The 3rd Infantry Division at the Battle of the Marne: Rock of the Marne in World War I

The First World War, often called "The Great War," was a global conflict that reshaped the political and military landscape of the 20th century. Among the many heroic contributions made by Allied forces, the actions of the United States Army's 3rd Infantry Division during the Second Battle of the Marne in July 1918 stand as a defining moment in the war's final chapter. Through their steadfast defense along the Marne River, the 3rd Infantry Division earned the enduring nickname "Rock of the Marne" and played a crucial role in halting the last major German offensive of the war. Their bravery not only helped turn the tide of battle but also solidified America's growing military reputation on the world stage.

Formation and Early History of the 3rd Infantry Division

The 3rd Infantry Division was activated on November 21, 1917, at Camp Greene, North Carolina, as part of the American Expeditionary Forces (AEF) organized under General John J. Pershing (Wilson, 2018). Composed initially of fresh recruits and veterans from various states, the division underwent intensive training in modern warfare tactics, with an emphasis on trench fighting, marksmanship, and combined arms coordination. The United States had only recently entered the war in April 1917, and American forces were urgently needed to bolster the exhausted Allied lines on the Western Front. By the spring of 1918, the 3rd Infantry Division was deployed to France, ready to join the fight.

The Second Battle of the Marne: Strategic Context

By mid-1918, the German Army had launched a series of aggressive offensives aimed at breaking the stalemate on the Western Front before American forces could fully arrive in Europe. One of the most significant of these was the German attempt to cross the Marne River and advance toward Paris (Gilbert, 2014). The Second Battle of the Marne, which began on July 15, 1918, represented Germany's last major push to seize a decisive victory.

The Marne River line, located near Château-Thierry, was of immense strategic importance. A successful German breakthrough would have exposed the Allied rear and potentially forced France to negotiate peace. To prevent this, French, British, and newly arrived American troops were positioned along the Marne to repel the German advance. The 3rd Infantry Division was assigned to a critical sector along the river's southern bank.

The 3rd Infantry Division at the Marne

When the German offensive commenced on July 15, 1918, the 3rd Infantry Division faced overwhelming artillery barrages and massed infantry assaults. Despite being under relentless attack, the soldiers of the division maintained their positions along the Marne River, refusing to retreat (Persico, 2001). Their disciplined resistance prevented the Germans from establishing a bridgehead across the river, blunting the momentum of the offensive.

It was during these fierce engagements that the 3rd Infantry Division earned the nickname "Rock of the Marne." French commanders, impressed by the Americans' determination and resilience, praised the division for standing firm when other units had been forced to fall back (Hallas, 2009). The steadfastness of the 3rd Infantry Division not only safeguarded the immediate sector but also provided critical time for Allied forces to organize a counterattack.

Outcome and Legacy

The failure of the German assault at the Marne marked a significant turning point in World War I. With their offensive stalled, German forces were forced onto the defensive, and the Allies seized the initiative. In the weeks following the battle, a coordinated Allied counteroffensive, including French, British, and American troops, drove the Germans back, setting the stage for the Hundred Days Offensive that would ultimately bring the war to an end (Keegan, 1999).

The actions of the 3rd Infantry Division at the Marne became legendary within military circles. Their heroism not only contributed to the Allied victory but also established a reputation for courage and tenacity that the division would carry into future conflicts, including World War II and beyond. To this day, the division's motto, "Rock of the Marne," symbolizes the strength and reliability of American soldiers under pressure.

Conclusion

The 3rd Infantry Division's performance during the Second Battle of the Marne exemplifies the courage, discipline, and sacrifice of American troops during World War I. Their unwavering defense along the Marne River was instrumental in halting the last major German offensive and preserving the Allied position on the Western Front. The legacy of the "Rock of the Marne" endures as a powerful testament to the critical role played by American forces in securing victory during one of history's most devastating conflicts.

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References

Gilbert, M. (2014). The First World War: A Complete History. RosettaBooks.

Hallas, J. W. (2009). Doughboy War: The American Expeditionary Force in World War I. Stackpole Books.

Keegan, J. (1999). The First World War. Vintage.

Persico, J. E. (2001). Pershing's Lieutenants: American Military Leadership in World War I. Osprey Publishing.

Wilson, J. B. (2018). Maneuver and Firepower: The Evolution of Divisions and Separate Brigades. Government Printing Office.

Title 10 Security Missions: The Role of U.S. Military Forces in Domestic Federal Operations

The United States military plays a vital role in supporting civil authorities during times of domestic crisis. Among the legal frameworks that govern these operations, Title 10 of the U.S. Code stands out as a key mechanism through which federally controlled military forces are mobilized to protect national interests on American soil. Title 10 security missions are a critical tool for safeguarding federal functions, property, and personnel during emergencies, providing disciplined military support while adhering to constitutional limits on military involvement in civilian affairs.

Legal Framework of Title 10 Missions

Title 10 of the United States Code establishes the legal basis for the organization, training, and deployment of the armed forces under federal authority (U.S. Code, 2024). Unlike Title 32, which permits state-controlled National Guard deployments under gubernatorial authority, Title 10 places service members under the direct command of the President and the Department of Defense. Title 10 forces are distinct from state-controlled troops and are typically deployed for federal missions, such as defense support to civil authorities (DSCA), when state or local resources are insufficient to address a threat.

Crucially, Title 10 operations must operate within the constraints of the Posse Comitatus Act, which limits the use of federal military personnel in enforcing domestic laws (Dycus et al., 2021). However, exceptions exist, including instances of insurrection, terrorism, or other threats to federal functions, where the President may authorize military support to protect the nation.

Historical Background and Evolution

The use of Title 10 forces for domestic security is not a new phenomenon. In 1957, for example, President Eisenhower deployed the 101st Airborne Division under Title 10 authority to enforce school desegregation in Little Rock, Arkansas, marking a significant use of federal military power to uphold civil rights (Mason, 2019). Similarly, after the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks, Title 10 forces played a role in enhancing homeland security and supporting federal agencies in protecting critical infrastructure (Kraska, 2011).

In recent years, Title 10 authority has been used to support pandemic response efforts, disaster relief, and border security. These missions demonstrate the flexibility of Title 10 provisions in addressing evolving security challenges while ensuring that military operations remain under federal command and consistent with the law.

Current Application: Case Study of Los Angeles 2025

A contemporary example of Title 10 missions can be observed in Los Angeles in 2025. Amid growing security concerns surrounding federal properties and personnel, the Secretary of Defense directed U.S. Northern Command (USNORTHCOM) to establish Task Force 51 to oversee Title 10 forces in the region. U.S. Army Capt. Nissi Robledo, commander of 1st Battalion, 184th Infantry Regiment, and Staff Sgt. Zachary Shannon, a squad leader, have described the role of their soldiers in securing key locations alongside U.S. Marines (Sherman, 2025).

These operations exemplify the purpose of Title 10 missions: to reinforce federal security in collaboration with state and local agencies, without overstepping legal boundaries. The California Army National Guard, operating under federal orders, works alongside active-duty Marines to deter threats and provide visible security, ensuring the protection of critical federal infrastructure across the greater Los Angeles area.

Advantages and Challenges of Title 10 Missions

Title 10 security missions offer several advantages. First, they provide a unified federal command structure, ensuring streamlined decision-making and rapid response capabilities. The deployment of highly trained, disciplined military units enhances the ability to protect national interests during crises. Additionally, Title 10 missions grant access to specialized military resources and technology that may not be available to state or local agencies.

However, Title 10 missions are not without challenges. Legal restrictions, particularly those related to the Posse Comitatus Act, limit the scope of military involvement in law enforcement. Miscommunication or poor coordination with civilian authorities can undermine mission effectiveness. Furthermore, public perception of military presence on U.S. streets can be sensitive, underscoring the need for transparent communication and careful adherence to constitutional principles (Dycus et al., 2021).

Conclusion

Title 10 security missions remain an essential tool for safeguarding the nation during times of domestic crisis. By enabling federally controlled military forces to support civil authorities in a disciplined and legally sound manner, Title 10 provides a flexible yet constrained mechanism to address complex security threats. As demonstrated in Los Angeles in 2025, these missions can effectively protect federal interests while respecting civil liberties. Going forward, continued emphasis on legal compliance, interagency coordination, and public transparency will be essential to ensuring the responsible use of Title 10 authority in the evolving landscape of domestic security.

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References

Dycus, S., Banks, W. C., Raven-Hansen, P., & Vladeck, S. I. (2021). National security law (7th ed.). Wolters Kluwer.

Kraska, J. (2011). Maritime security and the law of the sea. Oxford University Press.

Mason, R. (2019). Presidential power and civil rights: Eisenhower, Kennedy, and the politics of race. University Press of Kansas.

Sherman, C. L. (2025, June 22). U.S. Army leaders discuss security role of troops in Los Angeles under Title 10 mission [Video]. U.S. Army.

U.S. Code. (2024). Title 10 - Armed Forces. https://www.law.cornell.edu/uscode/text/10

The KC-135 Stratotanker: The Backbone of Aerial Refueling

Aerial refueling has become a fundamental capability for modern air forces, extending the range, endurance, and flexibility of military aircraft worldwide. At the heart of this capability for the United States Air Force (USAF) is the Boeing KC-135 Stratotanker, an aircraft that has been a global force multiplier for over six decades. Developed during the Cold War to support the United States' strategic bomber fleet, the KC-135 remains essential to U.S. and Allied air operations, reflecting a legacy of technological innovation and strategic foresight.

Historical Background

The origins of aerial refueling trace back to the early 20th century when experimental flights used rudimentary hose-and-drogue systems to transfer fuel in mid-air. During World War II, the concept evolved, but it was in the early Cold War years that aerial refueling became a strategic necessity. The U.S. Air Force recognized that long-range bombers and, later, fighter aircraft required airborne refueling to project power globally.

The KC-135's lineage includes several predecessor aircraft. The KB-29 Superfortress, a modified version of the B-29 bomber, provided the first large-scale tanker capability. This was followed by the KB-50 Superfortress, an upgraded B-50 with enhanced speed and performance. The KC-97 Stratofreighter introduced the boom refueling system but suffered from speed limitations, making it incompatible with the jet aircraft entering service.

Boeing addressed these limitations with the KC-135 Stratotanker, derived from the Boeing 367-80 "Dash 80" prototype. First flown in 1956 and entering service in 1957, the KC-135 became the first purpose-built, jet-powered aerial refueler, designed specifically to support the USAF's new B-52 Stratofortress bombers and, eventually, a wide array of military aircraft.

Technical Capabilities

The KC-135 revolutionized aerial refueling with its flying boom system, allowing rapid and efficient fuel transfer to compatible aircraft. Some variants are equipped with hose-and-drogue pods to refuel Navy and Allied aircraft, enhancing interoperability. The aircraft's performance specifications remain impressive even by modern standards. With a cruising speed of approximately 530 miles per hour and a fuel capacity of nearly 200,000 pounds, the KC-135 can offload significant amounts of fuel while airborne, extending the range and mission duration of combat and support aircraft.

The KC-135 fleet has undergone numerous upgrades over its service life. The KC-135R variant features CFM56 engines, significantly improving fuel efficiency, range, and reliability. Additional modernization programs have enhanced avionics, navigation systems, and structural components, ensuring the aircraft remains operationally effective into the 21st century. Notably, the KC-135 airframe has also served as the basis for specialized aircraft such as the RC-135 reconnaissance platforms.

Global Presence and Numbers

Since its introduction, over 800 KC-135s have been built. As of 2025, approximately 396 remain in active and reserve service with the USAF, Air National Guard, and Air Force Reserve Command. The aircraft's longevity, originally intended for a 25-year service life, is a testament to its robust design and adaptability.

KC-135s are stationed at key U.S. bases, including McConnell Air Force Base in Kansas, Fairchild Air Force Base in Washington, and Altus Air Force Base in Oklahoma, where aircrew receive tanker training. The aircraft is also forward-deployed to strategic locations worldwide, such as RAF Mildenhall in the United Kingdom, Andersen Air Force Base in Guam, and Al Udeid Air Base in Qatar, ensuring rapid response capabilities for global contingencies.

Strategic and Operational Significance

The KC-135 is central to U.S. and Allied force projection, enabling bombers, fighters, surveillance platforms, and transport aircraft to operate far from home bases. Aerial refueling enhances mission flexibility, allowing aircraft to remain airborne longer, carry heavier payloads, and reach distant targets.

Beyond its operational value to the U.S. military, the KC-135 plays a critical role in multinational cooperation. It regularly participates in joint exercises, including NATO operations and exercises like Atlantic Trident 25, which involve U.S., U.K., French, and other Allied forces. Such operations demonstrate not only aerial refueling interoperability but also the collective commitment to global security.

Transition to the Future

While the KC-135 remains effective, the USAF has begun transitioning to the next generation of tankers, namely the KC-46 Pegasus. Nevertheless, the KC-135 will continue to serve alongside its successor for years to come, providing critical refueling capability during the transition period.

Conclusion

The KC-135 Stratotanker has earned its reputation as a cornerstone of American airpower. Its unmatched longevity, versatility, and proven performance have made it indispensable to military operations worldwide. As the U.S. Air Force evolves, the KC-135 remains a lasting symbol of technological achievement and strategic foresight, ensuring that global reach and air superiority remain within America and its Allies' grasp.

References

Boeing. (n.d.). KC-135 Stratotanker. Retrieved June 28, 2025, from https://www.boeing.com/defense/kc-135-stratotanker/

U.S. Air Force. (2024, October 10). KC-135 Stratotanker Fact Sheet. Retrieved from https://www.af.mil/About-Us/Fact-Sheets/Display/Article/104525/kc-135-stratotanker/

GlobalSecurity.org. (2023). KC-135 Stratotanker. Retrieved from https://www.globalsecurity.org/military/systems/aircraft/kc-135.htm

Air Mobility Command. (2022). KC-135: The Workhorse of Air Mobility. Retrieved from https://www.amc.af.mil/About-Us/Fact-Sheets/Article/1440254/kc-135-stratotanker/

Miller, R. (2021). The History and Legacy of the KC-135 Stratotanker. Air & Space Power Journal, 35(3), 22-35.

The History and Use by the National Guard of Black Hawk Helicopters for Fighting Forest Fires

In the face of increasingly severe wildfire seasons across the United States, the National Guard has played a crucial role in supporting civilian agencies in combating these destructive blazes. Among the tools at their disposal, the Sikorsky UH-60 Black Hawk helicopter stands out as a vital asset. Originally designed for combat operations, the Black Hawk's versatility, payload capacity, and adaptability have made it a powerful resource in wildfire suppression. This essay explores the history of the Black Hawk helicopter, its adoption by the National Guard, and its evolution into a key tool in the nation's wildfire response efforts.

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Origins of the Black Hawk Helicopter

The UH-60 Black Hawk helicopter was developed by Sikorsky Aircraft in response to the U.S. Army's requirement for a utility tactical transport aircraft to replace the aging UH-1 Iroquois, commonly known as the "Huey." After rigorous competition and testing, Sikorsky's design was selected in 1976, with production beginning shortly thereafter. Entering service in 1979, the Black Hawk was designed for troop transport, medevac, and cargo missions in challenging environments, featuring twin engines, advanced avionics, and significant lift capacity.

The Black Hawk's durability, performance in adverse conditions, and modular design made it ideal for military operations. Over the decades, it has proven its effectiveness in combat zones around the world, including Iraq, Afghanistan, and humanitarian missions in response to natural disasters.

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National Guard Acquisition and Adaptation

The National Guard, a reserve component of the U.S. Armed Forces with both state and federal missions, began acquiring Black Hawk helicopters in the 1980s. Their adoption provided states with enhanced aerial mobility for both military and domestic operations, including disaster response.

The dual state-federal structure of the National Guard allows governors to activate Guard units for state emergencies, including wildfires, while maintaining their federal military responsibilities. The versatility of the Black Hawk made it an ideal platform for these dual missions.

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Evolution of Wildfire Response

As wildfires across the western United States increased in frequency and intensity—exacerbated by climate change, prolonged droughts, and growing populations in wildland-urban interfaces—state and federal agencies sought additional resources to fight fires. The National Guard, equipped with Black Hawk helicopters, became a critical supplement to civilian firefighting efforts.

Starting in the late 1980s and early 1990s, Black Hawks began to be outfitted with external water buckets, known as "Bambi Buckets," capable of carrying up to 660 gallons (approximately 2,500 liters) of water or fire retardant. This modification allowed the aircraft to conduct targeted water drops over active wildfires, particularly in rugged terrain inaccessible to ground crews.

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Role of the Black Hawk in Modern Wildfire Operations

Today, the National Guard routinely deploys Black Hawk helicopters to assist in wildfire suppression across the United States. Their use typically includes:

1. Aerial Water Drops: Black Hawks equipped with Bambi Buckets conduct repeated water or retardant drops to slow or contain advancing fires.

2. Personnel Transport: The helicopters are used to transport firefighters, emergency personnel, and equipment to remote or otherwise inaccessible areas.

3. Evacuations and Rescue: Black Hawks have been instrumental in evacuating civilians trapped by advancing wildfires and rescuing injured individuals.

4. Reconnaissance and Surveillance: Equipped with advanced sensors, some Black Hawks provide aerial intelligence to incident commanders, helping them assess fire behavior and direct resources effectively.

Notable Deployments

• California Wildfires (2018–Present): The California Army National Guard has extensively used Black Hawks in recent years to combat catastrophic fires, including the Camp Fire, the largest and deadliest in state history.

• Oregon and Washington Wildfires: National Guard Black Hawks have been deployed to assist during severe wildfire seasons in the Pacific Northwest, providing both aerial suppression and logistical support.

• Training Programs: States like California and Colorado conduct annual wildfire training exercises for National Guard helicopter crews to ensure readiness for wildfire season.

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Advantages of the Black Hawk in Wildfire Operations

Several features make the Black Hawk particularly well-suited for fighting wildfires:

• Payload Capacity: Its ability to carry substantial water loads significantly enhances fire suppression efforts.

• Maneuverability: The helicopter's design allows for precise water drops in mountainous and rugged terrain.

• Speed and Range: Black Hawks can rapidly redeploy between fire locations and operate over large distances.

• Multi-Mission Capability: Beyond firefighting, the same aircraft can conduct evacuations, rescues, and logistical missions as needed.

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Challenges and Considerations

While the Black Hawk is a powerful firefighting tool, its deployment in wildfire suppression is not without challenges:

• Airspace Coordination: Fire zones often involve multiple aircraft, including civilian helicopters and fixed-wing aircraft, requiring strict coordination to avoid accidents.

• Training Requirements: Pilots and crews require specialized training to safely conduct water drops and operate in smoky, low-visibility environments.

• Resource Allocation: The National Guard must balance wildfire response with other mission requirements, particularly during simultaneous domestic emergencies or overseas deployments.

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Conclusion

The evolution of the Black Hawk helicopter from a battlefield workhorse to a critical asset in wildfire suppression reflects both the versatility of the aircraft and the adaptability of the National Guard. As wildfires continue to threaten lives, property, and natural resources across the United States, the National Guard's use of Black Hawks provides an indispensable aerial resource for state and federal firefighting efforts.

With continued investment in training, equipment, and interagency coordination, the National Guard and its Black Hawk fleet will remain a vital component of the nation's response to increasingly complex and devastating wildfire seasons.

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References

• Department of the Army. (2021). Army National Guard Aviation: Roles and Responsibilities. U.S. Army Publishing Directorate.

• Sikorsky Aircraft. (n.d.). UH-60 Black Hawk Helicopter Specifications. Retrieved from https://www.lockheedmartin.com

• National Guard Bureau. (2022). National Guard Wildfire Response Fact Sheet. U.S. Department of Defense.

• California National Guard. (2021). California National Guard’s Role in Wildfire Response. California Military Department.

• National Interagency Fire Center. (2023). Wildfire Statistics and Trends. Retrieved from https://www.nifc.gov

• U.S. Forest Service. (2022). Interagency Helicopter Operations Guide. U.S. Department of Agriculture.

Pentagon Launches PCS Joint Task Force, Terminates DoD Moving Contractor for Cause

In a sweeping effort to restore confidence in the military relocation process, the Department of Defense has announced the formation of a new Permanent Change of Station (PCS) Joint Task Force, to be led by Army Maj. Gen. Lance Curtis. The announcement comes on the heels of the Pentagon's termination of its contract with HomeSafe Alliance LLC (HSA), citing the contractor’s “demonstrated inability to fulfill their obligations and deliver high quality moves to Service members.”

The action was outlined in an implementation memorandum released today and announced by Chief Pentagon Spokesman Sean Parnell.

“The Department of Defense is taking decisive action to ensure our Service members and their families receive the quality support they deserve during the PCS process,” Parnell stated. “By standing up this task force and terminating a failing contractor, we are reaffirming our commitment to those who serve.”

The newly created PCS Joint Task Force (JTF) has been granted broad authority to enact immediate improvements and will focus on stabilizing the current relocation cycle during the peak moving season. In response to logistical disruptions and widespread complaints under HSA's management, the DoD has reverted to its legacy "Tender of Service" system for household goods shipments, which allows transportation providers to be selected from a vetted list under government rates and standards.

Additionally, Service members who choose to conduct Personally Procured Moves (PPMs) — often called "do-it-yourself" moves — will now be reimbursed at increased rates. This aims to offer flexibility and financial relief for families willing to manage their own relocation logistics during the ongoing transition.

The JTF has been tasked with delivering a full strategic roadmap to the Secretary of Defense by September 2025, identifying both short-term improvements and long-term reforms. This includes recommendations to modernize the PCS process and enhance accountability among future contractors.

Service members and families in the midst of a move are encouraged to visit the Moving Your Personal Property page on Military OneSource for up-to-date guidance and resources.

The full implementation memorandum is available here.

Contact:
Office of the Secretary of Defense Public Affairs
www.defense.gov

New FAA Security Measures Restrict Drone Activity Around Coast Guard Cutters

The U.S. Coast Guard has announced a significant change in national airspace policy that affects the operation of drones—or Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS)—in the vicinity of Coast Guard Cutters. Effective immediately, all U.S. Coast Guard Cutters 65 feet or longer are now classified as restricted airspace under a new update to 14 CFR Section 99.7. This development reflects the growing concern around aerial surveillance and the need to protect critical maritime operations from potential threats.

The change, formally issued under ALCOAST 272/25, prohibits any UAS from operating within 3,000 feet laterally and 1,000 feet vertically of a Cutter without prior approval. This rule applies whether a Cutter is underway, in transit, or in port within U.S. territorial waters. The FAA’s NOTAM 250411-270520 outlines the new operational boundaries and reporting requirements.

What Does This Mean?

If you're a drone operator, commercial UAS company, or media outlet hoping to capture footage near a Coast Guard Cutter, you now need explicit authorization. The Cutter’s Commanding Officer or Officer in Charge has the authority to approve or deny UAS operations, and all decisions must be logged and reported to Coast Guard Headquarters.

To request authorization, operators must submit:

• The unit name and point of contact;

• The time, date, and GPS location of the proposed UAS flight;

• The drone operator’s credentials (Part 107 certified);

• The purpose of the mission.

All communications must be sent to:
📧 HQS-DG-lst-CG-MSR@uscg.mil

A Matter of Security

This directive aims to prevent unauthorized surveillance or interference with Coast Guard missions, particularly as drone technology becomes increasingly accessible. While the policy does not authorize Counter-UAS measures (except in self-defense as defined by the Maritime Law Enforcement Manual), any violation may trigger quick reaction protocols and enforcement actions by the Coast Guard's operational command.

For Cutter crews, any incident involving unauthorized drones must be promptly reported to their Tactical Control (TACON) authority.

Where to Learn More

The official NOTAM and associated resources are available on the Coast Guard’s internal SharePoint system. For further questions, contact LT James Hockler at
📞 202-372-2062 or
📧 James.R.Hockler@uscg.mil.

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Bottom Line: If you plan to fly a drone anywhere near a Coast Guard Cutter, you now need official permission. The U.S. Coast Guard is taking proactive steps to protect its assets and operations—and drone operators must stay informed and compliant to avoid enforcement action.

Stay alert. Stay authorized. Stay safe.