ALCOAST 078/26 - MAR 2026 THE OPERATIONAL MINISTRY WATCH BILL

R 231834Z MAR 26 MID320018598899U
FM COMDT COGARD WASHINGTON DC
TO ALCOAST
BT
UNCLAS
ALCOAST 078/26
SSIC 5400
SUBJ: THE OPERATIONAL MINISTRY WATCH BILL
1. This ALCOAST announces the official implementation of the
Operational Ministry Watch Bill. This watch bill will enhance
Coast Guard operational readiness and resilience by creating a
dedicated system to best position critical caregivers -
our chaplains - to support our deployed Coast Guard members.
2. The Operational Ministry Watch Bill provides systematic,
pre-assigned chaplain coverage as follows:
     a. Operation River Wall;
     b. LANTAREA cutter deployment;
     c. PACAREA cutter deployment, including strategic portions of
WESTPAC patrols;
     d. Cutter deployment support for summer Arctic patrols as
requested by operational commanders;
     e. On-demand, surge chaplain support for natural disasters and
other contingencies; and
     f. Other operational requirements as needed.
3. For more detailed information, contact the LANTAREA Chaplain,
CAPT Brett Cartwright at: Brett.K.Cartwright@uscg.mil or the
PACAREA Chaplain, CAPT David Stroud at: David.A.Stroud1@uscg.mil.
They will serve as the Watch Bill Coordinators and will organize
the implementation of chaplain coverage and movements required by
this watch bill.
4. ADM Tom Allan, Vice Commandant (VCG), sends.
5. Internet release is authorized.