USCGC Stratton Returns Home Amid Shipboard COVID Outbreak

The U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Stratton has returned to its homeport in Alameda, California after 11 crew members tested positive for COVID-19 during its deployment in the Eastern Pacific.

According to the Coast Guard, several crew members began developing systems of the virus on November 11 and 12, at which point they were given rapid testing kits, contact traced and put into quarantine.

Coast Guard medical staff met the vessel upon its return to Coast Guard Island in Alameda and conducted testing of the entire crew. In total, 11 crew members have tested positive. The Coast Guard said the affected crew members were experiencing only mild symptoms.

“The crew’s health and safety is my highest priority,” said Capt. Bob Little, Stratton’s commanding officer. “Stratton has a highly resilient crew, always dedicated to the mission. Our mission today is to get healthy so we can continue our service to the nation.”

The Stratton departed Alameda Oct. 28 for a counter-narcotics patrol in the Eastern Pacific. Prior to getting underway, the crew underwent a restriction-of-movement period which required them to self-quarantine and pass two COVID tests.

“The safety of our people and the public remain my top priority,” said Vice Adm. Linda Fagan, U.S. Coast Guard Pacific Area commander. “We continue to perform all statutory missions while taking the necessary precautions to protect our members and the public. We are committed to maintaining our operational readiness and will continue to perform critical missions that protect our national interests, promote economic prosperity and ensure public safety.”