There are two main Coast Guard units aboard Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego. They are Pacific Tactical Law Enforcement and MSST 91109.
Both units have almost the same training, but have different missions said Cmdr. Eric Cooper, commanding officer, MSST 91109.
The MSST 91109 is a unit that provides security and protection to local maritime assets. The different ways that they provide security is by patrolling, detecting and arresting boaters or submerged divers. MSST is also under the Coast Guard’s deployable operations group, allowing them to deploy anywhere in the world if needed.
During training, Coast Guardsmen practiced moving security, escorting high value assets while they are underway and fixed security, used when assets are stationary and in need of protection.
At different times during training, patrol boats are presented with challenges ranging from drunk boaters to opposing forces intentionally breaking through security lines.
Along with the different scenarios, training also consisted of high speed maneuvers with sharp turns and blank gunfire used to warn or suppress opposing forces in the exercise.
“The training provides realistic scenarios that Coast Guardsmen may encounter while performing their duties afloat,” said Cooper.