquisitions, leverage new technologies, and phase out obsolete programs. Notably, the report also calls for an increase of 15,000 personnel in the military workforce by fiscal 2028.
The Coast Guard’s recent successes in recruitment and its strategic initiatives reflect a commitment to enhancing its operational capabilities and ensuring that it is well-prepared to meet future challenges. As the service continues to attract new talent, it aims to solidify its position as a key component of national security.
