Lt. Carl Eschler accepts recognition of his efforts as the senior U.S. Coast Guard representative to Operation Guinex while aboard the IndependĂȘncia (F 44), a Brazilian Niteroi-class frigate from August to September 2021 off Atlantic Africa. Operation Guinex was the first Brazilian lead operation in the region with the main goal of the exercise is to strengthen relationships and increase, in a reciprocal manner, the maritime security capabilities of Brazil and West African countries. (U.S. Coast Guard photo)