Photo By Chief Warrant Officer Sara Muir | The U.S. Coast Guard teams up with local and federal partners for a Multi-Agency...... read more read more
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SANTA RITA, Guam — The U.S. Coast Guard teamed up with local and federal partners for a Multi-Agency Strike Force Operation (MASFO) at the Port of Guam, boosting security and compliance through a united front July 15 and 16.
The operation targeted container inspections and transportation safety, ensuring the port remains a safe and efficient hub for commerce. Objectives of the MASFO:
1. Elevate Regulatory Inspection Activity: Intensify inspection efforts throughout the port to maintain high security and compliance standards.
2. Reinforce Cargo Safety and Security: Highlight the importance of secure cargo transportation within a multi-modal port environment.
3. Enhance Cross-agency Collaboration: Provide an environment conducive to joint training and sharing of best practices among local and federal agencies.
4. Adherence to Safety Standards: Ensure all operations are conducted in strict compliance with applicable safety regulations and standards.
The effort brought together a wide range of partners, including Guam Customs and Quarantine Agency’s X-ray Unit, Drug Detector Dog Unit, and officers with their Special Enforcement and Logistics and Support divisions, U.S. Coast Guard Forces Micronesia/Sector Guam inspectors, Sector Boarding Team and intelligence specialists, Coast Guard Investigative Service members, Army Counterintelligence, Food and Drug Administration members, Guam Transportation Authority Motor Carrier Inspectors, and Port Authority of Guam Port Police.
This marked the first time Army Counterintelligence, and the Guam Transportation Authority joined a Coast Guard Forces Micronesia/Sector Guam-led MASFO, strengthening partnerships and expanding the operation’s reach.
The team inspected 95 containers, identifying 13 violations across 24 tractors and trailers, two expired Transportation Worker Identification Credentials, and one Customs violation. Most issues related to the material condition of tractor trailers such as braking systems, tire condition and operable lights. These results highlight the operation’s role in catching issues that could disrupt port operations or safety on the roads.
“It’s all about working together to keep the port running smoothly,” said Petty Officer 1st Class Caleb Mabry, who oversees the facilities section at Coast Guard Forces Micronesia/Sector Guam. “Having everyone from Customs to Army Counterintelligence at the table makes a real difference. We’re building trust and keeping Guam’s port secure.”
The MASFO underscores the U.S. Coast Guard’s commitment to safeguarding Guam’s port, a critical gateway for trade and economic stability in the region. By uniting diverse agencies, the operation not only addressed immediate violations but also set the stage for stronger partnerships moving forward.
Petty Officer 3rd Class Colby LaTessa, who led the Coast Guard’s efforts in organizing the MASFO, emphasized the power of collaboration. “Getting all these agencies to sync up was huge and we’re grateful,” LaTessa said. “The port’s a big deal for Guam’s economy, and operations like this make sure everyone’s playing by the rules. It felt good to see it come together.”
-USCG-
The team at U.S. Coast Guard Forces Micronesia/Sector Guam is critical in promoting Pacific maritime security, safety, and regional prosperity. The unit's capabilities are integral to executing a wide range of U.S. Coast Guard missions, from safeguarding maritime borders to ensuring commerce and the integrity of the maritime transportation system and saving those in peril on the sea.
For more information, please contact CWO Sara Muir, public affairs officer, at sara.g.muir@uscg.mil or uscgforcesmicronesia@gmail.com.
| Date Taken: | 07.23.2025 |
| Date Posted: | 07.23.2025 19:14 |
| Story ID: | 543571 |
| Location: | PITI, GU |
| Web Views: | 175 |
| Downloads: | 0 |
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