JUNEAU, Alaska – The U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Bertholf and crew returned to Alameda Friday, after completing a 130-day deployment patrolling the Bering Sea.
During the patrol, Bertholf’s crew operated as far north as the Arctic Circle. They provided U.S. maritime presence in the region patrolling along the maritime boundary line between the United States and Russia and supported U.S. strategic interests in the North Pacific Ocean by promoting maritime governance, enforcing domestic fishery regulations, and strengthening U.S. presence along the maritime boundary line.
Bertholf conducted joint operations in the region with the Coast Guard Cutter Healy and an Air Station Kodiak MH-60 helicopter aircrew, enhancing collaboration and improving capabilities across the national security cutter and polar icebreaker mission sets.
While patrolling the region, Bertholf’s crew conducted 24 boardings of commercial fishing vessels, enforcing safety and living marine resource regulations.
The crews worked closely with National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration law enforcement officers and Alaskan Wildlife State Troopers, notably conducting two boardings of foreign flagged tramper vessels. The Coast Guard’s efforts in ensuring safe and sustainable fishing practices are essential to the long-term health of this vital renewable resource, and the security of the United States.
“This crew excelled in one of the most challenging maritime environments through the holiday season, safeguarding U.S. fishermen, engaging with local communities, and delivering comprehensive search and rescue coverage across the Bering Sea,” said Capt. Billy Mees, Bertholf’s commanding officer. “I hold the entire crew, along with their families, in the highest regard for the sacrifices they make to serve our country.”
Bertholf’s crew conducted 46 helicopter deck landings with a U.S. Coast Guard Air Station Port Angeles HH-65 helicopter aircrew while operating in the Strait of Juan de Fuca. Bertholf also conducted flight operations with Air Station Kodiak’s MH-60 helicopter aircrews operating near Cold Bay. Coordination of flight operations provided critical training opportunities for both helicopter crews and Bertholf’s crew, supporting Bertholf’s ability to respond to emergencies.
Bertholf is named for Commodore Ellsworth Price Bertholf, the Coast Guard’s first commandant. Bertholf’s most notable service was his role in the famous Alaska Overland Expedition in 1897. When over 200 American whalers became trapped in ice at Point Barrow, Bertholf led the relief party traveling 1,600 miles via dogsled. Along with Lt. David Jarvis and Dr. Samuel Call, Bertholf herded almost 400 reindeer through a frozen Alaska winter to feed the starving whalers, an act that would later earn him the Congressional Gold Medal.
